Margate: London’s Best-Kept Secret Destination

I looked on a map to find the best places to escape from London on a day trip. I was not sure where I wanted to hang out, but the seaside it would be. I had been to Brighton, Eastbourne, and Hastings. I went to Herne Bay the previous year and loved it. What was left was Broadstairs and Margate. I had never set foot in Margate, but watching Sam Mendes’s latest movie, “Empire of Light“, was a great way to convince me to visit Margate. I had also heard a lot about this seaside town becoming a treasure trove for vintage fashion. I took the fast train from St Pancras in London. On the train, I could already picture myself strolling along the beach, surrounded by the gentle rhythm of crashing waters. And there I was, standing on a beach in less than 2 hours!

In this article, I will uncover the beauty of Margate’s idyllic beach and guide you through its independent shops and boutiques. If you’re ready, let’s embark on an exceptional journey to discover Margate’s hidden wonders.

The Beauty of Margate’s Walpole Bay

Walking from the train station, I could see the beach before me, inviting me to stroll along its shores and bask in the sun’s warmth. I couldn’t help but be transported to a state of tranquillity and bliss while listening to the gentle rhythm of the waves. Margate’s beach retains a natural and pristine charm. Whether you’re a sun-worshipper looking for the perfect spot to lay out your beach towel, a family searching for a playground, or an open-water swimmer who wants to dive into the tidal pool, Margate Walpole Bay has it for you. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning a more extended stay, Margate’s Walpole Bay beach will leave a lasting impression. Its natural beauty and serene atmosphere make it a perfect destination to escape city life’s chaos and noise.

Exploring Margate’s Independent Shops and Boutiques

Margate’s Old Town was like walking around a treasure trove. I didn’t know what to expect. As I delved deeper into the wonders of Margate, it became evident that this hidden gem had so much more to offer than just its stunning beach. Once you’ve had your fill of sand and swim, be sure to explore the vibrant array of independent shops and boutiques that line the streets of this coastal town.

Margate is a haven for those seeking unique and one-of-a-kind treasures shops. These shops mainly occupy premises that have been around for 100 years. They kept the shop front and created a contemporary boutique inside. This town’s independent shops and boutiques boast an eclectic mix of arts, crafts, and fashion, making it the perfect destination for a spot of retail therapy. Whether searching for vintage clothing, handmade jewellery, or quirky home decor, Margate’s boutiques have you covered.

You’ll stumble upon charming boutiques that exude character and creativity while strolling the picturesque streets. These independent shops are often run by passionate local artisans and entrepreneurs who pour their heart and soul into curating a collection that reflects their creativity bringing you lifestyle gems. From vintage clothing stores to quirky art galleries, an unmistakable sense of individuality and authenticity permeates the shopping experience.

In addition to offering an impressive selection of goods, Margate’s independent shops and boutiques also provide a refreshing alternative to the generic high-street chains in many other towns. Here, you can escape the monotony of mass-produced items and uncover hidden gems that possess a unique charm. You’ll find that the personal and attentive service provided by the shop owners adds to the overall shopping experience, making each visit feel like a delightful adventure.

Here are some of the shops I visited:

Kate and George a boutique for women’s and children’s fashion and homeware
Les Animaux timeless and sustainable clothing
Number 32 Accessories and Woman’s Fashion
Margaux a concept store featuring Women’s Fashion, Accessories and Beauty.

Enjoying Margate’s Rich Cultural Scene

Turner Contemporary has opened a branch in Margate, and they didn’t choose Margate randomly. Turner used to travel from London to Margate on weekends and stay with Mrs Booth in Cold Harbour. From there, Turner had a plain view of the sea and Margate’s remarkable skies, an essential factor in his artwork. Turner Contemporary recognised the town’s potential and chose to make it its new home. The gallery offers many inspiring and educational initiatives, from educational programmes exploring the town’s cultural history to art workshops, interactive art tours, and more.

I loved my day in Margate. It was a perfect getaway from the chaos of London, offering a treasure trove of delights. From the beauty of its beach to the captivating allure of its independent shops and boutiques, Margate presents a remarkable escape for any city dweller seeking a change of scenery. Do consider immersing yourself in the wonders of Margate – a place where beauty, history, and culture converge.

Browse the Coastal Wall Art Collection