Good news, holidaymakers, because a scenic open-top bus route has launched between three of England’s most popular seaside towns.
This summer, visitors can take a whistle-stop tour of Thanet in Kent, travelling between Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Margate via several beautiful beaches on the picturesque Route 69, AKA the Thanet Open Top Bus.
You can’t miss the bus, as the open-top double-decker is bright pink. The journey begins at the Ramsgate Viking Ship. But visitors should explore Ramsgate before hopping on the 69 and travelling along the coast – we recommend seeing the wartime tunnels, shopping on the high street, and stopping for brunch at the Modern Boulangerie. It’s also home to the world’s biggest Wetherspoons, if that’s your thing.
Route 69 then travels through the town to Ramsgate West Cliff and Ramsgate Harbour before heading over to Broadstairs. Some of the town’s best things to do include strolling along the Viking coastal trail, and exploring the quaint streets that inspired Charles Dickens’ David Copperfield.
Next the bus trundles over to Margate, AKA Hackney-on-Sea and one of Kent’s trendiest towns, where visitors can explore the Turner Contemporary gallery, get lost in the mysterious Shell Grotto, or grab a drink at a cool bar in town. The 69 then continues through the hipster haven on to Westbrook, and its final destination at Minnis Bay in Birchington.
You’ve only got a limited amount of time to catch this service, as it will run daily throughout August, and then every weekend until September 21. Tickets cost £3 for a single adult journey, or £2.30 for kids. Or travellers can buy an open-top dayrider for £6 for adults or £4.50 for kids. The service departs once and hour and the whole route takes around an hour and a half.
Map of the full scenic open-top bus route in Kent, including all stops
Want more? Here are the 10 most beautiful bus routes in Britain.
Plus a new bus service connects this seaside city to London for less than £5.
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