Things To Do
in Cliftonville
Cliftonville sits along Margate's northern seafront in Kent, England, offering a classic Victorian-era seaside atmosphere with a lively contemporary pulse. Its promenade and sandy coves provide easy coastal strolls, while nearby Margate adds galleries, cafes, and shoreline charm. Architectural villas line the streets, reflecting a history of holidaymakers and artists who shaped the area.
Accessible by rail and road, Cliftonville is a friendly base for exploring the Thanet coast and the wider Kent coast.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Cliftonville and settle into your cozy seaside accommodation. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, savoring fresh pastries and coffee while soaking in the ocean views. Take a stroll along the beach to breathe in the crisp sea air as you familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Explore the vibrant local shops along the seafront, where you can find unique souvenirs and artisan crafts. Visit the nearby Turner Contemporary art gallery, which often hosts impressive exhibitions. Relax on the beach with a good book or take part in a water sport for a splash of adventure.
Gather for dinner at a charming seaside pub, where you can indulge in classic British fare accompanied by locally brewed ale. After your meal, take a sunset walk along the promenade, watching the sky turn into a blend of golden hues. Conclude your day with live music at a local bar, soaking in the lively atmosphere.
Take a short trip to the nearby town of Margate, known for its quirky retro charm and sandy beaches. Start your day with breakfast in one of Margate's many cafés, famous for their creative breakfasts and friendly atmosphere. Venture to the Old Town for a stroll, appreciating the eclectic mix of vintage shops and art galleries.
Visit the Dreamland Margate amusement park, where you can enjoy nostalgic rides and playful attractions. Grab a light lunch from a food stall, choosing from a variety of street food options. Spend some time on the beach, soaking up the sun or building sandcastles before heading back to Cliftonville.
Return to Cliftonville and dine at a contemporary restaurant with fresh seafood specials. Take a promenade walk to feel the cool evening breeze as the waves crash against the shore. End the night with a cozy stay at your accommodation, perhaps enjoying a nightcap while listening to the sound of the ocean.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a café | $3-5 |
| 🍽Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $40-60 |
| 🫖Hot drink and pastry | $5-8 |
| 🚇Transit fare (local bus/tube style) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastline and promenades
- Close to Margate's arts and culture scene
- Family-friendly with lots of options
- Good value compared to bigger cities
- Can be crowded in summer
- Smaller nightlife scene compared to major cities
- Some services rely on seasonal tourism
- Parking can be challenging during peak times
Places to Visit in Cliftonville
Visit one of these nice places.
Long promenades with sea views, colorful beach huts, and Victorian architecture make for wide angle and sunset shots.
Iconic rainbow-painted steps along the promenade offering vibrant color and a focal point for cityscape photography.
Painted shopfronts, quirky signage and street art ideal for candid street photography.
Waterfront perspective of the gallery with seafront as a backdrop for architectural shots.
Retro amusement park lights and reflections on the wet pavement create nostalgic night shots.
Food in Cliftonville
Cliftonville Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Golden battered cod with chips and mushy peas served by the seafront.
Must-Try!
Fresh oysters served on ice with lemon and shallot vinaigrette.
Light salad featuring locally caught crab, herbs, and a citrus dressing.
Warm scones with clotted cream and local jam, a classic seaside treat.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market with local produce, street food and crafts in a historic setting.
Seasonal street food vans along the promenade offering fish bites, kebabs and quick bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
People queue patiently for buses, shops and attractions; jumping queues is frowned upon.
Be mindful of residential areas; keep noise levels reasonable, especially after 9pm.
Respect lifeguard guidance and posted signage at beaches; avoid swimming outside supervised areas.
Safety
Tipping in Cliftonville
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included. If not, a tip of 10-15% for good service is customary.
Card and contactless payments are widely accepted; cash is still common at markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Milder days with blooming coastal flora, ideal for strolls and photography without crowds.
Long days, active seafront life, and frequent events. Expect crowds and lively evenings.
Warmer waters linger, quieter streets, good light for landscape and portrait photography.
Can be chilly with short days; cosy pubs and indoor galleries provide shelter between walks.
Cliftonville at Night
Hiking in Cliftonville
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Coastal cycling and walking route along the north coast from Herne Bay to Ramsgate offering sea views.
Walking route along the eastern edge of the Isle of Thanet with sea views and picnic spots.
Rugged upland walking route farther inland with scenic countryside and chalk hills.
Airports
How to reach Cliftonville by plane.
East of London; convenient for flights from domestic and some international destinations; about a 60-90 minute drive depending on traffic.
Major international airport serving many carriers; approx. 90-120 minutes by road and rail.
Large international hub with many connections; about 2-2.5 hours by car or rail transfer.
Major international airport; typically 2-3 hours by road or rail depending on connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Numerous family-friendly beaches, parks, and attractions make it a popular destination.
Calmer neighborhoods and a slow-paced coastal vibe attract retirees seeking seaside living.
Proximity to galleries, creative spaces and independent shops draws a younger, creative crowd.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular team and recreational sport region-wide; local clubs and casual games are common.
Seasonal matches in local parks and grounds during spring and summer.
Local courses within a short drive offering coastal and countryside views.
Coastal location offers sailing, kayaking and paddleboarding opportunities when conditions permit.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Cliftonville.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Most venues offer vegetarian options; ask for farm to table or meat-free specials and check for fish or dairy based dishes.