Harry Baker: Don’t Miss My Margate

Welcome to our new interview series, My Margate, which uncovers the very best gems that Margate has to offer.

And who’s better to do that, than some of the most talented people in town - from award-winning poets to drag kings, DJs, influencers, artists and baristas.

First up in the My Margate series is one of our favourite local legends, the World champion slam poet, Harry Baker.

Harry Baker is the town’s resident World Champion slam poet

first things first, let’s get you introduced

Hello! My name is Harry Baker - I am a world poetry slam champion, a new dad, and an amateur spikeball enthusiast.

What do you do in Margate?

When I’m not sitting in coffee shops thinking poetic thoughts or popping up at other people’s events I run a monthly night called Something Borrowed at ARK Cliftonville with a featured poet and an open mic element.

What brought you here? Or have you always been here?

The fact you could in theory change into your trunks on the train and run straight into the sea on arrival. Eight years in I am yet to do this but it’s enough to know that I can.

Harry has loved in Margate for eight years

What makes Margate magic for you?

I love how different it feels in every season. I am also convinced it has more great food per square metre than anywhere else in the country.

What’s Your favourite shop?

It’s a tie between the Margate Bookshop and International Food Centre. I recently moved house pretty much exactly halfway between the two and that is not a coincidence.

Don’t miss the excelllent indie bookshop in the Old Town

What’s your favourite way to spend a Saturday or Sunday here?

Getting up early enough for Margate Parkrun and/or a swim in Walpole Bay tidal pool and then rewarding myself with delicious food and drink for the rest of the day. Ideally involving multiple ice creams from Lulu’s, Ramsay and Williams AND we have a Morelli’s now (at Guesthouse 42 Hotel)- finishing up with sunset on the steps of course.

Read all about our favourite ice creams in Margate.

Who is your Margate legend?

Em from We Are Here coffee. Their coffee is delicious and so are they. Everything about them is thoughtful and fun, and they’ve got great crisp chat. 

What’s your Don’t Miss Margate tip?

Madre! Unbelievable sandwiches and tiny biscuits that taste like clouds. It took me over a year to get around to going and I don’t want anyone else to make the same mistake. 

Don’t miss Harry Baker’s events by subscribing to our weekly what’s on newsletter.

Harry Baker’s most recent book, Wonderful is available at The Margate Bookshop or online here. Follow his poetry adventures on Instagram.