Ramsgate Royal Harbour
The UK's only Royal Harbour, offering stunning maritime views, historic charm, and a gateway to scenic coastal walks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Ramsgate Royal Harbour
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
The UK's only Royal Harbour, offering stunning maritime views, historic charm, and a gateway to scenic coastal walks.
"Absolutely mind blowing views. If you want to clear your thoughts, visit this place. Priceless memories."
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Essentials
Wear comfortable shoes for the Ramsgate to Margate walk. Pack water and snacks!
☕️ Coffee & Brunch Spots
New cafes are opening with harbour views. Check out The Port & Anchor for a fresh vibe.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ramsgate Royal Harbour
The heart of Ramsgate
The UK's only Royal Harbour, offering stunning maritime views and a unique historical ambiance.
Coastal Walk to Margate
Starts at Ramsgate, ends at Margate
A scenic 15km hike along the coast, perfect for nature lovers and those seeking adventure.
Historic Architecture
Throughout Ramsgate
Discover Grade II listed buildings and charming townhouses near the harbour.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds for Coastal Charm
Getting There: Easy London Escape
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Essentials
Wear comfortable shoes for the Ramsgate to Margate walk. Pack water and snacks!
☕️ Coffee & Brunch Spots
New cafes are opening with harbour views. Check out The Port & Anchor for a fresh vibe.
🌊 Harbour Views
Find a bench by the harbour to clear your thoughts and enjoy the priceless views.
🏛️ Historical Insights
Learn about Operation Dynamo and wartime history projected onto the Clock House.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Coastal Walk Essentials
Wear comfortable shoes for the Ramsgate to Margate walk. Pack water and snacks!
☕️ Coffee & Brunch Spots
New cafes are opening with harbour views. Check out The Port & Anchor for a fresh vibe.
🌊 Harbour Views
Find a bench by the harbour to clear your thoughts and enjoy the priceless views.
🏛️ Historical Insights
Learn about Operation Dynamo and wartime history projected onto the Clock House.
🏠 Seaside Stays
Consider unique accommodations like Royal Harbour Mansions for a memorable stay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning views and the unique atmosphere of Ramsgate Royal Harbour, calling it a place to clear your thoughts and make priceless memories. The harbour office and its staff, including a guide named Lee, receive positive mentions. However, some reviews hint at potential infrastructure issues after heavy rain, though this seems to be a localized event.
"Absolutely mind blowing views. #BigMark, #Mark, I will always remember the conversation we had. I included the bench. If you want to clear your thoughts, visit this place. Priceless memories."
Jeanne Fryer
"Walking around royal harbour."
Will Boynton
"Excellent staff, great guide Lee"
James “Alecs Boy” Honeyman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from London St Pancras to Ramsgate, which takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Taxis and local buses are available from the station to the harbour. Driving is also an option, but parking can be challenging during peak times.
Yes, there are car parks near the harbour, but they can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during summer. Consider public transport if possible.
Absolutely! The coastal walk is a popular activity, approximately 10-15km long and takes around 3 hours. It offers beautiful sea views and passes by several pubs.
Ramsgate is quite walkable, especially around the harbour area. For longer distances or exploring nearby towns, local buses and taxis are available.
It's always a good idea to check National Rail Enquiries or your train operator's website for any planned industrial action or service disruptions before your trip.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ramsgate Royal Harbour is a public area and does not require an entry ticket. You can freely explore the harbour and its surroundings.
The coastal walk itself is free to access. Any costs would be for food, drinks, or potential entry fees to attractions in Margate.
Ramsgate Royal Harbour is accessible 24/7 as it's a working harbour. However, individual businesses and attractions around the harbour will have their own operating hours.
While not always advertised, you might find local guides or information points. One review mentioned an 'excellent staff, great guide Lee' at the harbour office.
The projections of wartime news reels onto the Clock House are often part of special events. Check local listings or Ramsgate Town Council's social media for schedules.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy the maritime atmosphere, walk along the piers, explore local shops and cafes, and take in the unique history of the UK's only Royal Harbour.
Yes, the harbour offers picturesque views, historic architecture, and boats, making it a great spot for photographers.
Walpole Bay Tidal Pool is a popular spot for swimming, located just before you reach Margate on the coastal walk.
It's the only Royal Harbour in the UK and played a role in historical events like Operation Dynamo during WWII.
While specific rental services aren't detailed, the harbour is active with boats. Kayaking is mentioned in relation to London's history, suggesting water activities are part of the area's identity.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are various pubs and cafes around the harbour. New establishments like The Port & Anchor offer coffee, brunch, and snacks with harbour views.
While specific restaurants aren't highlighted, the seaside location suggests fresh seafood is likely available. One reel mentions having fish and chips.
TikToks mention pub hopping in the area, with specific pubs like Buccanners and The Wreck being noted.
Many cafes and restaurants are adapting to offer diverse menus. It's best to check individual establishment menus for specific dietary options.
Yes, the Old Wine Warehouse is being transformed into a coworking space with a cafe/restaurant and bar, set to open in Autumn 2024.
📸 📸 Photography
The harbour itself, the East and West Piers, historic buildings like the Clock House, and the marina offer excellent photographic opportunities.
The coastal location and open harbour views make it a prime spot for capturing beautiful sunrises and sunsets over the water.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expanse of the harbour and coastline. A telephoto lens can be useful for details on boats or distant views.
Generally, photography is permitted in public areas. However, be mindful of private property and any specific signage.
Drone usage is subject to strict regulations in the UK, especially near populated areas and harbours. Always check current aviation authority guidelines before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
couples
day-trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Significance of Ramsgate's Royal Harbour
The harbour is not just a historical site but a vibrant, working marina. It's a hub for leisure boats and a picturesque backdrop for a stroll. The maritime atmosphere is palpable, with boats bobbing in the water and the salty air filling your lungs. For those interested in maritime history or simply enjoying a scenic waterfront, Ramsgate Royal Harbour is a must-visit. Its unique status and historical resonance make it stand out among British coastal towns.
Exploring Ramsgate's Coastal Walks and Beyond
Beyond the immediate harbour, Ramsgate itself offers charming streets lined with historic architecture, including Grade II listed buildings. The town provides a blend of traditional seaside charm and modern amenities. For those looking for a longer stay or a different perspective, exploring the wider Thanet area, which includes Margate and Broadstairs, is highly recommended. The ease of access from London makes Ramsgate an excellent base for exploring the Kent coast.
Accommodation and Dining Experiences
The dining scene in Ramsgate is evolving, with a focus on local produce and seaside fare. Pubs are a significant part of the social fabric, with recommendations for pub hopping in the area. While specific fine-dining establishments aren't heavily featured, the presence of cafes and the mention of fish and chips suggest a relaxed culinary experience. The upcoming Old Wine Warehouse, set to open in Autumn 2024, promises a coworking space, cafe, restaurant, and speakeasy bar, adding another dimension to the town's offerings.




Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit