Margate's Creative Hidden Gems

Margate’s creative landscape extends beyond its main galleries into historic chapels and repurposed industrial spaces. The Theatre Royal, dating back to 1787, stands as one of the UK’s oldest working stages, while the Tom Thumb Theatre offers an intimate venue in a converted Victorian coach house. Contemporary art is anchored by the Turner Contemporary and supported by artist-led initiatives like Crate and LIMBO, housed in former print works and substations. Medieval history is preserved at Salmestone Grange, a 14th-century monastic site.

Turner Contemporary Gallery

Turner Contemporary is an art gallery in Margate, Kent, England, intended as a contemporary arts space and catalyst for the regeneration of…

Tom Thumb Theatre

One of the smallest theatres in the world, housed in a converted 1896 Victorian coach house. It features a unique mix of Japanese and Alpine architectural styles and an intimate 50-seat auditorium.

Theatre Royal

Established in 1787, this is the second-oldest working theatre in the country. The Grade II* listed building features a classic Victorian interior following a major 19th-century remodel.

Salmestone Grange Chapel

A 14th-century chapel that was originally part of a monastic grange for the monks of St Augustine's Abbey. It is a rare surviving example of medieval ecclesiastical architecture in Margate.

Royal Sea Bathing Chapel

A historic chapel built for the Royal Sea Bathing Hospital, founded in 1791 as the first institution in England to treat tuberculosis with sea air and saltwater bathing.

Crate

An artist-led project space and studio complex situated in a former print works. It focuses on contemporary art through a program of residencies, exhibitions, and research-based projects.

LIMBO

An independent, artist-led project space and studio located within a former 18th-century substation. It hosts a regular program of contemporary exhibitions and provides workspace for local artists.