The Best Hotels and Places to Book Your Stay in Margate, England

A guesthouse since 1960, Shenandoah House was recently taken over by new owners who immediately set about renovating and redecorating – adding a private bathroom to most of the rooms. In addition to being a comfy, welcoming place to stay – whether you’re on a family holiday, a romantic getaway or a business trip – you also can’t beat Shenandoah’s location. Situated in a nice quiet residential area close to Westbrook Bay beach, it’s only a few minutes’ walk from Margate Main Sands.

A historic hotel that’s been around since 1914, Walpole Bay was extended in 1927 and is in the process of being restored to its former glory by the Bishop family. Everything here is about stepping back in time – whether it’s the Edwardian-style restaurant, a 1908 pianola played by the resident pianist or the 1927 Otis trellis gated lift that services every floor. The hotel’s deck – which is covered in flowers – is also one of the nicest places in town to take in the sea views.

Modern interior design meets Madrid culinary flair at the Crescent Victoria Hotel. The design and decor here are inspired by modern Margate’s mixture of seaside tradition and cutting-edge culture, while the daily light bites menu takes its lead from the tapas bars in the Spanish capital. Oh, and throw North Africa into the mix as well – there’s a surreal Moroccan Marquee at the rear of the hotel where you can knock back a cocktail or three.

With space for five guests and kitted out with a fireplace and kitchen, Dane Hill is tailor-made for a family holiday. Adding to its appeal is the fact that two of the most kid-friendly attractions are a short walk away: Shell Grotto – four minutes away – is a subterranean passageway covered in mosaics created entirely of seashells. Dreamland – 12 minutes away – is a vintage amusement park that’s home to the wooden 1920 Scenic Roller Coaster: the oldest in the UK.

You don’t have to head to Margate Main Sands to have fun in the sun. At the Clarendon Apartment, you’ll have a private garden with sun loungers and a solid wood garden picnic table and bench. Double patio doors allow the apartment to be bathed in natural light and open up onto a large white-washed patio that’s also perfect for lunch or a couple of sundowners.

Ceiling-to-floor glass doors opening up to a patio means Cliftonville Mews has lovely natural light. The interior is very industrial-chic with huge open spaces and exposed brick walls – while the wooden kitchen counter looks like a bar in a Shoreditch speakeasy. The stylish touches continue in the bathroom and the bedroom where a freestanding roll-top bath and wooden floorboards make this one of the trendiest pads to stay in Margate.

With 1970s wallpaper, an old Post Office sign and a vintage phone, this apartment has a very cool retro feel. A guitar stand and photos of David Bowie against the walls will make musicians feel welcome – while a long wooden table in the lounge is great for meals with mates or as a co-working space. In the bathroom, the wallpaper is a complete trip with swans floating on a yellow lily pond looking down on you as you enjoy an evening bubble bath.