Kingsgate Bay

• Enjoy a relaxing day at the sandy beach, Kingsgate Bay.
• Kingsgate Castle, built in the 1760s, overlooks the bay and makes for a stunning setting.
• Take in the natural beauty of the white chalk cliffs.
• Investigate the wildlife in the rock pools and even take a dip in the sea.

Kingsgate Bay is a beautiful, sandy cove surrounded by white chalk cliffs and features some of the best sea caves the country has to offer. If you're searching for a sandy beach away from the crowds, this quiet bay is perfect for exploring with children, you can even take the dog so no one is left behind. Why not pack a bucket and do some beach-combing at Kingsgate Bay, Broadstairs, to see how many treasures you can find?

Located in Kent, Kingsgate Bay was renamed after King Charles I was forced to land there after a bad storm. The beach is overlooked by Kingsgate Castle. Built on the cliffs in the 1760s for Lord Holland, it has since been converted into flats. For more inspiration on places to take a stroll on a sunny day, why not check out these family friendly walks near London. Or if it's water you're after, take a look at these places to cool off in London.

Take your fishing net to see which sea creatures you can spot in the rock pools. When the tide is out you can walk to neighbouring beaches Joss Bay and Botany Bay, but be careful as Kingsgate Bay does get cut off at both sides when the tide is in. You can walk through the amazing sea arch, formed with chalk, as you discover the delights of this unspoilt beach. One of the best things about Kingsgate Bay is that the beach is dog friendly all year round. Both dogs and children will love exploring the sea caves and climbing the rocks. Check any fallen rocks for fossils, you might be lucky enough to find a fossilised sea urchin.

The sea is perfect for a swim so don't forget to take your swimming costume and towel. If you own a kayak or paddle board it is a great place to take them out on the water and if you time it right you can paddle through the sea arch! Please be aware that there is no lifeguard on duty here, so always act with caution.

This stretch of coast is home to a number of picturesque, sandy beaches. Neighbouring beach Joss Bay has toilets, ice cream and surfing on offer, whilst Botany Bay, with beautiful chalk stacks, is great for finding fossils and exploring rock pools. Popular Viking Bay has beach shops and cafes, a small harbour and even a cliff-side elevator.

What to know before you go

• There is a family-friendly pub, The Captain Digby, overlooking the beach which has great views and a children's play area.
• There are no toilets or baby changing facilities at Kingsgate Bay.
• This beach is dog friendly all year round.
• There is no lifeguard on duty.
• The bay is accessed by steps down from the road.
• Broadstairs is the nearest town should you wish to explore the surrounding area.

Getting there

• Kingsgate beach is best accessed by car, although travel via public transport is possible.
• From the M25 follow the M6 and M2 to Thanet Way/the A299 in Kent. Then take Canterbury Road/the A28 to the B2052 in Broadstairs.
• There is only a small car park at Kingsgate Bay, Kent. There is more parking at Joss Bay which is a short walk away.
• The closest train station is Broadstairs, from there you can catch the Loop bus to Northdown Park, but there is a 25-minute walk from there to Kingsgate Bay.