The picturesque British town of Broadstairs in Kent was a popular summer destination for the young Queen Victoria and is now seeing a resurgence as one of the UK’s top seaside resorts
A picturesque coastal town, once a favourite holiday spot of Queen Victoria during her childhood, is experiencing a revival as thousands of busy Londoners take the 90-minute train journey to relax. Broadstairs, a hidden gem largely unknown outside the southeast, is now one of the top seaside destinations promoted by South Eastern Railway.
The contemporary town is bustling with independent bars, cafes and restaurants, while the pristine blue waters of the Thanet coastline continue to attract visitors. Its numerous beaches are ideal for surfing, dog-walking or romantic strolls along the shore. If you’re seeking loud clubs or a vibrant nightlife scene, you won’t find it here.
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Broadstairs is a tranquil, understated and charming holiday spot, appealing to couples of all ages as well as families with young children. Here’s everything you need to know about the town and what it has to offer, as reported by Kent Live.
From sailors’ shrine to seaside resort
For centuries, Broadstairs was simply a quiet fishing village linked to the inland church of St Peter’s-in-Thanet. It was part of the coastal confederation of Cinque Ports during medieval times, alongside 42 other towns and villages around Kent and Sussex, but it didn’t rank among the five most significant towns – Hastings, New Romney, Hythe, Dover and Sandwich.
Broadstairs, once a significant religious site for sailors due to its Shrine of Our Ladye Star of the Sea, derived its name from the stairwell carved into the cliff that allowed seafarers to reach their pilgrimage site and pray for safe journeys.
In the 17th century, the shrine was replaced by the Chapel of St Mary’s. Today, this historic site is home to the Chapel Bar and Bookshop. In 1823, the village had a modest population of 300, but its fortunes were on the brink of a dramatic change.
Between 1826 and 1836, the future Queen Victoria and her widowed mother, Victoire, Duchess of Kent, began spending their summers in the village, residing at Pierremont Hall, which still stands in today’s Pierremont Park.
This led to Broadstairs becoming a fashionable Victorian seaside resort among the upper and middle classes.
Charles Dickens was a frequent visitor, and it’s believed that the town inspired the setting for Betsy Trotwood’s home in David Copperfield and the titular Bleak House. The Dickens House Museum celebrates Dickens’ connection with Broadstairs.
The advent of the steamboat allowed Broadstairs to develop into an important port for transporting goods to and from London, bringing with it a reputation for smuggling. By 1910, its population had grown to 10,000.
A sanctuary for beach walks
Today, Broadstairs stands as a tranquil retreat, complete with sweeping sandy shores and an assortment of chic bars and cafes that mirror the town’s understated allure.
Viking Bay is the jewel in Broadstairs’ crown, a “hidden gem” nestled along the Kentish coast, which a Tripadvisor user has praised as “a crescent of golden sand lined with colourful beach huts and rock pools”, ideal for surfers under the vigilant supervision of lifeguards, and replete with facilities.
For those in search of a more private sanctuary, Joss Bay offers a magical enclave beneath the grandeur of Kingsgate Castle, now transformed into flats.
Dumpton Gap is celebrated for its imposing chalk cliffs and serves as a perfect setting for dog walks, while just next to Viking Bay you’ll find the serene and scenic Louisa Bay, an idyllic spot for sun-drenched ambles.
Adventurers yearning for dynamic pastimes can make their way to the Revolution Skatepark and Climbing Centre, which caters to those seeking thrilling sports activities, and the Crampton Tower Museum is an essential stop for hobbyists, showcasing detailed miniature model railways.
Quirky cafes and relaxed bars
Broadstairs is equally renowned for its unique array of quirky cafes and chilled-out bars. TripAdvisor devotees have heaped praise on the Michelin-starred Kebbell’s Seafood Bar and Restaurant, anointing it Broadstairs’ premier dining experience, proudly boasting last year’s illustrious TripAdvisor Travellers Award.
But it’s not just one venue stealing the culinary spotlight; the historic 300 year old Tartar Frigate is overflowing with classic allure, dishes out robust traditional cuisine, and holds court as the town’s second gastronomic crown jewel, while a blend of chic Italian and Mediterranean establishments further graces the local scene.
Among them is Sardinia, wearing the badge of “best” in Broadstairs with pride. For those seeking a quaint stop to enjoy their morning cuppa, The Old Curiosity Shop tea room invites you just a short amble from the seafront, scoring highly for its fragrant coffees and emulating Little Wave Cafe’s impeccable five-star Google reputation.
As twilight sets, The Counting House Bar elevates itself as a sophisticated retreat on the main thoroughfare, signaling the night’s commencement, whilst the nearby Reign Bar and Lounge entices nocturnal revellers with seductive cocktails amidst a sumptuous Art Deco setting.
On a more budget-friendly note, Cramptons Sports Bar emerges as the go-to spot for sports buffs looking to soak up football fever just a stone’s throw from the railway station.
Setting off from London, embark on an 80-mile trip to this coastal treasure, taking approximately two hours and 25 minutes by car via the M2.
Opt for a train journey and you’ll be there in a brisk one hour and 20 minutes direct, although some trips may take up to one hour and 47 minutes. Hop aboard a South Eastern Railway service to this charming seaside spot with single fares starting at just £34.90 and return tickets from a mere £48.70.
For those looking to indulge, Broadstairs offers luxury apartments complete with terraces and stunning views, with prices starting at over £1,000 for a short two-night stay. However, if you’re watching the pennies, fear not, as there’s an array of delightful hotels and guesthouses that won’t break the bank. Considering a seaside getaway?
The ‘fabulous’ Ebenezer’s Place Hotel is calling your name, offering a two-night stay from Friday, August 22, to Sunday, August 24, for £400.
Alternatively, the “exceptional” Lazy Days Bed and Breakfast, boasting a 9.7/10 rating on Booking.com, is available for a steal at £270.
If you need more room, the enchanting Broadstairs House Boutique B&B By The Sea, which has earned a stellar 9.5 on Booking.com, provides snug double rooms for £400 or spacious family rooms accommodating four guests at £440.