LOTUS EATERS TRAVEL

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18 THINGS TO DO IN MARGATE FOR A GLORIOUS WEEKEND.

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Until this weekend, I had last visited Margate 20 years ago. My memories of this town were as a surly teenager on rides at Dreamland, eating fish and chips on the beach, gazing forlornly into the dank sea and not much else. Margate of the early noughties was not the eclectic hipster enclave that it is today. There really wasn’t much there, apart from a rusty theme park.

When we decided to spend a girls weekend in Margate, I will admit I had some preconceptions.

Was Margate still going to be the slightly boring and rough around the edges town that I remember from all those years ago? Or, would it have become such a “down from London” escape that it had almost become a trope? A full circle renaissance if you will.

What I actually found was somewhere that was near on perfect for a short getaway with friends, family or a partner. A place that mixes nostalgia with an artsy edge, that thankfully hasn’t gone so far as to lose it’s identity as a Kentish seaside town. Sure, there is a touch of “Peckham on sea”, but not so much that you require a flannel shirt and a well-oiled mustache to be welcomed into the trendy venues.

As a nature lover, I was also pleased to find that Margate was an ideal place to blow the cobwebs away. Far from being just about eating and drinking, there’s plenty to do – especially for anyone brave enough to attempt a cold water swim in the tidal pools (50% of my friendship group made the cut!)

In this blog post, I’ll set out the 18 best things to do in Margate for a glorious weekend away. As well as where to stay, eat and drink.

Is Margate worth visiting?

Absolutely. Margate has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, evolving from a forgotten seaside town into a vibrant, creative hotspot that still manages to retain its old-school charm. Whether you’re into art, food, shopping, or just some good old-fashioned beach time, Margate offers something for everyone.

Its proximity to London makes it a convenient destination for a weekend escape, and you’ll find a much more relaxed, quirky atmosphere compared to some of the more polished coastal towns in the UK. The blend of nostalgia, art, and local culture sets Margate apart – and it’s that combination that draws visitors back time and again.

If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that combines fun, culture, great food, and a bit of seaside adventure, Margate should absolutely be on your radar. With its mix of new and old, trendy and traditional, Margate offers a slice of the British coast that feels truly unique.

18 things to do in Margate for a weekend

Here are the best 18 things to do in Margate for a glorious weekend away.

1/ Vintage shopping

Margate is a haven for vintage and thrift lovers, with its charming Old Town offering a treasure trove of retro finds. You’ll come across quirky boutiques and antique shops where you can spend hours browsing everything from vintage clothes and accessories and nostalgic trinkets.

Seek out Kings Emporium, Old Stables Antiques and the aptly named Paraphernalia which showcases some quirky Asian items. On weekends, you’ll also find a small market in the center of the Old Town.

2/ Coffee culture

One of the most noticeable changes in Margate over the past few years is the booming coffee culture, heavily influenced by the London exodus. Nowadays, you’ll find an abundance of trendy spots offering high-quality coffee with an artsy vibe.

Start your day with a flat white at Garage, a takeout café along the seafront. If you’re in Cliftonville, head to Doubloons for a more eclectic atmosphere. For those craving something sweet with their caffeine fix, The Greedy Cow serves up indulgent cakes and pastries alongside excellent coffee.

There’s a real sense of community in Margate’s independent coffee shops, and it’s so refreshing to see a markable absence of chain coffee shops. Sure, coffee is a little more expensive, but if you’re someone who values your java and wants to support local, you’ll no doubt think it’s worth it.

3/ Stroll on the beach to Westbrook Bay

While Margate’s Main Sands is the town’s busiest beach, a short walk will take you to Westbrook Bay, a quieter spot where you can enjoy the sand and sea in a more peaceful setting. The stretch of sand between the two bays is perfect for a leisurely stroll, especially at low tide when the beach opens up and the sea feels a little farther away.

As you walk, take in the views of the Victorian-era architecture that lines the seafront, and if you time it right, you might catch a gorgeous sunset dipping into the horizon. Westbrook Bay is also a great spot for paddleboarding or simply watching the waves crash in while relaxing on the beach.

4/ Margate Harbour Arm

No trip to Margate is complete without wandering along the Harbour Arm, the town’s iconic pier that extends out into the sea.

Pause for a pint in the Micropub, or Lighthouse Bar, with views back to the town.

5/ Browse arts and crafts

If you’re a fan of independent creators, you’ll love browsing the arts and crafts scene here. Start your exploration at Margate Old Town, where boutique galleries and handmade shops line the streets.

A few of my fave spots were The Eclectic Art Gallery and The Store Collective.

6/ Visit the Turner Contemporary

Margate’s cultural renaissance owes much to the opening of the Turner Contemporary in 2011. Named after J.M.W. Turner, who spent much of his life painting in the area, the gallery is a striking modern building perched right on the seafront.

Inside, you’ll find a rotating selection of exhibitions, showcasing everything from contemporary visual art to historical works.

Even if you’re not a die-hard art lover, the location alone makes the Turner Contemporary worth a visit. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views over the Sea. Plus, it’s free to enter the gallery.

7/ Learn at the Crab Museum

For something a bit quirky, head to Margate’s Crab Museum, which, as the name suggests, is all about crabs! This small but fascinating museum delves into marine life, conservation, and the importance of crabs in our ecosystems.

Don’t be fooled by its size – the museum packs a lot of knowledge (and fun) into its exhibits, making it an educational stop for kids and adults alike. It’s also a refreshing break from the usual seaside attractions and offers a glimpse into the town’s relationship with the sea.

The Crab Museum is free to enter.

8/ Sample English Wine

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Kent is arguably the wine capital of England. There are many award winning vineyards to visit in the county. Unfortunately, there aren’t many near to Margate, but that doesn’t mean you can’t sample some local wine whilst visiting the coast.

Pomus wine bar is a relatively new addition to Margate Old Town. It has seating inside and out, with a wide range of wine by the glass, including English sparkling, as well as a range of natural wines.

9/ Get a taste of the Caribbean

If you’re in the mood for something a little different, Mullins Brasserie is a must-visit for those seeking vibrant Caribbean flavours in the heart of Margate.

They have a range of specials, like Halibut, or Swordfish served with plantain. As well as the more classic jerk chicken, and salt fish offerings. Of course, don’t leave without enjoying a rum based cocktail – a touch of the tropics in Kent.

I loved the laid-back and unpretentious atmosphere here, and the prices are very reasonable for Margate.

10/ Swim in a tidal pool

Ever since reading the fantastic book, The Tidal Year by Freya Bromley, I have been obsessed with the idea of swimming in a tidal pool. Margate has two fantastic pools – Margate Tidal Pool, near the centre of town, and Walpole Bay around a 20 minute walk along the coast.

Both tidal pools are gorgeous and offer a chance to swim in sea water for an invigorating experience. Don your swimming costume and woolen hat and get involved.

Perhaps the clue is in the name, but one thing to note when you do visit either Margate or Walpole Bay Tidal pool – check the tide times.

I learnt this the hard way when I turned up to Walpole Bay, only to discover that high tide had effectively submerged the idyllic tidal pool that I had been expecting. I was amazed to see that a few intrepid swimmers were still attempting it, but I pivoted away quite quickly! Anyway, best to check tide times and opt for low tide, if you want a less adventurous experience.

11/ Sauna and (optional) cold plunge

On a recent visit to Oslo, I watched Norwegians jumping in and out of the ice cold Fjord, punctuating their cold water dip with a stint in a hot sauna. I remember thinking that this looked like an ideal way to stave off a Sunday morning hangover. And, I never imagined that we would be able to access this healthy pastime in the UK.

Well, I have been proved wrong. Sea Scrub Sauna is a little slice of Scandi wellness that has been transported all the way to Kent. You’ll find two different types of sauna right on Margate beachfront. And, as the name would suggest, you can also get a sea scrub treatment.

Spend a few hours alternating between the cold plunge pool and the sauna. Or indeed dip in the Margate Tidal pool which is handily right in front of Sea Scrub.

Sea Scrub Sauna offers membership rates, if you become a regular, or otherwise you can just book as a one-off. Choose either a private booking (bring along 7 friends) or join a “social session” for £15 per person.

Best booked in advance – find out more here.

12/ Do a “small plates crawl”

One of the biggest conundrums I had when planning my weekend in Margate, was picking just two restaurants for lunch and dinner. There are simply so many wonderful foodie venues to choose from.

For a great night out in Margate, why not consider doing what I like to call a “small plates crawl.” Instead of dinner in one restaurant, head from one spot to another sampling a few delicacies.

A few places to consider including on your crawl – Tapas place Saragossa on the Harbour Arm, Pomus Wine Bar (for modern fusion dishes), The George & Heart House (for hearty charcuterie and the most “extra” scotch egg known to man), Bottega Caruso (Italian small plates) and Tics Bus Cafe (Asian food in the Old Kent Market.)

13/ Play at Dreamland Margate

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Opened in 1920, this iconic park was left derelict for years before reopening in its retro glory. Whether you’re a fan of vintage roller coasters, dodgems, or simply want to soak in the nostalgic atmosphere, Dreamland has something for everyone.

Dreamland also plays host to various events, like late night opening, as well as concerts and themed Halloween evenings.

14/ Take a yoga class at Margate Yoga Studio

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For those in need of some zen, Margate Yoga Studio offers an oasis of calm in the heart of the town. Just a short walk from the beach in Cliftonville, this light and airy studio runs a range of classes throughout the week, from beginner-friendly hatha yoga to more dynamic vinyasa flows.

This studio is ideal if you’re visiting Margate for the weekend – they offer yoga mats and props and you can book for one-off drop in.

15/ Walk the coastal path to Botany Bay or Broadstairs

If you’re craving a bit of fresh sea air, one of the best ways to explore Margate’s stunning coastline is by walking the coastal path. Start your walk from the Margate Main Sands and follow the scenic route towards Botany Bay, with its striking white chalk cliffs and hidden coves.

Feeling more energetic? Keep going and you’ll reach the quaint seaside town of Broadstairs. A total of around 10km from Margate to Broadstairs. You can also continue another 5km to Ramsgate.

Find out more about the walk between Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate here.

16/ Eat seafood at Angelas

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If you’re a seafood lover, Angela’s is one of the best dining spots in Margate. It looks totally unassuming from the outside, but is a mecca for locally sourced fish and expert cookery.

Angela’s has been awarded a prestigious Michelin Green Star in recognition of their sustainability credentials – they are a plastic free restaurant, working directly with fisherman. Even the tables are recycled.

Tip: Angela’s is tiny and fills up fast – book a table in advance to avoid disappointment, especially on weekends!

17/ Spa treatments at Eucalyptus

Eucalyptus is a gorgeous looking “healing space” in the heart of Margate Old Town. It just so happened that the Airbnb I stayed in Margate, was right above it, and I can testify that the smell of essential oils was very tempting.

What could be a more relaxing way to end a weekend away in Margate, than with a spa treatment. Choose from a range of bespoke facials, reiki healing, reflexology, massage or acupuncture.

Find out more and book here.

18/ Brunch at the Bus Cafe

A Margate institution, The Bus Cafe is exactly what it sounds like – a double-decker bus converted into a quirky cafe that serves some of the best brunch in town. You’ll find this little gem parked up near Margate Main Sands, offering views over the beach as you enjoy your breakfast.

The menu is packed with hearty brunch staples and some unusual choices too. I will admit that I had to ask what a “mumbled egg” was, but I’m pleased to report that it wasn’t as strange as it sounded.

My friend declared that “The Hangover” dish was the best breakfast she had ever had – quite a claim.

Tip: Book ahead if you want to visit on the weekend or sit inside the bus.

Where to stay in Margate

For group or families, there are some great Airbnbs. Check out The Beach House Margate for a sea view terrace or this spacious Old Town apartment (where I stayed with friends.)

For couples, consider a boutique hotel like No.42 Guest House which has gorgeous sea views.

How to get to Margate

Margate is easily accessible from London. Trains from London St. Pancras take around 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing a fast and convenient way to reach the town.

Southeastern also runs services from Victoria, which take a little longer at just under 2 hours.

If you’re driving, the journey from London is approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes via the A2 and M2. For those who prefer a scenic coastal drive, you can head along the A299 from Canterbury.

Where to next in Kent & Sussex

For more information and inpso, find more guides to Kent below:

• Margate or Ramsgate – which to choose?
• 23 best things to do in Kent Coastal Towns
• Folkestone: a seaside champagne experience
• How to spend a weekend in Deal
• 10 best vineyards in Kent
• Balfour Winery – the best vineyard to visit in England?
• 40 things to do in Kent for couples
• Things to do in Kent at Christmas
• Hastings – the best things to do

Written by Emma

Wine Lover. Yogi. Hiker. Writer.

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