Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm
The Margate Caves were originally dug as a chalk quarry in the 17th and 18th centuries, and are 94.2m long and 12.2m tall at the highest point. Originally opened to the public in 1863, the Caves re-opened for the next generation of explorers on Thursday 22nd August, 2019.
Over the previous eight years, The Margate Caves Community Education Trust (TMCCET) and the Friends of Margate Caves worked to restore the Caves to their former glory, building a brand new Visitor Centre on the previously abandoned site.
After visiting the Caves, browse the gift shop and stop off at the community café, popular locally for selling a range of delicious dishes.
Last entry is 30 minutes before closing; to fully appreciate the Caves you should allow around 45 minutes for your visit.
Access Information
The Access Statement and visual story have changed due to the current circumstances; please find these below.
Due to the nature of the Caves, they are not accessible to wheelchair users or to anyone with significant mobility problems. Access is via two sets of stairs, both with handrails, followed by a steep, narrow, low-ceilinged tunnel.
Once in the Caves, the floor is uneven and there are steep steps to access certain areas. Assistance dogs are welcome of course, but no other dogs are allowed in the Caves. Well-behaved dogs are welcome in the garden.
The Visitor Centre – including the shop, café, toilets, and community rooms for hire – is fully accessible. There are large-print versions of the exhibition available to download - please contact info@margatecaves.co.uk.
Access information on website here
Address
Margate Caves
Margate Caves
1 Northdown Road
Margate
Kent
CT9 1QH
Links
Winter Friday-Sunday 11am-4pm (last entry 3.30pm). Summer open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm, daily in school holidays (last entry 4.30pm).
