Explorers Lens: The Global Exploration Magazine

Ah, Christmas in Coastal Kent! Imagine a place where the bracing sea breeze carries the scent of roasted chestnuts and the echoes of carols past. Where twinkling lights illuminate historic streets and the festive spirit dances like sugar plums in the air 🙂 Welcome to Thanet, a charming corner of Kent where the magic of Christmas unfolds against a backdrop of seaside beauty and captivating history.

Margate: A Seaside Christmas Cracker

Margate, with its invigorating seaside charm, might not be the first place that springs to mind when you envision a quintessential Christmas setting. But trust me, this coastal gem holds a stocking full of festive surprises! Beneath the twinkling lights and Yuletide traditions, each one adding a unique sparkle to Margate’s Christmas spirit.

A Medieval Christmas Caper

Hold on to your hats, folks (or should I say, your woollen hats?!) because we’re about to time-travel back to a Christmas in Margate centuries ago! Forget flashing fairy lights and bustling shops – we’re talking candlelit churches, fishermen’s prayers, and maybe even a mischievous smuggler or two lurking in the shadows.

Picture this: The year is 1300. A chilly wind whips through the streets of Margate, a quaint fishing village huddled against the winter sea. The sound of church bells ringing out from St. John the Baptist fills the air, calling villagers to Midnight Mass.

Inside the church, flickering candlelight dances on the stone walls, casting long shadows as the community gathers to celebrate the birth of Christ. But this is no ordinary service. Remember, these folks depend on the sea for their livelihood. So, amidst the hymns and prayers, there are likely special blessings for a safe and bountiful fishing season. Can you imagine the fishermen, their weathered faces etched with hope, offering thanks for the gifts of the sea?

As the sun rises on Christmas Day, the celebrations continue. Families gather in their cozy homes, decorated with sprigs of holly and ivy. The aroma of roasted meats and freshly caught fish fills the air – a real feast after weeks of Advent fasting! But wait – what’s that joyful sound?

Why, it’s a band of merry wassailers, their voices raised in song as they go door-to-door, spreading good cheer and blessings in exchange for a warm drink and a tasty treat! As the day fades into night, stories and legends are shared around crackling fires, tales of mythical creatures, and age-old traditions keeping everyone entertained.

Victorian Christmas Charm

Fast forward to the 1800s, and Margate is now a bustling seaside resort. Gas lamps cast a warm glow on elegant Victorian buildings, while horse-drawn carriages clatter along the cobbled streets, their rhythmic beat adding a festive soundtrack to the joyous carols sung by passers-by.

This was a time of prosperity and social change, and Christmas provided the perfect excuse for communal celebration and the sharing of traditions, both old and new. Delving into Margate’s folklore, we uncover intriguing customs like the ‘Mari Lwyd’. This ancient Welsh tradition involved a horse skull adorned with ribbons and bells, carried door-to-door by a hooded figure leading the ‘Mari Lwyd’, followed by a band of singers and merrymakers, their voices raised in a song as they challenge homeowners to a battle of rhymes!

This quirky custom was believed to bring good luck and ward off any lingering Christmas grinches. While the ‘Mari Lwyd’ may be a less common sight in Margate today, its presence in the town’s folklore speaks volumes about its vibrant community spirit and connection to ancient customs.

Margate In the 20th Century: Keeping the Christmas Spirit Alive

The 20th century brought wartime challenges, and Christmas in Margate took a poignant hue. The festive spirit flickered amidst blackout curtains, a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity. During World War II, families huddled around fireplaces, sharing stories and making the most of limited resources, finding comfort in the warmth of community. Their resilience and spirit shone brighter than any Christmas lights.

Margate Today: A Festive Fusion

Today, Margate’s Christmas spirit is a delightful blend of old and new, a fusion of historical echoes and contemporary expressions. The Turner Contemporary Gallery hosts a modern art installation with a festive twist, while the Theatre Royal stages a classic pantomime, filling the air with laughter that echoes through the centuries. Dreamland Margate transformed into a winter wonderland! Twinkling lights, Christmas carols, and excited children emerging from Santa’s Grotto with beaming smiles. The indoor snowball fight arena echoes with laughter, while the charming market stalls tempt visitors with handcrafted gifts and the aroma of hot chocolate. A ride on Santa’s electric sleigh completes the magical experience, making Dreamland the perfect destination for families seeking festive cheer.

The aroma of roasted chestnuts mingles with the invigorating scent of the sea, creating a sensory experience unique to this coastal town.

Whether you’re strolling along the illuminated Harbour Arm, sipping mulled wine at a festive market, or simply soaking up the atmosphere of this historic town, Christmas in Margate is an invitation to step back in time and rediscover the magic of the season.

Ramsgate: A Harbour of Festive Cheer

Ramsgate, with its bustling harbour, has always exuded a more industrious and maritime- infused Christmas spirit. Imagine tall ships decked with lanterns, their holds brimming with exotic goods, arriving just in time for the holidays! Sailors returning home, families gathered around crackling fires in harbour side pubs, the air filled with sea shanties and carols – it’s a scene straight out of a Christmas card!

Victorian Ramsgate: Seaside Glamour

Ramsgate flourished as a seaside resort in Victorian times. Grand hotels and boarding houses, decked with holly and ivy, their halls echoing with carols sung by the guests gathered around fireplaces. Christmas dinners were lavish affairs, featuring roast goose or turkey, plum pudding, and perhaps even delicacies like oysters, a nod to Ramsgate’s coastal location. The Granville Theatre, opened in 1879, likely hosted festive pantomimes and concerts, providing entertainment for locals and visitors alike.

Christmas in The Tunnels: A Story of Resilience

The festive season conjures up images of warmth, family gatherings, and twinkling lights. But for Ramsgate, during World War II, Christmas was a time of resilience, community, and finding joy amidst hardship. Imagine December 1940: The Battle of Britain rages overhead, and Ramsgate faces the brunt of German bombing raids. Families huddle not around a fireplace, but in the dimly lit Ramsgate Tunnels, a network of underground shelters that became a second home for thousands.

Christmas in the tunnels was a far cry from traditional celebrations. Resources were scarce, rationing was in effect, and the threat of air raids loomed constantly. Yet, the human spirit persevered. Despite the dampness and darkness, residents tried to bring some festive cheer to the tunnels. They fashioned decorations from salvaged materials, hung paper chains, and perhaps even managed a small Christmas tree. Community spirit thrived in this challenging environment. Families shared what little food and gifts they had, and Carol singing echoed through the tunnels, offering a sense of unity and hope. Today, the Ramsgate Tunnels stand as a poignant reminder of those wartime Christmases. Visitors can walk through these historic tunnels, experiencing a glimpse of what life for those who sheltered there. It’s a powerful way to connect with the past and appreciate the enduring spirit of Christmas that shone in the darkest times.

Present Day Ramsgate: Harbour Lights and Festive Delights

The harbour is aglow with enchanting illuminations. Boat owners adorn their vessels with twinkling lights, creating a magical spectacle that dances on the water.

The air is filled with laughter, the clinking of glasses, and the cheerful tunes of Christmas carols. Pubs and restaurants along the harbour are packed with people enjoying the festive atmosphere. The smell of delicious food wafts through the air, tempting passer-by with festive treats.

One of the highlights of Ramsgate’s festive scene is the vibrant decoration displayed by the local radio station.

Located on the banks of the harbour, the station’s entrance is adorned with a colourful and eye-catching display, adding to the festive ambiance of the area.

Broadstairs: A Dickens of A Christmas

Broadstairs held a special place in the heart of Charles Dickens, who often sought refuge in this coastal town. He found inspiration in its quaint streets and picturesque beaches, even basing Betsey Trotwood’s cottage in ‘David Copperfield’ on a real Broadstairs dwelling. Imagine Dickens, strolling along Viking Bay on Christmas Day, observing families bundled in warm attire, children building snowmen on the sand, and the festive bustle of the town. Perhaps he’s gather with locals at the Tartar Frigate pub, sharing stories and enjoying a glass of warming ale. Christmas in Broadstairs, like its neighbouring towns, was a time for community. Church services at St. Peters, caroling in the streets, and festive gatherings at local inns fostered a sense of togetherness.

Christmas Present Time in Broadstairs

Viking Bay: A Moonlit Wonderland

Viking Bay, usually bustling with activity during the day, transforms under the soft glow of the moon. The gentle curve of the bay, framed by the sandy beach, creates a sense of tranquility and wonder.

The moon casts its ethereal light upon the scene, highlighting the subtle textures of the sand and the gentle ripples of the water. The festive spirit is undeniable. The twinkling lights along the promenade and from the distant buildings add a warm, inviting touch. It’s as if the town itself is embracing the magic of the season. The colourful beach huts lined up along the promenade, adding a touch of whimsy and character.

A Tranquil Promenade

The festive season often brings to mind bustling crowds and brightly lit shops, overflowing with holiday cheer. But sometimes, the most magical moments are found in the quiet corners, where the spirit of the season settles in a more subtle way.

And where better to find such a moment than in Broadstairs, a town forever linked to one of the greatest Christmas storytellers of all time: Charles Dickens?

The Charles Dickens pub, bathed in warm light, stands as a beacon of comfort against the night sky. The dark green paint and glowing windows, framed with festive lights, practically beckon you in from the cold. You can almost hear the murmur of conversation and clinking glasses spilling out onto the street. It’s the quintessential image of a cozy English pub at Christmastime. But Broadstairs offers more than just a namesake pub. Just a short stroll away stands Dickens House, the very place where the author himself found inspiration.

This elegant building, with its distinctive black balconies and festive wreath, seems to whisper tales of Christmases past. Imagine Dickens himself gazing out of those windows, conjuring up visions of Scrooge, Tiny Tim, and the ghosts of Christmas. The house stands as a testament to the enduring power of his stories, stories that continue to capture the spirit of Christmas over a century later.

Westwood Cross: Where Christmas Spirit Sparkles

No Christmas journey through Thanet would be complete without a visit to Westwood Cross Shopping Centre. This bustling hub of retail and entertainment transforms into a winter wonderland, offering a captivating blend of Christmas cheer and modern convenience.

A Reindeer’s Welcome

This year, a friendly reindeer, crafted from twinkling lights, greets visitors at the entrance. Its cheerful demeanor and glowing red nose perfectly capture the spirit of the season.

Market Delights

The Christmas market at Westwood Cross is a treasure trove of unique gifts and festive treats.

Local artisans and vendors showcase their crafts, from handcrafted ornaments to delicious seasonal goodies. The aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, adding to the festive ambiance.

Tiny Treasures

Among the market stalls, one charming vendor stands out. This delightful little shop offers an array of adorable Christmas outfits for children.

From cosy pajamas to festive dresses, there’s something to make every little one sparkle this holiday season.

A Bear-Sized Hug Of Holiday Cheer

Adding to the magical atmosphere is a giant teddy bear, illuminated with twinkling lights. This cuddly spectacle towers over passersby, inviting them to share in the warmth and joy of the season.

As you stroll through Westwood Cross, be sure to look up and admire the canopy of twinkling lights that adorn the walkways. These shimmering orbs create a magical atmosphere, casting a warm glow over the festive scene below.

Centrepiece of Christmas Cheer

At the heart of Westwood Cross stands a magnificent Christmas tree, its branches adorned with twinkling lights and ornaments. Beside it, a giant illuminated bauble adds to the festive spectacle, creating a picturesque scene that captures the magic of the season.

A group of students, caught up in the festive cheer, happily posed for a photo amidst twinkling lights. Their smiles and laughter perfectly encapsulate the joy and camaraderie of the season. Westwood Cross truly brings people together in the spirit of Christmas.

A Student’s Perspective

Isabella, a 15- year-old student enjoying the festive atmosphere at Westwood Cross, shared her family’s Christmas traditions:

Isabella’s story highlights the importance of family traditions during the Christmas season, a sentiment that resonates throughout Thanet’s festive celebrations.

In Victorian Thanet, Christmas was a time of opulent feasts, with tables laden with plum puddings, brandy-soaked fruits, and intricate confections. The introduction of the Christmas tree, popularized by Queen Victoria and Prince Albert, added to the festive cheer. However, World War II brought austerity, and meat rationing led to resourceful dishes featuring offal, rabbit and creative vegetable creations. Despite hardships, the spirit of Christmas endured, with communities sharing limited resources and baking festive treats. Throughout the ages, Thanet’s connection to the sea has remained, with seafood likely gracing Christmas tables. These traditions, rooted in resilience and resourcefulness, continue to shape the coast’s unique Christmas celebrations.

From the tempting Christmas fruitcake and gingerbread men to the bustling Christmas market stalls overflowing with handcrafted soaps, ornaments and delicious pastries, it’s clear that the holiday season is in full swing.

Whether it’s a bustling Christmas market, a quiet seaside escape, or a journey through history, Thanet offers something for everyone this holiday season.

So there you have it – a glimpse into the captivating Christmas traditions of Coastal Kent. From medieval masses to wartime resilience, from Dickens Broadstairs to the modern delights of Westwood Cross, Thanet offers a festive experience like no other. This Christmas, why not embrace the coastal charm and create your own unforgettable memories in this enchanting corner of Kent? Cheers to a Christmas filled with warmth, laughter, and the magic of the season!