Things to do in Broadstairs with kids: part one

Whether you're looking for a busy beach with lots to see and do, or would prefer to discover a quieter bay that locals love, we're spoilt for choice in Broadstairs with each bay offering a different day out for families. 

If you're short on time and looking for plenty of activities and amenities then the Broadstairs beach you need to visit is Viking Bay: a classic sandy beach with plenty of facilities, food and drink and a children's play area plus good accessibility for wheelchairs, pushchairs and trolleys. With so much to offer, it gets particularly busy when the sun shines.

If you're here for a little longer, or are after a more chilled beach day, make your way on to the next bay over, Stone Bay, a favourite with local families. The back to basics feel and stunning views are a big part of the appeal of Stone Bay, you'll notice your shoulders drop and your breath deepen as soon as you arrive.

Facilities wise there are public toilets located halfway up the stone steps in the middle of Stone Bay and a couple of portaloos on the walkway. Namaka, a buzzy beach cafe serves smoothies, acai bowls and ice lollies, but opening hours are limited. Generally, it's wise to bring plenty of supplies with you as once here you won't want to leave.

Staying a while? Read our guide to all the beaches in Broadstairs here

If your day can't start without an oat flat white or you need multiple iced lattes to beat the heat, you'll be spoilt for choice in Broadstairs with plenty of independent coffee shops offering barista-made coffee and speciality drinks plus all manner of handmade pastries, cookies and sandwiches to sustain your day. 

On York Street in the old town - just a few steps from our new sunshine shop by the sea - you'll find local legends Forts: famed for toasties, brunch (children's portions are available) and deli-style sandwiches. Be warned that space for prams is limited, so if you have little ones you may prefer to grab your coffee and a pastry to go - enjoy it on the benches out front or head towards the nearby seafront to soak up that view. 

On Albion Street, Giant Broadstairs is the newest kid on the block: the sister site to Giant Margate is fast becoming a popular spot for the bright, spacious and calm atmosphere, and the iced drinks and array of sweet treats are hard to resist. Found on the bottom of the High Street is refreshed deli and sandwich bar Little Wave, a small but mighty option for the ultimate easy picnic.

If quirky and creative is your cup of tea, search out The Old Curiosity Shop on Harbour Street, a community cafe with a play space for children, events and workshops for a range of ages and a rotation of work by local artists on the walls. Havisham & Cratchit at Bleak House on Fort Road is a charming tea room where the cake is served with a side of curios, antiques and literary history: Bleak House is the holiday home where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield. 

Arriving by train, or need to refuel before heading home? There are a couple of spots on the High Street to look out for. Salt is renowned for smoothies, coffee and community, it's also home to a wine bar on Friday and Saturday evenings, a very chill alternative to a pub with happy hour 5:30pm - 6:30pm offering two for one on all wines by the glass. Kope + Loko is a chic lifestyle store with a coffee shop and little pavement cafe.

Down on Viking Bay beach itself you'll find Finxs built into the chalk cliff, a singular spot to enjoy a beer or coffee with your toes in the sand while the kids play. You'll feel like you're on the Mediterranean at Namaka at The Hut on Stone Bay: kick start your day with an acai bowl while you enjoy the view.

There's more to Broadstairs than chilling on the sand, if you're staying a while or need to break up a day at the beach, check out some of our favourite things to do with kids.

Lillyputt Mini Golf on Victoria Parade is a fun-filled activity for the whole family: grab a putter and ball and wind your way around this charming, tranquil course. Try and ring the bell on your final shot to win a free game. There's a little cafe where anyone who is more of a spectator than a player can relax and refuel. 

Check out the free kid's Craft Corner at Kinder Collective on York Street - little ones can create with materials provided or simply get colouring with a free worksheet while you shop. There's also a cosy book nook for little readers.

The Amusements on Harbour Street is a classic seaside arcade, and a good spot to shelter if rain or high winds drive you off the beach. Expect bright flashing lights and loud buzzers, traditional and modern games. It can be more fun than some can handle, so be sure to set some boundaries (for the kids and yourself) before you head in to keep the fun from turning into tears.

The No. 69 Open Top Bus is a particularly fun way to travel and a good way to see the sights, travelling from Broadstairs to The Boating Pool in Ramsgate where we highly recommended stopping for a drink in the sunshine and a go on the pedaloes before boarding for your return trip. 

If you've got older kids who are eager to catch some waves, Kent Surf School on Viking Bay offers surfing and stand up paddle boarding (SUP) lessons and tours that are perfect for a trip out on the water, plus holiday club sessions during the summer break. There are differing minimum ages for activities, and booking is essential. For land-based fun, head over to Kiddies Corner with bouncy castle, trampolines, swing boats and more to keep young children entertained.

If wet weather or strong winds put a dampener on your plans, check out the listings for the Palace Cinema on Harbour Street. An old, independent theatre built into the cliff, the screen is small and the staff are friendly and it's an experience far more unique than visiting a mega multiplex.

From everyday essentials to treasures to take back home, you'll find an independent Broadstairs store to suit your every need. 

Albie & Pearl on Chandos Road is a pretty-in-pink treasure trove of beautifully curated vintage homeware and gifts, that must not be missed. On nearby Charlotte Street, you'll find Arrowsmiths, Kit Lifestyle and By SP... where gifts, home and lifestyle are all covered. 

On the High Street you'll find modern womenswear and interiors at Kope + Loko, a miniature jungle and expert houseplant knowledge at Plantlet and holistic wellness for body and home at Sea, Spirit and Stones and the White Room Meditation. If your pets are a big part of the family, you'll find premium and ethical pet treats and more at Scruff & Co.

Staying in a self-catering apartment or Airbnb? Skip the supermarket delivery and instead make your way along the High Street for fresh meat and Kentish cheeses at Chef & Butcher, traditional green grocers at J Prentis, and Crusties bakery for fresh bread and sweet treats. 

One of our favourite neighbours on York Street is The Rueanthai Shop a one stop minimarket bursting with ingredients from around the world, with a focus on Asian cuisines in particular. You'll find Spanish provisions and tapas at Albarino on Albion Street. The Bottleneck on Charlotte Street has an excellent selection of wine and craft beer to carry out, and a courtyard garden that's open in the summer months. 

Hungry for more? Click here for Part Two of our guide to the best of Broadstairs.

PS: If you're anything like us, you probably had no idea quite how much of parenting would be asking your kids if they need the loo!

You can find Broadstairs public toilets in the Crofts Place Car Park off the High Street, on Harbour Street near the ramp to Viking Bay, near the Bandstand on Victoria Parade as well as on Stone Bay and Viking Bay. Operated by Thanet District Council, find opening times here.