Thanet, located on the far eastern tip of Kent, is home to the vibrant seaside towns of Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate—all rich with coastal charm, quirky attractions, and family-friendly fun. Whether you're planning a day trip or staying for the weekend, Thanet offers a great mix of classic seaside entertainment and unique adventures kids will love.
Here’s how to spend a fun-packed family day (or three!) in Thanet:
📍 Location: Marine Terrace, Margate CT9 1XJ
🎟️ Entry: Free to enter; ride wristbands or pay-per-ride
👧 Best for ages: 3+
Step into a world of vintage seaside fun at Dreamland, Margate’s iconic amusement park. With its vibrant murals, classic fairground rides, and lively events calendar, it’s a must-visit for families.
Ride the Scenic Railway, the UK’s oldest wooden rollercoaster (for brave tweens and teens)
Enjoy dodgems, carousels, and a big wheel with sea views
Cool off at the roller disco or grab lunch from quirky street food stalls
Catch pop-up performances and kids’ workshops during school holidays
Spring Tip: Keep an eye out for Easter events, storytelling sessions, and vintage markets on weekends.
📍 Location: Grotto Hill, Margate CT9 2BU
🎟️ Entry: Adults ~£5, Children ~£2.50
👧 Best for ages: 5+
Discovered by chance in the 1830s, this underground tunnel decorated with 4.6 million seashells is a marvel that baffles historians to this day. Kids will be fascinated by the spiralling passages and intricate shell mosaics.
A short but magical walk through the candlelit chambers
An on-site museum and gift shop selling shell crafts and coastal curiosities
Fun guessing games about the grotto's mysterious origins
Accessibility Note: The tunnels are narrow and uneven in places, so best for mobile kids.
📍 Location: Marine Drive, Broadstairs CT10 3LG
👧 Best for ages: All ages
🌊 Best time to visit: Low tide (check tide tables!)
One of the most beautiful and photogenic beaches in Kent, Botany Bay is perfect for springtime exploring. With chalk cliffs, hidden caves, and shallow waters, it’s a natural playground.
Rock pooling at low tide—look for crabs, anemones, and starfish
Fossil hunting along the beach (especially after a storm)
Space to build sandcastles or fly a kite
Quiet nooks for picnicking
Facilities: Toilets and a seasonal kiosk are available; bring your own snacks and blankets for comfort.
📍 Location: Rendezvous, Margate CT9 1HG
🎟️ Entry: Free
👧 Best for ages: 4+
Even if your kids aren’t typical museum fans, this light-filled, modern art gallery is surprisingly engaging for young visitors. Many exhibits are interactive or large-scale installations that spark curiosity.
Hands-on family art sessions during weekends and holidays
Panoramic sea views from the upper windows
Easy access to the beach and nearby cafes
Bonus: It’s right next to Margate Main Sands for a post-art beach run-around.
📍 Location: Marina Esplanade, Ramsgate CT11 8FH
🎟️ Entry: Tour prices vary
👧 Best for ages: 6+
Explore the UK's largest network of civilian wartime tunnels, originally built as an air raid shelter during WWII. Older children will love the storytelling, lantern-lit tours, and historical artefacts.
What’s Inside:
Guided tours with local history and wartime tales
Authentic furnishings and props from the 1940s
Hands-on exhibits and dressing-up areas
Note: Some parts are dimly lit—great for imaginative kids but not ideal for toddlers.
The Bus Café (Margate): A converted double-decker with fun meals and sea views.
Morelli’s Gelato (Broadstairs): Retro ice cream parlour with over 20 flavours.
Peter’s Fish Factory (Ramsgate & Margate): Kid-friendly portions of classic seaside fish and chips.
If you’re turning your Thanet day out into a mini-break, why not stay somewhere spacious, child-friendly, and close to the action?
Pass the Keys offers a range of self-catering holiday homes in Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate—perfect for families who want space to relax and make the most of the coast.
Multi-bedroom homes (no need to share one room)
Fully equipped kitchens to make snacks or meals
Pet-friendly options if you’re bringing the dog
Near beaches and local attractions
On-the-ground support for anything you need
You’ll find modern apartments, seaside cottages, and even quirky homes near Dreamland or The Old Town.
From rollercoasters to rock pools, art galleries to secret grottos, Thanet has something for every age and interest. Spring is a wonderful time to explore—with fewer crowds, blooming scenery, and tons of family activities ready to entertain and inspire.
So pack your buckets and spades, bring your curiosity, and let Thanet be the setting for your next unforgettable family day out.