Margate is one of the most popular seaside towns in Kent, England. Known for its sandy beaches, colorful art scene, historic attractions, and delicious seafood, Margate is a wonderful destination for families, couples, and solo travelers. Whether you are looking for a relaxing day by the sea or an exciting weekend filled with sightseeing, Margate offers something for everyone.
Over the years, Margate has transformed into one of the UK’s trendiest coastal destinations. Visitors can enjoy beautiful beaches, independent cafés, amusement parks, museums, and charming Old Town streets filled with unique shops.
This guide covers the best things to do in Margate, along with helpful travel tips to help you plan your perfect visit.
Why Visit Margate?
Margate combines traditional British seaside charm with modern attractions. The town is famous for its sandy coastline, creative culture, and welcoming atmosphere.
Reasons to visit Margate include:
- Beautiful sandy beaches
- Historic Old Town
- Family-friendly attractions
- Art galleries and museums
- Traditional fish and chips
- Independent cafés
- Coastal walks
- Stunning sunsets
Whether you visit for one day or several days, Margate has plenty to explore.
Margate Map
Most of Margate’s attractions are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore on foot.
Popular areas include:
- Margate Main Sands
- Old Town
- Harbour Arm
- Dreamland
- Turner Contemporary
- Walpole Bay
- Cliftonville
Downloading an offline map before your trip can make getting around even easier.
1. Relax on Margate Main Sands
Margate Main Sands is the town’s most famous beach. During summer, visitors come to swim, sunbathe, build sandcastles, and enjoy the fresh sea air.
The beach is perfect for families because of its soft golden sand and shallow water.
Nearby you will find:
- Ice cream shops
- Fish and chip restaurants
- Beach cafés
- Public facilities
- Seafront attractions
It is also one of the best places to watch the sunset.
2. Explore Margate Old Town
Old Town is one of Margate’s most charming areas.
Its narrow streets are lined with:
- Independent shops
- Vintage stores
- Art galleries
- Coffee shops
- Local bakeries
- Antique stores
Take your time walking around because every corner offers something different.
Many of the buildings date back hundreds of years, giving the area plenty of character.
3. Visit Turner Contemporary
Turner Contemporary is one of the UK’s leading modern art galleries.
The gallery overlooks the sea and regularly hosts exhibitions featuring British and international artists.
Visitors can enjoy:
- Contemporary art
- Temporary exhibitions
- Family activities
- Sea views
- Café with outdoor seating
Entry to many exhibitions is free, making it an excellent stop for all visitors.
4. Spend the Day at Dreamland
Dreamland is Margate’s famous amusement park.
The park combines classic fairground rides with modern attractions and live entertainment.
Popular attractions include:
- Roller coasters
- Vintage rides
- Family attractions
- Mini golf
- Food stalls
- Live music events
Dreamland is especially popular during school holidays and summer weekends.
5. Walk Along Margate Harbour Arm
Margate Harbour Arm offers beautiful coastal views throughout the year.
Visitors enjoy:
- Walking along the waterfront
- Watching fishing boats
- Taking photographs
- Visiting cafés and bars
- Enjoying sea breezes
The harbour is also a wonderful place to relax with an ice cream while watching the waves.
6. Visit the Shell Grotto
The Shell Grotto is one of Margate’s greatest mysteries.
Discovered in 1835, this underground passage is decorated with millions of seashells arranged into beautiful patterns and mosaics.
No one knows exactly who built it or why.
The unique artwork makes it one of the town’s most fascinating attractions.
7. Discover the Margate Caves
Margate Caves are historic underground chalk caves that have been restored for visitors.
Inside you can learn about:
- Local history
- Geology
- Victorian discoveries
- Interactive exhibits
- Archaeological finds
The caves provide an interesting experience for both adults and children.
8. Visit Walpole Bay
Walpole Bay is quieter than the main beach and offers a more peaceful atmosphere.
It is famous for:
- Scenic coastal walks
- Rock pools
- Historic sea bathing pool
- Wildlife
- Beautiful ocean views
The Walpole Bay Tidal Pool is one of the largest tidal pools in the United Kingdom and is popular with swimmers.
9. Enjoy Traditional Fish and Chips
A trip to Margate would not be complete without trying classic British fish and chips.
Many local restaurants also serve:
- Fresh seafood
- Crab
- Mussels
- Oysters
- Homemade pies
- Traditional desserts
Enjoying a meal by the sea is one of the highlights of visiting Margate.
10. Explore Local Art Galleries
Margate has become one of England’s leading creative towns.
Besides Turner Contemporary, visitors will find many independent galleries displaying:
- Paintings
- Photography
- Sculpture
- Handmade crafts
- Local artwork
Many galleries are free to enter and regularly feature new exhibitions.
11. Take a Coastal Walk
Margate’s coastline offers several beautiful walking routes.
Popular walks include:
- Harbour to Walpole Bay
- Margate to Broadstairs
- Viking Coastal Trail
- Cliftonville seafront
Walking along the coast provides wonderful views of the English Channel.
12. Visit the Tudor House
The Tudor House is one of Margate’s oldest surviving buildings.
This small museum offers a glimpse into life during the Tudor period.
Visitors can explore:
- Historic rooms
- Traditional furniture
- Local history
- Period decorations
It is an excellent stop for history lovers.
13. Browse the Local Markets
Depending on the season, Margate hosts various markets where visitors can buy:
- Handmade crafts
- Fresh produce
- Vintage clothing
- Local artwork
- Jewelry
- Food products
The markets are great places to support local businesses and find unique souvenirs.
14. Watch the Sunset Over the Sea
Margate is famous for its spectacular sunsets.
The wide sandy beach provides one of the best sunset viewpoints in southeast England.
Bring a camera because the colorful evening sky often creates beautiful photographs.
Many visitors simply relax on the beach and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
15. Take a Day Trip to Broadstairs
If you have extra time, nearby Broadstairs is worth visiting.
Only a short journey from Margate, Broadstairs offers:
- Sandy beaches
- Coastal cliffs
- Independent cafés
- Historic streets
- Traditional seaside charm
Many visitors combine both towns into one relaxing coastal holiday.
Best Time to Visit Margate
Spring (March to May)
Spring brings pleasant weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the busiest season with warm weather, beach activities, festivals, and amusement park rides.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn offers quieter beaches, comfortable temperatures, and beautiful sunsets.
Winter (December to February)
Winter is peaceful and ideal for coastal walks, cafés, museums, and art galleries.
How to Get Around Margate
Margate is easy to explore without a car.
Transportation options include:
- Walking
- Local buses
- Trains
- Bicycle rentals
- Taxis
Most major attractions are located close together in the town center.
Travel Tips for Visiting Margate
- Bring comfortable walking shoes.
- Pack a light jacket because coastal weather can change quickly.
- Visit the beach early during summer weekends.
- Check opening hours for museums and galleries.
- Carry a reusable water bottle.
- Try local seafood during your visit.
- Reserve accommodation early during the holiday season.
- Watch the sunset from the beach or harbour.
Sample 2-Day Margate Itinerary
Day 1
- Margate Main Sands
- Old Town
- Turner Contemporary
- Harbour Arm
- Sunset on the beach
Day 2
- Dreamland
- Shell Grotto
- Margate Caves
- Walpole Bay
- Traditional fish and chips for dinner
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Margate worth visiting?
Yes. Margate is one of England’s most popular seaside towns, offering beautiful beaches, art galleries, historic attractions, and a lively atmosphere.
How many days do you need in Margate?
Two days is enough to explore the main attractions, relax on the beach, and enjoy the local food.
Is Margate good for families?
Yes. Families can enjoy sandy beaches, Dreamland amusement park, museums, coastal walks, and many child-friendly cafés.
Can you visit Margate without a car?
Yes. Margate has excellent train connections, and most attractions are within walking distance of the town center.
What is Margate famous for?
Margate is famous for its sandy beach, Dreamland amusement park, Turner Contemporary art gallery, Old Town, Shell Grotto, and beautiful sunsets over the sea.
When is the best time to visit Margate?
Summer is ideal for beach holidays and outdoor activities, while spring and autumn offer pleasant weather with fewer visitors.
