Hotels in Margate

Still wondering what to do in Margate? Opodo has the top must-see plans so you won't miss a thing. Find everything you need to know before picking your stay in Margate and book your hotel today!

Margate, a classic seaside resort on the Kent coast, has undergone a magnificent transformation, brilliantly mixing its nostalgic charm with a vibrant, modern art scene. The town is famous for its long, sandy main beach, the quintessential British seaside spot where you can enjoy traditional amusements and fish and chips. Its cultural heart beats strongly at the Turner Contemporary, a striking modern art gallery named after J.M.W. Turner, whose awe-inspiring paintings were inspired by the Kentish skies.

You can delve into the town's quirky history by exploring the mysterious, shell-encrusted Shell Grotto or the Margate Caves. Adding to the fun is Dreamland, a beautifully restored vintage amusement park that offers a dose of retro joy with its classic rides. Margate is a place where you can surf the waves of culture and nostalgia all in one day.

Selecting your hotel's location in Margate will define the flavour of your holiday, with options ranging from the thick of the action to quieter, more artistic corners.

A fantastic central option is the area surrounding the Main Sands and Harbour Arm. Staying here means you are at the centre of Margate's activity, with direct access to the beach and the hub of the town. The Harbour Arm, jutting out into the sea, is home to unique pubs, excellent seafood restaurants like Sargasso, and provides the best spot for watching the famous Turner sunsets. The Main Sands also places you directly opposite the Turner Contemporary art gallery.

For an immersion into the town’s creative and independent spirit, the Old Town is a superb choice. Just inland from the harbour, this network of winding streets is full of independent boutiques, vintage shops, trendy cafes, and small art galleries. Hotels here offer a more boutique and characterful experience. The Old Town is perfect for those who enjoy exploring on foot and appreciate a lively, buzzing atmosphere with unique dining options.

Another excellent area to consider is Cliftonville, which sits on the clifftop to the east of the main town. Cliftonville offers a quieter, more residential feel and is home to the stunning Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, the largest in the UK, perfect for a sheltered sea swim. The eastern side of Margate is known for its beautiful cliff-top walks and provides an excellent base for venturing along the coast to other scenic bays like Botany Bay.

Margate is conveniently served by Margate railway station, which is located centrally, offering excellent connections to London and other parts of Kent. For those arriving from further afield, the town is accessible from London Gatwick (LGW) or London City Airport (LCY) via direct or connecting rail services. The compact nature of the town means you can easily walk to most attractions from your hotel, regardless of your chosen area.

To secure the most competitive rates for a hotel in Margate, keep in mind that its popularity as a chic coastal retreat means prices fluctuate significantly. The summer months, especially July and August, see the highest demand and therefore the highest prices.

For the best chance of a deal, try to book well in advance, and consider travelling in the off-season. Specifically, April often presents the lowest average hotel prices of the year. Beyond the season, watch out for special events at the Dreamland amusement park, as major music festivals and events can cause a spike in local accommodation costs. Being flexible with your travel days is also helpful: you may find that the cheapest day to book a stay in Margate is Saturday, whereas Friday is often the most expensive night of the week.