Discover Westgate-On-Sea

Westgate-on-Sea offers a journey through coastal landscapes, Victorian history and special places for shared discoveries. St Mildred's Bay on the coast of Westgate-on-Sea is a sandy bay lined with cliffs, featuring a promenade and tidal pool. This makes it possible to enjoy a varied stay: a walk along the coast can be followed by a cultural visit or a relaxing afternoon at the cinema.

Coast and promenade as defining experiences

St Mildred's Bay is a good starting point if you would like to discover the maritime side of Westgate-on-Sea. The combination of sandy bay, cliffs, promenade and tidal pool creates different ways to enjoy a day on the coast. Those who like to look more closely can discover the special features of the tidal area and observe the changing pattern between exposed and flooded sections. This makes the bay an illustrative place to introduce children and adults to the coast not only as a landscape, but also as a habitat.

The history of the coast is also part of the character of the area. St Mildred's Bay was once a base for the Royal Naval Air Station's seaplanes. This historical connection adds another perspective to the bay: it is not only a place for walks along the promenade, but also represents a chapter in the area's local development. At the Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre, the aim is to tell the story of Westgate-on-Sea in Kent – from the first houses of this Victorian development in 1865 to the present day.

Churches, history and culture

For visitors interested in culture, the churches of Westgate-on-Sea are among the area's notable points of interest. The Church of St James is a Grade II listed church in the Gothic Revival style. It was built between 1872 and 1873 to designs by Charles Nightingale Beazley. St Saviour's Church is also a Grade II listed Victorian Gothic Revival church. It was built from Kentish ragstone from the quarries of Maidstone by James Naylar and Son of Rochester.

St Saviour's Parish Church warmly welcomes visitors. Monthly talks on the history and heritage of Westgate-on-Sea take place at the Heritage Centre throughout the year. These talks are currently held at Christ Church United Reformed Church on the first Saturday of each month at 10:30 am; the doors open at 10:00 am. If you would like to include one of these events in your trip, you should take the stated time into account when planning your day.

Plan varied days

Another option for a relaxing cultural experience is the historic Edwardian Carlton Cinema. Visitors can watch a film there. This creates a contrast with experiences on the fresh coast, without requiring every holiday day to follow the same rhythm. For travellers interested in sport, the Westgate and Birchington Golf Club is also relevant. The club was founded in 1893 and welcomes golfers with or without a handicap.

When looking for a holiday apartment or holiday cottage in Westgate-On-Sea, you can therefore consider which focus should shape your stay. The coast with its sandy bay, promenade and tidal pool is ideal for days outdoors. The churches and talks turn the focus to architecture and local history, while the cinema and golf club cater to further interests. Accommodation in Westgate-On-Sea is particularly suited to your plans if you would like to combine these different experiences into an individual holiday.

Compare other destinations

If you would like to compare pages for other destinations in addition to Westgate-On-Sea, you will find a concise selection here: West Farleigh, Alkham, Gravesend, Rolvenden, Newenden, Lympne, Hadlow and Pluckley.

To the higher-level travel overview: Kent.