Margate

Photo of Margate
Photo of Margate
Credit: Loco Steve
Photo of Margate
Credit: Flickr user John Lord
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About Margate

Within very easy reach of London, Margate is a seaside resort town that’s become increasingly popular over the last few years, especially with the cool crowd.  Fashionable in the 18th and 19th century, Margate took a dip in popularity with many of the UK’s other seaside resorts, but has come back strongly, with an ever increasing collection of hip bars, cafes, restaurants, boutiques and accommodation.  Some of the best places to stay in Margate are still Victorian guesthouse and B&B conversions, but given a chic 21st century makeover.

As well as smart places to stay, eat and drink, lively nightlife and a burgeoning arts scene, Margate has a long and lovely sandy beach!  And the nostalgic Dreamland amusement park — which opened in 1880 and now has a Grade II listed rollercoaster!  The Turner Contemporary art gallery was one of the outriders for Margate's hipster status, and was built in a prominent, harbour-side spot. Other galleries opened in the surrounding arcades and streets, and the food and drink scene, and boutique and vintage shopping scene developed from there too.  This area is now filled with quirky places to explore, all tucked behind charming, Victorian facades.  

The best places to stay in Margate are still very popular with families — because this is a fantastic seaside resort, ideal for sandcastle-building and sunbathing.  Just don't forget that it's a busy year round destination now...plan your trip well in advance.

The Best Places to Stay in Margate

For cool kids

  • No 42 Margate is a chic new addition to Margate’s hospitality scene, a 21-room, boutique hotel converted from a Victorian seafront property.  The rooms are decorated in neutral colours, with memorable accents, including murals by local arts and turntables.  No. 42 also has an open-access guest pantry, if you’re peckish, and the restaurant, The Pearly Cow, is excellent.  
  • Margate House is a boutique B&B just steps from the town's seafront. Stunning interiors feature ruby red velvet, exposed brick, local art and mid-century furnishings. A seriously stylish coastal stay.

For great value

  • The George & Heart is a Georgian era coaching inn in the oldest part of Margate.  The rooms are all uniquely decorated, with plenty of variety derived from the eclectic collection of furniture and art.  The rooms aren’t large, but they are old, charming and affordable.  Downstairs there’s a lively bar and restaurant, which is known for its Sunday roasts, and seasonally changing menus built around the best local produce.  

Prefer a private apartment or cottage?

  • If you'd prefer the privacy of a self-catering option then browse through the wide variety available online with our partner, Booking.com.

Travel information

  • If you’re travelling via London, you can take the train from Kings Cross St. Pancras or Victoria to Margate direct, which takes around an hour and a half.  If you’re planning to fly towards Margate, London’s airports will be the most convenient.  
  • If you want to hire a car we recommend you visit our online partner, Rentalcars.
  • Margate is most popular during the bucket-and-spade summer holiday season, with temperatures regularly reaching into the mid 20s between June and August.  If you don’t need to travel during the school holiday season you’ll find it easier, and cheaper, to book something in early September — when the sea is still warm, and everything is still open.  Margate is a pretty lively town, year round, but there are a few businesses that shut-up-shop over the coolest months of winter — usually after Christmas, though.  Margate hosts a jazz festival in June, and a vintage car event in September.

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The best hotels in Margate

The George & Heart
The George & Heart

Margate

Atmospheric and historic 18th century coaching inn in Margate Old town. Featuring seven cute (if creaky!) bedrooms, each uniquely designed, and a lively bar and restaurant. A romantic boutique haven by the seaside, overflowing with personality and excellent value for money.

  • Restaurant - Popular with locals, famed for their Sunday roasts. Ever evolving seasonal menus chamioning local produce
  • Quirky - Each room is individually designed, so if you care, choose carefully!
  • Lively - There's a lively bar scene, especially at weekends.
  • Fishing - Sea fishing can be arranged in the port.
from AU$185 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Margate House
Margate House

Margate (Kent)

A chic townhouse B&B, just steps from the seafront in Margate. Interiors mix ruby velvet, exposed brick, local art, and mid-century furniture. There's a relaxed drawing room, locally-sourced snacks, and thoughtful touches like Haeckels toiletries. A stylish coastal stay with plenty of character.

  • Sights nearby - Explore the Shell Grotto, a subterranean wonder adorned with millions of shells, offering a quirky slice of Margate’s history
  • Local exploring - Perfectly placed for Margate's vibrant art scene, sandy beaches, and vintage shopping streets - all within walking distance
  • Romantic Break - Chic interiors, cosy fireplaces, and lovely sea views make this a dreamy spot for couples seeking seaside serenity
  • Cycling - Take a scenic cycle along the Viking Coastal Trail, enjoying Kent’s picturesque countryside and coastal views
from AU$273 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms
No 42 Margate
No 42 Margate

Margate (Kent)

This beachfront Victorian property has been restored far beyond its former glory, and now features a rooftop cocktail bar, a bijou spa and a seafood-focused restaurant – perfect for weekending couples and families alike.

  • Sights nearby - - Historic amusement park Dreamland is a seven-minute walk along the seafront
  • Boutique
  • Spa
  • Seaside
from AU$299 for 1 room, 1 night including taxes & fees
Check availability on Expedia Check availability on LateRooms