insideKENT Magazine issue 94 - January2020 | Page 25

REGIONSPOTLIGHT REGION SPOTLIGHT: ISLE OF THANET AN ISLAND WITHIN AN ISLAND, THE ISLE OF THANET – MARGATE, BROADSTAIRS AND RAMSGATE – IS A SPECIAL KIND OF PLACE. WITH CENTURIES OF HISTORY AND HERITAGE, IT STANDS OUT IN A COUNTY ALREADY FAMOUS FOR ITS PAST, AND IT MAKES FOR A FASCINATING PLACE TO LIVE, WORK, OR VISIT. But it’s not just the Isle of Thanet’s history that makes it so unique; it has plenty more to say for itself besides. The food and drink available, for example, is impressive. Ranging from locally produced, organic fayre to exotic and unusual cuisine, the Isle of Thanet offers plenty of choice for gourmands, foodies and those who simply enjoy the good things in life. Plus there is always something to do here. With many different attractions as well as events and activities taking place every month of the year, no matter when you visit, you’ll find something exciting taking place. The three coastal towns that come together to form the region may be close in proximity, but they are miles apart in character, so there is sure to be somewhere that suits you the most. Here are just some of the experiences that can help visitors get the most from their visit to the Isle of Thanet. Be Inspired – The Must Sees Perhaps the most iconic building in Margate is Turner Contemporary , host of the Turner Prize and a world-class art gallery in its own right. The gallery showcases a mix of artists and art including contemporary art and art by historic masters. To really get a feel for Margate’s art scene, come to the Margate NOW Festival which is on until 12th January 2020. Dreamland is another must-see in Margate. This seaside theme park has rides for all ages, including the Big Wheel from which you will have the most wonderful views of the town and the 100-year-old Scenic Railway, which is actually Grade II listed. At night the park becomes a club with live music from an eclectic mix of acts. Don’t miss out on seeing the fabulous Ramsgate when you are visiting the Isle of Thanet. Ramsgate boasts the only Royal Harbour in the country, and there is a plethora of unique, independent shops, boutiques and cafes to explore. Not only that, but for those who want a little adventure, you can head to the Ramsgate Tunnels which were created during World War II and made the perfect sanctuary from the bombings. Botany Bay is a gorgeous place to visit. Cliff top walks are the order of the day here; the chalk cliffs are 80 million years old and you’ll find a host of wildlife around them and in the rockpools on the beach below. The Shell Grotto is an amazing sight located not too far from the Old Town. The walls are covered in 4.6 million shells and the grotto was discovered back in 1835 – it is still an awe-inspiring place today. 25