With 350 miles of coastline, Kent has seaside aplenty. It is rich in castles, forts, ports and harbours. Follow a fine seafood lunch with a stroll along clifftops, into bird sanctuaries and around pretty coves with our top-10 reasons to visit the coast.

Action Watersports

Get your adrenaline pumping fast with a fantastic day of waterskiing, jet-skiing and many more energetic activities, at Action Watersports, the South East’s premier water sports venue. Situated on a fresh water lake in the charming town of Lydd, Action Watersports is only 15 minutes from the M20 and is perfect for all levels of water sports fanatics.

www.actionwatersports.co.uk

Relax and unwind on this stunning 200 metre stretch of chalk cliffs, rock pools and velvety sand. Situated in charismatic Broadstairs, Botany Bay has been awarded a Blue Flag and is recognised as one of the most attractive and peaceful coastal areas in the UK.

www.visitthanet.co.uk

With its fascinating historical background and perfect location on the picturesque Kent coast, Deal is the most elaborate of the many shoreline castles in the county. After being built by the command of King Henry VIII, it is one of the greatest Tudor artillery forts in England. Walk around the charming grounds and explore the captivating history of its ancient buildings and defences.

www.englishheritage.org.uk

Dungeness

A 30-minute drive from Folkestone will take you to the bleak beauty of Dungeness, the only place in the UK classified as a desert. It’s a fascinating and fragile landscape, with a thriving community of fishermen, artists and city escapees – and a haven for wildlife. Make sure you take time to check out the famous Pilot pub.

Horizon Sea Safaris

Explore the Kent coast and marine wildlife with an exciting Horizon Sea Safari. Based at the Ramsgate Harbour, the powerboat company specialise in seal watching, RIB rides and other boat trips exploring Thanet’s inspirational coastal features. Horizon also works in partnership with marine animal rescue charity BDMLR to ensure wildlife is protected and marine life is not disturbed by the safaris. There are a series of trips available throughout the summer and including a seal encounter at Goodwin Sands on Saturday, August 6 and a trip to the Kentish Flats wind farm and Second World War forts the following day.

www.horizonseasafaris.com

Swale National Nature Reserve

The reserve on Sheppey takes pride in the magnificent collection of rare plants and species that populate the marshland. Narrow leaved and dwarf eel grass can be found on mudflats, while striking butterflies and moths glide over the foliage and beach.

www.naturalengland.org.uk

Thanet Coast Project

Thanet’s coastline represents 20 per cent of the UK’s coastal chalk with its endless stretch of cliffs and spectacular beaches. Make the journey your own by exploring marine and bird life in a bouncing Rocky Shore Safari, or discover the excellent seaside amenities and charming surroundings at your own pace.

www.thanetcoast.org.uk

Turner Contemporary

A dynamic arts organisation situated on the delightful Margate seafront; Turner Contemporary represents everything about modern and eccentric art. The gallery which opened in April this year encourages visitors to explore different ways of thinking and learning with a series of exhibitions, events and educational workshops.

www.turnercontemporary.org

Whitstable Harbour is one of the most distinctive coastal areas in the county with its tranquil shoreline and captivating history. At the heart of the quirky and bustling town, the harbour has endless leisure and sporting facilities for families, while providing relaxing and romantic breaks in charming seaside beach huts. Local fish and shellfish caught throughout the day and the nation’s best oysters can be sampled in many restaurants. Turn to Page 13 for news of this Saturday’s Whitstable Harbour Day.

www.whitstableharbour.org

The White Cliffs of Dover

The White Cliffs are a spectacular coastal spot overlooking the English Channel. To many of us they represent hope and freedom. That’s just one of the reason’s they are celebrated as one of the UK’s most magnificent coastline features. The cliffs also offer breathtaking walks and an inspirational historical background.

www.nationaltrust.org.uk