ABOUT US
Welcome to The Old Kent Market, a vibrant indoor market nestled in the heart of Margate, a charming seaside town on the southeast coast of England. Steeped in history and brimming with character, The Old Kent Market has been a focal point of the community for many years, offering a unique mix of retail, food, drinks, and cultural experiences.
A Rich History
The building that now houses The Old Kent Market has a rich and varied history, dating back to the 19th century. In the 1880s, the space was home to Crawford & Co., a prominent wine and spirit merchant, serving as a hub for the town’s trading activity. By the early 20th century, however, the building took on a new role as a cinema. It officially opened on June 26th, 1911, as The Parade Cinema, providing entertainment to filmgoers in Margate. The cinema was renamed Classic Repertory Cinema in 1952, continuing to serve the public until its closure in 1963.
In the years that followed, the building went through several transformations. It became a bingo hall and later an adult cinema, showing uncensored films from 1979 to 1981. The venue then became a snooker club in 1982 and was most recently known as The Thanet Matchroom Social Club.
In 2013, the building was taken over by Andy Barrett, who began a transformation that would breathe new life into the space. After a period of restoration and revitalisation, the building was officially reopened as The Old Kent Market on Good Friday, 2016, with a grand official opening on May 1st of the same year.
The Old Kent Market now features a variety of stalls, offering everything from local food and drink to handmade crafts and vintage treasures. One of the most unique features of the market is its double-decker bus café, a quirky and fun addition that captures the spirit of Margate’s creativity and coastal charm. The market occupies a prime location at the corner of Fort Hill and Mansion Street, bringing both locals and tourists together in a space that celebrates Margate’s diverse community.
As a modern marketplace, The Old Kent Market is more than just a place to shop – it’s a place where people can gather, eat, drink, and explore. The building's fascinating history as a cinema, social club, and bingo hall is still reflected in its eclectic atmosphere, where the past meets the present in the most exciting ways.
