Margate Summer Series
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12 June - 11 September 2026
For summer 2026, the iconic Margate Winter Gardens transforms into the ultimate seaside festival destination with the return of the Margate Summer Series. Running from June 12 through September 11, this multi-week celebration brings together a lively lineup of entertainment—from live music and theatrical performances to family-friendly activities and late-night shows—all set under the glow of the summer sun. Revived after years of anticipation, the beautifully restored Winter Gardens provides a charming historic backdrop where audiences can relax, dance, laugh, and create holiday memories. Whether you're a longtime resident of Kent or visiting the coast for the season, the Margate Summer Series promises bright days, starry nights, and plenty of reasons to celebrate summer by the sea.
Throughout the festival, there is truly something for every taste and age. Music fans might catch folk and indie bands one night, then swing to jazz or upbeat pop tunes the next. Local theatre troupes and touring companies stage captivating plays and musicals, while comedy nights have guests laughing out loud with top stand-up talent. Daytime events include workshops, open-air art exhibitions, and themed kids’ shows that bring together families for creative fun. With an emphasis on community and culture, the Summer Series celebrates both well-known acts and emerging local artists in an inclusive, friendly atmosphere.
The setting could not be more perfect. Stepping outside the Winter Gardens during a break from performances offers a breath of fresh sea air—the theatre lies just steps away from Margate's beautiful sandy beaches. Guests can stroll along the promenade, visit the iconic Dreamland amusement park, or explore the bustling Old Town’s cafes, galleries, and shops; the Turner Contemporary art gallery is just a short walk away. The unique blend of Margate's retro charm and creative energy means every moment here feels special, whether you're exploring during daylight or watching the sun set after an evening show.
When hunger or thirst strikes, local food vendors and bistros line the streets nearby. Enjoy classic seaside fish & chips or try a quirky gastropub for dinner. The festival atmosphere often spills out into adjacent parks or outdoor spaces, where picnic blankets and music mingle under the warm summer sky. Friendly festival staff and volunteers make sure everything runs smoothly, so you can focus on having fun. With accessible seating and family-friendly policies at the Winter Gardens, this event truly welcomes everyone: families feel at home with interactive workshops and kids’ shows, while older visitors savor the nostalgic vibe and live performances.
With its mix of entertainment and seaside charm, the Margate Summer Series has something for everyone. It's the perfect destination for those looking to fill their summer with culture, music, and good company. Gather your friends and family, make your way to the Winter Gardens at Margate, and embrace the vibrant atmosphere of this beloved coastal festival. Each year promises new surprises and favourites, so be sure to check the schedule and reserve your spot for an unforgettable summer experience by the sea!
Getting to Margate Winter Gardens by public transit is straightforward. Margate railway station is about a 15-minute walk or a short bus ride from the venue. Southeastern trains run from London and other parts of Kent to Margate. High-speed trains from London St Pancras reach Canterbury West and Margate in roughly 1 hour 15 minutes, while regular services from London Victoria or Charing Cross connect via Canterbury. Once you arrive at Margate station, it's easy to hop in a taxi or catch a Stagecoach bus to the Winter Gardens, or simply enjoy a short stroll along the charming streets toward the coast.
Frequent bus services also connect Margate to nearby towns. Stagecoach routes 8 and 8X link Canterbury with Westwood Cross and Margate, making stops near the town centre and Winter Gardens. Route 9 connects Canterbury with Ramsgate, passing through Margate. (If in doubt, simply ask the driver for the nearest stop to Winter Gardens.) Within Margate itself, public buses and the seasonal Margate 'Hop' shuttle service circulate between tourist spots. Taxis and ride-share options are readily available at the train station and main bus stops.
By car, Margate is easily reached via the motorway network. From London or the west, take the M2 toward Canterbury, then switch to the A299 (Thanet Way) straight into Margate. Drivers from Dover or Folkestone should follow the A20 then join the A299. Summer weekends can mean busy traffic on these roads, so allow extra travel time. In Margate, you'll find on-street parking near the Winter Gardens and several public car parks around the town centre (for example, the Trinity Square or Central Parade car park). Always read parking signs to avoid any restrictions or charges.
For visitors flying in, London's main airports (Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted) all connect to Margate via train. From any airport, take public transport (Underground, express trains or taxis) into central London, then connect with a Southeastern service to Thanet. For example, you could take the Stansted Express to Tottenham Hale, then the Tube to London St Pancras for a high-speed train to Margate. Alternatively, international travelers may take the Eurostar to Ashford International or Ebbsfleet, where local Southeastern trains run on to Thanet. Traveling by ferry to Dover or using the Channel Tunnel at Folkestone is another option; from there, it's roughly a 40-minute drive along the A20/A299 north to Margate.
Margate has plenty of places to stay, from cozy B&Bs to beachfront hotels. Shoreline favourites include The Sands Hotel by the sea and Dreamland Lodges within the historic Dreamland amusement park—both popular among summer visitors. Boutique guesthouses like The Albion House Inn in the Old Town also offer characterful, comfortable rooms. If Margate's options fill up, nearby Broadstairs and Ramsgate each have several hotels and inns just a short drive away. Be sure to book your room early; then you can easily enjoy the town's cafes, galleries and pier after a day at the festival.
Margate Winter Gardens, Fort Crescent, Margate, CT91HX
