Walpole Bay – Beach in Margate

Key information

Sandy Beach

Parking nearby

Cafes/ Restaurants

Designated for Bathing

Water quality: Good (2024)

Seaside Award 2025

Tidal pool

Dogs must be on a lead (1st May to 30th Sep from 10 AM to 6 PM)

Weather Forecast

Tide Times

Walpole Bay, Margate: Historic Tidal Pool & Coastal Walks

Walpole Bay in Margate features a vast tidal pool, sandy shores, and cliffside walks. Popular with swimmers, locals, and visitors to the nearby Cliftonville art and food scene.

A hidden treasure on the Kent coast, Walpole Bay is just east of Margate and is renowned for its expansive tidal pool, sandy coastlines, and tranquil ambience. Families, swimmers, and history buffs looking for a more sedate beach experience away from the larger tourist areas such as Margate Mains Sands.

Walpole Bay has a lengthy expanse of golden sand that is perfect for strolls, beach activities, and sandcastle construction during low tide. Even during busy periods, there’s always enough room on the wide beaches to avoid feeling crowded.

Large stretches of exposed rock and tidal pools, brimming with tiny marine life such as crabs, prawns and starfish, are created as the tide goes out. For youngsters, it’s an entertaining and instructive pastime where they may explore the pools and learn about the critters living there.

The beach still has the vintage coastal appeal and a hint of its Victorian past. Situated close to the shore, the Walpole Bay Hotel is an early 20th-century historic property. It’s a fun spot for afternoon tea or to learn more about the history of the region because of its vintage decor and close proximity to the shore.

Tidal Pool

The main draw of Walpole Bay Beach is its enormous tidal pool, which is among the biggest in the United Kingdom. Constructed in the 1930s, the pool offers a secure, enclosed space for swimming and paddling when the tide is high. Families and swimmers will enjoy the shallow, tranquil waters which are free of open-water waves.

Watersports

Paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water activities are recommended at Walpole Bay due to its spacious and uncrowded beach and tranquil seas as well as the renowned tidal pool. Because of the shallow seas and mild sea conditions, especially at low tide, this is an excellent location for novices. Kite Pirates Kite Surfing School offer kite surfing sessions.

Attractions

Although Walpole Bay is a peaceful haven, it’s only a short drive or stroll from the vibrant town of Margate, which offers attractions like the Turner Contemporary gallery, Dreamland, a vintage amusement park, and a plethora of unique stores, cafes, and eateries. Because of this, Walpole Bay is a great place to combine leisure with sightseeing.

Viking Coastal Trail

The Viking Coastal Trail, which hugs the Kent coastline and offers beautiful walking and cycling opportunities, passes along Walpole Bay. Long walks along the promenade, which stretches along the top of the beach, offer breathtaking views of the surrounding cliffs and the sea.

Awards

Walpole Bay’s amenities, water quality, and cleanliness have earned it the esteemed Seaside Award 2025. The beach is kept up nicely, and guests may take advantage of the litter-free atmosphere and swimming-friendly waters.