Inside one of 'worst seaside towns in UK' which tourists say smells of sewage
A seaside town in Kent has been dubbed the fourth worst beach resort in the UK following a study.
In the midst of a scorching heatwave that has seen temperatures soar near 30C, throngs of people have been flocking to the coast. However, Margate in Kent, earned a dismal satisfaction score of 57 per cent from visitors in research conducted by Which?.
This less-than-flattering title comes as a surprise considering the recent sprucing up of the town. New bars, cafés, and eateries have popped up, along with an increase in holiday homes and Airbnbs.
The town boasts the stunning Turner Contemporary gallery, which hosts the latest art exhibitions and offers tours and activities for art enthusiasts.
The original lighthouse in Margate was designed by the architect William Edmunds in the early 19th Century (Getty Images)The town also features a promenade and boardwalks, a tidal bathing pool, and a children's play area complete with traditional swing boats. The beachfront is dotted with a café, a traditional seafood stall, and amusement arcades, according to Kent Live.
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Despite its low ranking, Margate has seen a surge in house prices due to an influx of people moving to the area. In fact, it holds the record for the highest price rising town outside of London, with a staggering climb of 25 per cent in just one year.
TripAdvisor users have given Margate Main Sands a glowing four-star rating out of five in over 800 reviews, contradicting popular opinion. One recent visitor gushed: "Honestly, think its one of the best beaches in the UK." Another praised the beach's expansive size and soft sand, noting that it wasn't overcrowded even during the summer school holidays.
The reviewer also pointed out the cleanliness of the area, with toilets located at one end and bins conveniently placed along the sidewalk. The beach offers a few rides for children at the back, and a plethora of arcades and restaurants lining the front. The Old Town end was particularly recommended for its food and drink offerings.
Another visitor advised arriving early to secure a good spot due to the beach's popularity. They commended the well-maintained conditions, lifeguards on duty, and the large safe pool suitable for all ages. The toilets were reportedly cleaned twice daily, adding to the overall positive experience.
Despite some reviewers noting a faint seaside smell and hints of sewage, Margate Main Sands proudly holds a Blue Flag, signifying its adherence to the standards set by the Foundation for Environmental Education.
For those seeking unique attractions, Margate has plenty to offer. From the Margate Museum and the quirky Crab Museum to the enchanting Shell Grotto and Margate Caves, there's something for everyone. The Old Town of Margate also boasts smaller museums and an array of independent, retro, and contemporary shops for visitors to explore.
In a delightful nod to its seaside heritage, the town boasts an array of fish and chip shops, ice cream vans, and seafront pubs. It also offers two adventure golf courses for those seeking a bit of fun. But the real showstopper is Dreamland, a beloved amusement park and entertainment centre that captures the essence of a traditional English seaside funfair, just a stone's throw away.
Kent Live readers have given their seal of approval to Peter's Fish Factory, located at 12 Royal York Mansions, Margate, dubbing it one of the best places in Kent for fish and chips. The charm of Margate is so irresistible that even famous actors and directors can't stay away. It has become a hotspot for celebrity sightings, with stars like Lilly Allen, Sam Mendes, Olivia Coleman, and some cast members from EastEnders all spotted there.
Just under two miles away lies Walpole Bay Tidal Pool in Margate, believed to be the largest tidal pool in the UK, complete with fresh water springs. It's undoubtedly one of Kent's coastline gems, offering a refreshing spot to cool off, breathe in the fresh sea air, and get some exercise.
For those planning a visit to Margate Main Sands, here are some parking options:
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- Dreamland Car Park: Offers 400 spaces and is a five-minute walk from the seafront. Prices are as follows: 1 Hour £1.50; 2 Hours £3; 4 Hours £6; 15 Hours £9. - Mill Lane multi-storey car park: Provides 432 spaces and is a five to ten-minute walk from the seafront. Prices are as follows: One hour £1.60; two hours £3.20; three hours £4.80; four hours £6.40.
For more parking options, including disabled Blue Badge parking, visit Thanet District Council's parking page. Toilets are also available for public use.
The toilets adjacent to the Round Cafe are set to open from April through September. However, for those in need during the off-season, the facilities nearest the Nayland Rock Shelter remain open all year round.
Dog lovers, take note! Margate Main Sands has specific rules regarding your furry friends. Dogs are strictly prohibited on the beach from May 1 to September 30. But fear not, the wait for your pooch's beach day is almost over!
* This article was crafted with the help of an AI tool, which speeds up The Mirror's editorial research. An editor reviewed this content before it was published. You can report any errors to [email protected]
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