Ode to Ramsgate
The best palate cleanser an hour-ish out of London
I had this dream once the dogs arrived in my life of being able to jump into a car without packing too much, and getting to the seaside in an hour. Okay so it’s 1 hour and 30 in reality, but over the past few years, Ramsgate has become my slice of heaven - a total palate cleanser and an antidote to pacy London life.
I’d visited Dungeness on several friends’ recommendations and suggested it to my friend Farrah Storr (much cheaper too than renting a villa in Europe during the school holidays). And then a friend further along the coast decided he was going to Airbnb his Ramsgate cottage and was I interested in taking it for a year…
I thought I’d only use it during the summer months, but it turns out that I have gone there pretty much every weekend during the winter too. The winter months are incredibly beautiful there, a bit bleak but in a Turner-esque way..there’s something very magical about the light.
Days are spent on wintery walks on the beach and then making a log fire in the evening. @noama.art captures it beautifully in a series of pictures which illustrates crisp January days and why many artists over the years have been attracted to the area.
I love being by the sea and I have taught my girls - Willow, Mimi and Mochi - to swim here. This summer I’m determined to take up swimming in the sea properly; a local has even donated me their dry robe so I'm ready for action. It’s not particularly foodie or trendy like neighbouring Margate, but I don’t mind that. Plus, there’s a Waitrose (so you aren’t too out of a comfort zone) and I often cook at home.
Coleridge coined the word “Ramsgatize” when he came to seek relief for his aches and pains and enjoy the benefits of sea-bathing. Bathing machines may be gone but this is where I love to go when I’m there.
-Staples coffee shop
It’s the best place to get really good coffee, a chai latte or even a dirty chai latte (with a shot of espresso). They also make really good pastries. I had to cut back on sugar for my surrogacy get fit programme, but friends say their twice baked almond croissant is a must-try.
-The Perrico lounge
This spot is right on the sea front and has a terrific view of the water. Great to just sit there in the morning and watch the day starting.
-Falstaff House & the Albion
These are the places I recommend to friends who are looking for somewhere to stay. The Albion is also a great place for a Sunday roast. Dogs are allowed and if you are veggie, they do a great cauliflower steak.
Another great place for food is Seabirdramsgate.com which has a great courtyard and does the best roasties with fish (being a pescatarian it’s not always the easiest getting fish and roasties!)
-Addington street
There are lots of great antique and thrift shops on Addington street, I love to have a rummage too in Petticoat Lane Emporium and see if there are any Arts & Craft period finds at a fraction of the price you would find in London.
There’s also a great food market on a Friday between 9-3pm on High street, King street and Queen street
The best beach
When it comes to beaches – and I will probably be shot by the locals for saying this - I love to go to Weston Undercliff beach which is always reasonably quiet and in contrast to the main stands which can get really busy during the summer months. This is very much my happy place.
My favourite walks
If you are after a substantial walk, Ramsgate to Broadstairs is unbeatable, stopping off half way at Dumpton gap for a coffee (although this is only open in season). If you keep going you will arrive at Botany bay. It’s very life-affirming and the most exquisite scenery. Nothing else quite stills the mind and resets you for the week ahead.
Otherwise, I love King George VI memorial park which is high on the chalky cliffs between Ramsgate and Broadstairs so you get beautiful coastline views. The park has lots of open space yet there are also paths which meander through woodland areas (obviously dog friendly).
Also worth checking out is the Italianate glasshouse, a grade II* listed historic building which was restored 20 years ago and has held some pretty cool sound baths.
I’m always curious to know more so get in touch if there is anything else you think should be on this list.
Enjoy!
Never knew it looked that nice in ramsgate!