I know what you’re thinking; a trip to the seaside might not be the first thing that comes to mind at this time of year.

However, many people enjoy taking a bracing walk along the coast during the winter to soak up that fresh sea air and perhaps even take a cold water dip.

If you’re planning a stroll along one of Kent’s seaside paths in the next few months, we’ve rounded up Trip Advisor’s top-rated coastal cafes where you can stop off and warm up with a hot drink and a slice of cake.

The Corner Cafe, Walmer

This cosy cafe is just a short walk from Deal Castle and offers not only an extensive menu but also a range of fascinating antiques for sale. There’s vintage gems and quirky trinkets dotted all over the place for visitors to admire while they tuck into toasted sandwiches, breakfast baps and homemade cakes.

Details: 31 Dover Road in Walmer, near Deal. Open 8am to 4pm, Tuesday to Sunday.

The Galley, Ramsgate

Take in beautiful views of Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour while you enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at The Galley. This cafe offers just about everything, from small snacks to afternoon tea and local seafood dishes. There are also themed events, including cocktail nights and photography exhibitions.

Details: 3 Westcliff Arcade in Ramsgate. Open 9am to 9pm, Friday and Saturday, and 9am to 5pm, Sunday to Tuesday.

The Goose on the Green, Walmer

This contemporary cafe regularly pops up on the list of Kent’s best, with its stylish brickwork and eye-catching black exterior making it a standout. Our reviewer went along for a taste earlier this year and tried some of the menu’s more unique items, including the strawberry cheesecake French toast and Spanish hash.

Details: 27 The Strand in Walmer, near Deal. Open 8am to 2pm, Monday to Saturday, and 8:30am to 2pm on Sundays.

The Green Door Deli, Herne Bay

If you’re looking to try something a little different on your seaside pitstop, this not-so-traditional deli could be just the ticket. There’s seasonal dishes - including autumn’s pumpkin spice latte and pulled brisket toastie - to keep you warm, as well as an array of colourful cakes that would look picture-perfect on Instagram.

Details: 23 Willams Street in Herne Bay. Open 9:30am to 3:45pm on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday, 9:30am to 6pm on Thursday, 9am to 5pm on Saturday and closed on Sunday.

The Home Front Tea Room, Ramsgate

Go back to the 1940s with a visit to the Home Front Tea Room. There’s vintage decor and plenty of blitz spirit from the friendly servers at this time-travelling tea room. The menu includes nostalgic delicacies such as spam and pickle sandwiches, pilchards on toast, jelly and ice cream and ginger beer.

Details: 13A Kings Street in Ramsgate. Open 10:30am to 4pm, Monday to Friday, and 10am to 4pm on Saturday.

Kings Coffee Shop, Deal

This Italian cafe is just a stone’s throw from Deal Pier and offers diners a taste of summer all year round. There are lots of traditional Italian dishes on offer, such as an antipasto salad and salami and mozzarella panini, as well as some British staples including beans on toast and jacket potatoes.

Details: 1 High Street in Deal. Open 9am to 5pm, Monday to Saturday.

Steep Street Coffee House, Folkestone

Finish off your seaside walk with a huge slice of cake from Steep Street Coffee House. Known for its homemade sweet treats, this Folkestone cafe is also home to a floor-to-ceiling library of books that visitors can read while they tuck into their coffee and cake. There are also plenty of savoury dishes and vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options.

Details: 18-24 The Old High Street in Folkestone. Open 8:30am to 6pm, Monday to Friday, 9am to 6pm on Saturday and 9am to 5pm on Sunday.

Truly Scrumptious Cafe, Hythe

This dog-friendly cafe by the coast is a great place to take a break with your pup, especially if you’re taking a walk along Hythe’s Royal Miltary Canal. The cafe has a warm, homey atmosphere and lots of personal touches from the owners, including books and cushions for high chairs. There’s a tea room, so expect warming drinks, dainty sandwiches and plenty of cake on the menu.

Details: 74B High Street in Hythe. Open 8am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday.

The Wallflower Cafe, Herne Bay

This vegan cafe is perfect for plant-based diners and has lots of tasty options that all visitors can enjoy, no matter their diet. The food is made from locally sourced and seasonal produce and everything, from the full English breakfast to the mac and cheese and chocolate brownie, is fully vegan.

Details: Unit 7, 116 High Street in Herne Bay. Open 10am to 4pm, Tuesday to Saturday.

Zara’s, Birchington-on-Sea

Sometimes a winter walk can really take it out of you and, if you need some food to fuel you for the way home, Zara’s is the place to go. The menu is full of hearty winter warmers including Sunday roasts, cooked breakfasts and filled jacket potatoes that will help you face the cold weather outside with a smile.

Details: 75 Station Road in Birchington. Open 8am to 2:30pm, Tuesday to Saturday, and 9am to 11am on Sunday.