Margate has been a seaside resort for over 260 years, longer than any other in Britain. In 1736 a local carpenter, Thomas Barber built the first bathing machines.Margate was probably the first resort to become popular amongst all classes.
In 1800, about 20,000 people a year travelled by boat to Margate. In the peak years around 1835, over 100,000 passengers a year came by steamboat to Margate from London. The railways came to Margate in 1848. Shorter holidays started to become popular with the introduction of statutory Bank Holidays in 1871. As most of these were on a Monday, it enabled many people to have a long weekend by the sea for the first time.
As well as traditional beach activities including Punch & Judy and the Beach Volley Ball championships, Margate boasts the 3rd oldest theatre in the country, the Theatre Royal, the 16th century Tudor House and the 18th century Shell Grotto.
A modern Turner Centre is being built near the harbour. This should bring a new cultural aspect to Margate in the near future and with it the regeneration of the town.
Pictures courtesy of Turner Centre and Thanet District Council : Proposed Turner Centre, the Clock Tower and Margate main Beach
In 1800, about 20,000 people a year travelled by boat to Margate. In the peak years around 1835, over 100,000 passengers a year came by steamboat to Margate from London. The railways came to Margate in 1848. Shorter holidays started to become popular with the introduction of statutory Bank Holidays in 1871. As most of these were on a Monday, it enabled many people to have a long weekend by the sea for the first time.
As well as traditional beach activities including Punch & Judy and the Beach Volley Ball championships, Margate boasts the 3rd oldest theatre in the country, the Theatre Royal, the 16th century Tudor House and the 18th century Shell Grotto.
A modern Turner Centre is being built near the harbour. This should bring a new cultural aspect to Margate in the near future and with it the regeneration of the town.
Pictures courtesy of Turner Centre and Thanet District Council : Proposed Turner Centre, the Clock Tower and Margate main Beach
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