Margate has come a long way from its traditional seaside resort image. While the Kent coast town still has sandy beaches, amusement arcades and plenty of fish and chips, it has also developed a lively creative identity that makes it an appealing destination for a weekend away.
Start With The Seafront
The obvious place to begin exploring Margate is the seafront. Margate Main Sands sits right in the heart of the town, making it easy to combine a few hours on the beach with a wander through the surrounding streets.
The promenade is ideal for a leisurely stroll, particularly when the tide is in and the light begins to change. For something a little more energetic, head towards the harbour before stopping for coffee or lunch at one of the independent cafés and restaurants dotted around the town.
Discover Margate’s Creative Side
Art and culture have become a major part of Margate’s appeal. The Turner Contemporary, overlooking the sea, is one of the town’s best-known attractions and offers changing exhibitions alongside spectacular coastal views.
Beyond the gallery, Margate’s streets are full of independent shops, vintage finds, galleries and creative businesses. The Old Town is particularly enjoyable to explore on foot, with narrow streets and characterful buildings providing a welcome contrast to the open seafront.
Don’t Miss The Shell Grotto
One of Margate’s most unusual attractions is the Shell Grotto, an underground passage decorated with millions of shells arranged into intricate patterns. Its origins remain something of a mystery, which only adds to the fascination.
It is the sort of place that reminds you that Margate isn’t simply about the beach. There are plenty of unexpected discoveries tucked away behind the town’s more familiar attractions.
Make Time For A Slow Afternoon
Part of the pleasure of visiting Margate is not having to fill every minute. Pick up something tasty, find a bench overlooking the sea and watch the boats, or spend an afternoon browsing the independent shops.
Margate works particularly well as a day trip, but staying overnight gives you more opportunity to enjoy the town after the day-trippers have gone home. With its combination of coast, culture, food and independent spirit, it is a seaside destination with considerably more to offer than a traditional bucket-and-spade holiday.
Featured image credit: AI generated.
