Visit Margate

Let’s start with our hometown, Margate. We moved here seven years ago to open a little wine bar called Urchin Wines but also to start a family. I used to come on day trips with family as a kid, they were so much fun. Totally smitten with the skies and Cliftonville reminding me a little of Dalston ( where I grew up), it didn't take us long to settle in. It had a fantastic art scene, with independent galleries hosting openings on a weekly basis, which has continued. Since then it’s become a whole load busier, especially in summer. Our favourite time of year is September when the beaches quieten down a little and tables at your favourite spots become available, but the summer buzz is a hoot, especially at Margate Pride.

Every Saturday there is an Old town market with a range of stalls, Alexandra Mann (handmade garments from deadstock vintage fabric) is a fave, she uses vintage fabric to make wonderful all size inclusive garments! I have a pair or drawstring gingham trousers which I live in.

Tracey Emin has opened TKE studios, offering artist studios to a range of young artists and creatives. Also on the site is ‘A Place To Grow” a cafe and training kitchen helping 18-24 year olds in Thanet into future employment within the hospitality industry. What Tracey has given to Margate is invaluable and lasting, a fantastic legacy. #Traceygiveth

Here’s a list of recommendations…

Favourite beach? Walpole Bay tidal pool with the kids. We swim, sun bathe, BBQ, crab off the wall, watch sunset, go for walks with friends. Many a wonderful time has been spent there.

Best breakfast? Good Egg for baked eggs and all the delicious Middle Eastern inspired delights they have to offer & Dalby cafe for a classic fry up done excellently

Favourite coffee? Forts (Flat White) or Cliffs (iced)

Where to go for lunch? Dory’s for seafood and tasty wine. The prawn cocktail is to die for.

Dinner? Bottega Caruso. Big birthdays, wedding meals, first meals post babies being born etc you name it, we are there. The food is divine, the atmosphere is perfect and Harry and Simona are the most incredible hosts. It's the best Italian food you'll find outside Italy, hands down. Other fab dinner places are scattered across town too, Angela’s (fish) , Streets (Indian street food), Casa (Pizza)

Sunset drink? Dive for Margaritas and tacos or Walpole Bay Hotel for a G&T after a long day at the beach.

Best viewpoint? Botany Bay is pretty spectacular with it’s huge chalk towers.

Best sandwich? Picnic for delish deli bits and the best burnt Basque cheesecake

Tastiest ice-cream? Ramsay & Williams’ honeycomb ice cream. They make all the ice cream in house and oh my lordy, you are in for a treat.

Favourite bar? We love the Tap Room quite a lot, small place up in Cliftonville. Also check out the wine bar Sète which has a selection of our ceramic veg plates in the window.

Best Hotel? Angelas Rooms. All rooms with sea views and beautifully designed decor.

Must visit shop? Albion stores is a local clothes and lifestyle shop. Selling a strong selection of clothing brands, art works and records.

What to Do with Kids? Summertime, spend the day on the beach with the kids and visit the Turner Gallery. Winter, head to the Rose in June for Negronis and burgers followed by a beach walk (if it isn’t too blustery) We love the beach in winter, as you can enjoy a bit of fossil finding without the crowds around. Clayspace also offer some family friendly classes.

M xxx

Have you seen our ode to Margate? The Margate Harbour Arm spoon rest?