Margate, a seaside town in Kent, promises charm with quirky shops and trendy spots, but its faded appeal and neglected beach left me longing for more.

For quite some time, Margate had been on my radar as a seaside retreat – a place to bask in the sun, explore quirky shops, and perhaps dip my toes in the sea. Known as “Shoreditch-on-Sea” for its trendy cafes, independent shops, and vibrant bar scene, this Victorian seaside town in Kent draws many visitors during the summer months.

Margate is famous for its beach promenade, the tidal pool, the mysterious Shell Grotto, and the art-filled Dreamland amusement park. It has also become associated with celebrity culture – from The Libertines, who own a boutique hotel, to artist Tracey Emin, who calls Margate home. Even J.M.W. Turner attended school here. Other celebrities, such as Pedro Pascal, Rami Malek, and Emma Corrin, have been spotted enjoying the town’s laid-back vibe, which boasts a population of around 63,000.

When my husband and I booked a one-night Airbnb stay in Margate during the summer, I was eager for a quintessential British seaside experience. I envisioned golden sands, a refreshing sea breeze, and the relaxed charm of a small seaside town. However, reality turned out to be far different.

The train ride from London was comfortable, and as soon as we stepped off the platform, the warm, salty breeze greeted us on one of the hottest days of the year. We decided to start by exploring the town, venturing into independent shops and vintage boutiques. It didn’t take long to see why Margate had developed a reputation for its artsy atmosphere – cafes with pastel-colored facades, quirky local galleries, and antique shops brimming with odd treasures.

It’s easy to see why Margate is frequently listed among the coolest seaside towns. Yet, for every charming shop, there was a dilapidated building or a street that looked like it had seen better days. The town was a mix of creativity and neglect – a sense of promise tarnished by the signs of urban decay.

We then made our way to the beach. With the sun high and the heat intense, we hoped to cool off by the sea. Unfortunately, upon stepping onto the sand, we were met with disappointment. The beach was littered with trash – from McDonald’s wrappers to fish and chip cartons – with seagulls swooping down on discarded food. The pungent smell of seaweed mixed with sewage made it difficult to relax. The water, which I had hoped would offer some relief from the heat, appeared murky and uninviting.

Determined to salvage the day, we sought out a restaurant that had decent reviews. After an incredibly long wait, we learned that our order had been forgotten. By the time our meals arrived, we were the only ones left in the restaurant, and the whole experience felt like a lackluster ending to an already disappointing day.

While Margate certainly has potential, its charm is marred by neglect. The artsy vibe, quirky shops, and potential for growth are undeniable, but the reality of the town is harder to ignore. Cliftonville, a neighborhood in Margate, was even named one of Time Out’s “coolest” in the world in 2022. But local officials argue that this image doesn’t reflect the struggles of many residents. As Helen Whitehead, Deputy Leader of the local council, stated, “Regeneration should provide a future for everyone, not just a selected few.”

Housing costs in Margate have surged in recent years, with prices doubling over the past decade. As of 2022, the average house price stood at £305,136, making it unaffordable for many. This surge in property prices, coupled with the rising gentrification, highlights the stark contrast between the town’s artistic aspirations and the realities faced by its residents.

Ultimately, Margate felt more like a faded version of its former self – a town trying to recapture its glory days but falling short. The beach, the town, even the overall vibe all seemed in desperate need of revitalization. While I may have once thought of returning, my visit left me with little desire to go back. Some places leave you wanting more, but for me, Margate isn’t one of them.

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