Why Summer, Especially August and September, is the Perfect Time for Seaside Holidays in the UK — with a Spotlight on Margate
Britain’s coastline is one of its greatest treasures, offering miles of sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming seaside towns. While summer is the obvious time to visit, there’s a special magic to the late summer months of August and September. These weeks bring a perfect blend of warm weather, vibrant festivals, and a slower, more relaxed atmosphere before autumn sets in.
In recent years, Margate, on the Kent coast, has become one of the most talked-about seaside destinations in the UK. Known for its retro charm, golden sands, and flourishing cultural scene, Margate is particularly appealing during the late summer period. This article explores why August and September make for the best seaside holidays in Britain, with a closer look at why Margate should be top of your list.
1. Britain’s Seaside Climate in Late Summer
While the British summer is famously unpredictable, August and September often deliver some of the most pleasant weather of the year. In many coastal areas, August brings the highest average temperatures, while September offers slightly cooler but still comfortable days, often with fewer sudden downpours than June or July.
Late summer also benefits from longer daylight hours compared to October, allowing for extended beach walks, outdoor dining, and scenic drives along the coast. The sea itself, having warmed over the previous months, is at its most inviting in August and early September — perfect for swimming, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
2. The Charm of August Holidays
2.1 Peak Energy and Festivities
August in the UK is peak holiday season, with coastal towns buzzing with energy. Seaside promenades are lively, ice cream parlours see long queues, and family attractions operate at full tilt. This is the month when local festivals, markets, and concerts fill the event calendars, creating an atmosphere of celebration.
2.2 Warmest Waters of the Year
The English Channel and North Sea are rarely tropical, but by August they are warmer than at any other time. A dip in Margate’s tidal pool or a swim at Botany Bay becomes not just bearable, but genuinely refreshing.
2.3 Ideal for Families
School holidays make August the month for family seaside getaways. Beaches are dotted with sandcastle competitions, donkey rides, and kite-flying sessions. Margate’s family-friendly attractions, from Dreamland amusement park to the Turner Contemporary gallery, are in full operation.
3. The Appeal of September Holidays
3.1 Quieter, but Still Warm
When schools reopen in early September, coastal towns take on a calmer pace. The weather remains pleasant, but beaches, cafés, and attractions are noticeably less crowded — perfect for couples, retirees, and solo travellers who enjoy peace without losing the summer vibe.
3.2 Extended Festival Season
Many towns, including Margate, host late summer festivals in September. These range from food and drink celebrations to arts events and music gatherings. It’s a sweet spot for experiencing local culture without peak-season hustle.
3.3 Better Value Accommodation
With reduced demand after the school holidays, September often brings lower hotel rates and last-minute travel deals. This makes it possible to enjoy premium stays, such as boutique seaside hotels or self-catering cottages, at more affordable prices.
4. Why Margate Stands Out in Late Summer
Margate, on Kent’s “Sunshine Coast,” offers a compelling blend of old-fashioned seaside fun and a contemporary arts and food scene. In August and September, the town shines for several reasons:
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Golden Sandy Beaches: Margate Main Sands is one of the most accessible and family-friendly beaches in the UK.
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Tidal Pool: Perfect for safe, saltwater swimming.
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Cultural Attractions: The Turner Contemporary, independent art galleries, and creative spaces keep the town buzzing.
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Dreamland: A vintage amusement park with rides, live music, and outdoor cinema events.
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Independent Food Scene: From seafood shacks to artisanal bakeries, Margate’s culinary scene has blossomed.
| Activity |
August |
September |
| Beach Relaxation |
Warmest sea temperatures, ideal for families |
Quieter, great for peaceful strolls |
| Festivals & Events |
Summer carnivals, music festivals |
Food fairs, arts festivals |
| Outdoor Dining |
Bustling seafront restaurants |
Less crowded, more availability |
| Water Sports |
Paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming |
Still possible with wetsuits |
| Dreamland |
Full ride schedule, family shows |
Selected rides and special events |
6. Practical Travel Tips for Visiting Margate in August and September
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Book Accommodation Early for August: Demand is high, especially for seafront hotels and family cottages.
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Consider Midweek Stays in September: Quieter and often cheaper than weekends.
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Pack for Changeable Weather: Even in late summer, coastal breezes can be cool, and sudden showers are not uncommon.
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Plan Shabbat or Dietary Needs in Advance: For visitors seeking kosher options, pre-arranging catering or bringing supplies is advisable.
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Check Event Calendars: Margate hosts pop-up markets, outdoor film screenings, and food festivals — worth timing your trip for these.
7. Late Summer Events in Margate
August Highlights:
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Margate Carnival — Colourful parades and live performances.
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Beach Cross Motorbike Races — Adrenaline-fuelled seaside fun.
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Dreamland Summer Series — Live music and open-air cinema.
September Highlights:
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Margate Soul Festival — Britain’s biggest soul music festival.
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Thanet Food & Drink Festival — Celebrating local produce.
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Heritage Open Days — Access to historic buildings and sites.
8. The Emotional Appeal of Late Summer by the Sea
There’s something special about late summer at the British seaside. The light is softer, sunsets seem more vivid, and there’s a gentle sense of the season drawing to a close. The atmosphere feels reflective yet joyful — a perfect setting for making memories before autumn begins.
Margate captures this mood beautifully. Watching the sun dip into the sea from the Harbour Arm in September can be just as magical, if not more so, than any midsummer day.
Conclusion
For those seeking the best time to enjoy the British seaside, August and September stand out as the golden months. August offers high-energy fun, warm waters, and vibrant festivals, while September brings calmer beaches, cultural richness, and better value stays.
Margate, with its sandy beaches, cultural revival, and year-round charm, is the perfect backdrop for these late summer adventures. Whether you’re building sandcastles in August or sipping coffee by the harbour in September, this Kentish gem promises an unforgettable coastal escape.