5 things to do in Ramsgate, recommended by locals
If you’re looking for picturesque sandy beaches paired with countryside walks, as well as an abundance of secondhand furniture, look no further than Thanet’s laidback coastal town of Ramsgate.
As part of our ‘Hydrate and Help the Ocean’ campaign, we asked sustainable content creators Emma Jane Palin and Pip Jolley to share their top 5 things to do in Ramsgate.
Here are their picks, written by Emma, straight from the Kent Coast...
Having moved to Ramsgate (from Margate) back in 2021, I’ve spent years shouting from the rooftops about Margate’s slightly more laidback next-door neighbour. So much so that I was able to encourage my best friend, and fellow content creator, Pip Jolley to also make the move to the Kent coast. Since January 2023 we’ve spent weekends together, digging through record shops, hunting down bargains in Ramsgate’s abundance of charity shops, and taking strolls along the beautiful coastline.
Planning on visiting soon?
Here are our lesser-known Ramsgate recommendations.
1. Pegwell Bay Country Park
If you’re looking to mix countryside and the coast, Pegwell Bay Country Park is a must-visit, particularly if you’re bringing along your pooches. We typically head here for a morning walk with our dogs, or a relaxing reset amongst the various flora and fauna, and cows!
There are breathtaking views across the wetlands - expect chalk cliffs, mud flats, saltmarshes, and sand dunes - and avid birdwatchers should bring their binoculars to hang out in the bird hides. The Salty Seal Cafe should also be on your list for a pitstop - all that walking makes for hungry work and breakfast here is highly recommended.
A256 Sandwich Rd, Cliffsend, Ramsgate CT12 5JB
2. Italianate Glasshouse and Occasional Tea Rooms
One of Ramsgate’s most weird and wonderful hidden gems is the early 19th Century Grade II* listed greenhouse nestled in the King George VI Memorial Park. Originally situated in the grounds of Bretton Hall in Yorkshire, it was bought in 1832 and re-erected in Ramsgate where it is now privately owned and run by the lovely Phil & Janice Dadds.
The structure and gardens are open every Saturday where you can chat to the gardeners (look out for Phil!) and shop a small selection of plants. As the name suggests, they occasionally open for tea and cake, but welcome visitors to sit down and relax regardless!
Montefiore Ave, Ramsgate CT11 8BD
3. Petticoat Lane Emporium
For those who know of us, we’re advocates for sustainable shopping, and Petticoat Lane Emporium is a must-visit for any fellow lovers of vintage fashion and homeware. The family-run 10,000-square-foot vintage warehouse holds over 200 independently rented stalls, stocking a range of styles and price points. Some of our favourites include a West German pottery stall and a regularly updated top-notch vinyl selection.
Once the hard work is over, a trip to the Baker Street Bisto & Bar on the top floor is also Pip and Emma-approved. Here you’ll find a classic cafe menu (think jacket potatoes!) with nostalgic and eclectic decor to boot.
47 Dumpton Park Dr, Ramsgate CT11 8AD
4. Ramsgate Boating Pool
Eating and drinking outside is all part of the fun of seaside life, and Ramsgate Boating Pool offers a unique atmosphere to hang out with friends and embrace the holiday-like feeling. Centered around an old boating pool, there’s a bar on one side, with Dough Eyes pizza and a greasy spoon cafe on the other.
During the summer months, pedalos can be hired on the weekends, allowing you to pedal around as you look out onto the stunning sea views. While this venue is slightly off the beaten track, it does get busy with in-the-know locals so head here early afternoon for the best spot!
West Cliff Promenade / Royal Esplanade, Ramsgate CT11 0HE
5. Ramsgate Royal Harbour and Main Sands
Did you know that Ramsgate has the only Royal Harbour in the country? You do now! From the boats that are seasonally donned with decorations, to the quiet waterfront walkways, the harbour is a scenic place to take in the sights and sounds of Ramsgate. For those with avid sea legs, there are regular boat tours around the harbour including seal tours and fishing trips.
Once you’ve explored the various eateries around the harbour (we love the Royal Brasserie and La Magnolia for dinner) as well as waded through the retro finds at Arch 16, it’s time to take your feet, or bodies, for a swim on Ramsgate Main Sands. While other seaside resorts tend to get busy, Ramsgate is a much more chilled affair with plenty of coastline for all to dip their toes in.
Marine Esplanade Ramsgate CT11 8LX
