Discover Margate | A Visitor's Introduction to Margate

Why is Margate Worth a Visit?

Margate is worth visiting for its unique mix of traditional British seaside fun and edgy cultural energy. Once seen as a faded resort, it has undergone a striking transformation, welcoming a new wave of independent businesses, art galleries, boutique shops, and trendy eateries. Yet, it hasn’t lost its old-school charm — the candyfloss stands, arcades, and fish and chip shops remain, adding a nostalgic flair to the modern scene.

Its main beach is one of the best in the southeast — wide, sandy, and ideal for swimming, sunbathing or simply soaking in a coastal sunset. For culture lovers, Margate is now firmly on the map thanks to Turner Contemporary, which anchors the town’s thriving creative community. There’s also a fascinating undercurrent of eccentricity, with attractions like the Shell Grotto and Dreamland bringing in curious visitors year-round.

Whether you’re chasing sea air, creative inspiration, or just a damn good portion of fish and chips by the beach, Margate has something to offer every type of traveller.

Margate Highlights: Things to See and Do in Margate

Turner Contemporary

A striking modern art gallery perched on the seafront, Turner Contemporary is one of Margate’s most defining landmarks. Named after J.M.W. Turner, who loved the unique light in Margate, the gallery showcases an impressive roster of contemporary artists alongside thought-provoking exhibitions. Entry is free, and the large glass windows frame spectacular views of the sea, making it worth visiting even for those less into art. Don’t miss the sculptures outside the gallery, including the famous “Seas and Horizons” installation by Antony Gormley.

Dreamland

Dreamland is a vintage amusement park brought back to life with modern flair. Once the pride of British seaside entertainment, it closed down for years before reopening with a retro-cool twist. Now, it combines nostalgic rides like the scenic railway (the UK's oldest rollercoaster) with street food stalls, live music events, roller discos, and art installations. Whether you're into fairground thrills or 80s dance nights, Dreamland offers a brilliant blend of old and new fun.

Margate Main Sands

Margate Main Sands is a classic British beach — long, flat, and family-friendly with lifeguards in summer, safe swimming conditions, and all the traditional seaside trimmings. It's particularly good for families with young children thanks to its tidal pools and soft golden sand. Stroll along the promenade, rent a deckchair, or tuck into an ice cream as you gaze across the Thanet coastline. The sunsets here are famously beautiful, often compared to those in the Mediterranean.

The Shell Grotto

Perhaps Margate’s most mysterious attraction, the Shell Grotto is a subterranean wonder hidden in an unassuming residential street. Discovered in 1835, this labyrinth of shell-covered passages features over 4.6 million shells intricately arranged in patterns. Nobody knows who made it or why, which only adds to the intrigue. It’s quirky, bizarre, and a must-see for those who love the unusual. The attached gift shop is charmingly eccentric too.

Old Town Margate

Margate’s Old Town is the creative heart of the town — a charming cluster of cobbled streets filled with independent shops, retro emporiums, record stores, vintage clothes boutiques, and cool cafés. It’s the place to browse for handmade jewellery, one-off art prints, or a quirky souvenir. Be sure to stop for a coffee and cake at a local café or explore one of the tiny galleries hidden in side alleys. The area also hosts street markets and pop-up stalls, especially in summer.

Margate Caves

Reopened in 2019 after a major restoration, the Margate Caves are another underground curiosity that adds to the town’s offbeat appeal. Initially a chalk mine, they later became a Victorian tourist attraction. Inside, you'll find colourful murals, mysterious symbols, and an atmosphere that’s both eerie and fascinating. There’s also a lovely little visitor centre and café above ground.

The Tudor House

One of Margate’s oldest buildings, The Tudor House dates back to the early 16th century and provides a fascinating glimpse into pre-industrial life in the area. Though only open on select days, it's worth timing your visit if you’re a fan of local history and architecture. The house has been lovingly restored, and the small garden is a peaceful spot tucked away from the busier parts of town.

The Harbour Arm

Margate’s Harbour Arm is a short promenade jutting out into the sea, ideal for a relaxed wander. Lined with bars, cafés, and art spaces, it’s particularly popular in the early evening when locals gather to sip drinks while watching the sunset. Keep an eye out for the small sculpture of Mrs Booth, Turner’s landlady and muse, quietly facing the sea. The arm offers fantastic panoramic views back towards the beach and the Turner Contemporary.

The Margate Museum

Located in the Old Town, this small but engaging museum tells the story of Margate’s transformation from fishing village to seaside resort. Housed in a former police station and magistrates’ court, you can still explore the old cells and courtroom. It’s a great spot for local history lovers and offers insights into Margate’s past through artefacts, maps, and photos.

Scenic Coastal Walks

The Viking Coastal Trail is a scenic walking and cycling route that connects Margate with nearby Broadstairs and Ramsgate. It offers clifftop views, quiet bays, and plenty of seaside pit stops. You can walk part of the trail in a couple of hours, or make a day of it. Botany Bay, with its chalk stacks and rockpools, is especially worth a visit — about 45 minutes’ walk east along the coast.

Practical Advice for Visitors

Getting There

Margate is very accessible from London and other parts of the southeast. From London St Pancras, high-speed trains run regularly and take around 90 minutes. Slower services from Victoria or Charing Cross take about two hours. By car, Margate is easily reached via the M2 and A299, though roads can be busy on sunny weekends.

If flying in, the nearest major airport is London Gatwick (about 90 minutes by road), though London City and Stansted are also reasonable options.

Parking

There are several pay-and-display car parks close to the beach and town centre. The Dreamland car park and Mill Lane car park are centrally located, but they can fill up quickly during holidays and warm weekends. Street parking is available but often restricted or limited to residents in peak areas. Aim to arrive early in the day if driving.

Dining

Margate’s food scene is booming, with options ranging from classic seaside fish and chips to contemporary restaurants and street food.

Try Peter’s Fish Factory for a proper chippy by the sea or Buoy and Oyster for a more upscale seafood experience with ocean views. Dory’s is a great spot for small plates and natural wines, especially if you enjoy oysters and seasonal produce. For brunch or artisan coffee, head to The Greedy Cow or Storeroom by Curve.

Vegans and vegetarians are well catered for, too — Seaside Kitchen & Cake Parlour is 100% vegan and highly rated.

Shopping

Margate is a haven for vintage lovers and art shoppers. The Old Town is full of eclectic independent boutiques like Hunky Dory Vintage, Breuer & Dawson, and Paraphernalia for retro fashion, antiques, and quirky gifts. Art lovers should pop into The Margate Gallery or Pie Factory Margate, which often host exhibitions by local artists.

The Margate Makers Market and various pop-ups add to the town’s creative buzz, especially during the warmer months.

When to Visit

Margate comes alive in late spring through early autumn, especially between May and September when the weather is warmest and most events are in full swing. July and August are the most popular months, so expect crowds, especially during weekends and school holidays.

For a quieter visit, early autumn (September) or late spring (May to early June) offer pleasant weather without the peak-season hustle. Winter is quieter, but galleries, shops, and many cafés remain open, making it a nice option for a peaceful coastal break.

Local Events

Margate has an increasingly lively calendar of events throughout the year. The Margate Soul Festival in August is one of the town’s biggest draws, with live music, DJs, and dancing taking over the seafront. Pow! Thanet, a festival celebrating International Women’s Day with art and performance, brings life to early March.

Dreamland hosts music gigs, vintage markets, and themed roller discos year-round. Look out for Turner Contemporary’s rotating exhibitions, which often include major artists and free-entry events.

At Christmas, Margate Light Switch-On and seasonal markets bring festive spirit to the Old Town.

Exploring Beyond Margate

If you have more time, nearby coastal gems are well worth exploring. Broadstairs, about 10 minutes by train or 20 minutes by bike, is a charming town with sandy bays and literary links to Charles Dickens. Ramsgate, just beyond, offers a bustling harbour and great pubs along the waterfront.

Inland, the historic city of Canterbury is only 40 minutes away by train and offers a complete contrast with its cathedral, medieval streets, and riverside walks.

For nature lovers, the Pegwell Bay National Nature Reserve offers peaceful walking trails and opportunities to spot migratory birds, just a short drive or bike ride away.

Whether you're looking for seaside nostalgia, vibrant creativity, or simply a dose of fresh air and good food, Margate serves it all with a distinctive charm that blends tradition and trend effortlessly. It’s not just a day-trip town anymore — it’s a destination with depth, character, and a bright future.