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Seaside town named one of the top holiday destinations in UK

20 June 2024 , 07:22
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The view from the beach in Margate, Kent (Image: Getty)
The view from the beach in Margate, Kent (Image: Getty)

Now that summer is finally here many people are planning their next getaway. For those who love an away day at the British seaside, Kent boasts many popular locations that draw visitors from across the nation.

Margate, known for its vibrant arts scene and unrivalled dining and drinking spots, has successfully reinvented itself over the years. It has become so popular that the town has now been recognised as one of the best places in the country for a break.

In a ranking by Go Outdoors, Margate was listed among the top 10 holiday hotspots in the UK, securing itself a commendable seventh place. The ranking took into account various factors such as accommodation, activities, local transport, weather, and popularity.

Seaside town named one of the top holiday destinations in UK qhiquzidteiddprwThe Kent seaside town is having a resurgence of cool (Getty)

These elements were then amalgamated to form an overall 'Holiday Score' out of 10, with Margate achieving 8.80. The seaside town also ranked fourth among the best UK holiday hotspots for couples, behind the Isle of Wight, London, and Bath.

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The town is also renowned for being a prime location for celebrity spotting, with stars such as Pedro Pascal, Lily Allen, Sam Mendes, Olivia Coleman, and some cast members from EastEnders all having been spotted there. Given the array of attractions on offer in Margate, it's no surprise that it's a favourite among celebrities.

The iconic amusement park 'Dreamland' has been the subject of a grand revamp, offering all the charm of a traditional English seaside funfair. It now boasts vintage rides, music events and even the country's oldest wooden roller coaster, The Scenic Railway.

Seaside town named one of the top holiday destinations in UKThe iconic Dreamland theme park in Margate (Margate Summer Series)

Dreamland also hosts a variety of festivals and shows, including The Margate Reggae Festival on June 22, and Sam Ryder's show on June 27. Visitors can explore the Margate Museum, the Crab Museum, the enchanting Shell Grotto and Margate Caves, during their stay.

Located on Margate seafront, Turner Contemporary presents a dynamic schedule of temporary exhibitions, events and learning opportunities. Currently, the gallery is showcasing the first institutional exhibition in Europe dedicated to the trailblazing artist Ed Clark.

Seaside town named one of the top holiday destinations in UKThe Turner Contemporary Musem on the seafront in Margate (KentLive)

For sun worshippers, Margate Main Sands offers a stretch of coastline that has been a favourite with holidaymakers since the 18th century. Even at high tide, there's ample beach for building sandcastles.

A short stroll will take you to the Old Town, where you'll find restaurants, seafood stalls and bars.

Earlier this year, KentLive readers voted Peter's Fish Factory in Margate as one of the top spots in Kent for fish and chips. The town also boasts highly praised restaurants like Angela's and Bottega Caruso, along with newer additions Sargasso and Fort Road Hotel.

If you're planning a short trip to Margate, consider booking a stay at the boutique hotel No. 42 Margate, which opened its doors in the summer of 2023.

This is the third establishment under the GuestHouse brand, joining the ranks of No. 1 in York and No.15 in Bath.

Seaside town named one of the top holiday destinations in UKThe beautiful beach at Margate Main Sands (Getty)

How to get to Margate Main Sands.

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Address: Droit House, Stone Pier, Margate, CT9 1JD.

By Train - Margate Railway Station is conveniently located opposite the Main Sands. The HS1 service from St Pancras to Margate takes just 1 hour and 20 minutes.

By Car -Margate is well serviced by the M2, A2 and a variety of local B roads.

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Laura Mckenna

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