Planning to visit Margate? This magical corner of East Kent is home to a number of historic attractions, cool cafes, award-winning restaurants, beautiful boutiques and even a hidden secret or two. If you're looking to make the most out of your 48-hour stay in Kent's best-loved seaside destination, look no further. We have your itinerary all taken care of, plus some tips to help you really get the best out of your weekend away.
Margate has great connections with London. We recommend catching a train from St Pancras or Victoria, and you'll be by the sea in less than 90 minutes! Margate is a fairly small town, so everything will be walkable once you arrive. There are also brilliant public transport links, with The Loop bus route taking you to Ramsgate and Broadstairs, plus these services run every 10 minutes. Weekends are a great time to visit Margate but can be busy during peak Spring and Summer seasons. If you choose to visit in the week, be sure to check the opening times of anywhere you'd like to visit as many shops and attractions are closed on Wednesdays, or close entirely over the off-season.
Explore the local shops
Margate is home to a whole host of vibrant, independent shops that are a definite must-visit. Be sure to leave some space in your suitcase for some seriously stylish souvenirs! Here are some of the top spots we recommend visiting.
Fashion
Margaux, 30 Hawley Street, CT9 1QA
A carefully curated collection featuring a beautiful selection of European brands. Shop womenswear, accessories, vegan skincare and homewares. Don't forget to check out their sister shop, Pearl.
Positive Retail, 1 Broad Street, CT9 1EW
Positive Retail resells what’s already existing by working closely with brands to take their end-of-season stocks and their community of sellers with their pre-loved items. It’s a carefully curated mix of resale and deadstock.
Werkhaus, 30 High Street, CT9 1DS
A collection of modern utilitarian clothing with a mix of new workwear and vintage styles, accessories and some lifestyle products. All items are responsibly sourced with a focus on practical and wearable clothing.
Les Animaux, 1 Lombard Street, CT9 1EJ
Les Animaux is a collection for people who reject conventional ideas and aesthetics, looking to present timeless pieces that are both sustainable and highly individual. Their collections are all made in the UK from organic fabrics with 80% of their collections made in their Margate studio.
Reo Jewels, 125A Northdown Road, CT9 2QY
Reo Jewels Is the name behind Margate-based jeweller Rebecca Ellis Onyett. Traditional methods of making are fused with modern trends, which echo through the jewellery in its ability to be both timeless and on-trend.
House De'Ville, 103 Northdown Road, CT9 2QY
Vintage clothing shop established in 2022. Woman-owned clothing brand; everything is hand-picked and curated by founder Jemelia. You'll find vintage clothing for all gender identities, an array of jewellery, lots of accessories as well as some vintage homewares in store for you to rummage through.
Home & Lifestyle
Asobi, 6 Duke Street, CT9 1EP
Contemporary design store selling unique homeware and lifestyle goods. Stocking a curated collection of thoughtfully made pieces including their own designs. We love their handmade ceramics and colourful prints.
Harbour & Tide, 38 Fort Hill, CT9 1HD
Harbour & Tide is a modern local beach store selling goods for seaside life. With a focus on functional, joyful and sustainable products. They offer beach essentials from sunglasses, towels, hats, beach toys and beach bags to coastal lifestyle and gifts.
AARVEN, 34 King Street, CT9 1DA
Meaning 'friend of the people', AARVEN is an ethical homeware and jewellery brand. From woodblock printed textiles, and recycled brass jewellery to hand-woven baskets, they design their joyful collections in collaboration with the world's best artisans.
Haeckles (now known as People Care Planet Care), 18 Cliff Terrace, CT9 1RU
An all-nature, sustainable ocean skincare and fragrance brand based in Margate featuring a shop, treatment space, 'Haeckels House' and Sauna housed in a sea bathing machine, on Margate's Main Sands. All products are 100% natural and use seaweed harvested from the Thanet coastline.
The Margate Bookshop, 2 Market Place, CT9 1ER
Independent bookshop in the heart of the Old Town, a stone's throw from the sea. Working in direct relationships with distributors for smaller publishers, they promote underrepresented authors and translated fiction, focusing on diversity in their stock.
Refuel With a Coffee
If there's one thing that the residents of Margate take very seriously, it is their coffee. With a plethora of incredible coffee shops, cafes, roasters and eateries offering up their own version of the nation's favourite drink. Get your caffeine fix before heading off on your next adventure.
Curve,12 The Centre, CT9 1JG
Curve have been on the scene in Margate since 2016, earning them many loyal customers over this time. And it's easy to see why. A small business focused on seasonal, quality coffee that is kinder to the environment and producers. They roast their own coffee right here in Margate, and guarantee you a brilliant brew every time. In fact, their coffee is so well-loved you will find many of the local cafes serving it, including Oast in Cliftonville and Union cafe in Ramsgate. Everything Curve does is incredibly detail-oriented, from their packaging to the profiles they provide for every coffee they serve, nothing goes unnoticed. Their cafe and store is a beautiful space, perfect for a relaxing solo coffee date or catching up with friends. They also run a regular Cupping Club where you can go along, learn about a new roast and be one of the first to taste it.
We highly recommend trying the flat white alongside a slice of their delicious vegan cake.
Forts, 8 Cliff Terrace, CT9 1RU
Popular with locals and day-trippers alike, Forts is always buzzing. Known not only for their delicious breakfast options, but also their great coffee. This trendy, relaxed spot is the perfect place for a pit-stop after a long walk along the beach (you can even bring your four-legged friends!) With a great selection of coffees from different roasters, the knowledgable staff are sure to help you find the coffee of your dreams. Our favourite is their resident roast Tastyboi by from Cornish brand Origin Coffee Roasters. Origin are certified B Corp with transparency at the heart of their supply chain, meaning not only does the coffee taste good, it does good too. Forts are incredibly thoughtful when it comes to sourcing, often using local produce and ethically sourced coffee. If you're a true coffee fan, Forts is one not to be missed.
We recommend trying the latte - be prepared for some seriously impressive latte art.
Big Shot, 3 Marine Drive, CT9 1DH
Located right on the seafront with perfect views of the beach, Big Shot has become one of our firm favourites. Serving up delicious diner-style food alongside the best speciality coffee. They get their coffee from local roasters, We Are Here. We Are Here make speciality coffee simple, without compromising on quality (or taste.) This delicious coffee is then expertly brewed by the fantastic, friendly team at Big Shot, resulting in what we think is the best coffee you will ever taste! Plus, there is always a lovely vibe where everybody feels welcome. Bring the kids, bring the dog, bring a mate or just bring yourself. You're sure to have a great time and enjoy a great coffee.
We always opt for the flat white, and don't forget to pick up a cinnamon bun whilst you're there!
Doubloons, 32 Northdown Road, CT9 2RW
A newly opened space serving some seriously creative (and delicious) coffee. The pair behind Doubloons, Britt and Michaela, are incredibly passionate about serving up innovative, sometimes wacky, and always delicious drinks. There's something for everyone, from their seasonal soft drinks to their signature doubloon coffee, which consists of black cold brew with a splash of fresh orange juice and slightly sweetened with brown sugar syrup. If you're lucky, you might even meet Bean, Doubloons mascot and resident shop cat.
We highly recommend trying the doubloon as well as any other seasonal specials they're serving up.
Cliffs, 172 Northdown Road, CT9 2QN
One of Margate's most popular spots, Cliffs is a cafe, co-working space, record shop and hairdressers. A real community hub, it's no wonder Cliffs is so popular with locals and day-trippers alike. Their coffee is phenomenal, and all of their baristas are trained at the Curve training center - they take good coffee seriously! They are also dog friendly and have a fantastic brunch menu with plenty of vegan, gluten free and veggie options. The perfect place to relax for a few hours and watch the world go by. For your non-coffee-loving friends, they also have a great selection of teas, matcha lattes and chai lattes to keep everyone happy.
Our order is always a cappuccino alongside a slice of their vegan cake. Delicious!
Oast, 68 Northdown Road, CT9 2RL
Oast is a neighbourhood bakery based in Cliftonville, set up by husband and wife duo, Will and Charlotte. Oast is the place to pick up a freshly baked loaf, indulge in a sweet treat and, of course, get your caffeine fix. They are passionate about using sustainable and high quality ingredients to make all of their bakes, which are all freshly made on site. Every Thursday and Friday you can pick up a coffee of your choice alongside a croissant or pain au chocolat for just £6, a deal you definitely don't want to miss. Enjoy in their cosy, inviting space or takeaway to enjoy on the beach. Be sure to get there early to avoid missing out on one of their delicious loaves.
We highly recommend their batch brew alongside a vegan chocolate bun.
Giant, 5 Market Street, CT9 1EU
This totally Instagrammable coffee shop is the new kid on the block, and wow have they made a splash! This small but perfectly formed cafe serves up an exciting menu of hot and cold drinks (all of which can be made with an array of plant-based milks) as well as delicious vegan toasties and sweet treats. There's plenty of cosy corners to curl up in, or why not take your goodies to go and walk 30 seconds to the seafront? With a plant-based food menu, and carefully selected Brazilian Santo Beans from Bella Barista, not only is everything delicious but the service is always warm and friendly, too.
Not sure what to order? We always go for a dalgona coffee and one of their daily changing sweet treats.
Louie on Sea, Rendezvous, CT9 1HG
This cafe is a warm, welcoming space located inside Margate's iconic Turner Contemporary gallery. A community hub, Louie on Sea has a real commitment to supporting local suppliers and strengthening the town’s social fabric. A cafe by day and restaurant by night with aperitivo and music events in between. Serving up coffee from Redemption Roasters, a coffee company with a mission of reducing reoffending in the UK. With stunning views out over Margate main sands, this is the perfect spot to watch the tides come and go.
Be sure to order a flat white and vegan choc chip cookie.
Take in Some Culture
Margate has many unique activities and attractions that you are bound to want to explore. From art galleries to quirky museums to traditional seaside fun, there's plenty to do no matter your interests.
Quench Gallery, CT9 2QU
Open Friday-Sunday from 12-6pm.
Quench is a project space and gallery run by artists Lindsey Mendick and Guy Oliver and is totally dog friendly. The exhibitions put on at Quench are always well worth a visit, and help to support the work of local artists and curators. Quench is completely not-for-profit, ensuring artists receive 100% of proceeds from their work and creating a gallery space that is accessible for all. Quench is the perfect place to get your art fix whilst visiting Margate.
Crab Museum, CT9 1EW
Open Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm.
Looking for a truly unique day out? Look no further than Europe's #1 crab museum! Discover everything you never knew about crabs in this incredible, family-friendly museum. Located in the heart of Old Town, the museum is easily accessible and only a stone's throw from the beach. Equal parts funny, informative and thought-provoking, you are sure to enjoy all that this museum has to offer. Plus, well-behaved dogs are very welcome within the museum, just be sure to keep them on leads.
Shell Grotto, CT9 2BU
Open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm.
One of Margate's greatest mysteries is the Shell Grotto. An ornate, underground passageway, no one knows why or how the Shell Grotto came to be. Almost all of the walls and ceilings are covered entirely in sea shell mosaics. These incredibly intricate designs cover about 2,000 square foot and are made up of roughly 4.6 million shells. An absolute must-visit when coming to Margate!
Dreamland, CT9 1XJ
An absolute must-visit, Dreamland is Margate's most iconic landmark. Considered to be one of the oldest-surviving amusement parks in Great Britain, the site of Dreamland (as it was re-named in 1920) dates back to the British railway boom of the early 1870s. Now, Dreamland is a one stop shop of culture, food, festival fun and seasonal, vintage style amusement park rides.
Grab a Bite to Eat
All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite! Margate's foodie scene is huge and we guarantee you will be spoilt for choice of places to dine. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a sweet treat or an Instagram-worthy brunch, we've got the lowdown on all the tastiest spots.
The Greedy Cow, CT9 1ER
A firm family-friendly favourite serving up delicious comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere. With a great selection of simple, well-cooked meals including a great range of vegan-friendly options. The perfect central spot for a pit-stop on your Margate adventures! This is a popular spot so you may have to wait a few minutes for a table, but there are plenty of shops in the local area to explore whilst you wait.
Dory's, CT9 1DS
Dory's and Angela's are small seafood restaurants serving up the best local seafood, alongside simple, seasonal vegetable dishes. Both restaurants focus on sustainability, putting people and the planet first. Dory's is the more relaxed, little sister of Angela's. Dory's also offers some outdoor seating that overlooks Margate Main Sands. Dory's doesn't take bookings and is very popular so can become very busy but trust us, it is well worth the wait.
Bottega Caruso, CT9 1EW
This popular restaurant sources all of its high quality meat, fish and vegetables from local suppliers within the Thanet area whilst sourcing their wheat from a cooperative based in Italy. They make fresh pasta every morning, and the dishes on offer are classic Italian favourites which they pair with quality Italian wines too. If you do plan a visit, we highly recommend booking your table as they are often fully booked out and taking reservations 60 days in advance. They also have limited outdoor seating available for walk-ins, if you would prefer.
Pomus, 9 The Centre, CT9 1JG
A beautiful new wine bar, restaurant and bottle shop located in the heart of Margate. Serving up food by MasterChef finalist Tony Rodd, their menu changes monthly to feature the very best of local produce. Their low-waste menu features some tasty and creative selections, including some vegan options. Tony says "“we want people to come in and say ’brilliant’ because they do not have to feel awkward by asking for changes." Their menu is also 100% gluten free.
Palms Pizzeria, Unit 16 The Centre, CT9 1JG
A New York inspired pizza-by-the-slice joint located in The Centre, just off the High Street. Serving up a delicious selection of changing specials, they have a great selection of vegan options on the menu too. Located just opposite popular event space Where Else?, you can even get your pizza delivered to you whilst you enjoy live music there. Bridging the gap between fast-food and a higher-end dining experience, Palms is the perfect spot to grab the best pizza in Margate. In fact, co-owner Josh even won the Pizza Chef of the Year and the Bloggers’ Choice award at the 2023 National Pizza Awards.
Sub Rosa, 24 King St, CT9 1DA
In the heart of Margate's Old Town you'll find the greatest New York-style bagels outside of New York. Sub Rosa bake all their own bagels, fresh each morning. This means that once they're gone, they're gone, so be sure to head down early to avoid disappointment. Their fillings are all made from the best quality local ingredients. They have delicious options on their permanent menu, but keep an eye on their changing specials which include some fantastic options such as a vegan ploughmans with all the trimmings.
Get Some Rest
The foundation to a good holiday is finding somewhere amazing to stay! Margate has plenty of brilliant and beautiful places to stay, from cosy Airbnb rentals to luxurious boutique hotels, there is something to suit everyone.
The Albion Rooms, CT9 2HL
This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel was founded by The Libertines. Featuring seven uniquely decorated rooms with luxurious features such as premium Haeckels products, sumptuous soft furnishings, robes and slippers, GHD hairdryers, and kitted out with Apple Beats sound system as well as tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also has its own coffee shop, two bars and a state-of-the-art recording studio!
The Doghouse, CT9 2HX
Looking for a dog-friendly stay? Serene and minimalistic, The Doghouse is perfect for anyone looking for a seaside retreat. Located right on the seafront, this beautifully decorated hotel is just as welcoming of four-legged guests! With three stunning en-suite rooms to choose from and a delicious breakfast included, we really think The Doghouse has it all. The hotel even offers a dog sitting service at an additional fee, great if you want to go off and explore some of the non dog-friendly spots nearby. The hotel is also proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a welcoming space for all.
Brooklyn Lodge, Old Town
This super cosy, quiet retreat is perfect for families or couples looking to relax and enjoy all that Margate Old Town has to offer. Offering a home-away-from-home style of accommodation for your time in Margate. It features an open fire wood burner, 2 double beds, a cinema snug and all essentials like toiletries and coffee making facilities. You'll feel right at home in this New York style loft apartment and we think you will love the cosy atmosphere.
If you were thinking about a trip to Margate, now is definitely the time to visit! With frequent, high speed trains from London only taking under 1 hour and 30 minutes, it's the perfect place for a day trip (or make the most of it and stay over for a long weekend!
*Please note, all information is correct at time of publishing. Please check before you travel as opening times etc may be subject to change