Broadstairs Cottages by the Sea

Discover Broadstairs and the Kent Coast

Broadstairs is one of Kent’s best-known seaside towns, with sandy beaches, a traditional harbour and a seafront lined with cafés, restaurants and independent shops. The town has a selection of beach cottages and coastal holiday homes close to Viking Bay, along with sea view cottages and apartments overlooking the coastline. Several smaller bays lie within easy reach of the town centre, while coastal paths connect Broadstairs with neighbouring seaside towns.

Broadstairs Town Centre, Harbour and Nearby Ramsgate

Broadstairs has narrow streets, traditional fishermen’s cottages and Victorian buildings overlooking Viking Bay. Harbour Street is lined with independent shops and places to eat, while the clifftop promenade provides views across the beach and harbour.

The town has strong connections with Charles Dickens, who spent many summers here. Dickens House Museum on Victoria Parade contains exhibits relating to the author’s life and his visits to Broadstairs.

Ramsgate is a short journey south along the coast. It has a Royal Harbour, marina, sandy beach and a good selection of waterfront restaurants. The town is also connected to Broadstairs by the Viking Coastal Trail, making it an interesting place to visit during your holiday.

Viking Bay, Joss Bay and Broadstairs Beaches

Viking Bay is the main beach in Broadstairs, with a broad stretch of sand, colourful beach huts and a promenade above the shore. The beach has public toilets, cafés and seasonal beach facilities, including deckchair hire. It is particularly popular with families during the summer holidays.

Just north of the town centre, Stone Bay offers another sandy beach backed by chalk cliffs. Joss Bay, further along the coast, is popular for surfing and has a large sandy area at low tide.

Botany Bay is known for its white chalk stacks and sandy shoreline, while nearby Kingsgate Bay has chalk cliffs, sea caves and a quieter beach. Access to some of these smaller bays involves steps or steep paths, and the beaches can become cut off at high tide.

Coastal Walks and Places to Visit Near Broadstairs

The Viking Coastal Trail follows the Thanet coastline, connecting Broadstairs with Ramsgate, Margate and several smaller bays. The route can be explored on foot or by bicycle, with views across the chalk cliffs and beaches.

North Foreland Lighthouse stands on the clifftops between Joss Bay and Botany Bay. Nearby Kingsgate Castle overlooks Kingsgate Bay, while the coastal paths offer views towards the chalk stacks at Botany Bay.

Families can also visit the Crampton Tower Museum, which explores local transport history, or enjoy the shops, cafés and attractions around Broadstairs town centre.

For more seaside destinations in the county, browse our selection of Kent cottages by the sea, including properties around Whitstable, Margate, Deal and other coastal towns.