What's it like to live in Margate?

Part of our 'living in' series

Margate is an iconic seaside town with a rich historic and cultural heritage stretching over 250 years.

In recent years, Margate has experienced something of a renaissance. With a retro feel, it is often referred to as ‘Shoreditch-on-sea’ and was recently voted as one of the best coastal towns to live in the UK.

Margate is attracting the young, trendy and creative types in their droves. Part of the allure is the array of art galleries, vintage shops, independent shops and a cool cafe culture. Another draw is the cost of living. Margate remains a great deal more affordable to rent and buy property than the Capital.

Location

Margate is located in the South East of England on the edge of the Kent coast, 15 miles north-east of Canterbury and 77 miles from London. It shares borders with Greater London to the north-west, Surrey to the west, Essex to the North and East Sussex to the south-west.

Glorious blue flag certified beaches can be found from Margate to neighbouring Broadstairs and Ramsgate with more hours of sunshine than most of the country.

The commute

For those commuting to London, trains run regularly to London St Pancras and Victoria, taking 60 to 90 minutes. While not the quickest commute in the world, there is a cost that comes in commuting between the city and coast - a monthly ticket to London terminals including HS1 costs roughly £680.

Margate also links to the A20, A299, A2, and M2, providing easy access across the south-east, south-west, and Midlands.

The property market

With its rising popularity, Margate isn’t quite the mecca for low-cost property today, however, prices remain very attractive when compared to the Capital. Terrace houses remain the most popular choice and cost on average £250,000. Those looking for a detached property will need deeper pockets, with prices averaging £420,000 but when coupled with spectacular views and access to the beach, prices can sell for £600,000 and beyond.

Education

There are a few primary and secondary schools in Margate ranked by Ofsted as outstanding or good, including Palm Bay Primary School. For greater options, Broadstairs is a better bet.

Things to do for…

...Shopping

Seen by many as the coolest part of Margate, the charming Old Town is peppered with quirky vintage and retro shops covering fashion to home interiors. On Cliftonville’s Northdown Road, you’ll uncover an array of craft shops, artists’ and jewellers’ studios and gallery spaces. For a shopping centre experience, Westwood Cross just outside of Margate is home to well-known brands with a range of eateries to choose from.

For the foodies, Quex Barn Farm Shop and the monthly Cliftonville Farmers' Market are popular with locals and visitors alike and carry a range of local produce.

...Culture vultures

Margate is home to the internationally-acclaimed Turner Contemporary Art Gallery and is known for its collection of historical and ultra-modern works of art.

For music lovers, the Tom Thumb Theatre is where you’ll find experimental live music, while Margate Winter Gardens is a leading concert and banqueting venue.

...Nature lovers

Ramblers will enjoy walks along the chalk cliffs edge of the peninsula, while the more adventurous can cycle or hike the Viking Coastal Trail.

...The kids

The retro theme park Dreamland is back to its former glory and offers classic amusements, shows and food the whole family will enjoy.