Ramsgate is a seaside town on the Isle of Thanet, in east Kent. It has sandy, south-facing beaches and a view of France across the English Channel, when the light conditions are suitable. Ramsgate is probably best known for its busy Royal Harbour. With a number of hotels, B&B’s and a good selection of bars and restaurants Ramsgate has a thriving tourist inductry, it is most attractive to day trippers and those away for a short break.
Many people come from abroad to learn English at local language schools such as the Churchill School of English, so the town can be busy with young foreign students in the summer.
Ramsgate is local for Pfizer at Sandwich, the pharmaceutical company and local major employer, and the nearby towns of Canterbury, Whitstable and Herne Bay. It is between 1 to 2 hours from London by train or car.
It is a busy centre for the import and export of freight through its port and local airport (Manston).
Most events listed here take place annually but the details are given for 2009 where possible.
Ramsgate Rocks, 4 – 5 July
A free party around the Harbour with a market and music. Begins 9am both days ad continues until 23.00 on Saturday and 18.00 on Sunday. There will be fireworks on Saturday night.
The Chinese State Circus, 15 – 19 July
One of a number of animal-free circuses which come to town throughout the year. Ramsgate has also been known to host Santus’ circus and John Lawson’s circus.
The Grange, Pugin's House, Open Days
The Grange was built in 1845 by architect and designer Augustus Pugin. This house should be visited by anyone who has an interest in architecture, design or social history. Now owned by the Landmark Trust, the whole building and grounds are only open to the public for a few days each year, in 2009 on 5–7 June 10–16.00; 8 June 10–13.00; 11–14 September 10–16.00; and 15 Sept. 10–13.00. A few rooms are open on Wednesday afternoons from 14.00.
Ramsgate Band Stand
Various events take place at the Bandstand on the east cliff from May onwards through the summer months. There is something on every Saturday in August and the final event is called Dancing in the Moonlight on Saturday 19th September.
Ramsgate Carnival, 25–26 July
The usual pageant of seaside and small towns. Ramsgate Carnival includes a procession of beauty queens representing towns and villages across east Kent and floats which are sponsored by local businesses.
Walking Tours of Ramsgate, Tuesdays
Ramsgate has a fascinating and rich history with plenty of interesting things to see. Walking tours of Ramsgate, with tour guides in costume, take place on Tuesdays at 14.30 and 19.00 from 7th July to 25th August.
The Vikings at Ramsgate, 31 July–2 August
A free family event on Government Acre at Westcliff Royal Esplanade, 10.00–16.00. The event draws on the history of Vikings coming to this area and will include people in costume acting out Viking scenes.
Ramsgate Week: The Royal Temple Yacht Club Annual Regatta, 10 –15 August
Ramsgate Week is one of the largest international yachting events to take place around the U.K.. One can expect racing every day, along with daily entertainment including live music, around the Harbour area.
Ramsgate Jazz Festival, 29–31 August
details to be announced.
Other Events in or Near Ramsgate
Within just a few miles of Ramsgate are the other towns which together comprise the Isle of Thanet, including Broadstairs and Margate. Each is distinct and has its own calendar of events which is especially busy in the summer months.
Deborah Percy - BSc. MA. Managing Director of a heating & plumbing business. Interest in maths, science & research. Mother of 3, including twins.
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