Broadstairs campsites: coastal stays for classic seaside days
Coast towns and outdoor living just go hand in hand don’t they? If you’re headed Kent-wards for a fill of sea air, Broadstairs camping is a cracking idea – what better way to squeeze the maximum amount of open-air time out of your holiday than to settle outdoors for a night or few?
With a splendid seven sandy beaches to its name, this is a proper traditional seaside resort – all beach huts, retro ice cream bars, kids’ amusements and crazy golf – but it’s certainly not stuck in the past, as you can see from such things as surf schools and trendy cafés.
That pleasing mix of old and new means that a real mix of people flock to this part of the Kent coast these days – and campsites near Broadstairs have got stays for all types sorted with their various offerings. Whether you’re meandering down in a motorhome, seeking a family-sized camping pitch or sneaking off for a swish weekend glamping break, check out our guide to getting the best out of your Broadstairs campsite stay.
How to pick a spot for your Broadstairs camping break
If you’re going down the totally traditional route for your traditional seaside hols, you’ll be turning up to your Broadstairs campsite with a tent and all your own kit – and presumably wanting somewhere that allows campfires so you can toast a marshmallow or two? Beyond that, you could choose to keep things really simple (and, yes, on the cheaper side) with a wild camping pitch or bring the holiday activities closer to home by picking a park with such things as a play area, an indoor pool and a bar.
Broadstairs caravan parks are plentiful too if you want to combine all of the above with the certainty of a roof over your head and a bit more indoor space to play with. Roll up in your own wagon to a touring caravan pitch or select a static caravan if you need all the kit provided – either one is a splendid way to get your fix of fresh air and comfiness.
Feeling even more demanding on the comfiness front? Campsites near Broadstairs have their fair share of swanky glamping choices: consider cosying up in a shepherd’s hut or a little cabin if there’s just the two of you, or checking out bigger bell tents, yurts and the like if your travelling tribe is on the larger side.
Make sure also to check out the options that are open to your own particular party too: it’s possible to find adults-only sites if you’re really after proper peace, or take your furry pal along to a dog-friendly campsite near Broadstairs. If you’re heading off to the seaside with a gang of mates, check that your chosen site is one that accepts group bookings.
Attractions and activities for stays at campsites near Broadstairs
Well, you may say, surely it’s the beach first? But then the question follows: which one? For Broadstairs is of course blessed with several sandy options, each one with its own character and appeal. Viking Bay, in the town centre, is the place for family paddles and kids’ amusements, or for surfers to show off their skills.
For a change of scenery, wander down to nearby Louisa Bay for rockpooling or head up to the cliffs of Stone Bay. Travelling pooches needn’t fear missing out around here either, as Dumpton Gap beach welcomes dogs all year round.
Proving the point that this place has been popular for quite some time, it’s worth noting that Broadstairs was the favourite seaside haunt of one Mr Charles Dickens. Visitors can find out a bit about the author and his links with the area at the Charles Dickens Museum; you can also get a taste of local history by joining a costume-clad volunteer from St Peter’s Village Tours, or just settling into one of the 1950s-style ice cream parlours in town.
Looking a little further afield, days out might include gawking at miniature vehicles at the Hornby Visitor Centre, wandering around the historic streets of Canterbury or coming eye to eye with the various critters at Howletts Wild Animal Park. Seaside strolls and bike rides on the traffic-free Viking Coastal Trail come highly recommended too.
Where next after Broadstairs? Have a look at all our campsites and holiday parks in south east England to extend your tour.
