Margate Old Town
A bohemian seaside gem brimming with independent shops, vintage treasures, art galleries, and a vibrant community spirit.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively markets and shops open
Margate Old Town
Best Time
Lively markets and shops open
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A bohemian seaside gem brimming with independent shops, vintage treasures, art galleries, and a vibrant community spirit.
"Margate Old Town is a treasure trove of independent boutiques and vintage finds, buzzing with creative energy."
🛍️ Explore Independent Shops
Wander through the Old Town's unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds.
📅 Check Market Days
The Old Town Market is a weekend highlight, offering local crafts and food.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Independent Boutiques & Vintage Shops
Throughout the Old Town
Discover unique fashion, retro treasures, and artisan crafts in a treasure trove of independent stores.
The Margate Old Town Market
Various locations within the Old Town
A weekend hub for local makers, artists, and food vendors offering a lively community atmosphere.
Art Galleries & Creative Spaces
Scattered throughout the Old Town
Immerse yourself in local art, from contemporary pieces to quirky installations, reflecting Margate's creative spirit.
The Crab Museum
Old Town
A surprisingly fascinating and free museum dedicated to the humble crab, a quirky local attraction.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Quirky Charm
Timing is Key for Treasures
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ Explore Independent Shops
Wander through the Old Town's unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds. 
📅 Check Market Days
The Old Town Market is a weekend highlight, offering local crafts and food.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Discover charming independent coffee shops like GIANT for a perfect pit stop.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
The best way to experience Margate Old Town is to get lost in its charming streets.
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ Explore Independent Shops
Wander through the Old Town's unique boutiques and vintage stores for one-of-a-kind finds.
📅 Check Market Days
The Old Town Market is a weekend highlight, offering local crafts and food.
☕ Grab a Coffee
Discover charming independent coffee shops like GIANT for a perfect pit stop.
🚶♀️ Wander and Discover
The best way to experience Margate Old Town is to get lost in its charming streets.
🦀 Visit The Crab Museum
Don't miss this free, quirky museum for a unique local experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Margate Old Town's unique charm, vibrant independent shops, and lively weekend market. The bohemian atmosphere and creative spirit are major draws, offering a refreshing alternative to typical high streets. Some find parking can be a challenge, and shop opening hours can be inconsistent due to their independent nature.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is by train from London St Pancras International to Margate, taking about 1 hour 30 minutes.
Yes, Mill Lane car park is a convenient option, and it's free on Saturdays.
Absolutely! Margate Old Town is a popular day trip destination from London, easily accessible by train.
Margate Old Town is best explored on foot. Its compact nature makes it ideal for wandering and discovering its hidden corners.
Yes, Margate is well-served by trains from London. Once in Margate, the Old Town is walkable from the station or accessible by local buses.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Margate Old Town itself is a public area and does not require an entry ticket. You only pay for specific attractions or purchases within the shops and galleries.
Opening hours vary greatly as most are independent businesses. Many are open from late morning to late afternoon, especially on weekends. It's best to check individual shop social media or websites for precise times.
Yes, The Crab Museum in Margate Old Town offers free entry, making it an accessible and unique attraction.
Most art galleries in Margate Old Town are free to enter and browse, though purchasing art is, of course, at your discretion.
The Margate Old Town Market typically runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 am to 4 pm.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
You'll find a fantastic array of independent boutiques, vintage clothing stores, antique shops, record stores, and artisan craft shops.
Look for local crafts, handmade jewelry, and vintage items in the independent shops and at the Old Town Market for unique souvenirs.
Margate Old Town boasts a diverse food scene, from seafood restaurants like Sargasso +1 and Angela's
to charming cafes like GIANT Coffee
Many cafes and restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options. It's always a good idea to check menus or ask staff for specific dietary needs.
The food scene is a mix of traditional seaside fare, fresh seafood, and trendy independent eateries, reflecting the town's evolving character. +1
📸 📸 Photography & Vibe
The Old Town's colorful buildings, quirky shop fronts, vintage signage, and narrow streets offer endless photographic opportunities.
Look out for the unique shop fronts, the Margate Clocktower, and the vibrant street art that pops up throughout the area.
It's known for its bohemian, artsy, and slightly eccentric atmosphere, with a strong sense of community and a thriving queer scene. +1
Yes, the eclectic mix of people, architecture, and street art makes it a great location for street photography.
You'll find a range of art, from contemporary galleries to street art and unique handmade crafts sold by local artists.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1While the focus is on independent shops, many cafes offer child-friendly options. Consider a visit to Dreamland Margate (nearby) for classic amusement park fun, which complements the vintage vibe of the Old Town.
🎨 Art & Culture Enthusiasts
+1 Keep an eye out for street art that adds character to the buildings. While the renowned Turner Contemporary is a short walk away, the Old Town itself is an exhibition of independent creativity. Explore unique shops selling handmade crafts, vintage art prints, and one-of-a-kind pieces. The Margate Old Town Market is a fantastic place to discover emerging artists and purchase directly from makers.
+1 The overall bohemian and artsy atmosphere makes it an inspiring place to spend time.🛍️ Vintage & Retro Shoppers
+1 Shops like Handsome Freaks are celebrated for their 'freaky vintage' collections, offering a curated selection of unique finds. Spend your day browsing through racks of clothing, discovering quirky collectibles, and unearthing hidden gems. The Margate Old Town Market also often features stalls with vintage items, adding another layer to your shopping expedition.
+1 Arrive with an open mind and a keen eye for unique pieces.Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Rise of Margate's Creative Scene
+1 The town's affordability and coastal charm have attracted a new wave of residents and visitors seeking an alternative to city living, fostering a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere. This creative energy is further amplified by events like the Margate Old Town Market, which showcases local talent and provides a platform for artisans and food vendors.
+1 The presence of institutions like the Turner Contemporary gallery (though not strictly in the Old Town, it influences the area) also contributes to Margate's reputation as an artistic destination. Shopping for Unique Finds
+1 Stores like Handsome Freaks are known for their 'freaky vintage' finds, adding to the town's unique character. Beyond fashion and antiques, you can discover independent bookshops, record stores, and galleries selling local art. The Margate Old Town Market, held on weekends, is a must-visit for discovering local makers and unique gifts.
+1 It’s the perfect place to find a special souvenir or a one-of-a-kind item that tells a story.Culinary Delights in the Old Town
Beyond seafood, the Old Town is home to charming cafes, such as GIANT Coffee, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat.
Traditional pubs like The Bull's Head offer local beers and a cozy atmosphere, ideal for a Sunday roast. The variety ensures there's something to satisfy every palate, from quick snacks to more leisurely meals.
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