What’s on at Westwood Cross this Summer at Westwood Cross

Westwood Cross is one of Broadstairs’ must-visit destinations this summer, with a packed programme of family-friendly entertainment, live music, dining and shopping for visitors to enjoy. From action-packed indoor activities to seasonal experiences across the centre, there’s plenty to keep the whole family entertained throughout the holidays.

Meet Kirsty the T-Rex

Step back in time for a Jurassic-sized adventure as Westwood Cross welcomes Kirsty the T-Rex — the centre’s very first animatronic dinosaur.

Located outside Hollywood Bowl, Kirsty is ready to wow visitors as she roars, moves, and brings a little prehistoric magic to the centre — making her a must-see stop at Westwood Cross for families this summer.

 Named in loving memory of the wife of a Westwood Cross security officer, the centre is also collecting donations in support of Macmillan Cancer Support and have placed a collection box alongside the roar-some display.

The one-stop shop for the ultimate summer wardrobe

With summer in full swing, Westwood Cross is the go-to destination for holiday essentials, weekend-ready style and festival beauty must-haves.

Shoppers can browse breezy fashion, sandals and accessories at TK Maxx, Next, River Island and New Look, before picking up travel minis, sun protection and beauty essentials from Boots and Superdrug.

With Margate Pride taking place on 8th August and a packed programme of live music and entertainment at Dreamland, it’s also the perfect time to stock up on festival-ready fashion, dancing shoes, face glitter, and bold accessories.

All-weather entertainment for the whole family

Westwood Cross offers more than just great shopping, withplenty of leisure destinations it offers family-friendly fun come rain or shine.

Guests can enjoy an action-packed day at AIRHOP, where you can bounce, climb and explore your way through an action-packed indoor playground – perfect for burning off energy and keeping little ones (and big kids) happy - or hit Hollywood Bowl for classic competitive fun on the lanes or hitting the arcade games.

For a more leisurely experience, VUE offers the perfect escape from rainy summer afternoons, or a welcome break from the Broadstairs sunshine.With ‘Ultra Lux’ recliner seating and the latest blockbusters, including Minions and Monsters and Moana, it’s the perfect way to switch off for a couple of hours. If you’re visiting with children aged 4-11, Mighty Mornings screenings offer tickets from just £2.49 per person, giving families an affordable way to enjoy early-day screenings together.

Relax and refuel

From relaxed al fresco dining, to quick bites between activities, Westwood Cross has plenty of food and drink options to keep visitors fuelled throughout the day. Guests can soak up the summer atmosphere with wood-fired pizzas and Prosecco at Ask Italian or settle in for relaxed all-day dining at Riparo Lounge.

For those looking for something quicker, McDonald’s, Greggs and Taco Bell offer convenient options, while families can make the most of the kids eat free* offer at Captain D’s, located next to Hollywood Bowl — perfect for refuelling after a busy day of shopping, activities and family fun.

Known for its hand-battered, wild-caught seafood and warm Southern-inspired hospitality, Captain D’s brings a taste of the Deep South to Westwood Cross, with family-friendly dishes ranging from its iconic Giant Fish sandwich and loaded fries to hand-breaded chicken burgers, shrimp and milkshakes.

*with the purchase of an adult meal. Valid until 31^st August 2026

Soak up the sounds of summer with live music

Westwood Cross is tuning into summer with a vibrant line-up of live performances from local musical talent to the centre throughout the warmer months and beyond.

Guests can enjoy performances from local favourites including singer Eleanor Golding, who will be performing on Saturday 29^th August and busking regulars Phoebe McNamara and Ollie Jefferys will be making appearances throughout the summer.

In a special appearance, guitarist Kelvin Pratt, who is known for being singer Sam Ryder’s guitar teacher, will perform at the centre on Friday 31^st July at the Community Hub. 

Budding musicians and performers are invited to register their interest to busk at Westwood Cross. Guests are encouraged to visit the Westwood Cross website for full details and upcoming schedules.

Be at the heart of the Thanet Community

Beyond shopping, dining and entertainment, Westwood Cross plays an important role at the heart of the Thanet community. Through its Community Hub, the centre provides a welcoming space for local groups, charities, performers and organisations to come together — whether through buskers, charity activations, fundraising events, workshops or community-led activities that help bring people across the area together all summer long.

Stay up to date with the latest Community Hub events on the Westwood Cross website.

Fran Donovan, Centre Director at Westwood Cross said, “Summer has well and truly arrived in Thanet, and we are excited to welcome guests to enjoy everything Westwood Cross has to offer.

“The beauty of Westwood Cross is how effortlessly everything fits together – a quick visit turns into a full day out with friends, families can keep everyone entertained, and date nights can easily run from dinner straight through to a film. With so much to see, do and taste, there’s always another reason to stay a little longer.”