Things to do
Take a look at our shortlist to get you started!
Restaurants
New Street Bistro
With just 18 seats the Bistro offers diners a cosy and intimate experience where they can enjoy carefully selected dishes of local produce as well as some of the best ingredients the UK has to offer. We highly recommend the Cauliflower steak!
Angela’s
Cosy, understated bistro in the heart of Margate which offers local & sustainable seafood, plus veggie options, wine & beer. Be sure to reserve a table because they are often fully booked.
Staple Stores
This little bakery is tucked away in Broadstairs where Stevo bakes amazing sourdough bread, cakes and pastries. If you can’t choose, just get one of everything. Staple is only open Thursday to Sunday so if you are around over that period, you definitely want to swing by and stock up with some of their goodies.
Places of interest
The Turner Contemporary
For art enthusiasts, head over to the Turner Contemporary for a free fix of cutting-edge art (be sure to book beforehand). The shop collaborates with local artists and makers to create something unique to enhance your experience. Whilst you’re there, try out their café which is run by Margate’s finest – the Barletta duo – and sources its menu from Kent based producers and has unrivalled views of the harbour.
Old Kent Market
The Old Kent Market is on the site of the old Parade Cinema and has been lovingly restored to incorporate the building's history and heritage. The building houses a range of different stalls selling food and crafts - including vinyl, baked good, craft ales, cocktails and lots more.
Walpole Bay Tidal Pool
The Walpole Bay Tidal Pool is the largest saltwater pool in the UK and it’s a five-minute walk from our front door. The swimming community in Margate is super-friendly, so you’re bound to find encouragement if the water seems too chilly.
Beaches
Botany Bay Beach
5 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
A 600ft-long strip of sand and a kiosk in a pretty little cove that’s one of seven along this part of the Kent coast, all backed by the longest continuous stretch of chalk cliffs in Britain. A low-tide seashore walk will bring you to Broadstairs in an hour.
Stone Bay
8 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
Stone Bay is usually a quieter, sheltered option backed by a promenade which leads into Broadstairs town. It is also worth noting that the beach at Stone Bay almost disappears on the high tide, so be sure to check the tide times. A blue flag beach, usually with lifeguards and 3* water quality.
No dogs in summer from 10am to 6pm.
Joss Bay
7 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
Joss Bay is Kent’s best known surfing beach and is home to the longest established surf school on this coast, offering lessons and hire. With 5* water quality, Blue Flag status and a Marine Conservation Society award, this just might be the jewel in Thanet's crown. Located approximately halfway between Broadstairs and Margate, Joss Bay is an awesome halfway point for walks between the two, or longer cycles in Pegwell Bay.
Kingsgate Bay
6 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
A sheltered sandy cove backed by high white chalk cliffs, and best known for its sea caves which are reputedly some of the best in the country. Overlooking the southern end of the beach is Kingsgate Castle, built in the 1760s for Lord Holland. At the other end is the Captain Digby public house, also built by Lord Holland and now a family friendly pub with great views over the beach and a children’s play area. No lifeguard service but popular with families. Parking limited but not impossible.
Dogs allowed on the beach all year round.
Dumpton Gap
13 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
A little less central and a little less crowded - generally a good get-away spot. Even so, there are still plenty of facilities here including beach huts, nearby cafes and toilets - although no lifeguards.
If you fancy a walk in the opposite direction the beach connects with Ramsgate. However, be sure to check the tide as the beach all but disappears at high tide and you could find yourself cut off.
Dog friendly all year around with no restrictions.
Viking Bay
11 minutes from Palm Bay Beach House
This magnificent horse shoe shaped bay is the main attraction in Broadstairs. The long sandy bay, cliff top promenade and boardwalk.
Excellent for the family with tidal pool, children’s rides and surf school.
The surf school is open from April to October to try out water sports or for the visitors who want to relax there is deck chair and lounger hire available to sit and soak up the sun.
No dogs allowed during summer.