Ramsgate, a charming seaside town in Kent, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbours Margate and Broadstairs, despite offering three sandy beaches, a royal marina, and fascinating wartime tunnels. Located less than 90 minutes from London, it provides a quieter alternative for beachgoers, with ample space even on sunny summer days.
Three Distinct Beaches
The town is flanked by Ramsgate Main Sands, Western Undercliff Beach, and Ramsgate East Cliff Promenade and Beach, all of which have received outstanding reviews on TripAdvisor. Western Undercliff Beach is described as a 'stones throw' from the Royal Harbour Marina, with one visitor noting it is a 'lovely sandy beach with no facilities', which they considered a bonus for 'seclusion and quietness'. Ramsgate Main Sands and the East Cliff Promenade and Beach offer an expansive stretch of golden sand, with one reviewer calling it 'great for kids'.
Royal Harbour and Historic Attractions
The Royal Harbour Marina, named by King George IV in the 1800s, remains the only harbour in the UK with official royal status. Beyond the beaches, Ramsgate is home to the largest Wetherspoons in the country, but also boasts a network of underground tunnels built in 1939 to shelter residents from bombing raids during the Second World War, earning the town the nickname 'Tunnel Town'. These tunnels are now a popular tourist attraction, perfect for rainy days or escaping the summer heat.
Wildlife and Creative Scene
Boat trips operated by Sea Searcher offer wildlife and seal-spotting excursions, along with wind farm tours and fishing trips. Historically, Ramsgate has attracted notable visitors such as Jane Austen and Vincent van Gogh. Today, the town has a thriving creative scene with independent restaurants, pubs, and bars.
Easy Access from London
For Londoners, a high-speed train from St Pancras International reaches Ramsgate in just one hour and 14 minutes, while driving can take up to two hours depending on the departure point. This makes it an effortless day trip without needing a car.
