Things to Do in Ramsgate Near Holiday Inn Express Ramsgate - Minster

Put on your hard hat to explore the Ramsgate Tunnels, about six miles from the hotel. This subterranean complex sheltered more than 1,000 people during World War II. Book an hour-long tour to see the small kitchen setups and ramshackle sleeping quarters amid the chalk graffiti on the tunnel walls, then head to the Defence of the Nation Education Centre to learn what it was like to shelter here.

See elaborate mosaics made from more than four million shells at Margate's Shell Grotto, only five miles from the hotel. Follow a mysterious underground passage to the altar chamber, covered floor to ceiling with shells and topped with a dome that allows natural light to illuminate the inside. Look out for Flossie, a wall-mounted T-Rex head made completely out of shells, in the adjoining museum.

It's only 15 minutes' drive from the hotel to the Richborough Roman Fort and Amphitheatre. The imposing remains of the fort's thick stone walls date from the third century, and as you stroll over the deep grassy ditches, you can imagine life as a Roman soldier. Catch a boat to the fort from nearby Sandwich, pick up a free audio tour and then feast on a home-made picnic on the grounds.

A community of Benedictine nuns live and work at Minster Abbey, about a mile from the hotel. The abbey's foundation dates back to 670 AD, and you can imagine life 1,000 years ago as you marvel at its carved stone walls, elaborate stained glass and arched chapel windows. Check out the photos depicting the abbey's history, or just sit on a bench in the garden and reflect on the serene atmosphere.

• Ramsgate Tunnels