Royal Harbour Marina (Inner)

The inner marina at Ramsgate is proper worth an hour or so if you're staying nearby in Birchington. You get the working harbour experience without the chaos - fishing boats, leisure craft, the lot - all arranged around a sheltered basin that's genuinely picturesque without trying too hard. Walk the perimeter and you'll spot everything from serious fishing vessels to modest day boats, which gives it an authentic feel that purpose-built marinas often lack.

It's best for people who actually enjoy watching boats rather than those expecting theme park theatrics. Photographers do well here, especially morning light catching the water. Kids get bored after twenty minutes unless they're genuinely fascinated by maritime stuff. The real charm is sitting on one of the benches with a coffee, watching the comings and goings, then heading into Ramsgate proper for lunch.

Free to wander around, naturally. Allow 45 minutes to an hour unless you're the type who'll spend half the morning sketching the boats. If you're based at Birchington Vale Holiday Park, it's a short drive or a decent bike ride - makes a nice addition to a coastal day rather than a destination in itself. Go mid-week if you want it quieter; weekends get busier with visiting sailors. Spring through early autumn works best; winter's a bit bleak round the water.