As we head into the short days and long nights of winter, the Greenwich team looks back on a day trip to Broadstairs, a “quintessential English seaside town,” that Gill was kindly invited to attend along with a group from one of the social groups we have been working with.
Seaside resorts like Broadstairs played a central role in the development of tourism in the UK and contributed to long-lasting economic and social transformation, until the arrival of overseas and “package holidays” to continental Europe in the 1950s and 1960s. British seaside resorts offered a blueprint for enjoyment and a break from everyday monotony, especially for the working classes. Visitors found amusement arcades and street stalls selling candyfloss, “seaside rock” (a kind of hard candy), and fish and chips or cockles and whelks. Attractions included donkey rides, crazy golf, helter-skelter slides, and bumper cars. While expectations around holidays may have changed, seaside resorts continue to offer a fun day out, albeit laced with nostalgia, and an appeal that hangs on.
Reflections from Gill
We assembled at 10am at the leaving point; People arrived in full cars, with many giving lifts to others. The coach was buzzing with excitement as we set off, wheelchairs loaded, walking aids stowed, and a cheerful crowd of friends, carers, and people living with dementia ready for a day by the sea. Organised by John, who runs a group for people living with dementia and their care partners in Kent, the outing to Broadstairs promised fish and chips, fresh air, and a chance to make memories together.
From the start, the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. People greeted each other with enthusiasm. The music en route was familiar, tunes from the dementia group, and while a few found it loud, many sang along, smiling and swaying in their seats.
Though the journey took a few (literally) unexpected turns, the group remained upbeat. A detour to avoid arriving too early led to some confusion, but it also gave everyone more time to chat, laugh, and enjoy the ride. When the original restaurant cancelled our booking just as we arrived, John sprang into action, finding alternative places for lunch despite the busy Broadstairs Folk Festival. It wasn’t the plan, but it became part of the adventure. Still, for some, the change in plan was unsettling. A few people became anxious about the delay, the unfamiliar route, and the uncertainty around where we’d be eating. Others worried about the cost of the new venue. But through it all, the group pulled together with patience and care.
The streets of Broadstairs were bustling, and unloading the coach was slow, but the everyone helped each other out. Wheelchairs were retrieved, walking frames passed along, and soon we were a long, cheerful procession heading toward the High Street. Some found a chip shop, others settled into a Mediterranean-themed restaurant. Despite the tight space and limited toilet facilities, people’s spirits remained high. Concern for John’s budget was heartfelt, with many quietly arranging to cover extra costs so he wouldn’t be out of pocket.
Lunch brought moments of joy and surprise. Sue B watched with pride as her partner Alan, who lives with dementia, confidently ordered his own meal, something he hadn’t done in a long time.
Others shared stories, laughed over starters, and enjoyed the chance to relax together. One participant, delighted with the day, treated himself to a couple of beers and declared it “the best day out!”.
After lunch, the sun broke through the clouds and the town came alive. Small groups wandered off to explore market stalls, listen to music at the bandstand, or enjoy ice creams.
I danced with a lovely lady from the group who hadn’t danced in years. Her joy was infectious, clapping along to the music, edging closer to the Morris dancers, and sharing stories with me of her dancing days.
Sue H and Andy, with Andy dressed for the occasion in a Hawaiian shirt, had a magical moment when Sue bumped into a friend she hadn’t seen in over 50 years, recognised by her voice. They reminisced, swapped numbers, and rekindled a connection that added a special sparkle to their day.
Though not everyone felt their best, there was a strong sense of care and companionship; people kept an eye out for those with mobility issues and made sure no one was left behind. The group’s compassion was evident throughout the day.
As the afternoon faded, everyone found their way back to the coach. Tired but happy, we settled into our seats, the music playing softly this time. The journey home was quieter, more reflective, but filled with contentment. Despite the hiccups, the day had been a success, full of laughter, connection, and shared joy.
For many it was a chance to relax. Sue B said it was ‘so lovely to enjoy the scenery instead of having to drive’. It wasn’t just a trip to the seaside. It was a celebration of community, resilience, and the simple pleasure of being together
Reflections from attendees Sue H and Andy
We boarded the luxurious coach just after 10 a.m. at the Chatham football ground. Music was playing as we got on and some of us were singing along with it. We got to Broadstairs in time for our meal of fish and chips which we were all looking forward to. Alas, the restaurant was closed so we headed into the town and went to a restaurant serving different food. Service was great and they were very pleased to see us.
After our meal we ventured further on to the band stand where there was Morris Dancing [an old style of English country dancing] and we watched it from our position of sitting on a wall. A lady kept looking at me and l wondered why she would do that but carried on watching the dancing. I then went to get Andy a coffee and an ice cream for myself. On returning, the lady who kept looking at me asked if my name was Sue. I said yes and she told me that we had worked together 50 years ago and that l hadn’t changed a bit! We exchanged telephone numbers and I hope to call her soon and arrange for us both to meet up again.
The weather wasn’t great, but it didn’t rain, so that was a good result.
We were glad to get back on our coach to go home. We got ourselves a cup of tea as soon as we were home and then it was off to our beds after another exciting day with all our friends.