Margate to Broadstairs

Decided on something a little different today - an area of coastline I had never explored.  Having spent a lazy morning in Margate, eating and exploring some of the more quirky sights of this ecclectic seaside town, we made our way to Cliftonville.

The habitat here looks good for passerines, particularly chats and so it was no surprise to find a minimum of seven whinchat a couple of northern wheatear, and a common whitethroat here.

The Viking Trail meanders along the coastline with stunning views of the white cliffs lining the coast overlooking the sea.  The path does detour away from the coastal edge in places, routing around Joss Gap but then rejoins the path a little further on. 

As Broadstairs edges closer, steps lead down onto the sandy beaches where a promenade sweeps past a number of gaudy beach huts.

Broadstairs itself a lovely town, exuding a sense of class sadly seldom found in seaside towns.  Much like Margate, it has a creative edge, and serves up some tasty desserts.

The walk back to Cliftonville followed the coastline.  The tide had receded allowing passage away from the trail beneath the limestone cliffs.

A few hirundines were present here with a single common swift.  Two northern wheatear were scampering amongst the rocks and a common sandpiper flicked by towards the shoreline.