The Isle of Thanet has provided inspiration for some of history’s greatest authors, artists and architects, and it continues to inspire creativity today. Visit and immerse yourself in exhibitions, creative workshops, public art trails and a vibrant nightlife, alongside the backdrop of a spectacular coastal landscape.
Be inspired by the artistic treasures of the Isle of Thanet, you'll discover galleries galore and art in unexpected places.
Turner Contemporary, an internationally-acclaimed gallery, is named after famous artist JMW Turner and is built on the site of the house where Turner lodged when visiting the town. The gallery serves as a hub for artistic exploration, featuring a dynamic array of exhibitions, activities, and workshops.
Beyond the gallery, the town and the Isle offer a rich tapestry of small, independent galleries and studios. Exploring these spaces provides the opportunity to engage with artists and makers, and perhaps even try your hand at a creative workshop, or starting a personal art collection.
Turner Rowe Art Centre and Gallery specialises in various art forms, offering hands-on workshops in fused glass, copper foiled glass, pottery, lino-printing, and jewellery making. Meanwhile, Kent Talents Art Centre and Gallery caters to both adults and children, providing classes in Anime and Manga drawing, acrylic and watercolour painting, and porcelain painting. Go Create offers innovative art, craft, and design courses, including workshops in painting, drawing, ceramics, mosaic, and photography, fostering creativity and self-discovery.
Other creative workshops range from bespoke scented candle making, creating miniature gardens in a jar to engaging in creative writing, music and dance classes. Check out Visit Thanet's round up of creative experiences here.
If you’re interested in public art, Ramsgate's arts trail weaves along the seafront and through the town unveiling sculptures, murals, and installations. Ride Margate offers a street art tour by electric bicycle, showcasing works by renowned artists like Tracey Emin and Antony Gormley plus educational murals from 'Rise Up Residency' which aim to inspire environmental responsibility and reduce plastic use.
Turn your creative adventure into a culinary delight, from brunch in a converted school bus to seafood dinners overlooking golden sands. Margate Cookery School offers hands-on cookery classes, and Dr. Forager leads coastal foraging walks with lunch.
As the sun sets, the evening entertainment begins with a plethora of options. Theatrical experiences can be found at the Granville, Sarah Thorne, and tiny Tom Thumb Theatres. Music enthusiasts can enjoy intimate gigs at Ramsgate Music Hall or lively DJ nights and outdoor festivals at Dreamland. Laughter abounds at comedy nights.
Festivals throughout the year include the Broadstairs Blues Bash, Broadstairs Folk Week, Margate Soul Festival and Ramsgate Festival of Sound, showcasing diverse talent and captivating performances.
Accommodation in the area ranges from seafront hotels and cosy cottages to boutique B&Bs and rural retreats. There are even some places where the creative and artistic theme continues. The Fort Road Hotel features work by local artists, whilst The Bay Tree features Harry Potter artwork by Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima. Albion House overlooks the country’s only Royal Harbour and hosts regular ‘You Had To Be There’ storytelling nights.
Win a holiday to Ramsgate
Discover further inspiration for your visit to Kent’s creative isle, including 48-hour itinerary suggestions and the opportunity to enter a competition to win your very own creative escape to Ramsgate for two people including:
