The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Thanet

Thanet offers a fantastic selection of family-friendly hiking trails, with over 190 routes to explore. Many of these, around 115, are rated as easy, making them perfect for families with children of all ages.

Family hikes in Thanet primarily feature stunning coastal scenery, including dramatic chalk cliffs, golden sandy bays like Botany Bay with its unique sea stacks, and expansive sea views. You'll also find trails winding through scenic seaside villages, rolling hills, and areas with rich wetlands and marshland, such as Pegwell Bay Country Park.

Yes, for an easy and engaging walk, consider the Pegwell Bay Country Park Long Nature Trail. It's about 5 kilometers long and takes around an hour and a half, offering a chance to explore woodlands, marshes, and grasslands, which is great for birdwatching and nature spotting.

The Thanet coastline offers several popular family walks. A great option is the path from Botany Bay to Broadstairs via Prince's Walk, which provides iconic views of the chalk sea stacks. Another enjoyable route is the King Charles III England Coast Path from Ramsgate to Broadstairs, which is about 7.8 kilometers and offers lovely seaside views.

Yes, for a longer circular option, the King Charles III England Coast Path: Margate and Broadstairs Loop is a moderate 16.9-kilometer route that connects these two vibrant towns, passing several bays and beaches along the way. It's a fantastic way to experience a significant stretch of the coast.

Many trails offer views of notable landmarks. You might spot the dramatic Kingsgate Bay and the Chalk Cliffs, or the historic Reculver Towers from trails near Minnis Bay. Other highlights include Viking Bay in Broadstairs, Ramsgate Beach, and Margate Harbour Arm.

While many coastal paths are relatively flat, some sections might involve uneven terrain, steps, or sand, making them challenging for all-terrain strollers. For the most stroller-friendly options, look for trails within parks like Palm Bay or Northdown Park, which often have paved or well-maintained gravel paths. Always check specific route details for suitability.

The komoot community highly rates the hiking experience in Thanet, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the breathtaking coastal views, the variety of sandy beaches and dramatic cliffs, and the well-maintained paths that make exploring accessible for families. The chance to discover charming seaside towns along the way is also frequently highlighted.

Yes, the Minnis Bay to Reculver Towers via Northern Sea Wall route is an excellent choice. This trail offers clear views of the ancient Reculver Towers, a significant historical landmark, as you walk along the coast. It's a relatively flat and scenic path, making it suitable for families.

Thanet's coastal trails are enjoyable year-round. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, with beautiful seasonal colours. Summer is ideal for combining hikes with beach visits, though it can be busier. Even in winter, crisp, clear days provide stunning coastal views, but be prepared for potentially windy conditions.

Many of Thanet's coastal towns and villages are well-connected by local bus services and train lines, making it possible to access various trailheads without a car. For example, towns like Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate have train stations, and bus routes often run along the coast, providing convenient access to different sections of the Viking Coastal Trail and other paths.