Museums in Thanet

Thanet is home to a number of fascinating museums that offer visitors a chance to explore the history and culture of the area. From art and culture to maritime heritage, there is something for everyone in Thanet’s museums.

  1. The Turner Contemporary – located in Margate, this award-winning gallery showcases contemporary art and hosts a range of exhibitions throughout the year. Named after the famous painter J.M.W. Turner, who had close ties to the area, the gallery is a must-visit for art lovers.
  2. The Shell Grotto – situated in Margate, this unique underground attraction is home to a series of tunnels and chambers decorated entirely in shells. The origins of the grotto remain a mystery, but it is believed to date back to the early 19th century.
  3. The Powell-Cotton Museum – located in Quex Park, Birchington, this museum is dedicated to the study and preservation of natural history and anthropology. It is home to an extensive collection of African and Asian artefacts, including weapons, textiles, and jewellery.
  4. The RAF Manston History Museum – based at the former RAF Manston airbase near Ramsgate, this museum offers visitors a chance to explore the history of the airbase and its role in the Battle of Britain and World War II. Exhibits include vintage aircraft, vehicles, and uniforms.
  5. Margate Museum – situated in the Old Town of Margate, this museum tells the story of the town’s history from its beginnings as a fishing village to its heyday as a popular seaside resort. Exhibits include local artefacts, photographs, and artwork.
  6. The Crampton Tower Museum – located in Broadstairs, this museum is housed in a 19th-century water tower and is dedicated to the life and work of the Victorian engineer Thomas Russell Crampton. Exhibits include early examples of telegraph equipment and other inventions.
  7. The Dickens House Museum – based in the former home of Charles Dickens in Broadstairs, this museum offers visitors a glimpse into the life of the famous author and his connections to the town. Exhibits include original manuscripts, personal items, and Victorian artefacts.
  8. The Hornby Visitor Centre – situated in Margate, this museum celebrates the life and work of the famous toymaker Frank Hornby, who invented Meccano, Hornby model railways, and Dinky Toys. Exhibits include rare toys and models, as well as interactive displays.
  9. The Ramsgate Maritime Museum – located in the Clock House on Ramsgate’s Royal Harbour, this museum explores the area’s maritime heritage, including the role played by Ramsgate Harbour in the Dunkirk evacuations. Exhibits include ship models, maritime artefacts, and interactive displays.

Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, Thanet’s museums offer a fascinating insight into the area’s past and present. With something for all ages and interests, they are a must-visit for anyone exploring the area.