Looking for things to do in Margate?
Margate is best known for its seaside culture, independent arts scene and year-round programme of local events.
Margate offers a mix of old school seaside attractions, award-winning food and drink, incredible galleries, coastal walks and year-round local events, making it a popular destination for weekend breaks and day trips from London.
Don’t Miss Margate is your local guide to what’s on and what to do in Margate, curated by people who live here. We bring together the best places to go, things to see and ways to spend your time, whether you’re visiting for the weekend or live locally.
Things To
Do in
Margate
Margate, at a glance…
Things To Do…
• Visit contemporary and independent art galleries such as The Turner and Liminal Gallery
• Explore Margate’s independent shops and markets in Old Town and along Northdown Road
• Eat and drink at local cafes, pubs and restaurants - we have so many to recommend
• Walk the seafront, dip in our iconic tidal pools and cycle the coastal paths to Broadstairs, Ramsgate and beyond
• Discover live music, events and community activities, Margate is awash with DIY culture and creativity.
What would you like to do today?
Don’t Miss The Stussy Archive In Margate
Discover The Stussy Archive in Margate, and pick up limited essential stock from this cult streetwear brand.
Is Margate Worth Visiting in Winter?
Is Margate worth visiting in winter? Yes. Discover off season events, Restaurant Week, culture, food and why winter is one of the best times to visit.
Don’t Miss…New Year’s Eve in Margate: Events, Parties and Local Picks
From local boozers to three course meals, here’s our picks of where to go and what to book for New Year’s Eve in Margate
Don’t Miss…Christmas Day in Margate
Where to go for a drink on Christmas Day and Boxing Day in Margate
Don’t Miss…Christmas At The Turner
The Turner in Margate has a packed festive programme of workshops, gigs, markets and more. Come and check it out.
Don’t Miss…Christmas in Margate: What’s On, Where to Go and What to Book
Looking for things to do in Margate at Christmas? From festive markets and events to winter walks, food and drinks, here’s what not to miss this season.
Don’t Miss…where to do pilates in margate
From Pilates reformer sessions to dynamic mat work and personalized training, here’s your go-to guide for all things Pilates in Margate
Don’t Miss…the Northdown Road Block Party
Margate’s independent shopping street, Northdown Road, is throwing a block party. Here’s what you need to know.
Don’t Miss What’s On At Dreamland
Dreamland is what Margate is famous for. The first rollercoaster. The original seaside amusements. And now live gigs and a vintage fairground. Step right up.
Don’t Miss What’s Happening At The Theatre Royal
Margate’s Theatre Royal is not only a haunted building it’s also being brought back to life after being shut for years. We find out all about it.
Don’t Miss…The Best Places To Get Ice Cream
The best ice cream in Margate is debatable. We have artisan gelato, Mr Whippy and vegan-friendly ice ceram plus seasonal flavours. Check out these top ice cream places.
Don’t Miss…The Margate Soul Weekender
Margate Soul Weekender is Margate’s biggest soul street party and returns in 2025, on 1-3 August. Come groove by the beach!
Don’t Miss These 11 Bars With the best Sea Views In Margate
Margate’s sunsets are world famous. Here are the best bars to watch the sun go down, with cocktails, wine or beer, from beachside to rooftop.
Don’t miss the Best Yoga Classes In Margate
Yoga lovers will love the variety of classes and studios om offer in Margate. From beach session to intimate studios, come stretch into these classes with us.
Don’t Miss The Oval’s Packed Summer Programme
The Oval Bandstand in Cliftonville has a packed programme of events this summer from Kate Bush Day to wrestling, live music and more!
Don’t Miss Margate’s Free Beachside Sauna
Looking for a free sauna in Margate? This page explains how the Haeckels community sauna works, including access, timings and tips.
why MArgate Needs A Podcast
Reusable cup, The Margate Cup, can be picked up across Margate to slow down the tide of single use plastic. Here's how it works and where you can use it.
Don’t Miss Valentine’s day in Margate
Spend Valentine’s Day in Margate with special set menus, club nights and crafting sessions for your loved ones.
Don’t MIss…Margate’s First Fridays
First Fridays bring the arts community together in Margate. Here’s the lowdown on how it works and why it’s so special.
Don’t Miss Beaujolais Nouveau Day In Margate
Beaujolais Nouveau Day is widely celebrated in Margate. Here are what our favourite wine bars are doing for Thursday 21 Nov 2024.
FAQs
Is Margate good for a weekend trip?
1
Yes. Margate is ideal for a weekend break, with a compact town centre, independent shops and galleries, good food and drink, and easy access to the seafront and coastal walks.
What is Margate best known for?
2
Margate is best known for its seaside setting, creative and arts scene, independent businesses and a strong calendar of local events throughout the year.
Is Margate good for families?
3
Yes. Margate has family-friendly beaches, parks, galleries, food spots and seasonal events that make it popular with families visiting or living locally.
What’s the best way to find out what’s on in Margate?
4
The easiest way to stay in the know is to subscribe to Don’t Miss Margate’s weekly what’s on newsletter, which shares local events, openings and recommendations.