Sailors, Smacks and Sovereigns
Distance:2.2 miles
Time:02:00
Advice:Conditions under foot for the entire walk are either pavement, pedestrian areas and paved roads around the harbour. The walk is circular with a short section that may need to be retraced depending on tide times when the harbour bridge is raised.
In Brief:This is a circular walk of just over two miles that takes you from the beautiful Royal Harbour, into the town past regency homes, St George's Church and a lovely old fire station then back to the harbour and the Sailors' Chapel.
Start:Begin the walk on Marina Esplanade. If entering Ramsgate by road along Royal Parade drive past the harbour, up on to the west cliff then turn right down Marina Road. If arriving by bus hop off at the harbour and head towards the Main Beach.
Points of interest:You'll be introduced to characters past and present including King George IV and his mate Billy Biscuit, the Smack Boys of old, a family of lifeboat men and prison reformist Elizabeth Fry. You'll also see the varied architecture of historic Ramsgate.
More info:There is plenty of opportunity to extend the walk to include more walking around the harbour, exploration of the west and east cliffs, full of history and famous residents or a trip to the Maritime Museum at the beginning or end of the walk.
Contact names:
  • kent@bbc.co.uk
Address:
kent@bbc.co.uk, Tunbridge Wells, TN1 1QQ, Kent, England
Telephone numbers:
  • 01892 675603
Refreshments:There are at least three kiosks and cafes on the beach front, plenty of fish and chip shops and lots of pubs throughout the walk.
Parking:There is pay & display parking along the beach front. To park at the beginning of the walk follow signs towards Main Beach, down Marina Road where there are big car parks along the Marina Esplanade. Turn right at bottom and park towards the harbour.