What exactly is it? The George & Heart is a chilled Margate Old Town pub-with-rooms, recently restored to its 18th-century coach-house roots. It’s near the Turner Contemporary, the many boutiques and bars in the historic quarter, and also handy for the stroll up to Cliftonville, too.
The vibes? If it’s hot, plonk yourself down at a table in the plant-filled roadside courtyard (see pic, below) or, if the weather is chilly, grab a table at the bar, or on a cosy banquette in the exquisite stained-glass interior (main image, above).
What was good about the bedrooms? Individually designed by different artists, these proved a real revelation: beautifully renovated, with original wonky wooden flooring in the landings, expect four-posters, wood-panelling, free-standing baths and an honesty snug, plus a wellness room and residents-only rear courtyard.
OK, let’s talk food. There’s a daily menu of burgers, small plates and healthy bowls (see here) and a gastropub-style menu at weekends that, on Sundays, is almost entirely roast-focused. And these are fantastic, with all the trimmings and levelled-up flavours.
The next morning? A tasty continental breakfast awaits in the bare-brick snug overlooking the rear courtyard: think warm croissants and strong coffee, with all manner of meats, fruits and cheeses.
And so to Margate itself. Where else should we eat? We’ve previously covered some of Margate’s food scene here. Recommended nearby in the Old Town is tiny Italian institution Bottega Caruso and the mighty Sargasso on the harbour arm. Up in Cliftonville, meanwhile, make haste to brunch havens the Good Egg, Cliffs and Skinny Dip, all on Northdown Road.
To drink and dance? Fort Road’s double-height basement cocktail bar possesses a wow-factor that feels like something in southern Europe. We also love Daisy and the vibrant Off-Licence bar on Cliff Terrace, and Northdown Road wine-bars Sete and The Streets.
Other personal faves are new LGBTQ bar Camp Margate and the cavernous rooms of the Margate Arts Club, also on Northdown Road. And the club Faith in Strangers is essential to throw a late-night shape or two.
Day trip tip: Walk along the coast to Broadstairs, a perfect hour or so – and reward yourself with Asian-influenced small plates at The Table (like salmon tartare with avocado and ginger ponzu). Then, if you’re feeling energetic, continue strolling to Ramsgate to gawp at its stunning marina before hopping on the train back to the blissful confines of your Old Town hideaway.
In summary? If you want bags of atmosphere, George & Heart House cleverly references the smugglers and merchants of Margate’s past with a nod to the knowing chic of its present.
For more details and to see the rooms at George & Heart House, which start at £95 a night, head to their website here.
Weekendr were guests of George & Heart House.
