Living in Margate

About Margate

With good transport links and a strong sense of community, the town continues to attract new residents looking for a lively yet laid-back place to call home.

Fact file

• Location - East Kent, between Westgate and Broadstairs
• Things to do - Turner Contemporary, Lido Hall, Dreamland, Margate beach
• Lifestyle - Coastal, vibrant, growing arts and food scenes
• Surrounding areas -Westbrook, Garlinge, Dane Valley
   

Architecture and property

There are plenty of properties to buy or rent, with the market remaining competitive due to Margate’s lively atmosphere and coastal appeal. Near the seafront, you’ll find Victorian and Georgian townhouses with sea views and easy beach access. Further inland, particularly in areas such as Cliftonville and Westbrook, property styles shift towards larger detached and semi-detached homes with generous gardens. Margate’s growing popularity has also led to a wave of renovations and developments, with many former buildings being transformed into stylish apartments and studios.

Going out

Margate boasts a vibrant social scene, offering a variety of places to eat, drink and enjoy live entertainment. Dreamland is at the heart of it all, hosting outdoor events and festivals throughout the year. Right on the beach, Sundeck is perfect for sunset drinks and live DJ sets, while The Glass Jar offers sea views in a relaxed setting. For food, local favourites like Cinque Ports and Aspendos are conveniently located near both the beach and the town centre, making everything easily accessible.

Local amenities

The Old Town and Northdown Road are known for their independent shops, vintage boutiques and unique cafes, reflecting the town’s creative heritage. Supermarkets like Tesco, Aldi and Sainsbury’s are nearby, along with regular local markets. The town also has several GP surgeries, dental practices and pharmacies, including Boots and independent chemists. There’s also a leisure centre with a gym, pool and sports hall, plus outdoor spaces such as tennis courts and skate parks.

Green spaces

Coastal living is a big part of Margate’s appeal, and the town’s main beach is well maintained, with plenty of spots to relax and amusement areas for younger children. For scenic walks, the coastal path between Margate and Broadstairs offers stunning sea views and lots of places to stop along the way. Open gardens, such as Dane Park and Hartsdown Park, provide space for picnics and dog walks, while the Walpole Bay tidal pool is a unique spot for those seeking something a little different.