10 Things to do in Margate: Your Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Stay
Discover Margate: Your Guide to 10 Must-Do Activities
Margate, with its revitalised charm and undeniable cool, is much more than just a seaside town. It’s a vibrant hub of art, culture, history, and pure nostalgic fun. If you’re planning a visit, you might be wondering about the best 10 things to do in Margate. Well, you’re in luck! We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you explore this fantastic destination.
Uncover the Best of Margate: Our Top 10 Things to Do
Margate offers a diverse array of experiences, whether you’re seeking a relaxing day by the sea, an artistic adventure, or a delve into the town’s quirky past. Here are our top 10 things to do in Margate:
1. Soak Up the Sun at Margate Main Sands
No trip to Margate is complete without spending time on its iconic golden sands. Just 100m from The Beetroot, Margate Main Sands is a beautiful stretch of beach perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or taking a refreshing dip in the sea. The bustling promenade offers traditional amusements and plenty of spots for an ice cream.
2. Dive into Art at Turner Contemporary
Perched right on the seafront, the Turner Contemporary is a world-class art gallery that has played a pivotal role in Margate’s cultural renaissance. Inspired by the famous artist J.M.W. Turner, who was captivated by Margate’s skies, the gallery hosts a rotating programme of free exhibitions featuring contemporary and historical art. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and offers stunning views from its terrace.
3. Step Back in Time at Dreamland Margate
Experience vintage thrills at Dreamland, the UK’s original pleasure park. With its iconic Scenic Railway (a Grade II* listed roller coaster), retro rides, and a lively programme of live music and events, Dreamland offers nostalgic fun for all ages. Check their schedule for concerts, festivals, and family-friendly days out – there are often free events and entry to the park, with tickets needed for rides. This is certainly one of the most exciting 10 things to do in Margate.
4. Explore the Mysterious Shell Grotto
One of Margate’s most intriguing attractions is the Shell Grotto. Discovered in 1835, this subterranean passageway is adorned with millions of meticulously arranged seashells, forming stunning mosaics across its walls and ceilings. Its origins remain a mystery, adding to its allure. It’s a truly unique and slightly eerie experience.
5. Wander Through Margate Old Town
Just steps from The Beetroot, Margate Old Town is a labyrinth of cobbled streets, independent boutiques, vintage shops, and charming cafes. Spend hours Browse for unique finds, discovering local art in independent galleries, and soaking in the bohemian atmosphere. This historic quarter is the heart and soul of Margate’s creative scene.
6. Unearth History at Margate Caves
Delve underground and discover the Margate Caves, a fascinating network of chalk tunnels. Originally dug as a chalk mine in the 18th century, these caves were later forgotten before being rediscovered and opened to the public. They offer a glimpse into Margate’s past and feature intriguing geological formations and historic carvings.
7. Take a Stroll Along the Harbour Arm
The Margate Harbour Arm offers picturesque views of the coastline, the main sands, and the iconic Turner Contemporary. This stone pier is not only a scenic spot for a leisurely stroll but also home to a selection of independent eateries, bars, and a striking sculpture of “Mrs Booth” (the Shell Lady). It’s a fantastic spot to watch the sunset.
8. Discover the Quirky Crab Museum
For something truly unique among the 10 things to do in Margate, head to the Crab Museum. Europe’s “only museum dedicated to the decapod,” this small but perfectly formed museum offers an amusing and surprisingly informative look at crabs and their place in the world, often with a quirky, absurdist twist. It’s a delightful hidden gem.
9. Swim in the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool
For a refreshing and unique swimming experience, visit the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool. This vast, four-acre tidal pool, built in the early 20th century, provides a safe and calm environment for sea swimming, even at low tide. It’s a favourite among locals and offers stunning views of the coast.
10. Indulge in Local Flavours at Old Kent Market
Located in a converted old cinema, The Old Kent Market is a vibrant indoor market featuring an array of food stalls, independent traders, and a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a bite to eat, from international street food to local delicacies, and soak in the community spirit.
After Your Adventures: Relax at The Beetroot
After you’ve explored these fantastic 10 things to do in Margate and experienced the vibrant energy of the town, you’ll need a comfortable and ethical place to rest and recharge. That’s where The Beetroot comes in!
Our hotel, located in Old Town Margate, is central to all of Margate’s offerings – just 100m from the main sands, we offer the perfect mix of quiet and central. We pride ourselves on being the UK’s first fully vegan hotel, ensuring no animal products are used in any furnishings, toiletries, or cleaning products. Each individually designed room features tea and coffee facilities, a luxury en-suite shower room, a TV, and free Wi-Fi, all topped off with our award-winning mattresses for a perfect night’s sleep.
While our BeetBar vegan café is currently undergoing refurbishment (and we hope to reopen it later this year!), our tranquil courtyard oasis is always available for you to enjoy.
Don’t forget to read our blog for more information on what’s in Margate & Thanet. Ready to experience the best of Margate? Book your stay online at The Beetroot and enjoy a 10% discount! We look forward to welcoming you to our unique vegan haven.