Visit Margate
Things to Do, Eat & See in Margate
About Margate
Perched on the north coast of Kent, Margate has long been one of England’s most iconic seaside towns. Once a favourite Victorian holiday resort, Margate has reinvented itself as a vibrant hub for art, culture, and coastal living.
With golden sandy beaches, the internationally renowned Turner Contemporary gallery, and a thriving food scene, Margate blends its nostalgic seaside charm with modern creativity.
History of Margate
Margate rose to prominence in the 18th and 19th centuries as one of the UK’s first seaside resorts, with holidaymakers flocking from London thanks to the advent of the railway. Its sandy beaches, pleasure parks, and seafront hotels made it a popular escape from the city.
In the 20th century, Margate faced decline, but the last two decades have brought a powerful revival. The opening of the Turner Contemporary in 2011 signalled a cultural rebirth, while the restoration of Dreamland amusement park and a surge of independent shops, bars, and restaurants have made Margate one of the trendiest coastal destinations in the UK.
Today, the town retains its retro seaside feel while embracing a new generation of artists, musicians, and foodies.
Things to do in Margate
Turner Contemporary
Visit one of the UK’s leading modern art galleries with world-class exhibitions and stunning sea views.
Read Our Guide ➔
Dreamland
Enjoy vintage rides, roller discos, live music, street food and family entertainment at Margate’s famous amusement park.
Book Tickets ➔
Margate Main Sands Beach
Relax on one of Kent’s most popular sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, sunbathing and seaside fun.
Find Out More ➔Popular Pubs and Restaurants in Margate
Margate is another town in Kent that has emerged as a foodie hotspot, offering everything from fresh seafood to excellent modern dining.
Start with Angela’s, a Michelin-recommended seafood restaurant known for its hyper-local, sustainably sourced plates and exceptional cooking. For something relaxed, The Old Kent Market offers independent food stalls, bakeries and casual eats right by the seafront. And for drinks with atmosphere, The Harbour Arms Micropub serves excellent local ales, wines and small plates with unbeatable sea views.
Getting to Margate
Train Travel Recommended
Margate Station is on the High-Speed 1 line, with direct trains from London St Pancras in around 1 hour 30 minutes. Regular services also run from Canterbury, Ramsgate, Broadstairs and Faversham.
Book Trains to Margate ➔Surrounding Areas and Villages Near Margate
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Canterbury
A short train ride inland, Canterbury offers history, great places to eat, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Canterbury Cathedral.
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Ramsgate
Known for its Royal Harbour, Ramsgate has elegant Georgian architecture and a buzzing café culture.
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Deal
A fantastic foodie-centric town with a great history, Deal is quickly becoming one of the top destinations for long weekends and day-trips.
More Things to do in Margate
Our guide on where to get the very best coffee in Margate.