4.5
(334)
4,617
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24
hikes
Urban hiking trails around Thanet offer a distinctive coastal landscape in Kent, United Kingdom. The region is characterized by dramatic chalk cliffs, expansive sandy bays, and unique chalk sea stacks. Hikers can explore diverse coastal landscapes, wetlands, and areas of open countryside with significant views. These features provide varied terrain for urban walks, from clifftop paths to beach strolls.
Last updated: May 3, 2026
5.0
(2)
46
hikers
4.40km
01:07
10m
10m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
50
hikers
6.03km
01:34
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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19
hikers
3.16km
00:50
30m
30m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
25
hikers
4.37km
01:08
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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It was completely closed during our stay. Does it still exist?
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The Margate Clock Tower is a landmark and a popular tourist attraction in Margate. Built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee, it was officially opened on May 24, 1889, the Queen's 70th birthday. The clock tower houses a time globe, which allowed ships at sea and spectators on land to precisely set their clocks. The time globe is a large copper sphere that was raised to the top of the tower, near the masthead, and lowered at exactly 1:00 PM.
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Here you can admire some cool graffiti.
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Broadstairs has had a clock tower since 1897, originally built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee (60 years on the throne). The original clock tower was destroyed by fire, and the current one was built in 1970 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee (25 years on the throne). The clock tower is located next to the bandstand in Broadstairs and is a pleasant spot to enjoy the view across the sea.
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Louisa Bay was originally called Goodstone Steps. Thomas Russell Crampton built a lattice bridge across the gorge here, and it was renamed Louisa Bay after one of his family members. Louisa Bay has a small but lovely beach, just a short walk from Viking Bay, which is perfect for mudflat hiking. There is a café on the promenade.
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This magnificent, horseshoe-shaped bay is the main attraction of Broadstairs. It was the favorite holiday destination of Charles Dickens, who even dedicated a beloved story to it: "Our English Watering Place". The long sandy bay, the cliff-top promenade, and the wooden jetty make this bay a timelessly beautiful place.
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Pub History Royal Victoria Pavilion This Grade II listed building (formerly a dilapidated pavilion) is a stunning example of coastal architecture and was among the most endangered Victorian and Edwardian structures in the country. Built as a concert hall and assembly space, it was designed by architect Stanley Davenport Adshead. Its style was inspired by an orangery designed by Robert Adam. The interior is said to have been inspired by the Small Theatre at Versailles and was simplified in the 1930s. After being used as a nightclub and later as a casino, it closed its doors in 2008. It now houses the J. Wetherspoon Restaurant, which is very popular. It was packed on Boxing Day. We enjoyed it, and the sea view is magnificent. https://www.jdwetherspoon.com/pubs/royal-victoria-pavilion-ramsgate/
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Plenty of choices for food, coffee - and views
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Komoot offers around 25 urban hiking routes in Thanet. The majority of these, 23 to be exact, are rated as easy, making them accessible for most walkers.
Urban hikes in Thanet often feature a stunning mix of dramatic chalk cliffs, unique chalk sea stacks, and expansive sandy bays. You'll also find routes that pass through coastal landscapes, wetlands, and open countryside, offering significant views. Many trails provide the option of clifftop paths or beach walks, tide permitting.
Yes, Thanet is well-suited for family walks, with many easy routes. The Ramsgate Harbour & West Cliff loop is a gentle option, offering views of the harbour. Another great choice is the 3.2-mile loop through Pegwell Bay Country Park, which is excellent for experiencing diverse coastal landscapes and spotting wildlife.
For scenic viewpoints, consider routes that incorporate the coastline. The Margate Harbour Arm – Walpole Bay loop offers lovely views of Margate's iconic Harbour Arm. Sections of the Viking Coastal Trail and King Charles III England Coast Path also provide stunning vistas of the chalk cliffs and sea.
Yes, many urban routes in Thanet are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Ramsgate Harbour & West Cliff loop and the Palm Bay Beach – Margate Steps loop from Margate. The 3.2-mile loop in Pegwell Bay Country Park is also a popular circular option.
Thanet's urban trails often pass by significant landmarks and natural features. You might encounter the dramatic Kingsgate Bay and the Chalk Cliffs, the bustling Margate Harbour Arm, or the picturesque Viking Bay in Broadstairs. Many routes also offer views of Ramsgate Beach and Minnis Bay Beach.
Spring is an excellent time for urban hiking in Thanet, as the coastal areas come alive with vibrant wildflowers and fresh sea air. However, the coastal paths offer unique beauty year-round, with dramatic skies in winter and pleasant breezes in summer. Always check local weather conditions before heading out.
Yes, the area around Pegwell Bay is particularly good for birdwatching. A loop hike through Pegwell Bay Country Park will take you through diverse coastal landscapes, wetlands, and saltmarshes, which are part of the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay Nature Reserve, an important area for various bird species.
Many of Thanet's coastal towns like Margate, Ramsgate, and Broadstairs are well-connected by public transport, making it easy to access various trailheads. The Viking Coastal Trail, for instance, connects these towns, allowing you to use public transport to reach different sections.
The komoot community highly rates urban hiking in Thanet, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal scenery, the variety of paths (from clifftop to beach walks), and the accessibility of routes that connect charming seaside towns.
Yes, the extensive Viking Coastal Trail is a prime example, connecting coastal towns like Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate. Sections of the King Charles III England Coast Path also link towns, such as the popular segment between Margate and Broadstairs, offering a great way to explore multiple locations on a single walk.


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