Saturday 12th September 2026 10:00 and 13:00

Guided Walk

Sally Whitworth

A guided walk around Westgate, repeated in the afternoon, led by local historian Sally Whitworth, to see buildings and sites of historic importance.

Both walks begin at the Bake House, 21 St. Mildred's Road, Westgate-on-Sea (between the Carlton Cinema and Coral).

Tea and coffee will be provided afterwards.

The Walk will start at 10 a.m. and will be repeated at 1 p.m. and should last about an hour before returning to the Bake House

Saturday 5th September 2026 10:30am

Drapers Mill

Robin Colyer.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st August 2026 10:30am

Summertimes at Westgate-on-Sea!

Sally Whitworth.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th July 2026 10:30am

Dick Hambidge's Life & Work

James Brazier.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th June 2026 10:30am

Mutrix Farm - the site and the people who lived and worked there

Chris Sandwell, Simone Breugem.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd May 2026 10:30am

Hassocks & Haystacks and Castle and Contraband

Ian and Val Carter.

Hassocks and Haystacks: A stroll through St Peter's encountering a cow in a tree, smallpox in the pub and smugglers in the High Street. But what secrets lie within the walls of the ancient church? And Castles and Contraband: Spies, thespians, writers, cannons, follies, 'owling' and a 'Woman in White' abound in the story of North Foreland and Reading Street - along with how Kingsgate got its name

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th April 2026 10:30am

Reculver - ruins, religion and romance

Pat Orwood.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 7th March 2026 10:30am

The Biggest UXB I've Found

Chris Wyer. Follows a short AGM.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd January 2026 10:30am

Margate Windmills and Millers

Michael Cates and Robin Colyer will talk about Margate Windmills and Millers. Michael will talk first about lost mills in the area and Robin will follow, speaking about the restoration of Drapers, the last surviving mill.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th December 2025 10:25am

Details to be confirmed

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st November 2025 10:25am

Chris Wyer

Chris’s talk is on ‘Westgate’s Items of Historical Interest - Before They are Gone Forever’.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th October 2025 10:25am

Jill Beechey – Hurricane!

Jill’s talk is about the 1987 hurricane and the effect is had on this area.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th September 2025 10:25am

Details to be confirmed

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd August 2025 10:25am

Sally Whitworth – Rankhorn!

Sally will talk about the area once known as Rankhorn and the early days of the Westbrook and Westgate-on-Sea estates.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 5th July 2025 10:25am

Westgate-on-Sea in 1870/71

Simone Breugem will talk about early Westgate-on-Sea.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 7th June 2025 10:25am

James Brazier: Remembering Dunkirk (Operation Dynamo)

James will talk about Margate's hugely important role in the evacuation from Dunkirk- the massive rescue effort by the Royal Navy and civilian volunteers during WWII, rescuing over 338,000 British and Allied troops from the beaches and harbour of Dunkirk, France, between 26th May and 4th June 1940. James will also talk about the local service men who lost their lives in Operation Dynamo and about the local commemoration of Operation Dynamo since 1965.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd May 2025 10:25am

Theatre Royal and the Winter Gardens

The popular Ian Carter Chapman returns to talk about the local theatres.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 5th April 2025 10:25am

One Hundred Years a Westgate Family

An illustrated talk by Jill Beechey

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st March 2025 10:25am

Sally Whitworth – Pancake Race

A short AGM followed by a talk from Sally Whitworth about the history of pancake race, a very popular event in Westgate-on-Sea for nearly 70 years, together with a glance at Westgate in the 1950s and 1960s. This year's pancake races, organised by Westgate Town Council, will be held on the 4th March 2025 and all ages are welcome to join in.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st February 2025 10:25am

Trouble in the Countryside, the “Swing Riots”

An illustrated talk by Robin Colyer. Come along and hear about when barns were burnt and the mysterious ‘Captain Swing’ posted threats to destroy the dreaded threshing machines which threatened the livelihood of agricultural workers in this and other parts of Kent.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th January 2025 10:25am

Court cases in Margate

Simone Breugem, our Chair, will be talking about fascinating court cases in Margate and some Westgate-on-Sea news from 1897. It will contain a little background of drunk and disorderly behaviour in Victorian times too!

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 7th December 2024 10:25am

Post Early for Christmas

Chris Wyer's talk about 'street furniture' will cover the many different types of post boxes in Westgate-on-Sea.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd November 2024 10:25am

Trench Art

with James Brazier.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 12th October 2024 10:25am

Winter in Westgate-on-Sea

with Sally Whitworth.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Monday 1st July 2024 10:25am

Street Lodge (now Streete Court)

Sally Whitworth will be looking at this and other buildings in Westgate-on-Sea.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Sunday 5th May 2024 10:25am

West of the Brooks

An interesting look at the Westbrook area with Robin Colyer.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th April 2024 10:25am

Thanet Archaeology

Illustrated talk by Victoria Hosegood

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd March 2024 10:25am

Annual General Meeting followed by ‘chatting about an object or two’

We have a quite a number of historical items stored away in our office which are never usually seen by members. So we’d like to take this opportunity to share one or two of them with you (depending on the time available after the AGM). As well as talking a bit about them, we hope to hear any memories you have related to these objects.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd February 2024 10:25am

Dutch Gables in Thanet

Illustrated talk by Gordon Taylor.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th January 2024 10:25am

Remembering the six men whose names are inscribed on Christ Church War Memorial Tablet

Illustrated talk by James Brazier

It is likely that relatively few who have attended our talks will have looked closely at the brass war memorial tablet that is mounted on the west wall inside the church. James will tell the stories of each of the six men and where they are commemorated by the Commonwealth War Graves Commission. The tablet was unveiled over a century ago and it is important that these men are not forgotten. The tablet was unveiled by a brother of one of the men named on the tablet and it is hoped that a grandson of that man will be able to attend the talk. The talk will end with details of some now largely forgotten local WWI ‘war trophies’.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd December 2023 10:25am

Deck the Halls!

Illustrated talk by Felicity Stafford

A lighthearted celebration of CHRISTMAS! Christmas Customs. Christmas Songs. Christmas Carols.

What are the stories behind them?

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th November 2023 10:25am

George Pleydell-Bancroft - the Bancrofts of White Lodge

Illustrated talk by Pat Orpwood

Sir Squire and Lady Bancroft purchased the land for White Lodge in Domneva Road in 1900. They moved in 1904-5 intending initially to use the house as a holiday home and later for their retirement.

The couple were both actors and later theatre managers in London and their innovations changed the nature of theatres and productions. Sir Squire was also involved in many other ground-breaking projects. They also had an enormous circle of famous friends and were acquainted with royalty. Their son, George, among other things a celebrated playwright, was given the house for his family in 1913.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 14th October 2023 10:30am

Floods of 1973

Illustrated talk by Gary Chandler and John Naden

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd September 2023 10:30am

What's in a Picture?

Illustrated talk by Brenda Field, Graham Field and Sally Whitworth

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 5th August 2023 10:30am

Early Westgate-on-Sea

Illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth

This talk will be about the early days of the town and look at some of the local characters. Sally will also explore when and why the town became a ‘gated’ community.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st July 2023 10:30am

The End of the Promenade

Illustrated talk by James Brazier

Last October, James told the story of how Westbrook Promenade joined up with St Mildred's Bay Promenade.

This time James will talk about how the Promenade was further developed to join up with the Promenade at West Bay, finishing short of Epple Bay.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd June 2023 10:30am

The Heritage for our Future... What Future for our Farmland

A talk by the Westgate and Garlinge Action Group Against Housing

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 13th May 2023 10:30am

Cricket and Golf in Westgate-on-Sea

Illustrated short talks by Mike Baker and Colin Osborne

These talks, looking at the history of cricket and golf in Westgate-on-Sea, were originally scheduled for after our March AGM.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 1st April 2023 10:30am

Grandma’s Shopping Basket

Illustrated talk by Felicity Stafford.

What did grandma, great-grandma, or even great-great-grandma put in her shopping basket when she went shopping?

Feeling liverish – perhaps it was Andrews Liver Salt. Jam on your toast – what better than Tiptree.

Discover the story behind these and many other names we see today. The stories behind the places and the products are a fascinating insight into our social history.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th March 2023 10:30am

Annual General Meeting followed by three short talks

The short talks will be about the history of cricket, golf and tennis in Westgate-on-Sea and be given by Colin Osborne, Mike Baker and Sally Whitworth.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th February 2023 10:30am

St Mildred’s Bay: From Bungalows... to Mansions

Illustrated talk by James Brazier.

This talk will explore the history of the building in 1869 of first ‘bungalow’ ever to be built in this country which was immediately followed by the building of a further three ‘bungalows’ – all in the St Mildred’s Bay area – followed by the building in the early 1880s of Sussex Mansions – an apartment block in Sussex Gardens. The development of the large plot of land bordered by Beach Road, Westgate Bay Avenue, Sussex Gardens and St Mildred’s Gardens began in 1880 with the building of the Assembly Rooms and has continued right up to today with the recent building of Waterside Court. But James’ talk is not just about buildings: he will also feature a number of Westgate’s personalities including Sir Erasmus Wilson, Edmund F. Davies and Sir William Ingram – all of whom are connected with the early buildings featured in this talk.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 7th January 2023 10:30am

St Mildred’s Road - Residents and Visitors

Illustrated talk by Bob Milburn.

Following on from his last talk in March, Bob will now look the lives and activities of some of the residents of, and visitors to, St Mildred’s Road before the First World War and beyond.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd December 2022 10:30am

Royal Naval Air Service Station at Westgate

Illustrated talk by Peter Neale.

Peter will explore how the Royal Naval Air Service Station at Westgate evolved in the developing world of early 20th century aviation. Realising the limitations of using seaplanes alone to deal with any forthcoming enemy attacks, the decision was made to develop an airfield alongside the seaplane base at Westgate for land-based interceptors but, after a few years, that operation was transferred to what we now know as Manston airfield. Peter will also try to offer an insight into what life was like for those young pilots as they attempted to intercept German Zeppelins and bombers during the First World War.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 5th November 2022 10:30am

Public Timekeeping in Thanet

Illustrated talk by Mike Bundock.

Public clocks are a familiar sight, but they are often taken for granted, with little thought given to the reasons for installation or indeed those responsible. With a few notable exceptions, the background and history of these clocks is often long forgotten. In this talk, Mike seeks to share some of the hidden histories of these overlooked parts of our built heritage.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 8th October 2022 10:30am

The Building of the Promenade: “All the way to Westgate”

Illustrated talk by James Brazier.

James will tell the story of how the promenade was extended westwards from Westbrook Bay (formerly known as Infirmary Bay) to join up with the promenade at St Mildred’s Bay and, later, to almost reach Epple Bay. His talk will complement the one he gave in June when he spoke about the numerous extensions of the Borough boundary to reach the Westgate boundary in 1913: as the Borough’s western boundary moved, so did the promenade. He will be showing a number of early postcards which show how the promenade extended westwards between 1900 and 1931 and show photographs of the cliffs at Westbrook before the promenade was built.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 3rd September 2022 10:30am

Beyond The Call

Illustrated talk by John Drewry.

An extraordinary story of the Voluntary Aid Detachment (VAD) – a live presentation with slides and actor support being a collection of anecdotes, brief history, letters, poems, diaries and bulletins.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th August 2022 10:30am

The Early Days of Westgate-on-Sea

Illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 2nd July 2022 10:30am

The Mildrith Legend and the Holy Royal Family of Kent

Illustrated talk by Len Howell.

There are many saints associated with the early Royal Family of Kent in the 7th and 8th centuries. This talk deals with the fabulous (in the original sense) tales of some of them, especially those around St Mildrith, and tries to show where our limited knowledge of the period supports those tales and where the tales help in our knowledge.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Saturday 4th June 2022 10:30am

1st April 1935 – an historic day for Westgate-on-Sea

Illustrated talk by James Brazier.

1st April 1935 was the day when Westgate and Birchington were “swallowed up into Greater Margate”. James will trace the re-drawing of the western boundary of the Borough of Margate which meant the gradual incorporation of the Parish of Garlinge into the Borough.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

Sally Whitworth’s illustrated talk about early Westgate-on-Sea, previously advertised as our June talk, has been re-scheduled for August.

Saturday 7th May 2022 10:30am

Epple Bay

An illustrated talk by John Robinson.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

We advise that you wear a face covering (unless exempt), although the exact arrangements will depend on Government and United Reform Church requirements at the time of the talk.

Saturday 2nd April 2022 10:30am

The story of an ex-pupil from St Margaret’s School, Sea Road, Westgate-on-Sea

An illustrated talk by Dr Graham Field.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

We advise that you wear a face covering (unless exempt), although the exact arrangements will depend on Government and United Reform Church requirements at the time of the talk.

Saturday 5th March 2022 10:30am

Annual General Meeting followed by a short talk

Bob Milburn will give a short talk entitled ‘A house through time or who lived in your house’.

This event will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

We advise that you wear a face covering (unless exempt), although the exact arrangements will depend on Government and United Reform Church requirements at the time of the talk.

Saturday 5th February 2022 10:30am

‘Cherry’ Ingram

An illustrated talk by Pat Orpwood about the fascinating life of Collingwood ‘Cherry’ Ingram – the son of Sir William Ingram – who became an ornithologist, plant collector, gardener and an authority on Japanese flowering cherries.

This talk will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea, CT8 8SN.

We advise that you wear a face covering (unless exempt), although the exact arrangements will depend on Government and United Reform Church requirements at the time of the talk.

Saturday 8th January 2022 10:30am

The origins of Herne Bay, a comparison with Westgate-on-Sea

An illustrated talk by Mike Bundock.

This talk will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea CT8 8SN.

We ask that you wear a face covering (unless exempt), although the exact arrangements will depend on Government and United Reform Church requirements at the time of the talk.

Saturday 4th December 2021 10:30am

A Christmassy Theme

An illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth.

This talk will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea CT8 8SN.

Saturday 6th November 2021 10:30am

A Westgate Childhood

An illustrated talk by Mike Baker about his childhood memories of Westgate-on-Sea in the 1950s. Mike’s father ran the tobacconist’s shop at 51 Station Road from the 1950s to the 1980s. The talk will be a fascinating insight into the good, bad and sometimes funny things that happened to Mike during his childhood and show how Westgate-on-Sea has changed over the years.

Please note that this talk will take place at Christ Church United Reformed Church, Westgate Bay Avenue, Westgate-on-Sea CT8 8SN.

Please wear a face mask (unless exempt) and sanitise your hands on entry to the church.

Saturday 9th October 2021 10:30am

Annual General Meeting

The AGM will be followed by a short illustrated talk from Dr Graham Field, who will be looking at Westgate-on-Sea in a very different way to usual.

Our AGM would normally be held in March but this year it has been delayed because of Covid-19. Papers have been circulated to members by email.

Please wear a face mask (unless exempt) and sanitise your hands on entry to the church.

Saturday 4th September 2021 10:15am

Hotels, hostelries and holidays

This talk will be about the fascinating history of the hotels and boarding houses in Westgate-on-Sea.

Please note that this talk will start at 10:15am, doors open at 10:00am as usual. We ask that those attending the talk wear face masks (unless exempt) and sanitise their hands on entry to the building. On this occasion the refreshments will be available after the talk at around 11am.

The subject of this talk links with the theme of our 2022 calendar, which will be on sale later in the month.

Saturday 7th March 2020 10:30am

Annual General Meeting

Followed by a short talk by a member.

The member was inspired to research a family, following a chance encounter with a member of that family at the Heritage Centre 2019. One of the aims of the Heritage Centre is to inspire and encourage such research.

Saturday 1st February 2020 10:30am

My experiences as a NHS doctor

Talk by Graham Field.

Saturday 4th January 2020 10:30am

Westgate in the Second World War

Part of a rolling programme We Have a Story to Tell based on the stories of local people to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the War.

This talk will be “The Phoney War – September 1939-April 1940”. Script written by Dr Dawn Crouch and read by Heritage Centre members.

Saturday 7th December 2019 10:30am

Westgate’s Sea defences

An illustrated talk by civil engineer Dave Morrish.

Westgate’s new stretch of sea wall and promenade 1957.

Saturday 2nd November 2019 10:30am

Trench Art

An illustrated talk by James Brazier

“They shall beat their swords into ploughshares” (Isaiah 2 v.4)

How weapons of war were turned into works of art.

Saturday 12th October 2019 10:30am

Streete Court Boys’ School and its link with Pooh bear

NOTE DATE - CHURCH UNAVAILABLE ON 1st SATURDAY

Talk by Dr Dawn Crouch

In 1934 a government official described Westgate as a “Place for Schools”

What did he mean and how did Streete Court fit in?

Saturday 21st September 2019 12.30pm

Heritage Open Day

Until 4.00pm

At Town Hall Buildings (As part of the National Scheme)

TALKS 12.30 P.M. AND 2.30 P.M.

“SEPTEMBER 1939” “Memories of the first months of the Second World War”

Collected from Thanet residents 2009

Display of relevant material

Light refreshments available

Saturday 7th September 2019 10:30am

The Day War Broke Out

Memories of local people of Sunday 3rd September 1939 as told to Dr Dawn Crouch in 2009

Read by members of the Heritage Centre and supplemented by extracts from the Log Book of St Saviour’s School and official government leaflets on what to do if there were a war.

Monday 12th August 2019

Westgate Art Group Summer Exhibition

Further details to follow.

Saturday 3rd August 2019 10.30am

The end of an era - the break-up of the Westgate-on-Sea Estate

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch. On 30th August 1919 a grand auction was held at the Station Hotel of all the building land of the Westgate-on- Sea Estate including the Golf Courses and the Hundred Farm. It was the beginning of the end of the Estate, which gradually disposed of all its other property and the roads, sea walls and public spaces.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 20th July 2019 10:30am

St Saviour's Tour

Over the weekend of Saturday 20th and Sunday 21st July, St Saviour's Church celebrates its 135th birthday and Westgate-on-Sea Town Council celebrates its first Westgate Days.

On Saturday, we are hosting a special event to celebrate this big weekend for Westgate.

Come and meet some of the people who created the Parish Church of St Saviour Westgate-on-Sea, - the first vicar, the architect, a mason, an organist, Lady Clementine Mitford of Exbury and others.

Their stories, told by members of the Heritage Centre and of St Saviour's Church, are based on church archives and newspaper reports of the day.

Saturday 6th July 2019 10.30am

How Westgate celebrated the peace in 1919

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch. On the centenary of the Armistice of 1918 and the signing of the Peace Treaty with Germany in 1919, a look at official celebrations in Westgate-on-Sea in 1919.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Tuesday 11th June 2019 2.00pm

Presentation of a bench commemorating Royal Naval Air Service Station Westgate

By the Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre to the Chairman of Westgate-on-Sea Town Council, followed by a short Act of Remembrance.

2.45 p.m. A similar bench commemorating the work of the St John Ambulance men and the VAD nurses of the Westgate Division will be presented in the gardens of Sea Road in front of San Remo Apartments (25 Sea Road)

All are welcome.

(Supported by Co-op Local Community Fund grant)

Saturday 1st June 2019 10.30am

Robert Hovenden FSA and his home, The Hockeridge

An illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth. Robert Hovenden, Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, Master of the Barbers' Company and strong defender of the 'exclusivity' of Westgate-on-Sea. 'I am not anxious to see trippers from Margate here' (Electric Tramway debate 1899).

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 4th May 2019 10.30am

The story of Kent Lodge, Westgate Bay Avenue

An illustrated talk by Dr Graham Field.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 6th April 2019 10.30am

Subject and speaker to be announced

Saturday 2nd March 2019 10.30am

Annual General Meeting

Reports and accounts will be presented and officers and committee members elected at the short meeting beginning at 10.30 a.m. The meeting will be followed by a short talk by Dr Dawn Crouch about some of the things we have been given for our collection in the past year.

Saturday 2nd February 2019 10.30am

My memories of Westgate over the years

Illustrated talk by Heritage Centre member Jean Cook

Jean lived in Westgate for many years and is a loyal member of the Heritage Centre now. She has many fascinating memories, which she is willing to share - for example, of the first pancake races, her wedding in St Saviours Church, her time working at Wellington House Boys School and many more.

Saturday 5th January 2019 10.30am

Westgate -on-Sea Railway Station

Westgate-on-Sea is a true child of the railway - without it the town would never have been created - yet its train station was always relatively modest. There have been many changes over the years and Dr Field will talk about them with illustrations from his extensive collection of postcards.

Illustrated talk by Dr Graham Field

Saturday 15th September 2018 12.00pm

Heritage Open Day

Westgate Heritage Centre will be holding a Heritage Open Day event on Saturday 15th September in The Town Hall Building.

The theme for this year, in collaboration with National Heritage, will be Extraordinary Women and their roles in WW1.

Discover Westgate-on-Sea's significant involvement during this time and all who gave themselves to support the front lines in many varied ways.

A chance to see a display of many articles and photographs which have been kindly donated or collected over the years, will be available for many to see and self-guided walks around the town to highlight some of the buildings which were utilised or constructed for a specific purpose.

Talks and slideshows will be held by Dr Dawn Crouch, Historian and Curator, supported by fellow members during the day.

Free entry event. Doors open at 12pm until 4pm.

Saturday 1st September 2018 10.30am

Dr Edith Summerskill M.P.

in the Function Room of The Swan, 75 Sea Road

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch.

This talk is related to the centenary of the Representation of the People Act 1918, which gave some women in Britain the vote for the first time.

Edith Summerskill's father, Dr William Summerskill, came to Westgate in 1909 and became known as “The Shilling Doctor”, as his charges, in those pre-NHS days, were much lower than those of other Westgate doctors.

Their home was at Beach Houses in St Mildred's Bay (formerly the Beach House Hotel) and he had a surgery in the Canterbury Road His children, including Edith, attended St Saviour's School from 1909-1912, a fact proudly recorded in the School Log Book on April 8th 1938, when she became M.P. for the Constituency of Fulham West.

The function room at The Swan will open at 10.00 am and the talk will start at 10.30 am. Refreshments will be available to purchase from the Swan.

Saturday 4th August 2018 10.30am

'100 years of a Westgate Family'

at The Swan, Sea Road

An illustrated talk by Heritage Centre member Colin Osborne. Colin's family have been associated with Westgate since 1916 and its story is a fascinating vignette of the town's story.

The function room at The Swan will open at 10.00 am and the talk will start at 10.30 am. Refreshments will be available to purchase from the Swan.

Saturday 7th July 2018 10.30am

'Freddie Lonsdale, playwright and London Theatre Manager'

An illustrated talk by Heritage Centre member Pat Orpwood. Freddie Lonsdale had important links with Westgate-on-Sea

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 2nd June 2018 10.30am

'The Story of Three Wills' Part 3

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch. The death of the childless Edward Taddy in 1835 made available much coveted land in Thanet, which would affect the development of the area, including the future Westgate-on-Sea.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 5th May 2018 10.30am

'A Rolling Kentish Stone' – the story of one resident of Roxburgh Road

An illustrated talk by Dr Graham Field

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 7th April 2018 10.30am

The History of Westgate-on-Sea in Five objects

A talk by Dawn Crouch. Note, this is a change to our advertised talk, which will take place at a later date.

Will also include the Heritage Centre's Fifth AGM, postponed from March.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 24th February 2018 10.30am

100 miles - 100 years Kent in World War 1

Join us to help launch the Westgate-on-Sea Trail. See News page for details.

Saturday 3rd February 2018 10.30am

The Story of Two, Or Maybe Three, Wills - Part I

Sally Whitworth and Dawn Crouch have been studying three wills that have vital information about early Westgate and have become hooked! They would like to share their findings with you.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 6th January 2018 10.30am

Westgate-on-Sea - Our Favourites

A special look at any of our members' favourite memories, requests, views, recollections, or anything loved about Westgate-on-Sea. An illustrated talk - hosted by Sally Whitworth.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 2nd December 2017 10.30am

Christmas and New Year in Westgate-on-Sea

An illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth on the Festive Season in Westgate-on-Sea.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 4th November 2017 10.30am

The History of Westgate Bay

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch on the history of the bay from which the new “Estate” and “Watering-Place” took its name.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 7th October 2017 10.30am

Roxburgh Road

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch. Roxburgh Road is the earliest of Westgate's residential roads. Its history shows how carefully the new “Estate” was planned. New material has recently come to hand.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 2nd September 2017 10.30am

Childhood memories of the chalk cliffs and stacks around West Bay

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 5th August 2017 10.30am

Westgate-on-Sea in August 1917

A talk based on original archives on how the town was coping on the Home Front after three years of war.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 1st July 2017 10.30am

A Westgate Artist

An illustrated talk on the life and work of Louis Wain who became famous as 'The Cat Artist'.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 21st June 2017 7.30pm

Letters from Victorian Westgate

You are Invited to join us for a social & fund raising event

Early Westgatonians were great letter writers - to the press - to the authorities - to each other. Come and hear some of them, read by members of the Westgate Heritage Centre.

- Part 1: Letters from the times of Victoria, Edward 7th and between the wars
- Interval with refreshments
- Part 2: Letters from the front line in the Great War 1914-1918 and from the Home Front in the Second World War 1939-1945.

£5 per head including refreshments of wine, beverages and savoury nibbles

Download our poster

Saturday 3rd June 2017 10.30am

A further walk along Sea Road

An illustrated talk on more of Sea Road houses of special interest.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 6th May 2017 10.30am

William Bennett Rogers, Danehurst in Sea Road

An Illustrated talk about a house and the man who built it. William Rogers, auctioneer, valuer and trusted agent of Coutts' Bank had a huge influence on the development of Westgate-on-Sea.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 5th April 2017 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 1st April 2017 10.30am

Westgate-on-Sea in the 1950's

Illustrated talk by Sally Whitworth, newsletter Editor

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 8th March 2017 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 4th March 2017 10.30am

Heritage Centre's 4th AGM

Progress of the Centre over the previous year, including reports by the Management Committee officers. Followed by a short talk on The Town Hall Buildings by Dr Dawn Crouch.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 8th February 2017 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 4th February 2017 10.30am

Sea Road, A Pictorial Journey - Part II

The journey continues along Sea Road, starting on the corner of St Mildred's Road heading west. We take a look at the houses and find out about the people who lived there.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 11th January 2017 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 7th January 2017 10.30am

The Story of Another Post Card

Back by popular demand: Graham & Brenda Field will show how the back of a postcard and painstaking research can often reveal a fascinating story: about a Westgate School for Young Ladies.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Wednesday 7th December 2016 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 3rd December 2016 10.30am

Kent and Kingsley Wood 1925-1943

Guest speakers Hugh Gault, Kingsley Wood's biographer and Jane Gallagher Senior Special Collections Assistant at the University of Kent, will tell us about Kingsley Wood, who was MP for Woolwich, Chancellor of the Exchequer and citizen of Kent. He was MP for Woolwich West from 1918 to his death as Chancellor of the Exchequer in September 1943. He worked alongside Churchill, Chamberlain, Baldwin and Lloyd George, amongst many others. Wood had a house in Westgate-on-Sea during the 1920s.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Download our poster

Wednesday 9th November 2016 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 5th November 2016 10.30am

Sir WM Quiller Orchardson RA 1832-1910

Illustrated talk including readings from his daughter's book about life with her father, a well-known portrait painter, and the friendship of the Moxons, their in-laws, when they lived in Sea Road.

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Download our poster

Wednesday 12th October 2016 10.00am

Pop-in Wednesday

Until 1.00pm

Saturday 8th October 2016 10.30am

The first Freeman of the town of Westgate-on-Sea

A chance to see a recording of the ceremony appointing Westgate's first Freeman of the Town, Dr Dawn Crouch

The Heritage Centre opens at 10.00am when homemade refreshments are on sale.

Saturday 3rd September 2016

The Story of Christ Church's Clock

Dr Dawn Crouch will give an illustrated talk on the recently discovered history of the clock that adorns Christ Church in Westgate Bay Avenue

8th to the 20th August 2016

Honouring The Men Of The Somme

As part of the national commemoration of the Somme, the Westgate-on-Sea Heritage Centre is holding an exhibition to honour the twelve men from Westgate who lost their lives in the Battle.

St Saviour's will be open 10 am to 4 pm Monday to Thursday, 1 pm to 4 pm on Fridays and 10 am to 12 noon on Saturdays. All are welcome to come along.

Westgate residents were invited to "Make a Poppy for the Somme" and you can see that there was a good response. Amongst those making them were the Westgate Rainbows and the residents of Norfolk House. The display remembered the 12 Westgate men who fell during the 141 days of the Battle, including 3 who died on the first day.

 

Saturday 2nd July 2016

The Mitfords in Westgate -1880-1890

Illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch and Mrs Anne Short on Exbury, the house in Sea Road, and the family for whom it was built. A.B. Mitford, the first owner, was the grandfather of the "Mitford Girls"

Saturday 4th June 2016

Celebrating 130 years Part 2

St Saviour's CE School 1945-1995* A morning of memories of the last 50 years in the "old school" building, led by Dr Dawn Crouch, who was a Governor 1988-2000. * The new building opened in 1995

Wednesday 18th May at 7.30 pm at St Saviour's Church

Westgate is no place for a Board School

A "Victorian Evening" of dramatised readings, based on original archives, around the controversy that arose over the proposal to build a church school This is a social and fund-raising event. Tickets £5, include a glass of wine or other drink and light refreshments

Saturday 7th May 2016

Celebrating 130 years Part 1

An illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch, assisted by Mrs Anne Short, on St Saviour's C.E. School, Elm Grove, which opened in May 1886. The talk will draw heavily on the school archives.

Saturday 2nd April 2016

A Look Down Sea Road

An illustrated talk by the Heritage Centre Volunteers about the beautiful houses, past and present, in Sea Road, Westgate-on-Sea.

Saturday 12th March 2016 (Second Saturday of the month)

The Heritage Centre's Third AGM followed by a talk on "The Bells of St Saviour's Church"

Dr Dawn Crouch will talk about the history of the bells on the 40th anniversary of their installation.

Saturday 6th February 2016

The Faversham Munitions Explosion April 2016

An illustrated talk by James Brazier on the tragedy of the Faversham Munitions Explosion, a hundred years ago.

Saturday 9th January 2016 (Second Saturday of the month)

A Local Family

Sally Whitworth shares her research in an illustrated talk on the Huckstep family of Garlinge and their connection to the very early days of Westgate-on-Sea. Perhaps if it was not for Emma Huckstep's link to this area, some of our earliest buildings may not have been built!

Saturday 5th December 2015

The Story of a Postcard

An illustrated talk by Dr Graham and Mrs Brenda Field.

Saturday 7th November 2015

Remembering the Fallen

The Heritage Centre remembers the men of Westgate who died in both World Wars. Those who died in 1945 will be especially remembered on this the 70th anniversary of the end of that war.

Wednesday 9th September 2015 at The Town Hall Buildings 7.30pm

Victory at Last

In the Function Room above the cinema. A celebration of the 70th anniversary of the ending of the Second World War on 15th August 1945 - Douglas Neve, assisted by his family, will present an illustrated account of how the nation and Westgate-on-Sea celebrated that event.

Download the poster

Saturday 5th September 2015 at 10.30am

The end of an era – the influence of Sir William Ingram on Westgate-on-Sea

Illustrated talk by Dr Crouch. Sir William died 18th December 1924; Lady Ingram 8th October 1925. They had lived in Westgate-on-Sea for almost half a century and Sir William left his mark on the built environment of the town, most notably by building the Town Hall Buildings

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 1st August 2015 at 10.30am

Westgate-on-Sea in 1915

Dr Crouch will talk on how the first year of the Great War had affected the town.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Wednesday 22nd July 2015 at The Knot, Beach Road, Westgate 7.30pm

An evening with James and Dawn

Dawn Crouch will tell the story of how Westgate-on-Sea came into being, by looking at the first development at St Mildred's Bay. James Brazier will provide some fascinating illustrations from his collection.

Further details to be announced.

Saturday 4th July 2015 at 10.30am

Why was Westgate-on-Sea created?

The first of two events to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the birth in 1865 of the Westgate Estate, the future Westgate-on-Sea.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 6th June 2015 at 10.30am

Thanks for the Memory

Commemorates events in Thanet in May/June of 1940. This event will be based entirely on the stories, told to Dr Crouch, of those living on the Island 75 years ago, especially those of the school children who were evacuated to Staffordshire on 2nd June 1940. It is hoped that some will be present and there will be an opportunity to meet them and talk to them over refreshments after the talk.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 2nd May 2015 at 10.30am

Holidaying in Westgate-on-Sea 1884/5

Illustrated talk by Dr Dawn Crouch, based on extracts from the diaries of Capt George Dawson, Assistant Governor of Borstal Prison, who visited Westgate-on-Sea with his wife and son in April 1884 and September 1885.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 4th April 2015 at 10.30am

A Loss Of Identity?

On 1st April 1935, 80 years ago, the civil parish of Westgate-on-Sea became part of the Borough of Margate. What effect did it have on the town?

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 7th March 2015 at 10.30am

120 Years Of Service

A celebration of the work of the Westgate branch of the St John Ambulance Brigade; founded in 1895.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 7th February 2015 at 10.30am

Westgate's Historic Post Boxes

Heritage Centre member Chris Wyer will give an illustrated talk on Westgate's post boxes.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 3rd January 2015 at 10.30am

The Tower House, Canterbury Road

A short talk followed by a DVD on St Augustine's, compiled by Les Wake.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 6th December 2014 at 10.30am

Sally and Dawn in Conversation

Sally Whitworth, Heritage Centre Newsletter Editor, talks to Dr Crouch about her research into the fascinating stories behind the Wellington House Boys’ school War Memorial Boards in St Saviour’s Church.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 8th November 2014 at 10.30am

Extra Meeting

"REMEMBRANCETIDE" Honouring the Westgate fallen of 1914

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Saturday 1st November 2014 at 10.30am

70 Years Ago - Westgate in 1944

Plus there will be a special tribute to the men from Westgate-on-Sea, who took part in the liberation of Europe.

Refreshments available from 10.00am Tea/coffee & homemade scones/cake.

Wednesday 30th July 2014 7.30 pm

Guided Walk

Starting from St Mildred’s Bay and ending at West Bay. Guided, illustrated walk and talk, relating to the seaplane base, led by Marcus Russell. Buffet supper. Numbers limited.

Download the poster

Saturday 5th July 2014 at 10.30 am

The role of the parish church

Based on St Saviour’s records.

Tuesday 10th June 2014 at The Knot, Beach Road, Westgate 7.00 p.m. for 7.30 p.m

Sold out

Illustrated Talk by James Brazier on the seaplane base, followed by buffet supper. Ticket only. Numbers limited.

Download the poster

Saturday 7th June 2014 at 10.30 am

The waterplanes come to Westgate

This talk will be based on the way in which the lives of the residents were affected by the presence of the RNAS in the town – come to hear the stories of Mrs Lamb and Mrs Griffiths, of Farmer Hedgecock and the young Bill Hambidge and how romance came to Westgate when an unprecedented number of weddings were conducted at St Saviour’s church.

Saturday 3rd May 2014 at 10.30 am

Westgate in The Summer of 1914

Saturday 5th April 2014 at 10.30am

What’s New?

As the meeting last August, when members talked about their discoveries, was such a success, members will again talk about what new they have discovered about Westgate’s people and built environment.

Saturday 1st March 2014 at 10.30am

1894 – A Parish Council for Westgate on Sea

At last Westgate on Sea really existed! What difference did it make?

Saturday 1st February 2014 at 10.30am

Financial scandal!

How the great bankruptcy of February 1884 affected Westgate for half a century, leaving it in the hands of the bankers.

Saturday 4th January 2014 at 10.30am

From Bandstand to Pavilion

“We cannot live on air alone” The opinion expressed by Lewis Haismer at the Public meeting of the Westgate Parish Council in 1922 summed up the ongoing controversy about Westgate and its entertainment – or lack of it!

Saturday 7th December at 10.30am

Hons and Royals

A look at some of Westgate’s blue-blooded visitors

Saturday 2nd November at 10.30am

From Alamein to Sicily - 70 years ago

We shall look at how the nation continued to face danger and privation and particularly at the story of the people of Thanet in 1943. We shall include stories of some of those who have special reason to remember that year. We would particularly welcome anyone who remembers the bombing of Holy Trinity Church in Margate

Also - the Heritage Centre will pay its annual tribute to the men of Westgate who fought and died in two World Wars.

Saturday 5th October 2013 at 10.30am

Grand Hotels

“Grand Hotels … had to stand out from surrounding buildings, not only in size but often in different materials. By 1890 every resort of consequence had at least one or two”. Sarah Howell, “The Seaside”, London 1974.

130 years ago, in 1883, Westgate’s two “grand hotels”, St Mildred’s and the Westcliff, were opened. This is their story.

Saturday 7th September 2013 at 10.30am

London, Chatham and Dover Railway

A talk celebrating the arrival of the London, Chatham and Dover Railway – without which there would have been no Westgate-on-Sea.

Saturday 3rd August 2013

Artifacts and Documents of Westgate

Come along to see some of the artifacts and documents the Centre has been given this year and hear what research members have been doing.

Saturday 6th July 2013

NOTE CHANGE OF VENUE : Christ Church URC Hall in Westgate Bay Avenue

"Laying the Foundations"

2013 is the 130th anniversary of the laying of the Foundation Stones of Christ Church Congregational Church (June) and St Saviour's C.E. Church (August) - two important events, which led to the creation of two very different communities.

Saturday 1st June 2013

"Lighting the Town" Part 2 - by Electricity

The Westgate Estate was famed for being in the vanguard of fashion. So, why did it have to wait so long to be lit by electric light? This talk will also include a "dramatic reading".

Saturday 4th May 2013

Lighting the Town Part 1 - By Gas

Gas was not usually an exciting subject, but for the Westgate Estate it meant rivalry, intrigue and even skullduggery. Come along and hear what happened. This talk will include a "dramatic reading" based on archive material in the House of Lords' Library and elsewhere. It should bring a smile to your face!

Saturday 6th April 2013

1883

A new look for a fashionable watering place?
What was the importance of the arrival in Westgate on Sea of the Revd John Hawtrey, founder of St Michael’s School?

Saturday 2nd March 2013

“Let’s walk along Sea Drive!”

(From the Ingleton (now the Swan) to the
Birchington border)
Sea Drive now part of Sea Road was an unmade road until 1903 when it was made up and opened with great ceremony.
Why then?

Sir William Ingram Bart

Saturday 2nd February 2013

A look at the life and character of this interesting man who left his mark on Westgate on Sea e.g. The Town Hall
(The Carlton Cinema)

Saturday 5th January 2013

St James’ Church Westgate

(Usually known now as St James’ Garlinge)
To commemorate its 140th anniversary we look at why its being built was regarded as an essential for the successful development of Westgate and Westbrook

“Out of sight and out of mind”

Saturday 1st December 2012

Focus on those who served the Estate – grooms, engine drivers and laundresses amongst others.

Tribute To The Fallen Heroes

Saturday 3rd November 2012

The Centre will make its annual tribute to Westgate’s Fallen Heroes with its display on those who fell in both World Wars

Talk: “70 years ago - 1942 – A Bleak Year for the Nation – and for Westgate”

“Westgate…a remarkable town. It is there in Thanet, but in many respects it is not OF Thanet”

Saturday October 6th 2012

An opinion of 1908, but what was it that made Westgate on Sea so remarkable – indeed it might be said, unique?

On this morning the Heritage Centre will be “re-launched”, as it is handed over to a working committee to run it for the future. All our material, including original archive will be on display, and we hope to have a special visitor to carry out the ceremony at 11.30 a.m.
Please try to come along!

"Roxburgh Road" - one of Westgate’s earliest and most interesting roads

Saturday 1st September 2012

Westgate’s “Blue Plaques”

Currently there are none!

A consideration of 5 worthy residents! Your contributions also welcome.

Saturday 4th August 2012 11:00am

Adrian and Ethelbert Squares 1875-1925

A peep into the lives of those who lived in gated squares

Saturday 7th July 2012 11:00am

All Our Yesterdays!

Westgate 60 years ago – The end of Austerity

Coffee will not be served before this meeting, but afterwards there will be a modest celebration for the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II – do join us.

Saturday 2nd June 2012 11:00am

The Health and History Walk

A walk starting at Westgate Library will retrace the route of the Grand Procession in Westgate for the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria in 1897.

Friday 1st June 2012 10:15am

Play Up! Play Up! And Play the Game!

Westgate and Sport 1880-1940

Saturday 5th May 2012

The Growth of Westbrook and Garlinge - based on new material

Saturday, 3 March 2012 at 11:00

Westgate Celebrates! Past Coronations and Jubilees

Saturday, 4 February 2012 at 11:00

Westgate's Lost Houses Part 3

Saturday, 7 January 2012 at 11:00

What can I do on my land? A look a the covenants of Westgate property.

Saturday, 10 December 2011 at 11:00

90 Years of the British Legion. Erecting the Sea Front War Memorial.

Saturday, 5 November 2011 at 11:00

St Saviour's Church Stained Glass and the people who paid for it.

Saturday, 1 October 2011 at 11:00

Westgate's Lost Houses Part 2

Saturday, 3 September 2011 at 11:00

Summer Holidays in Westgate Part 1- in Victorian Times

Saturday, 2 July 2011 at 11:0

Post War Westgate

Saturday, 4 June 2011 at 11:00

Westgate's Lost Houses – Part 1

Saturday, 7 May 2011 at 11:00

Having a good read! The story of Westgate's Library.

Saturday, 2 April 2011 at 11:00

The Census returns for 1891 and 1901

Saturday, 5 March 2011 at 11:00

The census returns for 1851-1881

Saturday, 5 February 2011 at 11:00

The Lockwood Family

Saturday, 8 January 2011 at 11:00

Winter in Victorian Westgate

(CANCELLED DUE TO ADVERSE WEATHER CONDITIONS)

Saturday, 4 December 2010 at 11:00

Remembering The Fallen - 90 Years Ago

Saturday, 6 November 2010 at 11:00

Jackson's Stables

Saturday 2nd October 2010
One of Westgate's most successful and long-lived businesses.

What's in a name?

Saturday 4th September 2010

A look at some of the place names in Westgate and Westbrook.

Westgate's Artistic Circle

Saturday 7th August 2010

A number of well known artists were associated with Westgate.
* The Westgate Art Group will be holding its Annual Exhibition in St Saviour's Church in August.

Let's Go Shopping Again!

Saturday 3rd July 2010

From 1890 there were many new shops - in St Mildred's Road, Cuthbert Road and elsewhere.

Westgate in 1939

Saturday 5th September 2009

"The Day War Broke Out!" Based on people's memories. We hope to make this a very special occasion. Look out for details!

The 125th Anniversary of St Saviour's Church

Saturday 4th July 2009

Begins a two week celebration of the anniversary. Display of pictures and archival material.

The Town Hall Buildings

Saturday 6th June 2009

Display about Sir William Ingram.

The Opening of Christ Church URC Church in April 1884

Saturday 2nd May 2009

With a special display and a talk at 11.00 based on the church's archives.

Westgate's Artisan Houses

Saturday 4th April 2009

The Tower House / St Augustine's

Saturday 7th March 2009

Streete Court

Saturday 7th February 2009

The Butcher, the baker and the candlestick maker

Saturday 3rd January 2009
Westgate's shops in the 1880/1890s

The Westbrook Estate

Saturday 6th December 2008
The Westbrook Estate and its importance in the story of Westgate.

Armistice Day Tribute

Saturday 1st November 2008

To commemorate the 90th Anniversary of the Armistice of November 1918, a display on Westgate in World War I. Our Victorian Schoolroom will be changed to a wartime one, based on the School Log Book of the time. A tribute to the men of Westgate who fought and the women of Westgate who waited - and wept.

Westgate's Royal Visitors

Saturday 4th October 2008

The Battle of the Boundaries

Friday 11th July 2008.
St Saviour's Church, Westgate at 7.30pm
Episodes in Westgate's History in Dramatic Readings based on the archives.
£3 per head, including light refreshments

Sir William Ingram (Self styled Lord of the Manor of Westgate!)

Sunday 20th July 2008
By kind invitation of Jeremy and Diana Davies of Castle Cottage, Sussex Gardens, this talk will be by Dr Dawn Crouch in the garden (or kitchen if wet!). Numbers strictly limited to 12.
£3 per head, including tea of home made scone and cake.