Discover Margate: A Gem on England's Northeast Coast

When you ask for recommendations on where to visit in Kent, England, the charming coastal town of Margate often comes up. Just an hour from London, Margate, historically known as "Meergate," is celebrated as one of the country's top seaside destinations.

Margate has evolved to offer a mix of traditional seaside fun and modern attractions. Visitors can enjoy everything from boutique shops selling local arts and crafts to fresh-caught seafood, alongside the classic souvenir shops and fast-food outlets.

Notable attractions include the Turner Contemporary art gallery and the revamped Dreamland Margate theme park. For more details on the best things to do in Margate, continue reading, and consider booking your car online for convenience.

1. Get Your Art Fix at the Turner Contemporary

The Turner Contemporary art gallery is a tribute to Joseph M.W. Turner, a renowned British painter who spent 20 years in Margate. Since its opening in 2011, the gallery has hosted over 100 exhibits and offers stunning sea views from its location, designed by architect David Chipperfield.

Address: Rendezvous, Margate, Kent

Official site: https://turnercontemporary.org

2. Be Intrigued by the Shell Grotto

The mysterious Shell Grotto, discovered in the 1800s, is an underground passageway adorned with seashell patterns. Theories about its origin range from astronomical purposes to a Victorian folly.

Address: Grotto Hill, Cliftonville, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.shellgrotto.co.uk

3. Enjoy the Beach at Margate Main Sands

Margate Main Sands is a family-friendly beach with gentle slopes and safe swimming. The promenade offers food vendors like Peters Fish Factory and attractions such as Dreamland theme park.

Address: Marine Terrace, Margate, Kent

4. Shop & Dine in Margate Old Town

Margate Old Town is a labyrinth of narrow streets with trendy shops, art galleries, and eateries. Notable spots include the Old Kent Market and the historic Tudor House.

5. See Classic Toys at the Hornby Visitor Centre

The Hornby Visitor Centre showcases the brand's iconic toys and model trains, with exhibits spanning from its inception to modern times.

Address: Westwood Industrial Estate, Westwood, Margate, Kent

Official site: https://uk.hornby.com/hornby-hobbies-visitor-centre

6. Shop in the Old Kent Market

The Old Kent Market, housed in a former cinema, offers an eclectic mix of vendors selling items from vinyl records to food.

Address: 8 Fort Hill, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.oldkentmarket.com

7. Arrange a Tour of Margate Tudor House

Margate Tudor House, dating back to 1525, is the town's oldest and most picturesque building, showcasing architectural features from the period.

Address: 60 King Street, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.thanet.gov.uk/locations/tudor-house/

8. Learn about the Town's Rich Past at the Margate Museum

Margate Museum, set in a former town hall and police station, offers a glimpse into the town's history with a variety of exhibits.

Address: Market Place, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.thanet.gov.uk/locations/margate-museum-old-town-hall/

9. Take in a Show at Theatre Royal Margate

Theatre Royal Margate, built in 1787, is a historic venue that has hosted a range of entertainment from The Beatles to contemporary acts.

Address: Addington Street, Margate, Kent

10. Explore the Margate Caves

The Margate Caves, once a chalk mine, offer an underground adventure with informative displays and a visitors center with a café and shop.

Address: 1 Northdown Road, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.margatecaves.co.uk

11. Take a Fun Trip Back in Time at Dreamland Margate

Dreamland Margate, a retro theme park, offers historic rides and attractions, including a classic roller coaster and a ghost train.

Address: 49-51 Marine Terrace, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.dreamland.co.uk

12. Margate Winter Gardens

Margate Winter Gardens, opened in 1911, is a historic venue capable of hosting over 4,000 spectators for a variety of shows and events.

Address: Fort Cres, Cliftonville, Margate, Kent

Official site: www.margate-live.com