'Picturesque' UK coastal town compared to Amalfi Coast with Italian-inspired pavilions

Looking for a weekend getaway without splurging the cash? Well, this UK seaside delivers on the views and beaches.

By Chloe Dobinson, Lifestyle Reporter

Ramsgate, kent, UK, main sands beach on a sunny day in winter

The town is only two hours away from London (Image: Getty)

Looking for somewhere to go that is closer to home? Sometimes the last minute you want to do is wait around in an airport and board a stuff plane.

So if you're looking for somewhere to go that is a weekend away then we might have the place for you.

One coastal UK town has been compared to Italy's Amalfi Coast thanks to its stunning harbour.

Even better it isn't far from the capital. So, where is it?

Ramsgate in Kent has been described by its tourism board Visit Ramsgate as having a "cosmopolitan atmosphere" and a "distinct continental feel".

If you're tempted by the location this is what you need to know.

Ramsgate seafront Kent

Ramsgate has been compared to the Amalfi Coast (Image: Getty)

Things to do in Ramsgate?

There's plenty to do in the Kent town with restaurants, bars and cafes all situated along the seafront where you enjoy picture-picture views of the seafront.

Let's not forget there are award-winning beaches to enjoy. Ramsgate Mains Sands is situated next to the Royal Harbour and marina. In 2024 it won the Seaside Award.

The beach itself is also situated by chalk cliffs and has a Google rating of 4.5. People have shared their own experiences of Ramsgate Main Sands with one person writing: "One of the best beaches I've been to with a great view from the top. I would love to go here again."

Another said: "Lovely sandy beach stretch and great for walks. Can also go for a swim lifeguards nearby. Beautiful lovely areas to sit in the sun and enjoy the view."

A third added: Plenty of space to walk, sandy beach(which is not that common in the UK). Definitely recommend to anyone who likes the sandy beach."

A user commented: "It's a very nice place, especially with its fine sands which I missed back in my country. Relaxing place. Love the sun, especially in the late afternoon!"

Finally, another said: "Beautiful protected beach, best seen in the morning enjoyed during the day with the comfort of the largest pub in England to enjoy your evening."

Evening atmosphere on the beach in Ramsgate, Kent, England, UK

There is plenty to see and do in Ramsgate, Kent (Image: Getty)

However, if you want to feel like you're in the Amalfi Coast then head to the Boating Pool on the Westcliff Promenade. It is great for families with the venue having palm trees around the outside of the pool.

There are also two pavilions, which look as if they have been inspired by the Italian Renaissance. You can expect to find food and drink there in a typical seaside offering.

KentOnline called the area "picturesque’ and said: "If you told someone you were on the Amalfi Coast they’d believe it."

How to get to Ramsgate?

It is less than two hours away from London with it being just over 80 miles to drive. However, if you're looking to get public transport then your best bet is the train.

You can travel from London St Pancras to Ramsgate in a journey time of one hour and 43 minutes with single tickets costing from £19.40 each way.

There are also trains departing from London Victoria and Charing Cross station.

National Express also do coaches which run from London Victoria to Ramsgate and can take around two hours.

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