Why Margate is one of the best places to live

Once known mainly as a traditional seaside holiday town, Margate has transformed into one of the UK’s most vibrant coastal communities. Located on the Kent coast, just over an hour from London by train, Margate blends seaside charm, creative energy, and a strong sense of community. Over the past decade it has become a place where artists, families, entrepreneurs and working professionals are choosing to put down roots.

Here’s why living in Margate is so appealing.

A Proper Seaside Lifestyle

One of Margate’s biggest draws is its beautiful sandy beach. Unlike many pebbled beaches along the south coast, Margate Main Sands offers wide, soft sand and big open views of the North Sea. Living here means regular beach walks, sea swims, and watching spectacular sunsets over the water.

Even in winter, the coastline has a calming atmosphere. Locals often talk about the sense of space and slower pace that comes from living by the sea.

A Thriving Creative Scene

Margate has become a creative hub over the last decade. The opening of the Turner Contemporary gallery helped spark a cultural revival that continues to attract artists, designers, and makers from across the UK.

The town’s Old Town is full of independent galleries, vintage shops, studios, and cafés. Many creatives who were once based in London have moved here for more affordable space and a better quality of life, bringing new ideas and businesses with them.

The result is a town that feels energetic, artistic, and constantly evolving.

Great Independent Food and Coffee

Margate has quietly become a destination for food lovers. The town is packed with independent cafés, bakeries, and restaurants - you'll find some of the best spots within our Neighbourhood Favourites section.

You’ll find everything from excellent brunch spots and craft bakeries to seafood restaurants serving fresh fish caught just off the Kent coast. Many businesses focus on local produce, giving the town a strong community-driven food culture.

Easy Access to London

One of Margate’s biggest advantages is its connection to the capital. High-speed trains from Margate to London St Pancras take around 90 minutes, making it possible to commute a few days a week or visit the city when needed.

This has made Margate particularly attractive for remote workers and creatives who want access to London without living in the middle of it.

You get the energy of the city when you want it, and the calm of the coast when you don’t.

A Strong Sense of Community

Despite its growing popularity, Margate still retains the feel of a small seaside town. There’s a strong community spirit, with local markets, art events, festivals, and beach clean-ups bringing residents together.

The town is welcoming to newcomers, and many people move here looking for a friendlier and more connected lifestyle.

The Bottom Line

Margate offers something that’s increasingly rare: a creative, community-focused town by the sea with easy access to London.

With its sandy beach, thriving arts scene, independent businesses, and relaxed pace of life, it’s no surprise that more and more people are choosing to call Margate home.

For many residents, the best part is simple. Being able to finish the day with a walk along the beach and a sunset over the sea.