Margate is a fantastic destination for a dog-friendly getaway. With its stunning coastline, charming independent shops, and welcoming atmosphere, there's something for everyone. Let's make the most of your 24 hours with your furry friend!
Image via Trainline
Getting There
Wherever you're travelling from, there are many dog-friendly options for public transport. Southeastern trains are dog friendly and they have many highspeed services between London and Margate running regularly. You can also bring your dog onto local Stagecoach buses including the Loop bus which serves Margate, Broadstairs and Ramsgate and comes every 10 minutes.
Early Morning Walkies
What's better than a beautiful, sandy beach only a few minutes from town centre? One that is dog friendly 365 day of the year, of course! Nestled between the popular Walpole Bay and Botany Bay is our favourite beach in Margate (and maybe even the whole of the UK!) Palm Bay. Often less busy than the neighbouring beaches, Palm Bay is a haven for dogs and their humans who want to enjoy a run in the sand and a paddle in the sea. There is parking available as well as some of the essential amenities including a food and drinks kiosk and a lifeguard (subject to time of year).
Coffee and Breakfast Break
One of Margate's most popular spots, Cliffs is a cafe, co-working space, record shop and hairdressers. A real community hub, it's no wonder Cliffs is so popular with locals and day-trippers alike. Their coffee is phenomenal, and all of their baristas are trained at the Curve training center - they take good coffee seriously! They are also dog friendly and have a fantastic brunch menu with plenty of vegan, gluten free and veggie options. The perfect place to relax for a few hours and watch the world go by with your canine companion.
Indulge in Some Retail Therapy
Home to many independent shops and quirky boutiques, Margate is a real gem when it comes to shopping. Don't worry about leaving your pup outside, in Margate it is easy for them to enjoy some retail therapy alongside you! The Old Town is a fantastic place to explore alongside your dog, don't miss out on shops like Asobi, Store Collective, Margaux, The Margate Bookshop, AARVEN, Positive Retail, Handsome Freaks, Zig Zag and many more who are all dog friendly.
Visit Pet Accessories Brand Hiro + Wolf
Located in Margate's Old Town, Hiro + Wolf have been innovating comfortable and stylish accessories for cats, dogs (and their hoomans!) for a decade. With a focus on fun, original designs, everything is handmade in the UK by their all-female team. With a colourful selection of collars, leads, harnesses, accessories, toys and treats available, your pup is sure to want to take something home! Their fur-iendly pack also have treats on hand and your canine companion is sure to get a tummy tickle or two.
Time For a Coffee
There are many excellent spots to stop for your caffeine fix with your dog. Our favourite? Big Shot, inspired by the diners in the US, serves up delicious brunch food, excellent coffee and even liquor. Their coffee is some of the best we have tried and comes from nearby business We Are Here. The relaxed atmosphere and decor is reminiscent of old-school British cafes, making it the ideal environment to relax and enjoy a really good drink. With views out across Margate Main Sands, there really isn't anything not to love. Your canine companion will be made very welcome here, and might even get a fuss from their lovely staff.
Visit a One-of-a-Kind Museum
Looking for a truly unique activity? Look no further than Europe's #1 crab museum! Discover everything you never knew about crabs in this incredible, family-friendly museum. Located in the heart of Old Town, the museum is easily accessible and only a stone's throw from the beach. Equal parts funny, informative and thought-provoking, you and your dog are sure to enjoy all that this museum has to offer. All well-behaved dogs are very welcome within the museum, just be sure to keep them on leads.
Image via Burnessie Travels
Enjoy a Spot of Lunch
We highly recommend The Greedy Cow for a tasty lunch in the heart of Margate's Old Town. A firm family-friendly favourite serving up delicious comfort food in a relaxed atmosphere. With a great selection of simple, well-cooked meals including a great range of vegan-friendly options. The perfect central spot for a pit-stop on your Margate adventures! This is a popular spot so you may have to wait a few minutes for a table, but there are plenty of dog-friendly shops in the local area to explore whilst you wait. Dogs are welcome both indoors and outside, so you can take your pick of seating.
Explore a Dog-Friendly Art Gallery
Quench is a project space and gallery run by artists Lindsey Mendick and Guy Oliver and is totally dog friendly. The exhibitions put on at Quench are always well worth a visit, and help to support the work of local artists and curators. Quench is completely not-for-profit, ensuring artists receive 100% of proceeds from their work and creating a gallery space that is accessible for all. Quench is the perfect place to get your art fix whilst visiting with your canine companion.
Image via Grey Arrows Drone Club
Take a Dip in the Tidal Pool
Walpole Bay tidal pool is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, offering a safe and enjoyable swimming experience. This tidal sea bathing pool was built in 1937 and is Grade II listed. Margate is thought to be the only town in England which is home to two purpose-built tidal pools from this era, according to Historic England. Dogs are allowed off-lead from April to October, but they must be kept on a lead from 10 AM–6 PM between May 1 and September 30. We recommend visiting in the early evening to enjoy a quieter swim with your dog.
Image via The Infatuation
Enjoy Some Local Seafood
Dory's and Angela's are small seafood restaurants serving up the best local seafood, alongside simple, seasonal vegetable dishes. Both restaurants focus on sustainability, putting people and the planet first. Dory's is the more relaxed, little sister of Angela's, making it perfect for dining with your pooch! Small, well-behaved dogs are welcome in both restaurants, however they do ask that you email to ensure there is enough space between doggie guests. Dory's also offers some outdoor seating that overlooks Margate Main Sands. Dory's doesn't take bookings and is very popular so can become very busy but trust us, it is well worth the wait.
Grab a Craft Beer
A firm favourite for after-work drinks amongst our team, Xylo is a microbrewery and taproom bar located on the seafront, offering craft beers and local wines and spirits with sunset views over the harbour. The best thing about Xylo (other than their incredible beers!) is the welcoming atmosphere. They pride themselves on creating an inclusive and friendly environment where anyone can try and taste new drinks. Dogs are always very welcome at Xylo, and will be given a bowl of water and a biscuit from their friendly bar team.
Extend Your Stay
Not ready to go home? Luckily Margate is home to many dog friendly hotels. Serene and minimalistic, The Doghouse is perfect for anyone looking for a seaside retreat. Located right on the seafront, this beautifully decorated hotel is just as welcoming of four-legged guests! With three stunning en-suite rooms to choose from and a delicious breakfast included, we really think The Doghouse has it all. And the best part? Canine companions are welcomed with open arms, being spoilt with luxury treats on arrival, memory foam beds in each room and a homemade breakfast. The hotel even offers a dog sitting service at an additional fee, great if you want to go off and explore some of the non dog-friendly spots nearby. The hotel is also proudly LGBTQ+ friendly, creating a welcoming space for all.
