Ramsgate Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do and see in Ramsgate, Kent, UK with our comprehensive travel guide. Plan your trip with our tips on attractions, food, accommodation, and transportation.


Ramsgate Travel Guide: Explore the Best of Kent

If you’re looking for a seaside town that combines history, culture, and outdoor adventures, Ramsgate ticks all the boxes. Located in the easternmost part of Kent, Ramsgate boasts a scenic harbor, Victorian architecture, sandy beaches, and charming local shops and cafes. In this travel guide, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of Ramsgate, from the top attractions to the local culture and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Ramsgate

Ramsgate has something for everyone, from maritime museums to cozy pubs, from nature reserves to art galleries. Here are some of the must-visit places in Ramsgate:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Ramsgate Maritime Museum: Learn about the town’s rich maritime heritage, including its association with the Royal Navy and famous sailors like Captain Webb and Vincent Van Gogh.
  • Ramsgate Tunnels: Take a historic tour of the underground tunnels that were used during World War II as air-raid shelters and later as storage spaces.
  • Pugin’s Gothic Temple: Admire the intricate design of this 19th-century temple, built by the famous architect Augustus Welby Pugin.

Natural Attractions of Ramsgate: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Ramsgate Beach: Enjoy a stroll along the sandy beach, swim in the sea, or rent a deckchair and watch the sailboats go by.
  • King George VI Memorial Park: Have a picnic in this lush park, which offers stunning views of the harbor and the English Channel.
  • Cliffsend Nature Reserve: Hike through the wildlife-rich reserve, which has rare birds, butterflies, and wildflowers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Ramsgate

Ramsgate is a great base for exploring the scenic paths and trails of Kent. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in the area:

  • Viking Coastal Trail: This 32-mile route takes you from Ramsgate to Pegwell Bay, passing by castles, beaches, and nature reserves.
  • The Thanet Loop: Hop on a bus or bike and explore the charming seaside towns of Broadstairs and Margate, which are just a short distance away from Ramsgate.
  • St. Peter’s to Minster Walk: Follow the footpath that connects the two villages, and enjoy the panoramic views of the countryside and coastline.

Best Things to Do in Ramsgate: Activities and Tours

Ramsgate offers a wide range of activities and tours, whether you’re interested in history, art, or adventure. Here are some of the top choices:

  • Boat Tours: Explore the harbor and the cliffs from a different angle by taking a boat tour, which can be customized to include fishing, whale watching, or sunset cruises.
  • Art Galleries: Ramsgate is home to several art galleries, showcasing the works of local and international artists. Be sure to check out the Lombard Street Gallery, the Belgian Monk, and the York Street Gallery.
  • Ghost Tour: Get spooked by taking a ghost tour of Ramsgate, which takes you to the town’s haunted alleys, cemeteries, and pubs.

Week-Long Itinerary for Ramsgate

To make the most of your trip to Ramsgate, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
1 Explore the harbor and the Maritime Museum
2 Visit the Pugin’s Gothic Temple and take a historic tour of the Ramsgate Tunnels
3 Go on a biking tour along the Viking Coastal Trail
4 Take a day trip to Canterbury and visit the famous cathedral and shopping district
5 Relax on Ramsgate Beach and have a seafood lunch at one of the local restaurants
6 Go on a boat tour and watch the sunset from the English Channel
7 Shop at the local markets and buy souvenirs from the local shops

Food and Drink Scene of Ramsgate

Ramsgate is known for its fresh seafood, traditional pub fare, and locally brewed ales. Here are some of the must-try dishes and beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Fish and Chips: You can’t leave Ramsgate without trying the classic British dish of fish and chips, which is served at many local restaurants and cafes. We recommend the Peter’s Fish Factory and the Belgian Waffle House.
  • Oysters: Ramsgate is famous for its oysters, which are harvested by local fishermen and served raw, grilled, or fried. You can try them at the Oyster Bar or the Royal Harbour Brasserie.
  • Kentish Cream Tea: Indulge in a delicious cream tea, which consists of scones, clotted cream, and jam, accompanied by a cup of tea. The Falstaff Hotel and the York Street Cafe serve some of the best cream teas in town.

Local Beverages

  • Shepherd Neame Ales: Try the award-winning ales from the oldest brewery in Britain, which are served at several local pubs, including the Red Lion and the Churchill Tavern.
  • Kentish Wines: Sample the fruity wines made from grapes grown in Kent’s vineyards, which are increasingly gaining popularity among wine connoisseurs. You can try them at the Mount Vineyard and the Biddenden Vineyards.

Where to Stay in Ramsgate: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ramsgate has a variety of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. Here are some of our top picks:

  • The Royal Harbour Hotel: Located in a Georgian-era building, this boutique hotel offers stylish rooms and stunning views of the harbor.
  • YHA Ramsgate: If you’re on a tight budget, this youth hostel provides affordable and comfortable dormitory-style rooms, as well as private en-suite rooms.
  • The Oak Hotel: This family-run guesthouse boasts spacious rooms and a garden, and is within walking distance from the beach and the town center.

What to Buy in Ramsgate: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Ramsgate offers a variety of unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring back home as a memento of your trip. Here are some ideas:

  • Oysters: If you’re a seafood lover, you can buy fresh oysters from the local fishmongers or markets, and take them home for a seafood feast.
  • Kentish Wines and Ales: Bring back a bottle of your favorite local wine or ale, which can be found at most supermarkets and specialty shops.
  • Vintage Postcards and Books: Browse the local antique shops and bookstores for vintage postcards, books, and maps that showcase the town’s history and culture.

Local Culture and Customs of Ramsgate

Ramsgate has a rich cultural heritage, which is reflected in its architecture, festivals, and traditions. Here are some of the local customs and etiquette:

  • Politeness and Courtesy: Ramsgate locals are known for their friendly and hospitable demeanor, so it’s polite to greet them and say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with them.
  • Pugin Heritage: Ramsgate has a strong association with the Gothic Revival architect Augustus Welby Pugin, who designed several famous buildings in the town, such as St. Augustine’s Church and the Grange. You can learn more about his legacy at the Pugin Heritage Centre.
  • Festivals and Events: Ramsgate hosts several cultural and sporting events throughout the year, such as the Royal Harbour Festival, the Ramsgate Week sailing regatta, and the Addington Street Christmas Fair. Be sure to check the town’s event calendar for upcoming activities.

Best Time to Visit Ramsgate

Ramsgate can be visited all year round, each season offering its unique charm and attractions. However, the peak tourism season is from May to September, when the weather is warm and sunny, and most of the outdoor activities are available. If you prefer a quieter and more budget-friendly time, you can visit in the off-season (October to April), when the accommodation rates are lower, and the crowds are less dense.

Do’s and Don’ts of Ramsgate

To make your trip to Ramsgate enjoyable and respectful, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Do respect the beach safety guidelines and listen to the lifeguards’ instructions.
  • Do try the local seafood and ales, as they are among the town’s specialties.
  • Do take a walking tour of the town, as it’s the best way to discover its hidden gems and history.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural environment, as Ramsgate has several nature reserves and gardens that need to be preserved.
  • Don’t park on the beachfront or in the restricted areas, as it’s illegal and could lead to a fine.
  • Don’t disturb the local wildlife or flora, as Kent has several protected species and habitats.

Safety and Health

Ramsgate is a safe town, with a low crime rate and a friendly community. However, like any tourist destination, it’s important to be aware of the safety and health precautions. Here’s what you need to know:

Safety in Ramsgate

  • Ramsgate has a 24/7 police station, which is located in the town center, and can be reached by dialing 999 in an emergency.
  • Ramsgate’s beaches are patrolled by lifeguards during the summer season, who can assist with any beach-related emergencies.
  • It’s important to stay aware of your surroundings and belongings, especially in crowded areas or tourist attractions.

Health in Ramsgate

  • Ramsgate has several medical centers and hospitals, such as the NHS East Kent Hospitals University NHS Foundation Trust and the Thanet Clinical Commissioning Group.
  • It’s recommended to have travel insurance that includes medical cover, as healthcare in the UK can be expensive for non-residents.
  • Ramsgate’s tap water is safe to drink, but if you prefer bottled water, it’s widely available in supermarkets and convenience stores.

Getting to Ramsgate: Transportation Options and Logistics

Ramsgate is easily accessible by several means of transportation, whether you’re traveling locally or internationally. Here’s how to get to Ramsgate:

Airports Near Ramsgate

  • London Gatwick Airport: This is the nearest international airport to Ramsgate, located around 90 miles away, and can be reached by train or car.
  • London Heathrow Airport: If you’re flying from or to a long-haul destination, Heathrow Airport is a viable option, located around 100 miles away from Ramsgate.
  • London City Airport: This airport is ideal for travelers coming from Europe or the UK, as it’s only 60 miles away from Ramsgate.

Bus Stations Near Ramsgate

  • Ramsgate Bus Station: This is the main bus station in Ramsgate, with routes connecting to local and regional destinations, such as Canterbury, Margate, and London.
  • National Express Coach: If you’re coming from faraway locations, such as Scotland or Cornwall, you can take a coach to Ramsgate from the National Express stations in London or Dover.

Other Options

  • Train: Ramsgate has its own train station, which connects to the high-speed train line (HS1), linking to London and other major UK cities, such as Edinburgh and Birmingham.
  • Ferry: If you’re coming from continental Europe, you can take a ferry to Dover or Calais, and from there, drive or take a train/bus to Ramsgate.

How to Get Around in Ramsgate

Ramsgate is a walkable town, with most of the attractions and amenities located within a few miles’ radius. However, if you want to explore the outskirts or other parts of Kent, there are several transport options available:

  • Bus: Ramsgate has several local bus companies that operate throughout the town and the surrounding areas, with fares ranging from £2.50 to £5 for a single ticket.
  • Taxi: Ramsgate has several licensed taxi operators, which can be pre-booked or hailed on the street, with fares starting from £3.
  • Car Rental: If you prefer to drive around Kent on your own, you can rent a car from several car rental companies, such as Hertz, Enterprise, and Europcar.

Where to Go Next from Ramsgate: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kent is a diverse county, with many exciting destinations and excursions that you can explore after visiting Ramsgate. Here are some suggestions:

  • Canterbury: Visit the historic city of Canterbury, which is just a 30-minute train ride away from Ramsgate, and see the famous attraction of the Archbishop’s Palace and Canterbury Cathedral.
  • Dover: Take a day trip to Dover and visit the iconic White Cliffs, the Dover Castle, and the town’s charming port.
  • Whitstable: If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss the charming town of Whitstable, famous for its oysters and fish markets, which are just a short train ride away.

Conclusion

Ramsgate is a hidden gem of Kent, a town that is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, maritime museums, or local cuisine, Ramsgate has something to offer. With this travel guide, we hope you’ve gained a comprehensive understanding of Ramsgate’s attractions, customs, and logistics, and we wish you an unforgettable trip to this charming town.

Ramsgate Harbour Ramsgate Harbour Ramsgate station Ramsgate station Steam Tug Steam Tug "Cervia" in Ramsgate Marina St. George's Church St. George's Church