As the first seaside resort in the country, Margate has drawn visitors ever since the 1730s. The 700 year old harbour had been extensively used by the sailing hoys which regularly plied their trade from London. However, a new cargo inundated the town in the 18th century when boatloads of holiday makers came to try out Benjamin Beale's wonderful, new innovation. A local inventor, he patented a bathing machine which allowed for therapeutic and modest bathing. Little, wooden huts were pulled into the sea and the bather could then descend into the water covered by a canvas. The introduction in 1814 of 'Steam Yachts' caused rapid expansion which continued throughout the 19th century. The wooden jetty was constructed in 1824 and the famous iron jetty in 1855 which allowed visitors to disembark from the visiting steam packs. Today Margate is still a thriving seaside town, recovering from the mass exodus of package holidays and still retains the traditional British holiday atmosphere. There is plenty to see and do, from good restaurants to beach entertainments including everything from traditional Donkey rides to water sports, Margate has something for everyone. Location Information Sea View Holiday Apartments are situated around the Fort Crescent area of the town adjacent to the rockpool beach.. Half a mile away is the centre of Margate including shops, restaurants, main beach and entertainments whilst the nearest supermarket is only 200 metres away. The local hospital and train station are approximately a mile away and the local bus service, Star & Loop, stop outside the apartments. Information on local bus services on 08702 433711 Whats On. The harbour town of Ramsgate, with its lively marina and ferry port is 5 miles away, whilst ever popular Broadstairs is only 4 miles away. The whole Thanet coastline has miles of sandy beaches and dramatic cliff top walks for you to explore. The Winter Gardens are our neighbours and host year round live entertainments to suit the entire family. Information can be found on their Website To see more of the area, from April to September an open-top bus tour operates from a stop outside the apartments, covering the whole Thanet area. A full tour takes about 1 1/2 hours, but you can 'hop-on/hop-off' throughout the day on the same ticket - more information is available on their Website and choosing the Three Towns Tour For the more active, the scenic Viking Coastal Trail is a 27 mile-long route or six shorter themed routes for cycling or walking. Bike hire is available locally. For more information visit their Website Sea View Holiday Apartment guests also get automatic membership to Walkers Friend for the duration of their stay with us. Information on guided tours and more walks can be found on their Website There are several golf courses in the area, so bring your clubs. More information on the different courses can be found on the Thanet website linked below. Watersports are very popular and jet skiing, surfing, boat trips and fishing are all readily available. Margate has direct rail links to London so you might want to head into the city to catch some West End Theatre and shopping or visit the famous London Landmarks. London is approximate 90 mins away by train - Train timetables & information on 08457 484950 If travelling a little further afield is for you, Trans Europa Car Ferries operate 4 sailings a day to Ostende in Belgium from Ramsgate Harbour. Great for a day trip to Europe, maybe stock up in time for Christmas too. Ferry Times and Prices Here - If you plan to travel over to Belgium during your stay, don't forget your passport! For more information about things to do and places to see in and around Margate and the 26 miles of Thanet coastline, please visit the Thanet website by clicking below