The best city hikes and walks around Broadstairs And St Peters
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Urban hiking trails around Broadstairs And St Peters are characterized by coastal landscapes, dramatic chalk cliffs, and sandy bays. The region features a significant stretch of coastal chalk coastline, offering views across the English Channel. Paths often wind along the shoreline, connecting various beaches and historical landmarks. The terrain includes both clifftop sections and accessible sandy stretches.
Best urban hiking trails around Broadstairs And St Peters
- The most popular urban hiking route is Viking Bay, Broadstairs – Viking Bay Beach,…
Last updated: May 3, 2026
16
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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9
hikers
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
3
hikers
5.81km
01:29
20m
20m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Shrine of Our Lady of the Star of the Sea was an ancient chapel on the cliffs of Broadstairs (formerly Bradstowe). The chapel's twin towers, whose origins date back to at least the 1350s, served as an important landmark for local sailors. Due to the veneration shown to the shrine, a custom developed for ships to lower their sails as they passed, in salute to the shrine. The structural remains of St. Mary's Chapel, incorporated into the modern facade, stand on the site of what is believed to be the oldest surviving building in present-day Broadstairs. Within its modern interior are the remains of the medieval shrine of Our Lady of Bradstowe. (Wikipedia) The historic St. Mary's Chapel has been repurposed and now houses the Chapel Bar & Bookshop, serving local beers and snacks, as well as an antiquarian bookshop with over 30,000 titles.
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The Grade II listed building, dating from the late 18th to early 19th century, is also known as the boathouse (named after the lifeboat used from 1869 to 1912) and harbormaster's office. However, a 2015 report in the Isle of Thanet Gazette stated: "The old boathouse is thought to have been built around 1700 with a thatched roof. In 1843, this was replaced with a heavier slate roof, which probably caused the building's current visible lean." The building underwent a thorough inspection by Thanet Council in 2006, which found no structural issues. However, a June 2016 report by the Broadstairs Town Team stated that the building "is so badly deteriorated that local residents' concerns about its condition have prompted the town to investigate what needs to be done, both in the short and long term, to safeguard its status as one of Broadstairs' landmark buildings."
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Broadstairs has had a clock tower since 1897, originally built to commemorate Queen Victoria's Diamond Jubilee (60 years on the throne). The original clock tower was destroyed by fire, and the current one was built in 1970 to mark Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee (25 years on the throne). The clock tower is located next to the bandstand in Broadstairs and is a pleasant spot to enjoy the view across the sea.
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Louisa Bay was originally called Goodstone Steps. Thomas Russell Crampton built a lattice bridge across the gorge here, and it was renamed Louisa Bay after one of his family members. Louisa Bay has a small but lovely beach, just a short walk from Viking Bay, which is perfect for mudflat hiking. There is a café on the promenade.
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This magnificent, horseshoe-shaped bay is the main attraction of Broadstairs. It was the favorite holiday destination of Charles Dickens, who even dedicated a beloved story to it: "Our English Watering Place". The long sandy bay, the cliff-top promenade, and the wooden jetty make this bay a timelessly beautiful place.
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Lovely 3.5 circular walk from Ramsgate to Broadstairs with a sandwich at Alison’s cafe in the park
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Quaint seaside town with a lovely beach and lots of Dickens history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many urban hiking trails are available in Broadstairs and St. Peters?
There are over 25 urban hiking trails around Broadstairs and St. Peters, ranging from easy strolls to more moderate walks. Most of these, around 23, are considered easy, making the area very accessible for various fitness levels.
What kind of scenery can I expect on urban hikes in Broadstairs and St. Peters?
Urban hikes in Broadstairs and St. Peters primarily offer stunning coastal scenery. You'll encounter dramatic chalk cliffs, iconic chalk stacks, and beautiful sandy bays like Viking Bay and Botany Bay. Many routes follow sections of the Thanet Coastal Path, providing panoramic views across the English Channel.
Are there any family-friendly urban walks in the area?
Yes, many of the urban trails are suitable for families. The area features numerous easy routes, often along the coast or through town, which are perfect for a leisurely outing. For example, the Viking Bay Beach, Broadstairs – Viking Bay, Broadstairs loop is an easy 2.7 km walk that offers lovely views and is manageable for most families.
Can I bring my dog on urban hikes in Broadstairs and St. Peters?
Many coastal paths and urban trails in Broadstairs and St. Peters are dog-friendly, though it's always best to check local signage for specific restrictions, especially on beaches during peak seasons. Generally, dogs are welcome on leads along the clifftop paths and in many public areas.
Are there any circular urban walks available?
Yes, Broadstairs and St. Peters offer several excellent circular urban walks. A popular option is the Viking Bay, Broadstairs – Viking Bay Beach, Broadstairs loop, which is an easy 4 km route starting and ending in Broadstairs, perfect for exploring the town and coastline.
What historical landmarks or points of interest can I see on these urban hikes?
The urban hikes in Broadstairs and St. Peters are rich with history. You can pass by the historic North Foreland Lighthouse, or spot Bleak House, perched atop a cliff with its connections to Charles Dickens. The Viking Bay, Broadstairs area itself is a significant landmark. For a longer historical walk, consider the "Turner and Dickens walk" which connects Broadstairs to Margate.
What do other hikers enjoy most about urban hiking in Broadstairs and St. Peters?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars. Reviewers often praise the stunning coastal views, the accessibility of the trails, and the charming town atmosphere that blends seamlessly with the natural beauty of the chalk cliffs and sandy bays.
Are there any urban trails that offer views of specific natural features like chalk cliffs or stacks?
Absolutely. The region is famous for its dramatic chalk coastline. Many routes, including those around Botany Bay Chalk Cliffs and Kingsgate Bay and the Chalk Cliffs, provide spectacular views of these iconic formations and coastal stacks.
How can I get to the urban hiking trails using public transport?
Broadstairs and St. Peters are well-connected by public transport. Broadstairs train station offers direct links, and local bus services cover the area, making it easy to access various starting points for urban hikes. Many trails begin directly from the town centre or are a short walk from bus stops.
Are there any longer, more moderate urban hikes available?
While most urban hikes are easy, there are a few moderate options for those looking for a bit more challenge. The Viking Bay – Palace Cinema Broadstairs loop is an 8.4 km route that offers a good mix of coastal and town exploration with some elevation changes.
What are some notable attractions or natural monuments to look out for on urban hikes?
Beyond the main town areas, you can explore natural monuments like Botany Bay, known for its beauty, or the unique Walpole Bay Tidal Pool. For a different experience, the Sandwich and Pegwell Bay Nature Reserve is also nearby.
Are there any urban walks that pass through shopping areas or retail parks?
Yes, some urban routes might take you near or through commercial areas. For instance, the Westwood Cross Retail Park loop is an easy 5.8 km hike that includes this area, offering a different urban walking experience.
Most popular routes around Broadstairs And St Peters
Most popular attractions around Broadstairs And St Peters
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