Resting your head at Margate House is like shacking up at an old friend’s place, if that friend had some seriously beautiful Georgian digs on the Margate coast and impeccable taste for interiors. With just nine rooms, each one has its own personality which riffs off a similar aesthetic: blush pink, colourful pop art and big squidgy beds you can’t help but dive into. The bathrooms are spacious and comfortable, with luxurious rainfall showers and Haeckels skincare products.
The atmosphere at this boutique hotel is just as welcoming as the beds, with the hosts creating the vibe of an open house where you are free to wander as you please. We are greeted by Ava – dressed in Air Max’s and a leopard print top – who feels more like a pal than a concierge, telling us we can grab breakfast in the morning from the bar, or have it delivered to our room. When we do shamble down in the morning a little late (thank Off Licence for that), she tells us it's no worries, and to help ourselves to as many pastries as we want.
In the communal area (it’s a lounge-slash-bar-slash-breakfast-room), the pink theme continues. Everything is well thought out, from the stripey pink and red table cloths, to the neatly struck balance between laidback, but also attentive service. Even the books in the rooms seem to have bespoke covers in the Margate House colour scheme. Other wonderful touches include a cabinet full of Vyrao perfumes, spanning a range of unisex, mature and trendy scents. My favourite was the Verdant, a lush green fragrance, with notes of bergamot and frankincense. They aren’t for sale, but guests can spritz the scents as much as they please, meaning everyone smells fantastic.
When I stayed Margate House didn’t have a restaurant, only offering bed and breakfast, but one is in the making. Their eatery – Willy’s Margate – is due to open this spring, serving home-cooked comfort meals. I only wish it had been open when I was there. With the addition of this resto, this boutique B&B will be a well-rounded place to hole up for a couple of days. For now, Margate House is cosy, casual and stylish. It’s a fabulous place for a chic adults-only weekend getaway.
Neighbourhood
Margate House is just off the seafront and has gorgeous ocean views. It’s a short walk from the station and the Old Town, and in close vicinity to all the Margate bangers including the Crab Museum and Shell Grotto.
Nearby
Off Licence for great cocktails in a hip seafront bar that sort of looks like someone’s living room. Also an ideal spot for catching the sunset.
Pomus for delicious small plates and good wine, served and a friendly, laid-back atmosphere.
Turner Contemporary for interesting modern art in a stunning glass building. It’s free entry too.
Time Out tip
Ask for breakfast to be served in your room. You’ll be hand delivered a beautiful package of some impressively massive pastries, berries, yoghurt and fresh coffee.