- Margate was one of the original members of the UK's first seaside resort association, dating back to the late 18th century.
- The town's unique light quality, often cited by J.M.W. Turner, was instrumental in shaping the development of British landscape painting.
- Margate is home to a subterranean tunnel network that was used extensively as a bomb shelter during the Second World War.
- The town has been a major filming location for period dramas and contemporary film productions due to its preserved Victorian architecture.
- Its name is derived from 'mere gate,' which originally referred to a passage to the sea through the chalk cliffs.
About Margate
Margate is a coastal town in Kent known for its unique blend of traditional seaside heritage and a modernised creative arts scene. The town has long been a destination for Londoners, most famously attracting J.M.W. Turner, whose legacy is celebrated at the Turner Contemporary. Visitors can explore the subterranean mysteries of the Shell Grotto or enjoy the retro aesthetic of Dreamland Margate. With its mix of chalky cliffs at Botany Bay Beach and a working harbour arm, the town serves as a functional hub for both history enthusiasts and art lovers.
Highlights of Margate
The places our editors single out — and why they're worth your time.
Places of interest
Features chalk cliffs and rock pools that are best explored during low tide.
Amusement parks
An amusement park focused on restored vintage fairground rides and classic seaside entertainment.
Museums
A subterranean passage decorated with over four million shells of unknown origin.
Museums
An art gallery located on the harbour front that hosts rotating contemporary exhibitions.
Beaches and ponds
A sandy urban beach located directly in front of the town's historic promenade.
Historical places
A historic breakwater that features local art installations and serves as a public walking space.
Museums
Houses a collection of vintage aircraft and artifacts related to the RAF's presence in Kent.
Museums
Displays a unique collection of natural history and global artifacts gathered during 19th-century expeditions.
Top things to do in Margate
The 62 highest-rated places in Margate, ranked by travellers.
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Places of interest
Botany Bay Beach is a secluded sandy cove in Broadstairs defined by its towering white chalk cliffs and iconic sea stack...
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Amusement parks
Dreamland Margate is a restored vintage amusement park located on the Kent coast that combines operating heritage rides...
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Museums
The Spitfire & Hurricane Memorial Museum is situated on the historic site of the former RAF Manston airfield. It centers...
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Museums
Turner Contemporary is a contemporary art gallery situated on the site where J.M.W. Turner stayed when visiting Margate....
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Museums
The Shell Grotto is a subterranean passage in Margate decorated with approximately 4.6 million seashells arranged in int...
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Beaches and ponds
Margate Beach, known locally as Main Sands, is a primary seaside destination featuring a large tidal swimming pool built...
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Museums
The WonderWorks by Hornby Hobbies is a dedicated visitor centre located at the original headquarters of the model-making...
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Historical places
The Margate Harbour Arm is a historic stone pier extending into the North Sea, serving as the focal point of the town's...
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Places of interest
Margate Main Sands is a crescent-shaped, sandy bay located in the heart of Margate, Kent. The beach is characterized by...
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Venues
The Theatre Royal Margate is the oldest operating theatre in the United Kingdom, having first opened its doors in 1787....
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Museums
The Powell-Cotton Museum, located within the historic Quex Park estate in Birchington-on-Sea, houses an extensive privat...
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Museums
The RAF Manston History Museum is situated on the site of a former WWII airfield that served as a critical frontline bas...
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Parks
Dane Park is a Victorian-era municipal park located in the Cliftonville district of Margate. The park features a large c...
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Parks
Northdown Park serves as one of Margate's largest public green spaces, offering a blend of landscaped gardens, open mead...
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Temples
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Temples
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Beaches and ponds
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Museums
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Temples
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Margate on the map
Top attractions plotted across the city.
Plan your visit to Margate
Late spring to early autumn, specifically June through September, offers the most reliable weather for beach activities and coastal walks.
2-3 days allows enough time to visit the coastal sites, museums, and enjoy the town's distinct harbour front.
The town is highly walkable, with a local bus network connecting to surrounding coastal areas and the nearby Manston site.
The Old Town district offers proximity to independent galleries and dining, while areas near the seafront provide easier access to the main beaches.
Margate is generally mid-range, with costs varying significantly based on proximity to the beachfront and peak summer demand.
Frequently asked
Aventuro lists 62 curated attractions in and around Margate, ranked by traveller ratings.
Botany Bay Beach is the highest-rated place to visit in Margate right now.
The largest category is temples, with 20 places to explore.
Travellers also explore London, North Kensington, Manchester.
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