REGIONSPOTLIGHT
REGION SPOTLIGHT: ISLE OF THANET CONT.
Off The Coastal Path Culture Lover’s Fix
The Viking Coastal Trail is a 32 mile
(52.4km) circular route that takes in the
entire Isle of Thanet coastline, as well as
bringing you to some of the most
picturesque villages in the country. Most
of the route is free of traffic and will give
you sensational views over the sea. You
can cycle the route or walk it, but whatever
your choice there will be many different
places to stop and refuel along the way. Although Turner Contemporary might be the most well
known of the galleries on the Isle of Thanet, it’s certainly
not the only one. Wander around the towns (particularly
Margate), and you’ll come across plenty more, all with
the most marvellous artistic works inside. This is the
perfect mix of London’s mighty art scene and seaside
loveliness. The newly opened Carl Freedman Gallery
in Union Crescent – next to Tracey Emin’s studio – is
a prime example of the great work Margate is doing to
bring inspiring art to the masses.
Water sports are, of course, something
that the Isle of Thanet does well. Try
surfing or stand up paddle boarding at
Joss Bay, or why not visit the Walpole
Bay Tidal Pool? This 100-metre-wide
pool, created in the 1930s, is an
invigorating way to refresh yourself.
Rock pooling is always a great way to
keep everyone entertained, and it’s a
simple thing to do along this varied
coastline. Using the specially designed
Coastal Explorer Packs you can
discover exactly what interesting creatures
you have found.
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In Margate Old Town there are dozens of independent
art galleries and studios to enjoy including the Pie
Factory, King Street Studio and Eclectic.
If you prefer your art more lively, don’t worry; the Isle of
Thanet has this covered. Here you’ll find not only
England’s second oldest theatre - the Theatre Royal,
but also the smallest - the aptly named Tom Thumb. Plus
you can visit the Winter Gardens to see one of the
Beatles’ many haunts.
The Isle of Thanet has been the inspiration for many
writers in the past and today. Dickens was one such writer,
so much so that he had a house in Broadstairs. Today
you can follow his footsteps and discover much more
about the man and his work. Or why not try the Pugin
Town Trail where you will come across some gorgeous
Gothic architecture.
Food and Drink
Famous for art and entertainment, famous for the beautiful
coastal scenery, famous for being a world away from
London yet only 75 minutes away in reality, the Isle of
Thanet has a lot going for it. And now that it is also
becoming famous for its food and drink offerings, there
is really no reason not to visit as soon as you can. Just
some of the fantastically mouth-watering examples
including Thanet’s first Michelin starred restaurant -
Stark, based in Broadstairs and Bib Gourmand accredited
Arya in Ramsgate.
Find more award-winning eateries across Broadstairs,
Ramsgate and Margate, at: www.visitthanet.co.uk/stay-and-
eat/eating-and-drinking