Our seaside home of Margate has been a traditional holiday destination for Londoners since the 19th Century; with it's sandy beaches making it a leading holiday resort, especially for those wishing for an escape from the city. Today, Margate has been dubbed ‘Shoreditch by the sea’ and rated by The Times as the third trendiest place in the UK, beating cities such as Bristol and London! If the art galleries, Blue Flag beaches and vintage rides at Dreamland aren’t enough to persuade you to visit, the huge amount of dog-friendly businesses certainly should. In our ultimate dog-friendly guide to Margate we will share with you all of our favourite places to shop, eat, drink and stay as well as some fur-bulous activities for you and your furry friend. So what are you waiting for? There's no better time to visit the UK's favourite seaside destination!
WHERE TO STAY
The foundation to a good holiday is finding somewhere amazing to stay! Margate has plenty of brilliant dog friendly places to stay, from cosy Airbnb rentals to luxurious boutique hotels, there is something to suit every hound and human.
The Albion Rooms, CT9 2HL
This one-of-a-kind boutique hotel was founded by The Libertines. Featuring seven uniquely decorated rooms with luxurious features such as premium Haeckels products, sumptuous soft furnishings, robes and slippers, GHD hairdryers, and kitted out with Apple Beats sound system as well as tea & coffee making facilities. The hotel also has its own coffee shop, two bars and a state-of-the-art recording studio! One small or very well behaved dog is allowed in the one dog friendly room at the hotel. You will be charged an additional £20 per stay. You must specify when booking to ensure your pup will be allowed.
The Doghouse, CT9 2HX
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.
Selina, CT9 2HL
This colourful, quirky hotel and co-working space is located in the trendy area of Cliftonville in Margate. Less than 2 minutes walk from the beach, Selina is the perfect base for you and your canine companion. There are many different room options available that allow you to take up to two dogs per room. The bar and cafe areas are both dog friendly, meaning you can dine with your dog. The hotel's dog-friendly rooms come equipped with bowls, toys and treats for four legged friends. Amenities for humans include free WiFi, a private bathroom, desk and complimentary toiletries.
Brooklyn Lodge, Old Town
This super cosy, quiet retreat is perfect for families or couples looking to relax and enjoy all that Margate Old Town has to offer. Offering a home-away-from-home style of accommodation for your time in Margate. It features an open fire wood burner, 2 double beds, a cinema snug and all essentials like toiletries and coffee making facilities. Dogs are most welcome in this New York style loft apartment and we think they will love the cosy atmosphere.
Other Places to Stay
Whilst we can't possibly include all dog-friendly accommodation in this guide, we want to give you as much choice as possible! Some other honourable mentions include; The Walpole Bay Hotel, Dreamers View, Farm Cottage, Smugglers Cottage, Westbrook Bay House, Fort Road Hotel, The Old Fish Bar and The Little Place.
WHAT TO DO
Margate has many unique activities and attractions that you are bound to want to explore. From art galleries to quirky museums to traditional seaside fun, there's plenty to sink your teeth into. Luckily, many of our favourites are dog-friendly.
Quench Gallery, CT9 2QU
Open Friday-Sunday from 12-6pm.
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.
Crab Museum, CT9 1EW
Open Saturday-Sunday, 11am-5pm.
Looking for a truly unique day out? 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.
Palm Bay Beach, CT9 3GH
Open 24/7. Dogs are welcome off lead, all year round.
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 life guard (subject to time of year).
Shell Grotto, CT9 2BU
Open Wednesday-Sunday, 10am-5pm.
One of Margate's greatest mysteries is the Shell Grotto. An ornate, underground passageway, no one knows why or how the Shell Grotto came to be. Almost all of the walls and ceilings are covered entirely in sea shell mosaics. These incredibly intricate designs cover about 2,000 square foot and are made up of roughly 4.6 million shells. An absolute must-visit when coming to Margate! The grotto itself is not dog friendly but the cafe and excellent shop are, so if you're travelling with another person you can always take turns looking around the grotto itself.
OTHER THINGS TO DO
There really is just so much to see and do here in Margate! Some more of our favourite dog friendly attractions are; Walpole Bay, Fulsom Rock, Margate Museum, Tudor House, Strokes Adventure Golf and Turner & Dickens Walk.
WHERE TO SHOP
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 Margate Bookshop, CT9 1ER
Open 10am-6pm Monday-Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday.
Situated in the heart of Margate's Old Town, The Margate Bookshop is a beautiful independent bookshop selling both new and second-hand books, including rare and collectors editions. They promote underrepresented authors and translated fiction, focusing on diversity in their shop, as well as encouraging a wider involvement in literature. Dogs are always welcome inside the shop and the friendly staff give some of the best tummy rubs in town!
AARVEN, CT9 1DA
Open 11am-5pm Monday-Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday and 10am-4pm Sunday.
Stocking a stunning selection of ethically and sustainably sourced homewares, jewellery and gifts, AARVEN is an Aladdin's cave of one-of-a-kind pieces. Designed with care by their small team in Margate, every treasure is carefully hand crafted by the world's finest artisans. AARVEN is also home to Hiro + Wolf, a luxury pet accessories brand that designs and produces all of their collections here in the UK. If bright, colourful and unique leads, collars, harnesses and doggy bandanas are your thing, Hiro + Wolf have got you covered! Dogs are very welcome in store, and there are even treats behind the counter for them. Plus, shop dog Wolf and his puppy sister, Squirrel will be on hand to lend a paw.
Asobi Store, CT9 1EP
Open 11am-5pm Friday, 10am-5pm Saturday, 11am-5pm Sunday and 10am-4pm Monday.
This new little Japanese-inspired concept store tucked away in Margate Old Town is a delight for all ages. Asobi may not be big in size, but it is huge in personality! Offering a curated edit of well-designed products that you will want to treasure for a lifetime. From books and stationery to socks and homeware, every little detail has been carefully considered, making it one of the best shopping experiences in Margate! Dogs are most welcome to accompany you whilst you shop.
Cliffs, CT9 2QN
Open 8:30am-4pm Monday-Saturday and 9am-3pm Sunday.
An incredible community space located in the trendy area of Cliftonville, Cliffs is not only an award-winning cafe, they also have an excellent selection of records for sale upstairs (as well as a great hair salon). The record selection is huge and well organised and is the perfect place to take your dog for an afternoon of browsing and relaxing. Whilst there why not enjoy a locally roasted coffee and make the most of their comfy, relaxed seating? The perfect place for some chilled-out shopping whilst exploring Margate with your canine companion.
OTHER PLACES TO SHOP
If you're looking for dog-friendly shopping, we highly recommend exploring the Old Town in Margate. You will find that the vast majority of shops are dog-friendly and even have treats waiting behind the counter for your canine companion! Some of our favourite pup friendly local shops include; Handsome Freaks, The Light Keeper, Positive Retail, Margaux, Ramsay & Williams and Haeckels.
WHERE TO EAT
All that exploring is sure to work up an appetite! Margate's foodie scene is huge and we guarantee you will be spoilt for choice of places to dine with your canine companion. Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a sweet treat or an Instagram-worthy brunch, we've got the lowdown on all the tastiest spots.
Follow The Swirl, CT9 1DA
Open 11am-6pm Monday-Sunday.
A newcomer to Margate Old Town (and already a big hit with the locals), Follow The Swirl makes real fruit ice cream and decadent sundaes to order in both dairy and nut-based vegan options. They also have grown-up approved slushies including a frozen oat flat white. Plus, keep your pup cool with one of their Frozzys ice creams for dogs! Located only a 2 minute walk from the beach, this is the perfect spot to cool off and enjoy a sweet treat with your dog.
The Greedy Cow, CT9 1ER
Open 10am-4pm Wednesday-Sunday.
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.
Dory's, CT9 1DS
Open 12-9:30pm Thursday-Sunday.
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.
Bottega Caruso, CT9 1EW
Open 12-3pm Wednesday, 12-9pm Thursday-Saturday.
This popular restaurant sources all of its high quality meat, fish and vegetables from local suppliers within the Thanet area whilst sourcing their wheat from a cooperative based in Italy. They make fresh pasta every morning, and the dishes on offer are classic Italian favourites which they pair with quality Italian wines too. If you do plan a visit, we highly recommend booking your table as they are often fully booked out and taking reservations 60 days in advance. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the restaurant and they also have limited outdoor seating available for walk-ins, if you would prefer.
OTHER PLACES TO EAT
As we said, there are just so many delicious, dog-friendly restaurants, cafes and bistros here in Margate, it's impossible to choose just one to visit! Some other dog-friendly places to eat that we recommend are; Beach Buoys, Big Shot, GB Pizza Co, Olivo, Cinque Ports, DIVE, The Bus Cafe, Sargasso and Seaside Kitchen & Cake Parlour.
WHERE TO DRINK
You're bound to need a pit-stop to refresh yourself during all of your exploring around Margate! With a great selection of cafes, bars and micro-pubs, there is no shortage of welcoming watering-holes for you and your dog to enjoy.
Forts, CT9 1RU
Open 8am-4pm Monday-Friday and 9am-4pm Saturday-Sunday.
If you and your dog are looking for the trendiest coffee spot in town, look no further than Forts. Dubbed by many as "the best coffee Margate has to offer", this spot is popular with locals but doesn't get as busy as some of the other cafe spots around town. With a seasonal, rotating coffee menu, it's always worth paying this uber-cool spot a visit to try their latest offerings. Dogs will always be welcoming here and are more than likely to meet another four-legged friend during your visit.
Sète Wine Bar, CT9 2QD
Open 4pm-10pm Monday-Thursday, 4pm-11pm Friday, 3pm-11pm Saturday and 3pm-9pm Sunday.
This welcoming wine bar is located in the heart of Cliftonville, a great area to explore with your dog. If you're looking for a taste of sophistication, Sète is a definite must. The cosy space offers a constantly changing wine list focusing on organic and low intervention wines from small, independent vineyards. Plus, the owners are certified dog-lovers and any well-behaved pup is welcome to come along with you whilst you indulge in some delicious wine.
Xylo, CT9, 1AT
Open 3pm-10pm Monday-Thursday, 2pm-11pm Friday, 1pm-11pm Saturday and 1pm-9pm Sunday.
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.
Big Shot Diner, CT9 1DH
Open 9am-4pm Monday-Thursday, 9am-10pm Friday, 9am-11pm Saturday and 10am-5pm Sunday.
Inspired by the diners in the US, Big Shot 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.
OTHER PLACES TO DRINK
Still thirsty for more? Some of our top dog-friendly drinking spots for the best coffee, craft beers, milkshakes and smoothies in town are; Wildes, Margate Coffee Shed, Lifeboat, Rose in June, Curve and Harbour Arms.
We hope you found our Ultimate Dog Friendly Guide to Margate helpful! Margate is packed with incredible independent businesses that are thrilled to welcome you and your canine companion. If you were thinking about a trip to Margate, now is definitely the time to visit! With frequent, high speed trains from London only taking under 1 hour and 30 minutes, it's the perfect place for a day trip (or make the most of it and stay over for a long weekend!) What are your favourite dog-friendly businesses in Margate? Let us know in the comments!
To view all of these dog-friendly businesses (and more) on our interactive map, click here.
*Please note, all information is correct at time of publishing. Please check before you travel as opening times etc may be subject to change. Dogs may be refused entry at individual businesses discretion.