Dramatic white cliffs, a pretty pebble beach, spectacular coastal walks and a pub practically on the water. St Margaret’s Bay might be small, but it certainly knows how to make an impression.
Tucked between Dover and Kingsdown, this beautiful corner of the Kent coast is a wonderful place to escape the crowds. There’s plenty to keep you busy, whether you’re keen to explore the famous White Cliffs of Dover, discover a little local history or simply settle down with a glass of wine and watch the ships passing through the Channel.
And with Dover, Deal, London and even France within reach, it’s a rather good base for exploring further afield too. Here are some of our favourite things to do in St Margaret’s Bay, Kent.
1. Be Among the First to See the Morning Sun
Here’s a very good reason to set your alarm a little earlier than usual.
Facing east across the English Channel, St Margaret’s Bay is one of the first places in England to greet the morning sun. And watching the first light catch the White Cliffs is something rather special.
Bring a flask of coffee, find a comfortable spot overlooking the water and watch the coastline slowly come to life. With the occasional fishing boat heading out and the Channel stretching towards France, it’s a wonderfully peaceful way to start the day.
2. Spend a Day at St Margaret’s Bay Beach
Framed by towering white chalk cliffs, St Margaret’s Bay is one of the most striking spots on the Kent coastline.
It’s a predominantly pebble beach, with rock pools to explore when the tide goes out and wonderful views across the English Channel. On a clear day, you can even see France.
Bring a picnic, settle down with a book or simply enjoy watching the boats and ferries passing by. In the warmer months, swimmers, paddleboaders and kayakers make the most of the water.
If you’re visiting with children, low tide is a particularly good time to explore the shoreline. Just remember that this is a natural beach, so sensible footwear is a good idea.
3. Discover the House Where James Bond Was Written
You might not expect to find a little 007 history tucked beneath the White Cliffs, but St Margaret’s Bay has a rather glamorous literary past.
At the northern end of the beach stands the former home of Ian Fleming, creator of James Bond. The distinctive white house, once owned by playwright Noël Coward, was where Fleming spent weekends and holidays and wrote Moonraker, drawing inspiration from the dramatic coastline around him.
The house is privately owned, but you can admire it from the beach and imagine Fleming watching the ships passing through the Channel, perhaps dreaming up Bond’s next adventure.
4. Enjoy a Country Pub Lunch at The Lantern
Just a short drive from St Margaret’s Bay, The Lantern in Martin Mill is a lovely spot for a proper country pub lunch. Expect a warm welcome, good food, live music and a relaxed atmosphere, whether you’re stopping for a leisurely Sunday roast or a drink after exploring the coast. A great little detour when you’ve worked up an appetite.
5. Walk the Famous White Cliffs of Dover
If there’s one thing you shouldn’t miss, it’s a walk along the White Cliffs of Dover.
The coastal paths around St Margaret’s Bay offer spectacular views across the Channel, with rolling chalk grassland, summer wildflowers and cattle or ponies grazing as part of the area’s conservation work.
Follow the clifftop paths towards South Foreland Lighthouse and Dover, or head in the opposite direction towards Kingsdown. Pack a picnic, bring your camera and take your time enjoying the scenery. For more walking inspiration, read our guide to the White Cliffs of Dover National Trust.
Coaste tip: The paths can be steep and exposed, so wear proper walking shoes and keep dogs under close control near cliff edges and grazing animals.
6. Visit South Foreland Lighthouse and Mrs Knott’s Tea Room
Perched above the Channel, South Foreland Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in the world to use an electric light. Today, you can explore its fascinating maritime history on a guided tour.
But there’s another excellent reason to visit: Mrs Knott’s Tea Room. Housed in a former lighthouse keeper’s cottage, it’s wonderfully old-fashioned, with tea served in proper china cups and generous slices of cake.
In summer, look out for wildflowers and grazing ponies or cattle on the surrounding clifftops.
Check the National Trust website for seasonal opening times and tour availability.
7. Explore The Pines Garden
For something a little gentler, head to The Pines Garden, a beautiful six-acre garden close to St Margaret’s Bay.
With winding paths, a lake, an organic kitchen garden and plenty of interesting plants, it’s a lovely place to spend a peaceful hour or two.
The gardens are managed with sustainability in mind, making them particularly interesting for anyone who enjoys gardening and nature.
There’s also a café, so you can round off your visit with coffee and cake.
It’s a great option for families, couples or anyone who fancies a quieter afternoon away from the beach. From here you can also walk up to South Foreland Lighthouse and Mrs Knotts Tearoom.
8. Enjoy Lunch at The Coastguard
The Coastguard sits right beside St Margaret’s Bay beach and has one of the loveliest coastal settings in this part of Kent.
On sunny days, the outdoor tables are particularly tempting. Order something delicious, settle in with a glass of wine and watch the ships passing across the Channel.
The menu focuses on British pub food, with seasonal dishes and seafood among the options.
It’s equally appealing after a long coastal walk, particularly when the weather calls for a cosy table indoors.
Coaste tip: If you’re visiting on a sunny weekend or during the school holidays, it’s worth booking a table ahead.
9. Fly a Kite at South Foreland Lighthouse
With all that sea breeze, the clifftops around South Foreland Lighthouse are made for kite flying! Pick up a kite for just £1 and watch it soar above the White Cliffs of Dover. There are traditional heritage games to enjoy too, making it a brilliant spot for some old-fashioned family fun. Who needs screens when you’ve got all that wind?
10. Take a Trip to Deal
If you fancy a change of scene, the charming seaside town of Deal is just a short drive away.
With its colourful Georgian streets, independent boutiques, galleries, beach cafés and excellent restaurants, it’s a lovely place to spend an afternoon.
Browse the shops adjacent to Middle Street, visit Deal and Walmer Castle, stroll along the pier or enjoy fish and chips on the beach.
There’s also a brilliant selection of places to eat and drink, from casual cafés to restaurants worth making a special trip for, including one of our favourite Hut55.
Take a look at our Things to Do in Deal guide for more ideas.
11. Play Golf at Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club
If you enjoy a round of golf, you’re in for a treat.
Nearby Walmer & Kingsdown Golf Club occupies a spectacular clifftop position, with sweeping views across the English Channel. Designed by James Braid, the course is famous for its dramatic coastal setting and challenging layout.
It’s hard to imagine many better places to play a round, particularly on a clear day when you can see all the way across to France.
And if you’re planning a golfing break, you’re spoilt for choice. Royal Cinque Ports in Deal and Royal St George’s and Prince’s in Sandwich are also within easy reach.
12. Walk to Kingsdown for a Seaside Pub Lunch
If you’re feeling energetic, the coastal paths towards Kingsdown offer another wonderful way to explore the area.
The route takes you through beautiful countryside and along dramatic stretches of coastline, with plenty of opportunities to admire the views.
Once you reach Kingsdown, make your way to the Zetland Arms, a much-loved pub sitting directly on the beach.
Few things beat a good lunch and a cold drink with the sea just a few steps away.
It’s a lovely reward for a morning spent walking, although the coastal route is best suited to reasonably confident walkers.
13. Hop on a Ferry to France
Fancy popping over to France for the day? One of the lovely things about staying in St Margaret’s Bay is just how close you are to Dover’s ferry port.
From Dover, you can catch a ferry to Calais or Dunkirk, making a French day trip a tempting possibility.
Think a leisurely lunch, a wander around a French town, a spot of shopping and perhaps a few delicious things to bring home.
You’ll need to check ferry schedules, travel documents and vehicle or passenger requirements before booking, but it’s a wonderful way to add a little international adventure to your Kent holiday.
Fancy a day trip across the Channel? Discover a different way to travel with SailLink in our guide to the Dover to France ferry.
14. Spend a Day at Dover Castle
One of England’s most impressive historic castles is just a short drive from St Margaret’s Bay, and it’s well worth making the trip.
Dover Castle has been watching over the Channel for centuries, and there’s an extraordinary amount to explore within its walls.
Discover the medieval Great Tower, wander around the grounds and explore the Secret Wartime Tunnels, which played an important role during the Second World War.
It’s a particularly good family day out, with enough history and adventure to keep both children and adults entertained.
Allow several hours to make the most of your visit, and check opening times before setting off.
Read our Dover Castle guide before you visit.
Things to Do in St Margaret’s Bay with Children
St Margaret’s Bay is a brilliant choice for families who enjoy spending time outdoors.
The beach is perfect for exploring rock pools at low tide, while The Pines Garden offers space to wander and discover nature.
Older children might enjoy a visit to South Foreland Lighthouse, spotting grazing animals on the clifftops or exploring the history of Dover Castle.
And there’s always the promise of tea and cake at Mrs Knott’s after a good walk.
The coastal paths are beautiful but can be steep and uneven, so they’re better suited to older children who are comfortable walking longer distances.
Frequently Asked Questions about St Margaret’s Bay
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Where is St Margaret's Bay in Kent?
St Margaret's Bay is on the east Kent coast, between Dover and Kingsdown, beneath the famous White Cliffs of Dover. The nearby village is called St Margaret's at Cliffe. -
Is St Margaret's Bay beach sandy?
St Margaret's Bay is mainly a pebble and shingle beach, with chalk rocks and rock pools exposed at low tide. It's a lovely place for coastal walks, exploring the shoreline and enjoying the views. -
Can you swim at St Margaret's Bay?
Swimming is popular at St Margaret's Bay, particularly during warmer weather. However, conditions in the English Channel can change quickly, so always check the weather, tides and local safety advice before entering the water. There is no guarantee of lifeguard supervision. -
Are dogs allowed on St Margaret's Bay beach?
Dogs are welcome in parts of the area, although seasonal restrictions can apply to sections of the beach. Check the current local rules before visiting, particularly during the summer months. -
Is there parking at St Margaret's Bay?
Yes, there is a public car park close to the beach. Charges may apply, and spaces can fill quickly during busy summer weekends. The road down to the bay is also quite steep and narrow, so take care when approaching. -
What are the best walks near St Margaret's Bay?
The White Cliffs of Dover coastal path is one of the area's biggest attractions. Popular routes include walks towards South Foreland Lighthouse, Dover and Kingsdown, all offering spectacular views across the English Channel. -
Are there public toilets at St Margaret's Bay?
Yes, there are public toilets beside the beach, close to the main car park. They're generally open from 8am until 6pm or dusk, so it's worth checking if you're visiting early in the morning or later in the evening. -
Is there parking at St Margaret's Bay?
Yes, there's a pay-and-display car park right beside the beach, making it easy to unload your picnic and head straight for the sea. Parking charges apply from March to October, with free parking during the winter months. The road down to the bay is quite steep and narrow, so take your time on the way down -
Can you get refreshments at St Margaret's Bay?
Absolutely! The Coastguard pub sits right beside the beach and is a lovely spot for lunch, a drink or something more substantial while watching the ships pass through the Channel. There's also a beachside kiosk serving hot and cold refreshments during the summer months. If you fancy coffee and cake, The Pines Garden café is another lovely option nearby. -
Is St Margaret's Bay worth visiting?
Yes! With dramatic white cliffs, a peaceful pebble beach, coastal walks and excellent seaside pubs, St Margaret's Bay is well worth a visit. It's particularly lovely for walkers, couples and families. Spend the morning exploring the cliffs, stop for a leisurely lunch overlooking the sea and enjoy an afternoon on the beach. What's not to love?
Need a Little Local Advice?
If you have any questions about the area, need a local recommendation or would like help finding the right holiday cottage, get in touch with our friendly local team. We’re always happy to help you make the most of your visit.
Make a weekend of it?
Lovely places to stay, right in St Margaret’s Bay.
At Coaste, our handpicked collection of holiday cottages in St Margaret’s Bay and along the Kent coast puts you within easy reach of the area’s best food, beaches and countryside.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic cottage for two, a dog-friendly escape, a holiday cottage with sea views or a larger home for family and friends, we’ve got some rather lovely places to stay.
Explore our holiday cottages in St Margaret’s Bay and make a proper break of it.
Meet the Writers
We’re a small team with a big passion for the Kent coast. All based locally, we love sharing our first-hand knowledge, favourite finds and insider tips on the best places to eat, stay and explore.
Scott | Co-Founder
Fellow Coaste founder, Scott knows the Kent coast inside out and is a passionate foodie. He loves discovering local restaurants, sourcing fresh Kent produce and cooking up something delicious at home.
Ally | Founder & Editor
Founder of Coaste and a Kent local, Ally brings over 20 years’ experience in design, travel and marketing, including The Sunday Times, British Airways and Saga Travel.
Julie | Copywriter
A keen rambler and dog walker, Julie loves exploring Kent’s coastal paths, countryside trails and dog-friendly spots, sharing her favourite walks and discoveries along the way.