A day trip to Margate—but let’s make it a little Mediterranean(ish), maybe?
See, we often compare and end up missing what’s right in front of us.
“Imagine if the southeast Kent coastline had the same crystal-clear waters as Ghadira Bay in Malta…Or if Ghadira Bay stretched on and on for as long?” I said to my partner as I excitedly led the way, camera in one hand, and my bestie’s words echoing in my head: “Take lots of photos!”
It’s only an hour and a half from London by train, and I used to come here as a kid—Margate, that is—mainly for the fairground rides and a stick of rock.
Sadly, the Rockery and all those old haunts are closed now.
I didn’t do much hiking back then, and I didn’t care much for British beaches either.
Let’s just say the travel marketers were travel marketing.
Even before IG and budget airlines, they didn’t come close to the exotic turquoise waters splashed across glossy travel mags.
In many ways, that’s part of why I haven’t explored more of the UK.
But who says you’ve gotta go abroad to discover gems?
Admittedly, it took a global pandemic and island life for that to really sink in.
Now I know: there’s plenty to see and do, right here in your own backyard.
So of course, I had no idea about the Viking Coastal Trail. That is, until I ended up walking it.
Turns out, the Viking Coastal Trail stretches 25 miles along the Kent coast, linking Margate, Broadstairs, Ramsgate, and some pretty Kentish villages.
Fun fact: it’s named the Viking Trail because it marks the spot where Vikings first landed in Britain.
Anyway, it took about an hour to walk from Margate’s (golden) Sands to Botany Bay—and I loved it.The slow build-up between the two bays made it feel even more adventure-y.
Isn’t that the best part about hiking? That little inner knowing you’re about to stumble across something beautiful.
Add in the salty sea breeze, the warm sunshine the UK’s been having lately—and the fact that there was barely a soul around—and it made for the dreamiest kind of stroll.
Of course, the stunning chalky views didn’t hurt either…And if you think this is cool, just wait until you see Botany Bay.
(It might just change your idea of British beaches).
Have you visited any local gems lately—or (re)discovered some favourites?