The Cliftonville West Jewish History Walking Tour offers a 2.5-hour guided stroll through the seaside streets of Margate, revealing stories of migration, resilience, faith, and food that helped shape the area over the past two centuries.
Led by a local researcher and storyteller, the tour explores everything from the Jewish pedlars who arrived with the Royal Navy, to the doctors who helped build Margate’s reputation as a health retreat. Participants will hear of the fierce boarding-house balabustas who escaped difficult lives to rebuild on the coast, the battle for kosher provisions, the establishment of synagogues and schools, the arrival of Kindertransport children, and how kosher margarine helped lay the foundations of Palm Bay.
“This isn’t just a history walk - it’s a journey through time, memory, and community,” said Katie Blythe, the creator of the tour. “Cliftonville West has an extraordinary Jewish story, filled with humour, hardship, and heart. And so many people don’t even know it’s there!”
Tours begin and end outside the Margate Winter Gardens, running on selected Sundays throughout June into September. Due to ongoing summer building works, the tour will not include entry into Ark (formerly Margate Synagogue), and ticket prices have been adjusted to reflect this.
The walking route is approximately 2.5 miles and includes uneven terrain. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring water. While the content is suitable for most ages, some topics - including the Holocaust and refugee experiences - may not be appropriate for children under 12, at the discretion of their guardians.
Current Tour Dates (Summer 2025):
Start time: 1:30 PM
Meeting point: Outside Margate Winter Gardens
Duration: 2.5 hours
29th June 2025
6th July 2025
13th July 2025
20th July 2025
From £18
Address
Cliftonville West Jewish History Walking Tours
Meet outside Margate Winter Gardens, Fort Cres, Cliftonville, Margate
CT9 1HX
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