About Thanet Open Topper Bus

The hugely popular Thanet Open Topper will be returning to Thanet for 2026 and will be celebrating it's 10th Anniversary with a brand new look! 

New for 2026: the route now includes Broadstairs High Street, bringing you closer to the beach, shops and places to eat. For attractions to visit on the route, read our blog.

The new route will be stopping at the following locations: Minnis Bay, Canute Road Westbrook, Norman Road Margate Railway Station Margate Marine Terrace Cliftonville Esplanade Broadstairs Pierremont Hall Broadstairs, Victoria Parade Dumpton Gap Ramsgate, Granville Theatre Ramsgate Harbour Ramsgate Boating Pool Take in the coastal views with some fresh sea air! *Find the Bus Timetable here* 

2026 Season Dates: Daily Friday 3rd - Sunday 19th April (Easter Holidays) Daily Saturday 23rd - Sunday 31st May (May Half Term) Weekends from Saturday 6th June Daily Wednesday 22nd July - Monday 31st August (Summer Holidays) Saturday 5th - Sunday 6th September Tickets can be bought from the driver, or Stagecoach Bus App. 

Thanet Open Top Day Tickets are £8 for adults and £5 for under 19s and concessions. A Group Ticket can also be purchased at £22 for up to 5 people and under 5s travel free. Thanet Open Top Day Tickets allow unlimited hop-on, hop-off all day and are valid on all Stagecoach buses within the Thanet DayRider zone.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you hop on and off the Thanet Open Top bus?

Yes, a Thanet Open Top Day Ticket gives you unlimited travel for the day, so you can get off to explore Thanet's towns and rejoin the service as often as you like.

Where can I buy tickets?

You can buy tickets from the driver on the Thanet Open Top bus or in advance on the Stagecoach Bus App (excluding Concessions Day Tickets which can be purchased on bus only).

Thanet Open Top Day Tickets can also be used on local Stagecoach buses in Thanet (including the 8, 8A, 8X, 9, 9X, 32, 34, 48 and the Loop) within the Thanet DayRider zone.

An Adult, Under 19s, Concessions and Group Thanet Open Top Day Ticket allow you to hop on and hop off the Thanet Open Top bus all day.

What places does the bus go?

The route includes stops at Minnis Bay, Westbrook, Margate, Cliftonville, Broadstairs, Dumpton Gap and Ramsgate.

Is it suitable for families?

Yes! It's a fun and flexible option for a family day out, with open-top views along the coast.

Please note, children under 15 must be accompanied by a responsible adult to sit on the top deck.

Do I need to plan in advance?

No, you can turn up and travel, buying your ticket from the driver.

If you prefer to plan ahead, you can use the Stagecoach Bus App to plan your journey, track your bus and buy tickets in advance.

Does the Thanet Open Top Bus run all the time?

The Thanet Open Top Bus runs on selected dates from Easter to the end of the summer holidays. Exact dates will be available to view on the Stagecoach website in time for the 2027 season.

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Penshurst Place Autumn Ollie Dixon 9 x730