Viking Bay Beach, situated in the heart of Broadstairs, Kent, is one of Kent’s most recognisable beaches – a sweeping horseshoe-shaped stretch of sand framed by white chalk cliffs, a cliff-top promenade, and the harbour. With its classic seaside charm, complete with a promenade, a cliff-top promenade, colourful beach huts, a seawater tidal swimming pool, and even a traditional Victorian bandstand, Viking Bay encapsulates the quintessential British beach experience.
The beach is also overlooked by Bleak House, famously associated with Charles Dickens, who spent many summers in Broadstairs.
Viking Bay is easily accessible from Broadstairs town centre. Several approach routes are available, including a gently sloping road to the north and a lift to the south for those who prefer not to navigate the steps from the clifftop.
Dogs are prohibited on Viking Bay Beach between 1 May and 30 September.
A selection of cafes, restaurants, and shops is located along the promenade and in the town centre. They offer a wide range of options, from quick snacks to sit-down meals, as well as beach essentials and souvenirs.
Facilities at the beach include toilets, a boat slipway, a lift to the beach (open Easter to October), deck chairs, amusements, chalets for hire, and seasonal lifeguards.
As this is the main Broadstairs beach, you have various parking options, such as a small harbour car park or street parking at the top of the cliffs. However, these can be busy, so we recommend arriving early to secure a spot.
