Margate’s Rise as a Modern Seaside Gem
Margate, a coastal town in Kent, has been capturing the hearts of travellers for over two centuries. Once a Victorian holiday hotspot, this seaside resort has reinvented itself in recent decades, blending the charm of its nostalgic past with the vibrant energy of modern art, culture, and gastronomy. In the height of summer, Margate becomes a lively playground where sandy beaches, creative hubs, and gourmet treats meet under the English sun.
Its unique location on the north coast of Kent, just 90 minutes from London by train, makes Margate an easy and attractive getaway for day-trippers and holidaymakers alike. Facing the Thames Estuary and the North Sea, the town enjoys wide-open skies, dramatic sunsets, and a refreshing coastal climate that feels worlds away from the bustle of the city.
In this guide, we’ll explore why Margate is such an extraordinary summer destination — from its iconic beach and historic amusements to its cutting-edge art galleries and vibrant foodie scene. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning fan, you’ll find endless reasons to fall in love with this coastal treasure.
1. The Beach: Golden Sands and Classic Seaside Fun
The beating heart of Margate in summer is, without doubt, Margate Main Sands — a broad expanse of golden sand that stretches invitingly along the shoreline. Unlike many British beaches that are pebbled or narrow, Margate offers the rare luxury of a true sandy beach in the South East. This makes it perfect for families, couples, or solo sunseekers looking to stretch out on a deckchair and listen to the gentle lap of the waves.
Key summer features of Margate’s beach:
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Tidal paddling pools for safe children’s play.
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Beachfront cafés serving ice cream, fish and chips, and freshly brewed coffee.
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Sunset views that are often compared to those in the south of France — famously admired by artist J. M. W. Turner.
On warm days, the beach becomes a hive of activity: paddleboarders glide across calm waters, sandcastle competitions spring up, and seagulls circle above, hoping to catch a stray chip. The air is thick with the scent of salt, sunscreen, and fried doughnuts from nearby kiosks.
2. Dreamland: Vintage Thrills with a Modern Twist
No trip to Margate is complete without stepping into Dreamland, the UK’s oldest surviving amusement park. First opened in the late 19th century, Dreamland offers a unique blend of retro charm and modern entertainment. Its historic Scenic Railway, the country’s oldest wooden rollercoaster, remains a beloved icon, while contemporary attractions, street food stalls, and live music events keep the atmosphere buzzing.
During summer, Dreamland hosts open-air concerts, film screenings, and themed festivals, making it not just a place for rides but a cultural and social hotspot. It’s the sort of destination where grandparents can reminisce about childhood holidays while their grandchildren discover the joy of candyfloss and dodgems for the first time.
3. Turner Contemporary: Where Art Meets the Sea
Margate’s reputation as a creative hub skyrocketed with the opening of the Turner Contemporary in 2011. Named after the famed painter who was inspired by Margate’s light, the gallery stands as a sleek, modern contrast to the historic seafront.
Inside, visitors can enjoy free exhibitions featuring both international and local artists, spanning painting, sculpture, photography, and interactive installations. The gallery’s huge windows frame breathtaking views of the sea — a constant reminder of the natural beauty that inspired Turner himself.
In summer, the area around the gallery buzzes with street performers, artisan markets, and pop-up food stalls, creating a dynamic space where art, culture, and leisure collide.
4. Old Town Charm: Boutique Shopping and Independent Cafés
Wander a few streets inland from the main beach and you’ll find Margate’s Old Town — a maze of cobbled lanes, colourful shopfronts, and vintage treasures. Here, boutique clothing stores rub shoulders with quirky antique shops and artisanal bakeries.
Summer shopping highlights:
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The Margate Bookshop for carefully curated reads.
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Haeckels for locally made, seaweed-based skincare products.
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Vintage clothing stores offering one-of-a-kind finds.
The Old Town is also home to an impressive range of independent cafés, many with outdoor seating so you can sip an iced latte while soaking in the sunshine and people-watching.
5. Culinary Delights: From Seaside Classics to Fine Dining
Margate’s food scene has exploded in recent years, attracting chefs from across the country who bring innovation and flavour to the town’s tables. Summer is the perfect time to sample the full range — from traditional fish and chips eaten on the pier to fine dining in atmospheric, candle-lit restaurants.
Must-try summer flavours in Margate:
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Freshly caught local seafood, including oysters and mussels.
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Creative vegetarian and vegan dishes using Kentish produce.
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Artisan ice cream in unique flavours like sea salt caramel and Kent strawberry.
For an unforgettable evening, book a table at one of Margate’s celebrated restaurants overlooking the water, where you can enjoy your meal as the sun dips below the horizon.
6. Outdoor Adventures and Coastal Walks
Margate’s location on the Thanet Coast offers some of the most scenic coastal walks in the UK. The Viking Coastal Trail, a 32-mile route, passes right through Margate and takes walkers and cyclists past chalk cliffs, hidden bays, and wildflower-strewn paths.
Summer offers ideal conditions for:
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Kayaking and paddleboarding.
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Exploring nearby bays such as Botany Bay and Joss Bay.
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Rock pooling at low tide, revealing a fascinating world of marine life.
For those who prefer a slower pace, simply strolling along the promenade offers hours of peaceful enjoyment, with benches strategically placed for taking in the panoramic views.
7. Festivals and Summer Events
Margate’s summer calendar is packed with events that celebrate its artistic spirit and coastal heritage. From the Margate Soul Festival to open-air theatre performances and food fairs, there’s always something to keep visitors entertained.
Highlights include:
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Margate Pride – A joyful celebration of diversity and inclusion.
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Broadstairs Folk Week – A short trip away, but many festival-goers stay in Margate.
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Weekly artisan markets featuring local produce, crafts, and street food.
8. Accommodation: From Boutique Hotels to Cosy B&Bs
Whether you’re seeking luxury, budget-friendliness, or a quirky stay, Margate offers an array of accommodation options. Boutique hotels often feature stylish interiors that nod to the town’s seaside heritage, while family-run B&Bs provide warm hospitality and hearty breakfasts.
Many places book up quickly in the summer months, so it’s worth reserving well in advance — especially if you want a room with a sea view.
Conclusion: Why Margate Should Be Your Next Summer Escape
Margate offers that rare balance of nostalgia and modern vibrancy. Its sandy beaches, cultural landmarks, creative energy, and thriving food scene make it one of the UK’s most enticing summer destinations. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended holiday, the town promises sunshine-filled days and memorable experiences.
From watching a Turner-inspired sunset to laughing on a vintage rollercoaster, Margate has a magic that’s hard to capture in words — but easy to feel once you’re there.