If you’re visiting the UK to check out the queer scene, you’ll no doubt make a beeline for London. The capital is naturally packed with iconic LGBT events and historic places to visit. However, anyone who lives...
Margate city guide
for fabulous travellers
Margate was my little saviour: it took me in and made me feel like I could be anything I wanted to be.
The buzz about this seaside town has built over the past few years from a distant drone to an inescapable hum! Everyone is listing off its plus points: beaches, cheap housing, Dreamland, direct trains, art galleries.
Just 90 minutes from London, there's an interesting community growing here, and it's not just the hipster paradise that the press is so keen to dismiss it as. As an entire generation gets pushed out of central London, they're looking to regional gems like Margate to bring some sunshine to their lives.
It's a small hub of creative and alternative culture, so make a beeline for this part of Kent for a day trip or a weekend away and see what all the fuss is about!
Unmissable Margate
Don't leave town with trying these...
Take your bike on the train – I was kicking myself the first time I visited that I didn't think to do this! It's so much easier to explore the area by bike, so read more about how to take your bike on the train on National Rail's website. If you're feeling especially adventurous, you can cycle the Viking Coastal Trail.
Dine at The George and Heart – perfect for a post-beach lunch or dinner when you're salty and sun-kissed. Don't miss their jalapeno margaritas.
Things to do – Dreamland and Turner Contemporary are practically on the train stations doorstep, whilst The Shell Grotto and Botany Bay are worth venturing a little further if you have the time.
Queer Margate
Your quick guide to all thing LGBTQ+
Venues – queer arty events space Margate Arts Club; open-air summer bar The Sun Deck; gay bar Sundowners.
Parties and clubs – Cockles and Muscles, Queer Neon Nights.
Festivals – arts and culture festival celebrating International Women’s Day POW!; Margate Pride includes a week-long arts fest with year-round programming.
Pride – Margate Pride.