Posted: 10th July 2019
5 OF THE BEST BEACHES IN KENT
1. Botany Bay, CT10 3LG
Arguably one of Kent's most picturesque beaches, but not one of its most well-known, Botany Bay (also pictured above) is the most northerly of Broadstairs' seven beaches. Quiet and sandy, with rock pools to explore and sand to search for treasure, this hidden gem is perfect for families, or those looking for a peaceful stroll beside the sea. It even has a blue flag award.
DINE: Botany Bay Hotel, a sea view restaurant offering classic British cuisine with a contemporary twist, pub classics and seafood. Veggie and vegan options also available.
2. Minnis Bay, CT7 9QR
Minnis Bay is a beautiful Kentish blue flag beach with golden sands and stunning sunsets. This Thanet hotspot has proven to be a popular filming location and it’s not hard to see why, with its photogenic seascapes and wide expanses of sand at low tide. Visit Minnis Bay for a day of seaside rest and relaxation, or perhaps combine with a visit to Dreamland in nearby Margate, less than 20 minutes away by car.
DINE: Just above the beach, The Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie is the perfect beach retreat for delicious food with speciality seafood and British cuisine.
3. Viking Bay, CT10 1QS
The most popular beach in Broadstairs, Viking Bay is a sweeping crescent of sand in this quintessentially British seaside town. As you stroll along the promenade and explore the independent shops, art galleries and ice cream parlours, you may feel you are taking a step back in time. The beach itself offers plenty of sand for making castles, as well as some children’s entertainment in the summer months.
DINE: Its idyllic position above the bay makes the Royal Albion Hotel the perfect place to retire to after a day on the beach. Once frequented by Charles Dickens, the hotel restaurant today offers everything from light bites to a hearty meal, with something to suit all tastes.
4. Tankerton, CT5 2BE
Tankerton beach is a characterful pebbled beach with sloping grass banks, coloured beach huts, and amazing sunsets. Low tide reveals a unique natural causeway known as ‘The Street’, with rockpools and sandy stretches to explore. Just a stone’s throw from Whitstable; it’s perfect for a beach walk with friends and family. It also has a blue flag award.
DINE: The Marine Hotel serves up British classics along with freshly sourced fish and seafood to complete a long, fun day at the beach. Enjoy your dining experience in our newly refurbished, stunning orangery.
5. Herne Bay, CT6 8RH
Revisit your childhood seaside memories at Herne Bay. Discover the refurbished pier, featuring beach hut-style independent shops, a helter skelter and other children’s activities, before grabbing a coffee or enjoying some traditional fish and chips. Or, take the whole family for a game of mini golf and a stroll around the amusements, before heading to the beach for a paddle to complete the classic family day beside the sea.
DINE: A short walk from the seafront, the Four Fathoms was named as a winner in our 2019 Shepherd Neame Pub Awards, and also won Kent Life Pub of the Year 2018. This quirky restaurant is re-inventing pub classics with dishes such as ‘Fish Pie in 3D’ and a salad served on fire. The pub also holds a large number of curiosities, including collections of glass eyeballs and tap shoes!
