MARGO in Margate

MARGO sits in Margate's creative quarter, a gallery that actually rewards an afternoon spent wandering through its spaces. It's contemporary art done without the pretension - the kind of place where you'll find yourself standing in front of something for longer than you expected, then wondering why you hadn't heard of it before.

The gallery focuses on international and UK artists, rotating exhibitions that keep things fresh. You're looking at painting, sculpture, installation work - the sort of stuff that makes you think rather than just photograph for Instagram. It's not huge, which means you won't need more than an hour or two, depending on what's on when you visit. That's actually a strength. You can actually absorb things.

This works best for anyone with a genuine interest in contemporary art rather than casual browsers. History buffs and families with restless kids might find it a bit slow. But if you're the sort who gets something out of a gallery visit, you'll find MARGO worth your time.

Margate itself is well set up for a seaside park break - Birchington Vale Holiday Park is just a few miles away, and The Foxhunter Park slightly further out. Build a gallery visit into a proper day exploring Margate's seafront, Turner Contemporary nearby, and the High Street's vintage shops. You'll get the full picture of why the town's become interesting again.

Check opening hours and admission costs before you go - these things do change. Best visited on a quieter weekday if you're after a more contemplative experience.