From Whitstable to Broadstairs - Exploring the Kent Coastline

Make your own way to The Yarrow Hotel in Broadstairs. This recently renovated hotel was built by Sir Alfred Yarrow in the Jacobean style. In the evening enjoy a Welcome Drink with your travel companions and Tour Manager in the bar area of your hotel before a delicious dinner.

After breakfast we depart on a full day excursion to Whitstable. This seaside town on the north coast of Kent is famous for its 'Native Oysters' which were / are collected from beds beyond the low water mark from Roman times until the mid-20th century. This is celebrated at the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival which takes place during the summer. Walk to the harbour and visit some of the fantastic shops and galleries this town has to offer. And of course, when in Whitstable you should not miss out on sampling some local and freshly sourced seafood – we will take you for lunch at our favourite local fish and chip restaurant! We will stop on the way back to the hotel to visit the Spitfire and Hurricane Memorial and see the collection of historic artefacts from the Second World War, which includes a Spitfire MkXVI which saw combat action in 1945. In the evening enjoy a relaxed dinner at your hotel.

This morning after a hearty breakfast, enjoy a guided walk to Margate (approx 7 miles; 2.5hrs walk) on a lovely coastal path along the clifftops, soaking up the stunning views. We will stop to admire the inviting beach at Joss Bay. Once very popular with contrabandists and named after the famous smuggler Joss Snelling (1741-1837), it is now recognised as being Kent's best surfing beach. Right next to this bay is a slightly quieter, sheltered cove named Kingsgate Bay which is known for its caves. At cliff level, it has a castle at one end and a pub at the other. Hard to beat that combination! On arrival in Margate we have time to explore the galleries with free time for lunch. You could consider a visit to the Turner Contemporary art museum. Later visit the impressive Margate Caves. The Caves were originally dug as a chalk quarry in the 17th and 18th centuries and are 94.2m long and 12.2m tall at the highest point. Originally opened to the public in 1863 you will have time to explore this unique attraction. Return to your hotel in your own time or with your Tour Manager, utilising the local loop bus which 'Loops' around Thanet every eight minutes, offering a simple way to travel between Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate. This evening enjoy dinner with your travel companions at the hotel.

This morning after breakfast, meet your Local Guide for a short walk into town for your guided walk of Broadstairs. Hear about Charles Dickens' long connection with Broadstairs from 1837 to 1851 and see the cottage that was Charles Dickens' inspiration for the home of Betsey Trotwood in David Copperfield. There will be free time in Broadstairs for shopping or alternatively join your Tour Manager for a Viking Coastal Trail walk to Ramsgate. (approx 3 miles; 2hrs walk) On your left enjoy views of the channel and (on a good day!) a truly spectacular view of the French coastline. Return to your hotel in your own time or with your Tour Manager on board the local loop bus. Meet with your fellow travel companions for dinner at the hotel.

This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, say farewell to your travel companions and Tour Manager as you return home after your short break to the North Kent coast.