Seashore Safari - Westbrook Eco Fair 2026

Join this special SEASHORE SAFARI to explore the chalk reef and rock pools of the Thanet Coast to see what shore life can see - from crabs & shrimps, fish & shellfish, to anemones & colourful seaweeds - as part of the Westbrook Sunken Garden's Eco Fair 2026.

The seashore safaris will be taking place in part of the North East Kent Marine Protected Area - known for its marine life and habitats along the longest continuous stretch of coastal chalk in the country.

The event lasts for up to 1.5 hours and is suitable for ALL the family, but particularly 4-11s. Children must always be accompanied by a responsible adult. This event is run with the help of Thanet Coast Project volunteers and relies on donations to keep going.

FOOTWEAR & CLOTHING: You will require sturdy footwear for walking in rockpools and on the rocky shore (eg wetshoes, or wellies). The walking terrain will be both uneven, wet and slippery - so great care is required. Please wear clothing to suit the coastal weather condition on the day (raincoat/windproof - for rain/wind; layers to keep warm, if it is cold; or suntan lotion/hat/cover up to avoid sunburn - if sunny!)

WHAT ELSE TO BRING: (A) Bring your own container (bucket, or a white old empty ice cream tub is suitable) to temporarily observe shore life and then return. A small plastic sieve may also be useful for catching swimming life. There will be some tubs & sieves available. (B) Bring a pencil to tick the shore life as you find it - and a small booklet will be provided for this. (C) Bring your own water (/refreshments for enjoying on the beach or at the fair after the event).

ROCKPOOL CODE: Remember when on the shore you are in the marine animal's home - so please treat all living life with great care! You can watch this rockpooling guidance video beforehand, and read & follow the rockpool code. Please wash your hands after the activity, & before eating food.

Other advice: Thanet Coastal Codes; Thanet 'Beaches and Coast Public Space Protection Order' (PSPO) supported by a code of conduct; & dogs on beaches. Please also be aware & abide by the latest public health advice.

BOOKING: Safaris places are limited - each booking will be limited to a maximum of 4 places (Adults and Children) attending on the day.

Please remember to let us know if you are unable to attend the event - as your place can be offered to another person or family group that need plenty of time to know in order to prepare their day out!

DONATION: Suggested donation of £2.50 per person (adult & child).

START: 12pm (Mid-day) & lasts 1.5hrs.

WHERE: Westbrook Bay, Margate CT9 5EG . This is the WEST side of the bay, next to the lower promenade at 'Barnes Car Park'. (This is close to and just north-east of - the Westbrook Sunken Garden).

GETTING THERE (If not walking or cycling):

By car, you can park along Royal Esplanade for free or pay within Barnes Car Park on the lower promeande - on the west side of Westbrook Bay, Margate.

By train, its a 23 min walk from Margate Railway Station.

By Bus, there's the 8 & 8a (8 min walk from Bridge Road along Westbrook Ave).