Things to Do in Broadstairs: Family-Friendly Bowling Adventures
With its classic coastal charm and sandy beaches, Broadstairs has a knack for feeling like a proper seaside escape while still being packed with things to do. Whether you’re local, visiting for the day, or planning a longer stay, there’s no shortage of ways to keep everyone entertained.
From indoor activities for families at Westwood Cross to bracing beach walks and ice-cream stops, this guide rounds up all of the best things to do in Broadstairs.
Indoor Activities in Broadstairs & Westwood Cross
When the wind picks up or the rain rolls in, it’s always a scramble to find indoor fun. No need to start searching ‘family activities near me’, we’ve done all the work for you. Here’s all the best indoor activities for families in Broadstairs and nearby Westwood Cross.
Hollywood Bowl Westwood Cross – Bowling, Games & Treats
For guaranteed fun, put Hollywood Bowl Westwood Cross at the top of your list. Bowling takes centre stage, with lots of lanes designed for all ages, including lighter balls and bumpers for younger players.
Think the Hollywood Bowl is just bowling? There’s so much more. Beyond the lanes, you’ll also find all the best arcade games, finger-licking food and sweet treats that make it feel like a real occasion. If you’re searching for bowling near me or family activities near me, this is an easy crowd-pleaser (and a fab choice for a rainy-day!)
Soft Play and Trampoline Centres
Got some littleuns who are bursting with energy? Local soft play and trampoline centres are a great place to let them run (and jump wild). Perfect for short visits or pairing with another activity.
Cinemas and Indoor Entertainment
Is there anything more cosy than an afternoon in the cinema? After a beach walk or busy morning, a good film really hits the spot. There are a few different cinemas in Broadstairs and Westcross so have a search to see what film tickles your fancy.
Leisure Centres and Swimming Pools
Family swim sessions are always a day to remember. The local Leisure centres offer a mix of fun and fitness, especially handy during school holidays.
Indoor Sports and Climbing
For older kids and teens, indoor sports venues and climbing centres are a great way to keep active. If you’re feeling really adventurous, Revolution skatepark and climbing centre has lots of ramps and walls for the cool kids.
Outdoor Things to Do in Broadstairs
When the sun shines, Broadstairs really does too.
Viking Bay Beach
This iconic sandy beach is at the heart of the town. Perfect for sandcastles, paddling and all the classic seaside fun - a definite must-visit for families.
Broadstairs Promenade Walks
The promenade is ideal for relaxed strolls with sea views and don't worry, there’s plenty of stops for snacks along the way. Easy, breezy and very Broadstairs.
Local Parks and Playgrounds
Smaller parks and playgrounds dotted around the area are great for low-key, relaxed afternoons, especially with younger children who just want to run and play.
Coastal Paths and Nature Trails
For families who enjoy a bit of exploring, the coastal paths offer fresh air, sea views and the chance to spot wildlife along the way.
Things to Do in Broadstairs with Kids
Keeping kids entertained is easy here, especially with a mix of outdoor and indoor activities for families.
Bowling and Arcade Games for All Ages
If you’ve got some kids who are too old for soft play, and some who are too young for climbing, bowling is the perfect choice. Kids love the fun and energy, while adults get drawn into the competition. Add arcade games and suddenly you’ve got a full afternoon sorted.
Treasure Hunts and Activity Trails
If the weather is behaving, one of the nicest things to do in Broadstairs is just exploring outdoors. It’s the perfect place for DIY treasure hunts, especially along the seafront or in local parks. A simple checklist and a few clues can turn a walk into an adventure.
Family Attractions and Museums
Up for a quieter change of pace? Museums and galleries are ideal for curious minds and calmer moments. From the Crampton Tower Museum to the Dickens House Museum - whatever you're into, there’s lots to learn.
School Holiday Activities
During school holidays, indoor activities for families really come into their own. Bowling, games and cinemas are reliable options when you need something fun that doesn’t depend on sunshine. Broadstairs also has some great trampoline parks which can be fun, action-packed ways to spend an afternoon.
Rainy-Day Ideas in Broadstairs
Because seaside towns still get rainy days.
Indoor Games and Competitive Socialising
Bowling and arcade games are perfect when the weather turns. They’re lively, interactive and feel like a treat rather than a fallback plan. No need to start googling ‘bowling near me’, you know where to go (the Hollywood Bowl ofcourse).
Libraries and Creative Workshops
Local libraries and community spaces often host creative sessions for kids, offering a slower, more relaxed way to spend an afternoon.
Family-Friendly Cafés
Broadstairs has plenty of cafés where families can warm up, refuel and relax. And of course, cafes usually have cake (winning!).
Things to Do in Broadstairs for Families and Groups
Birthday Treats and Celebrations
If you’re celebrating, there are tons of nice restaurants in Broadstairs to make it an occasion. If you want to do something a bit more high energy, bowling makes birthdays easy. It’s fun, social and works for groups without needing loads of planning.
After-School and Early Evening Fun
Looking for something to do after school or before dinner? Check out the local indoor sports centres, from a squash session to bouldering, a good game is a great way to work up an appetite.
Affordable Group Activities
If the sun is shining, a scavenger hunt is a great shout! If it’s raining, check out our offers and Hollywood bowl Westcross here.
Plan Your Day Out in Broadstairs
Turn a Bowling Trip into a Full Day Out
Start with a beach walk or park visit, then head to Westwood Cross for bowling, games and food - the perfect day of balancing outdoor fun with indoor comfort.
Book Your Visit to Hollywood Bowl Westwood Cross
If you’re exploring things to do in Broadstairs or nearby Westwood Cross, Hollywood Bowl Westwood Cross is a great place to anchor your plans. With flexible opening hours, activities for all ages and everything under one roof, it makes family days out simple, fun and memorable. Book your lane here!