In my unofficial capacity as Plumstead’s chief tourism officer, and now that warmer weather is approaching, can I encourage readers to investigate our wonderful Kent coast, which is virtually on our doorstep, for a refreshing away day from the borough. Did you know that Plumstead is only about 60 miles by rail or car from the sea?
So, what’s in store for you down at the seaside? Well, just about everything from nature or active pursuits, such bird watching and cycling trails, to the more ‘kiss me quick’ seaside charms of Margate or Ramsgate. In fact there’s lots of fun all along the Kent-coast, so here’s a few of my favourites to help you plan your excursions.
Whitstable This small bustling town still manages to retain some of its quaint fishing village charm. There are plenty of nice eateries, posh restaurants and friendly pubs, also an unsurpassed fresh fish market in the harbour. For the energetic there’s an easy three-mile bike (and walking) trail towards Canterbury via Blean Woods. crabandwinklejpg.pdf
Safe bathing (pebbles) and healthy walks along the downs at Tankerton. Quiet and suburban it has a charming 1930s look and feel. Claim to fame – Tracey Emin once had a beach hut here – what finer recommendation. Tankerton doesn’t have its own website so here’s one of nearby Whitstable, which also covers surrounding areas http://www.seewhitstable.com/. Swalecliffe and Seasalter are also worth exploring, and, if you’re driving or cycling don’t forget to drop by The Sportsman, which has a very popular restaurant (it’s so good you may need to book in advance).
Herne Bay A once sedate Edwardian seaside town but has become more upbeat since being dragged unwillingly into the 21st century. The clean pebble beach has safe bathing, water sports and there are traditional amusement arcades. There’s roller skating on the pier and plenty of children’s activities along the seafront. Beltinge village (about fifteen minutes from Herne Bay town centre) is fairly residential but has scenic walks along the cliff top. Alternatively, walk down the cliff slopes towards the pebbly beach and take a quiet walk along the promenade towards Bishopstone. No cars are allowed so cyclists, dog-walkers and children are safe. Return to the village and stop off at the Old Brown Teapot café in Reculver Road – great Sunday lunches – book first though (tel. 01227 743142). http://www.ilovehernebay.co.uk/
Reculver Continue through Beltinge towards nearby Bishopstone, which has great cliff top views. You can walk along the downs towards Reculver – where you can see the remains of an historic Norman church which was built on a Roman fort (not much left of either but interesting nonetheless). Walk or cycle the Viking coastal path to Minis Bay, Birchington and beyond – it’s completely car free for several glorious flat miles beside wonderful salt-marshes on one side, and miles of deserted pebble beach on the other. Take a picnic and go right the way through to Minnis Bay – about three miles. http://www.naturegrid.org.uk/ng-html/reculver/rh-info.html
Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate Everything you would want from a typical, traditional seaside town. Margate and Ramsgate are slightly shabby, with the former becoming trendier since the Turner Gallery arrived. Broadstairs has to be one of the best beaches to take children to as it has a wonderful clean, flat sandy beach in a sheltered bay. http://www.visitthanet.co.uk/
Sandwich If you venture further around the coast you will come to the charming, sleepy ancient Cinque Port. Allegedly this town has more remaining medieval houses than any other town in England it’s a must if history is your thing. However, it also has a pub on just about every street corner, all offering something slightly different - the Red Cow is our favourite but the Fleur de Lis is good too and has live music. Don’t miss the salt marsh nature reserve and a short river trip which will take you to the remains at Richborough. This fort was a significant and early Roman fortification, possibly the first place in Britain the Romans arrived at. The visitor centre explains better than I can – there’s also a picnic area. http://www.open-sandwich.co.uk/
There’s much to see and enjoy. Frequent trains from Woolwich Arsenal, journey takes about one hour 45 minutes. It’ll cost around £18.00 adult return.
… at some point in the future when I stop having to travel to Reading for work every day. Apologies to readers who view my blog only to find it isn’t being updated. I even bought one of those funky little netbooks so I could blog on the train. Whatever you do don’t buy an Asus eeePC. For ASDA/Asus read “rubbish”. I think it's a four-letter word thing. (Obviously the snap’s of me relaxing beside the Kennet and Avon canal.)
