Places to Visit in Margate

Margate's venues reflect the town's distinct character, a blend of traditional seaside heritage and contemporary artistic energy. Its architecture, from the elegant Victorian guest houses along the seafront to the more practical buildings further inland, often shapes the establishments you'll find. Former arcades might be repurposed into innovative gallery spaces, or historic taverns might retain their original charm while offering modern fare. These buildings, many with stories linked to Margate's early days as a resort, consider the history of Margate Pier, provide a unique backdrop for everything from a quiet coffee to performances. Recurring events, such as the Old Kent Market and the Turner Prize Festival, further enrich these spaces with life. The town’s personality also unfolds across its neighbourhoods. Around Main Sands, you’ll find a classic coastal atmosphere, ideal for families and those seeking traditional seaside pleasures. Broadstairs offers a quieter, historic charm with its own distinctive eateries and shops, a good stop after exploring Viking Bay. Heading towards Ramsgate, the maritime legacy of its Royal Harbour influences the character of its pubs and cafes. Birchington-on-Sea provides a more residential feel, while a visit to Quex Park offers a different perspective on Thanet’s landscape. Each area presents a different facet of Thanet’s spirit, seen in the places where people gather and reflected in events like the Margate Carnival. To ensure this directory accurately reflects local life, our venue listings are updated daily, capturing the constant evolution and everyday pulse of Margate. Keep in mind that certain local institutions, like the Theatre Royal and Margate Museum, are undergoing changes or temporary closures, and logistical challenges such as parking and the condition of Draper’s Mill may affect your visit. Despite these points, Margate continues to offer a dynamic experience, with regular music concerts at Dreamland and community events throughout the year, alongside accessible transport links via Margate railway station and Southeastern train services to London.

Featured Places in Margate

Featured places are selected local venues we recommend or that partner with The City Brief.

Restaurant

Dive

Dive in Margate is a high-end restaurant on the Margate Harbour Arm, adding to the area’s food scene. This contemporary Mexican restaurant is known for zesty, spicy and herbaceous dishes and its striking infinity pool. Locals and visitors come to Dive in Margate for a relaxed, social dining experience.

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Coffee Shop

Scissortail Coffee

Scissortail Coffee is an espresso-based coffee shop on Hawley Street in Margate Old Town. The area has a relaxed vibe and attracts both locals and visitors. Known for its weekly special dishes, like Aubergine zaalouk with hummus and flatbread, it’s a unique place for a bite.

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Food & Drink

The Glass Jar

The Glass Jar is a bar on Hawley Street in Margate. The street shows how the town is becoming more popular with people wanting a relaxed coastal lifestyle. The Glass Jar is known for its wide range of craft beers and ciders, with something to suit different tastes.

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Food & Drink

Bow's Kitchen @ Wig and Pen

Bow's Kitchen @ Wig and Pen serves food and drink in Margate. Located on Northdown Road, it fits into Margate’s diverse dining scene. It's known for its rotisserie chicken, available to eat in or take away.

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Shopping & Markets

Cliftonville Farmers Market

Cliftonville Farmers Market is a weekly market offering fresh produce and artisan goods in the Cliftonville area of Margate. Held on Sundays, it's in a residential neighborhood with a creative spirit and strong community. You can find seasonal fruit and vegetables, directly from local growers.

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Food & Drink

Angela's of Margate

Angela's of Margate is a restaurant on Marine Drive, right by Margate’s seafront. It's known for its seafood, especially locally sourced oysters. Go to Angela's of Margate for a relaxed lunch or dinner with views of the coast.

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