St Mildred’s Bay - Image 1
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St Mildred's Bay

4.5
·483 reviews·Margate, United Kingdom

A serene coastal bay in Kent, featuring dramatic chalk cliffs and a popular bistro with stunning sea views.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Peaceful beach vibes

CrowdLow
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St Mildred’s Bay - Image 1

St Mildred's Bay

Best Time

Weekday afternoons

Peaceful beach vibes

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A serene coastal bay in Kent, featuring dramatic chalk cliffs and a popular bistro with stunning sea views.

4.5
(483 reviews)

"The service here was outstanding – I’d give it 110% if I could."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌅 Sunset Views

Catching the sunset here is magical! Perfect for photos and a peaceful end to the day.

🍽️ Bistro Ambiance

Great spot for lunch with stunning sea views, though some find it pricey.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

St Mildred's Bay Beach

St Mildred's Bay Beach

The Bay itself

A picturesque bay with chalk cliffs, perfect for relaxing, beachcombing, and enjoying sea views.

The St Mildred's Bay Bistro

The St Mildred's Bay Bistro

Overlooking the Bay

Enjoy fresh flavors and breathtaking sea views from this popular local spot.

Chalk Cliffs

Chalk Cliffs

Along the Bay

Spectacular white chalk cliffs provide a dramatic backdrop for the bay and beach.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tide

St Mildred's Bay's charm is tied to the sea. Check tide times before you visit, especially if you want to explore the beach or enjoy a meal with a full sea view. The bay can look very different at high and low tide.

Dining with a View

Several eateries offer stunning sea views, making them perfect for a relaxed meal. While some reviews praise the food, others suggest the price might be a bit high for the portion size. Consider it for the ambiance and service.

Best Times

When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Peaceful beach vibes
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Golden hour magic
Crowd
Medium
When
Low tide
Why
Beach exploration
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Catching the sunset at Botany Bay, Kent on a weekday, barely any people around, felt so peaceful ✨ #kent #botanybaybeach #beach #sea #seaside #margate #brodstairs #sunset #sand #sandybeach #Summer
@ty_5870
191.7K likes • 1.8M views

🌅 Sunset Views

Catching the sunset here is magical! Perfect for photos and a peaceful end to the day. Instagram+1

🍽️ Bistro Ambiance

Great spot for lunch with stunning sea views, though some find it pricey. Instagram+1

Solo hiking trip from Ramsgate to Margate! 🥾 Only 1hr & 15 minutes from London by train 🚂 Catch the train from London St Pancras to Ramsgate, hike 15km along the coast to Margate, Kent. Make sure to stop off for a swim at Walpole bay tidal Pool just before you walk into Margate! 🏊 🏖️ 27,000 steps later & I’m finally home #margate #ramsgate #Hiking
@undrgroundseasons
15.5K likes • 141.5K views
🌊✨ Welcome to your seaside escape! 🌅🍽️ At The St Mildreds Bay, we’re just a stone’s throw from the beach, serving up fresh flavours with breathtaking views. 🌴🌊 Get ready for an unforgettable summer of fun! 🎉🥳 Old friends & new faces, we can’t wait to serve you! ❤️👋 Stay tuned for delicious updates and special events! 🍹☀️ #beachdays #summervibes #stmildredsbay #fish #goldenegg #keepposted
thestmildredsbay
27 likes • 1.1K views

🌊 Check Tide Times

The bay's appearance changes dramatically with the tide. Plan accordingly! Instagram

🐚 Beachcombing Treasures

You might find beautiful shells and interesting finds along the shore. Instagram

New Year’s dip, 2025 - St Mildred’s Bay, Margate
steve1anderson
59 likes • 627 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌅 Sunset Views

Catching the sunset here is magical! Perfect for photos and a peaceful end to the day. Instagram+1

🍽️ Bistro Ambiance

Great spot for lunch with stunning sea views, though some find it pricey. Instagram+1

🌊 Check Tide Times

The bay's appearance changes dramatically with the tide. Plan accordingly! Instagram

🐚 Beachcombing Treasures

You might find beautiful shells and interesting finds along the shore. Instagram

🚶‍♀️ Coastal Walks

Enjoy a calming walk along the bay for a serene experience. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.5
(483 reviews)

Reviews Summary

St Mildred's Bay is lauded for its stunning location, offering breathtaking sea views and a peaceful atmosphere, complemented by outstanding service at its local bistro. While the food quality and portion sizes at the bistro receive mixed feedback, many visitors find the overall experience, especially the ambiance and friendly staff, well worth a visit.

"Five visits in 4 weeks
We have visited here for just morning coffee for two, breakfast for four, lunch for four and dinner for four and every time the food and service has been superb. We never feel rushed or intimidated just having the perfect experience every time. It is a lovely bonus that well behaved dogs are very welcome and can have their own food. We found the batter on the fish and calamari to be the best we have had being extremely light, but my favourite was the pork belly one of the best dishes that I have tried in any restaurant including a few Michelin starred ones."

Michael Fisher

"Just had one of the best ever Sunday Roasts here today. Huge portions, and most of the roast was gluten free (not the Yorkshire pudding). Wax do good started to eat before we took the photos, so they don’t do the amazing good justice. The staff were so friendly & very attentive. The views out the huge windows over St Mildred Bay made it all perfect. Best to book ahead as it’s understandably very popular."

Ruth Smyth

"The service here was outstanding – I’d give it 110% if I could. The location is beautiful, with a full wall of windows offering stunning beach views. There’s also plenty of outdoor seating, which makes it a great spot to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Unfortunately, the food didn’t quite live up to the setting. I ordered the “large” cod and chips, but the portion of cod felt more medium-sized. It came with a very thick batter – different from what I’m used to – and the fish was a bit too oily and soggy for my taste. The chips were on the smaller side in quantity, especially considering the price, but they were absolutely delicious: chunky and crisp.

At £20 for fish and chips, I felt it was a little overpriced given the portion and quality. That said, I’d still recommend visiting for the fantastic service and gorgeous views – just maybe try a different dish."

Efe Otomewo

What People Like

Outstanding service
Beautiful sea views
Peaceful atmosphere

What People Dislike

Food portion size
Price for value

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

St Mildred's Bay is located in Westgate-on-Sea, near Margate in Kent. You can reach it by car, with parking available nearby. Public transport options include local buses that serve the area. If coming from London, trains to Margate or Ramsgate are frequent, followed by a bus or taxi. TikTok+1

Yes, there is usually free parking available near St Mildred's Bay, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. TikTok

While St Mildred's Bay is close to Margate, it's a pleasant walk along the coast, or you can take a short bus ride. Some visitors enjoy longer coastal hikes that might include this area. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

St Mildred's Bay itself is a public beach and bay, so there is no entry fee to access it. You only pay for food or drinks at local establishments. TikTok

As a natural bay and beach, St Mildred's Bay is accessible at all times. However, local businesses like cafes and bistros will have their own operating hours. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can relax on the beach, enjoy the sea views, go for coastal walks, beachcomb for treasures, and dine at the local bistro. Some visitors also enjoy watersports like paddleboarding. TikTokInstagram

Swimming is possible at St Mildred's Bay, especially during warmer months. Always check local conditions and safety advice before entering the water. TikTok

Public facilities can vary. It's advisable to check local council information or inquire at nearby businesses for the availability of toilets and other amenities. Instagram

Dog restrictions on beaches can vary by season. It's best to check local bylaws or signage at the bay to confirm current dog access policies. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The St Mildred's Bay Bistro is a popular choice right on the bay, offering great views and a range of dishes. Other cafes and restaurants can be found in the nearby Westgate-on-Sea and Margate areas. Instagram+2

The bistro offers a selection of meals, including seafood platters and traditional fish and chips. While some reviews highlight excellent service and views, others mention portion sizes and oiliness of certain dishes. Reddit

Some visitors feel the prices, particularly for fish and chips, are a bit high for the portion size and quality received. However, many agree the stunning views and friendly service make it a worthwhile experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The chalk cliffs, the bay at different tides, and sunset views offer fantastic photographic opportunities. The St Mildred's Bay Bistro also provides a scenic backdrop. Instagram+2

Golden hour, especially during sunset, provides beautiful light for photography. Low tide can also reveal interesting textures and rock formations on the beach. Instagram+1

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

St Mildred's Bay offers a relatively calm environment for families. The beach is great for building sandcastles and paddling, especially at low tide. While there aren't extensive play facilities directly on the bay, the natural setting provides plenty of space for children to explore and enjoy the seaside. Pack beach toys and snacks for a fun-filled day. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples

For solo travelers or couples seeking a peaceful retreat, St Mildred's Bay is ideal. The serene atmosphere, beautiful sea views, and the option for a relaxing meal at the bistro make it perfect for unwinding. Enjoy a quiet walk along the shore or simply sit and watch the tide. Instagram

📸 Photographers & Art Lovers

The dramatic chalk cliffs, the ever-changing seascape, and the golden hour light make St Mildred's Bay a photographer's dream. Instagram+1 Nearby Margate also boasts the Turner Contemporary gallery, offering a dose of art and culture to complement your coastal visit. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Exploring the Bay and its Surroundings

St Mildred's Bay is a charming coastal spot known for its distinctive chalk cliffs and the gentle curve of its shoreline. At low tide, the beach expands, revealing rock pools and a vast expanse of sand perfect for beachcombing and leisurely strolls. The bay offers a more tranquil experience compared to some of the busier beaches in nearby Margate. Visitors often praise the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to connect with nature. Instagram

Beyond the immediate bay, the surrounding area offers further exploration. The Viking Trail, an electric skateboarding route, has been seen enjoyed here, showcasing the bay's appeal for active pursuits. Instagram Nearby Westgate-on-Sea provides additional amenities and a different seaside charm. For those interested in the broader Thanet coastline, St Mildred's Bay serves as a wonderful starting point for discovering other local gems. Instagram

Many visitors find the bay to be a place for quiet reflection and enjoying the simple pleasures of the seaside. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a scenic spot for a meal, St Mildred's Bay offers a refreshing coastal escape. Instagram

Dining Delights and Views

The St Mildred's Bay Bistro is a focal point for many visitors, offering a dining experience with unparalleled sea views. The large windows and ample outdoor seating ensure that guests can fully immerse themselves in the coastal scenery. InstagramReddit The service at the bistro is frequently highlighted as outstanding, with staff described as friendly and welcoming, contributing significantly to the positive atmosphere. Reddit

While the ambiance and service receive high praise, the food itself garners mixed reviews. Some patrons rave about the deliciousness of dishes like the seafood platter and roast dinners, with specific mentions of excellent chefs. Reddit However, others have found the portion sizes, particularly for fish and chips, to be on the smaller side for the price, and some have noted the batter and oiliness of the fish. Reddit Despite these critiques, the overall consensus is that the stunning location and the quality of the service make a visit to the bistro a memorable experience, even if the culinary aspect is not universally perfect. Reddit

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