Thanet is surrounded by gorgeous sandy, family friendly and many award winning beaches, perfect for a free or cheap day out for the family. For a full list of the beaches please go to www.visitthanet.co.uk.
If you plan to spend your holiday on the beach, chalets are available to book from the beginning of May until mid September each year. To book one just contact Thanet Leisureforce on 01843 296111. The chalets have a gas ring and two deck chairs, and plenty of space to store everything that you might need on the beach. It's great to go down to the beach early for breakfast, whatever the weather, or you could even catch some fish and cook them right there on the beach. It can really cut down on the amount you spend, and the kids will love it.
The Visit Thanet website also gives information on which beaches are most suitable for wheelchair users or those who have limited mobility.
For fresh-air activity, you can cycle along the family-friendly Viking Coastal Trail, and the Thanet Coast Project organises seashore safaris and Rock Doc Walks, revealing the natural wonders of our coast.
The Turner Contemporary gallery in Margate is also free, where changing exhibitions span art from 1750 to the present day. At the front reception, you can purchase for only £1 an activity pack for children which also contains binoculars, which should definately keep the children entertained. There are also events on at the weekend - some for the whole family, where only the adult pays £2 to participate, and others for children, hwere only children over 3 pay £2 to participate. For full details of their activities please go to www.turnercontemporary.org. You can also view exciting displays by artists and makers in the galleries of Margate Harbour Arm and Old Town.
The streets of Broadstairs come alive in June with its famous Dickens Week, while in August its Folk Week sets parks, pubs, gardens and beaches to music. Later in the year discover local produce at the yummy Food Festival.
Ramsgate Week in July is a super-friendly international regatta - the alternative to Cowes - and the Margate Masters is a top weekend on the Volleyball England Beach Tour.
And summer may fade, but Thanet keeps going ‘out of season' with diverse events like the International Kite Festival and the exhilarating Margate Beach Cross.
