Bold, Brilliant and Right on the Coast
Why Turner Contemporary belongs on your must-visit list
Margate’s got a lot going for it right now—beachy charm, boutique shops, retro arcades—and right in the middle of it all is the brilliant, bold, and beautifully angular Turner Contemporary. Whether you’re an art lover, a curious wanderer, or just here for the sea views and café, this iconic gallery is a must-visit on the Kent coast.
What’s the deal with Turner Contemporary?
Part gallery, part architectural marvel, part seafront sanctuary—Turner Contemporary is Margate’s answer to modern art meets calming coast. Opened in 2011, it’s named after J.M.W. Turner, who adored Margate’s skies (fair—have you seen a Margate sunset?), and it’s been shaking up the UK’s art scene ever since.
Inside, you’ll find a rotating mix of bold exhibitions, thought-provoking installations and big-name artists—plus plenty of space to just wander and soak it all in. It’s accessible, welcoming, and totally unpretentious—everything a good gallery should be.
It’s not just art—it’s an experience (and a great coffee stop)
Even if you don’t think of yourself as an “art person,” you’ll find something to love here. Maybe it’s the way the light bounces off the white walls, the playful gift shop finds, or the fact that you can grab a coffee, sit by the windows and watch the waves roll in.
Also, the exhibitions are fresh and often locally inspired. But let’s talk about the café for a second—because it’s genuinely lovely. Whether you’re meeting a friend, taking a quiet moment to yourself, or just after a good flat white, the airy café space is a winner. Huge glass windows flood the room with light and offer unbeatable views across the sea, and there’s a terrace too if you fancy your coffee alfresco. Best of all, you can park just outside, which makes popping in even easier.. One week it’s global names, the next it’s local artists telling stories through sound, sculpture or paint. It’s always changing, always interesting.
Family-friendly? 100%.
With kids in tow? No problem. Turner Contemporary regularly runs creative workshops and drop-in sessions for all ages. There’s loads of open space, interactive exhibits, and a layout that encourages exploration—without a single “do not touch” sign in sight.
And let’s not forget the café. Ideal for a post-art hot chocolate (or something stronger), with sea views so good they practically demand a second visit.
When to go
Honestly, any time. It’s free to enter, open year-round, and changes exhibitions regularly—so even repeat visits feel fresh. Rainy day? Perfect. Need a culture hit after the beach? Also perfect.
Pro tip: time your visit with golden hour. The way the sun pours through the massive windows? Magic.
Making a day of it? Head to Sargasso too
Pop in for a quick look or linger for hours—Turner Contemporary works either way. Afterwards, head down to the harbour arm and stop at Sargasso, a tiny but much-loved spot serving natural wine, small plates and knockout sea views. It’s the perfect way to round off your cultural fix with something delicious.—Turner Contemporary works either way. Afterwards, you’re just a minute’s stroll from Margate’s Old Town, packed with indie shops, galleries, and places to eat.
And if you’re staying nearby in one of our Deal cottages, you’re just a short drive away. Art, sea air, a glass of something chilled… yes please.
Practicalities
📍 Location: Rendezvous, Margate CT9 1HG
🌐 Turner Contemporary Website: www.turnercontemporary.org
☕ Café: On-site with sea views, terrace seating and quiet corners
🅿️ Parking: Limited pay-and-display directly outside the gallery
🍷 Nearby Dining: Sargasso, located on the Margate Harbour Arm—perfect for natural wine, small plates and sea views
Final thoughts
Bold, bright, and totally inspiring, Turner Contemporary is the kind of place that makes you feel like Margate really is the creative capital of the coast. Whether you go for the art, the architecture or the atmosphere, one visit will definitely have you coming back for more.
Come for the culture, stay for the sea views—and leave with your creative spark officially reignited.