Herne Bay to Margate Coast Walk

Reculver monastic towers, sandy bays, and sea walls

Route Overview

This long-distance coastal walk starts at Herne Bay. You will climb onto the sandstone cliffs to the historic Reculver Towers, follow the flat concrete sea wall past Minnis Bay and Westgate-on-Sea, and finish on Margate's sandy beaches next to the harbor.

Travel & Getting There from London Victoria

By Train: Take Southeastern from London Victoria directly to Herne Bay Station. (Station: Herne Bay / Margate Station (Southeastern), duration: 1h 25m (Direct from London Victoria)).

By Bus: Take National Express 022 coach from Victoria Coach Station to Herne Bay. (2h 30m - 3h 05m from London Victoria)

By Car & Parking: Nearest car park is Herne Bay Central Bandstand Car Park (CT6 5JQ). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 35m - 2h 05m from London Victoria (67.5 miles via M2 East & A299 Thanet Way). From London Victoria, follow A2/M2 east past Faversham, continue on A299, and take the Herne Bay exit onto the seafront.

Trailside Cafes & Historic Country Pubs

Refreshment and dining stops located along or near the Herne Bay to Margate Coast Walk trail:

• ☕ The Reculver King Ethelbert Pub: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.
• ☕ Minnis Bay Bar & Brasserie: Traditional pub and refreshment stop for walkers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I travel to Herne Bay to Margate Coast Walk from London?

Take Southeastern from London Victoria directly to Herne Bay Station. (Station: Herne Bay / Margate Station (Southeastern), duration: 1h 25m (Direct from London Victoria)).

Where is the closest car park for Herne Bay to Margate Coast Walk?

Nearest car park is Herne Bay Central Bandstand Car Park (CT6 5JQ). Drive time from London Victoria is approx 1h 35m - 2h 05m from London Victoria (67.5 miles via M2 East & A299 Thanet Way). From London Victoria, follow A2/M2 east past Faversham, continue on A299, and take the Herne Bay exit onto the seafront.

How long is the hike and what is the terrain difficulty?

Herne Bay to Margate Coast Walk covers 22 km (13.7 miles) with an estimated duration of 6 hours, graded as Challenging. Starts at Herne Bay Station and finishes at Margate Station.