The Little UK Town That Was Once Its Own Island 500 Years Ago
Discover the fascinating history of Thanet, a former island now a bustling seaside resort in Kent, attracting millions of visitors.
Thanet, Kent, Isle of Thanet, Wantsum Channel, Seaside Resort
Thanet: This charming spot in Kent used to be an island, can you believe it? It was separated from the mainland by the Wantsum Channel, which was about 600 meters wide. That’s a pretty cool piece of history!
Back in the day, this channel was a major shipping route during the Roman Empire and even into the Middle Ages. It’s wild to think about how important it was for trade and travel.
So, how did it all change? Well, around 5000 BC, the Isle of Thanet formed after the last glacial period. As sea levels rose, the North Sea crept in, creating this beautiful chalk island we know today.
Over time, the river valleys broke through, and the Wantsum Channel was born. But between the 12th and 16th centuries, it started to fill in due to natural silting and some human efforts to reclaim land. That’s when the area became known as Thanet.
Now, instead of a channel, you’ll find marshland and stunning chalk cliffs that are slowly being worn down by the sea. But don’t worry, Thanet is still thriving!
Today, it’s a popular seaside resort with tons of visitors flocking to enjoy its 16 sandy beaches and lovely bays. There’s something for everyone here, from watersports to shopping.
With great transport links, it’s super easy to pop over for a day trip or a longer holiday. So, if you’re looking for a fun getaway, Thanet is definitely worth a visit!