The best walks and hikes around Thanet

Yes, Thanet offers several excellent circular walks. A great option if you're starting from Ramsgate is the Ramsgate to Broadstairs loop via Dumpton Gap. This moderate walk connects the two towns and provides classic seaside scenery without needing to retrace your steps.

The hiking trails around Thanet are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the dramatic white chalk cliffs, and the well-maintained paths that connect charming seaside towns. There are over 200 routes to explore, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.

Certainly. Thanet has many relatively flat and accessible paths perfect for a family outing. A particularly good choice is the Ramsgate Harbour & West Cliff loop. It's a short, easy walk that offers great views of the UK's only Royal Harbour and is suitable for all fitness levels.

Yes, Thanet is generally very dog-friendly. Most coastal paths and trails welcome dogs, but be aware of seasonal restrictions on some beaches, especially during the summer months. It's always best to keep your dog on a lead near cliff edges and when walking through nature reserves to protect wildlife.

Thanet is famous for its white chalk cliffs, the longest stretch in Britain. For a route that showcases this dramatic scenery, consider the Botany Bay Chalk Cliffs – Palm Bay Beach loop from Kingsgate. This walk offers fantastic views of the iconic sea stacks at Botany Bay and follows the clifftop paths.

Yes, the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve is a must-visit for wildlife enthusiasts. This important reserve features diverse habitats of saltmarsh and wetlands, attracting a wide variety of birds. You can explore it on a peaceful walk like The Contra Trail from Ramsgate to Pegwell Bay.

The Viking Coastal Trail is a 32-mile (51.4 km) circular route that follows the scenic coastline of the Isle of Thanet. It passes through Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate, showcasing sandy beaches and chalk cliffs. While popular with cyclists, it's also a fantastic long-distance walking path that can be tackled in shorter sections.

Walking the full 32-mile (51.4 km) Viking Coastal Trail would be a significant challenge, typically taking experienced hikers 10-12 hours of continuous walking. Most people choose to break it up into smaller, more manageable sections over a weekend or several days.

Yes, for a walk steeped in history, the trail from Minnis Bay to Reculver Towers is an excellent choice. This route leads you along the coast to the dramatic twin towers of a ruined Roman fort and medieval church, offering spectacular sea views along the way.

Most of the coastal towns like Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate have pay-and-display car parks near the seafront, which are convenient starting points for many walks. For some trails starting in less urban areas, such as near Pegwell Bay or Minnis Bay, you can often find free street parking or dedicated car parks, but these can fill up quickly on sunny days.

Thanet is a great year-round hiking destination. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summer is perfect for enjoying the beaches, though trails can be busier. Winter walks can be beautifully crisp and dramatic, but be sure to check the weather and dress for windy coastal conditions.

For those seeking a more demanding challenge, the Viking Bay – Kingsgate Bay and the Chalk Cliffs loop from Ramsgate is a great option. At over 17 miles (28 km), this difficult-rated hike covers a significant portion of the coastline and includes varied terrain, making for a rewarding day out for experienced hikers.