Ramsgate in Kent isn’t what it used to be, according to locals (Image: P A Thompson via Getty Images)
When you think of British seaside towns, you think of golden sands, the smell of fish and chips wafting through the air, sun-seekers battling for prime spots, and, naturally, ice cream.
Most UK seaside destinations deliver precisely this experience and beyond. However, Ramsgate in Kent doesn’t necessarily fit this mould. As a resident of the area, Express writer Millie Bull has made countless trips to Ramsgate over the years. And during her inaugural visit, the sandy shoreline and chalk cliffs left her captivated.
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The once bustling seaside town is just over an hour from London (Image: Getty)
On her second excursion, Millie explored Britain’s largest Wetherspoon pub — the Grade II-listed former concert venue, the Royal Victoria Pavilion, positioned directly along the waterfront.
But she said: “However, the more I have visited Ramsgate over the years, the more I have noticed how empty it has become.”
The resort was previously brimming with thriving independent retailers, distinctive dining establishments, and a constant flow of tourists. But a recent Kent Online investigation, published in December, showed that an alarming 65 commercial premises—nearly one in four—stand vacant. Over half of these units aren’t even marketed for sale or lease.
Ramsgate was described as ‘depressing’ and ‘sad’ (Image: Getty)
This decline became starkly apparent during Mille’s latest journey to the town, where she spotted a plethora of boarded-up shops and empty display windows covered in old posters.
Local residents have clearly recognised this transformation as well. A Facebook post titled ‘The many empty shops of Ramsgate’ in the public Kent Views group, featuring photographs of the town’s vacant premises, prompted locals to brand the area as “depressing” and “sad.”
One person said: “It’s so sad, Ramsgate is one of my favourite places, but the high street lets it down. On the plus sid,e there are some lovely little cafes.”
Another expressed their disappointment: “Very sad. Sign of the times.”
A local resident commented: “Strange because Broadstairs and Margate are doing okay. Why isn’t Ramsgate?”.
The nearby towns of Deal, Margate, Broadstairs, and Whitstable have been experiencing a renaissance. Londoners are flocking to these coastal gems for weekend getaways, enticed by the allure of trendy vintage shops and chic eateries.
The town of Deal was previously thrust into the limelight when food critic Grace Dent praised The Blue Pelican, a Japanese-inspired eatery she visited.
Deal in Kent is known for being a foodie hotspot (Image: Getty)
Broadstairs, too, has seen its profile rise after being named one of the UK’s ‘coolest’ places to live in 2023, drawing tourists following its feature in Sam Mendes’ film Empire of the Sun, starring Olivia Colman.
Whitstable, often referred to as ‘Chelsea-on-sea’, continues to charm visitors with its idyllic seaside appeal, while Margate, Ramsgate’s hipster neighbour, remains abuzz with activity thanks to its sandy beaches, the iconic vintage amusement park Dreamland, and lively bars.
Things to do in Ramsgate
Among the town’s key attractions is the Ramsgate Tunnels, an underground network that once provided refuge for 60,000 people during World War Two air raids. These tunnels hold the distinction of being the UK’s largest civilian wartime tunnel system and are currently open for public tours.
The tunnels are the UK’s largest network of civilian wartime tunnels and are open for tours (Image: Getty)
For a unique experience, visitors can delve into the smugglers’ caves carved into the cliffs at Pegwell Bay.
If you fancy feeling the sea breeze in your hair, consider a boat trip around Ramsgate harbour. Numerous local skippers offer these excursions, with some providing tours of the stunning coastline and others focusing on Kent’s diverse wildlife.
As previously noted, Ramsgate boasts the UK’s largest Wetherspoon. This former concert hall and assembly rooms, designed by architect Stanley Davenport Adshead, was once among the most endangered Victorian/Edwardian structures in the vicinity.
Situated on the seafront, the pub features a mezzanine level and a beachfront terrace, making it an ideal spot to enjoy a budget-friendly pint and chips while gazing out to sea.
There are a number of local skippers who offer boat trips (Image: Getty)
If you’re after a more traditional pub experience, The Pub is a solid choice. With its impressive array of cask ales, craft beers, and ciders, not to mention classic bar snacks, it’s sure to satisfy.
For something slightly off the beaten path, make your way to Eats ‘n’ Beats. Nestled on King Street, this bar and kitchen offers a superb selection of wines, cocktails, and beers, complemented by delectable tapas dishes.
Eats ‘n’ Beats opens from Thursday to Sunday and serves a brunch menu on Sundays from 10.30am to 4pm.
Despite the presence of numerous empty retail spaces in Ramsgate, the town boasts an impressive array of antique, vintage, and retro shops waiting to be discovered. Petticoat Lane Emporium, Kent’s largest indoor marketplace, offers a diverse range of items from fashion and art to vintage treasures and curiosities.
This family-owned enterprise accommodates 200 independently leased stalls within its expansive 10,000 sq ft warehouse. Visitors can also enjoy a coffee or perhaps an alcoholic drink at the on-site Baker Street Bistro & Bar.
Arch 16 Antique, Vintage, and Retro Junk provides an ideal weekend exploration spot. Overflowing with trinkets, furniture, retro toys and more, it’s easy to lose yourself and take a nostalgic trip down memory lane.
While Ramsgate may lack the glamour of Whitstable or the trendiness of Deal, it has a hidden charm beneath its empty storefronts. In 2023, the Ramsgate Empty Shops Action Group was established with the aim of fostering collaboration between businesses, councils, community groups and entrepreneurs to rejuvenate the town.