A Dog-Friendly Travel Guide to Margate, Kent

Located on the Kent coast of England, Margate was one of the very first English seaside resorts and a popular holiday destination in the 18th century. It was, and still is, a charming seaside destination with golden beaches and historic attractions. Yet a sharp decline in popularity left the town looking rough around the edges.

In recent years, Margate has undergone a revival. It's once again become a popular choice for weekenders wanting to enjoy the gaudy excitement of a traditional seaside resort—without giving up modern eateries with their craft beer and natural wines.

Alongside the concrete tower blocks, boarded up shop fronts, and peeling arcade signs; there are now vintage homewares, speciality coffee shops, and art galleries. Traditional seaside attractions merge with thriving independent business, creating a curiously unique place that is well worth a visit.

What to Do in Margate, Kent

Explore Margate Town

The best way to experience Margate is to explore the Old Town and seafront. Wander through the narrow streets, along the promenade, and around the pier. Follow the Margate Heritage Trail or simply go wherever the mood takes you.

Margate is home to Dreamland, the oldest-surviving amusement park in Britain, and one of the world’s smallest theatres, the Tom Thumb. Although dog's aren't allowed inside either, Margate isn't short on dog-friendly vintage shops, independent cafes, and traditional pubs to visit instead.

Head to the Beach

There are a great deal of dog-friendly beaches in Kent and Margate has some of the best. The most popular beach is Margate Main Sands, an impressive sandy beach flanked by a promenade and boardwalk with arcades and cafes. Located a short walk from the main high street and Margate's Old Town, the beach is easily accessible via steps or a ramp.

Quieter locations can be discovered by heading around the coast to the nearby Palm Bay, St. Mildred's Bay, Minnis Bay, or Fulsom Rock. Dogs are allowed on all the beaches with no restrictions between April to October, and can even take a dip in the Walpole Bay and Tidal Pool.

Take a Coastal Walk

For breathtaking sea views, the Viking Coastal Trail is the best way to experience the Isle of Thanet. This 25-mile circular route connects Margate, Broadstairs, and Ramsgate. Divided by various waypoints, such as the North Foreland Lighthouse and Reculver Towers, the trail can be easily split into manageable sections depending on how far you want to walk.

Away from the main town, Margate's Sunken Gardens offers a peaceful place to spend a quiet afternoon. The 1930s Victorian-style Pleasure Garden has manicured lower lawns and formal sunken grass 'pools,' accessed by a double stairway leading up from the Royal Esplanade.

Browse the Market

On the site of the old Parade Cinema now stands The Old Kent Market. It's a cosy place with cute shops and pop-up stalls by independent makers. Inside you can shop food and crafts with your dog, including Greek street food, Italian small-batch gelato, fresh baked bread and pizza. Alongside vintage clothing, vinyl records, and herbal medicine!

The Old Kent Market is also home to one of the smallest bars in the UK (probably!) Serving craft beer and cocktails and seating only 4 people, The Little Prince truly is a one-of-a-kind pub worth experiencing.

Visit a Dog-Friendly Museum

Very few museums in the UK allow dogs. Yet Margate has several unique and fascinating dog-friendly attractions to explore, including the mysterious Shell Grotto, Europe's only Crab Museum, and the historic Margate Caves.

Dogs are allowed inside the small yet interesting Crab Museum. But are limited to visiting the Shell Grotto's cafe and the Margate Caves gardens unless small enough to be carried. Despite conflicting online information, the Turner Contemporary has a strict no dogs policy.

Where to Eat in Margate, Kent

Margate has several fantastic dog-friendly restaurants, so it won't be difficult finding somewhere to stop for something to eat. From traditional pubs serving classic fish and chips to cosy restaurants with vegan-friendly dishes, there are plenty of options to choose from.

Top picks include Forts for brunch with excellent coffee and tasty wine, or Rose in June, a haunted pub with hot sandwiches on the menu. For more detailed recommendations, read full reviews of the best dog-friendly restaurants in Margate.

Where to Drink in Margate, Kent

Finding somewhere to stop for a cup of coffee or something stronger is easy in Margate. The town is packed with excellent options including beachside microbreweries, modern taprooms, traditional English pubs, cocktails bars and coffee shops.

Most places welcome well-behaved dogs to enjoy a drink with you, both indoors and outside. If they're lucky, they might even get a treat! Top recommendations include: Sete, Xylo, and Little Swift, where the Spicy Frozen Margaritas are not to be missed!

Where to Shop in Margate, Kent

Margate is packed with small, independent dog-friendly businesses—making it the perfect place to shop for gifts or buy a souvenir of your trip. From homewares to skincare to pet accessories, there's something for everyone.

The Old Town is an ideal place to explore the town while doing a little shopping. Located adjacent to the harbour there's a wealth of specialty food shops, art galleries, and boutiques to discover.

A Considered Life