Margate Archive: Two Forgotten Landmarks
Two storied buildings sitting empty in the middle of Town
Welcome to another look at Margate’s past! This week, we're delving into the stories of two historic landmarks—both witnesses to the town’s changing fortunes. First, the storied London Hotel, once a lively social hub, and then the Theatre Royal, a venue that has entertained Margate for centuries yet now faces an uncertain future.
It’s disheartening to see that, despite redevelopment efforts, the Theatre Royal remains on the Theatres at Risk register. Let’s hope this remarkable building gets the new lease of life it so richly deserves.
If you enjoy my work, you might consider subscribing—or even buying me a coffee (or a beer!). Your support helps keep these stories alive and fuels my ongoing dive into Margate’s hidden past.
The London Hotel, Hawley Square
Nestled in the heart of Hawley Square, the London Hotel has stood witness to the ebb and flow of Margate’s fortunes for nearly two centuries. First documented in 1832, the hotel played a key role in the bustling social scene of the square, which was developed in the late 18th century as Margate blossomed into a seaside resort.
The Derelict London Hotel , Hawley Square 2025
Historical Significance
Early records from the Kentish Gazette mention the London Hotel as a gathering place for visitors and residents alike. In the early 20th century, the building at No. 19 Hawley Square, which housed the hotel, served as the home of Margate College Prep School, showcasing its multifaceted use over time.
Challenges and Decline
In more recent years, the London Hotel has faced numerous challenges. A series of break-ins in 2014 underscored its precarious state, with its future uncertain despite its historical importance.
Hawley Square remains a vibrant part of Margate, but the London Hotel serves as a poignant reminder of the town's evolving identity.
The William Edmunds Map provides a detailed illustration of the northeast corner of Hawley Square in Margate, highlighting the locations of both the London Hotel and the Theatre Royal. This historical map offers valuable insight into the spatial relationship between these two significant landmarks.
For a closer examination of this map, including the positions of the London Hotel and the Theatre Royal, you can visit the Dover Kent Archives' page on the London Hotel in Margate. The map is featured prominently, allowing for detailed viewing.
This resource provides a visual context to the rich histories of these storied buildings, enhancing our understanding of their place within Margate's urban landscape.
This illustration of the Theatre Royal Margate 1957 highlights its close proximity to the London Hotel, visible on the left-hand side.
Theatre Royal Margate: Curtain Calls and Comebacks
The Theatre Royal Margate, located on Addington Street, opened its doors on June 27, 1787, with a performance of She Stoops to Conquer. As one of the UK’s oldest theatres, it has become an emblem of Margate's cultural history.
An early illustration of the Theatre Royal Margate, originally opened in 1787. The original façade was a modest, rectangular brick structure reflecting late 18th-century architectural sensibilities. Over time, the theatre underwent significant alterations, including a major remodelling in 1874 by architect J.T. Robinson, transforming its appearance. While the original façade is lost to history, archival records and etchings provide a glimpse into its early form
Triumph and Tragedy
In 1829, the original structure succumbed to fire, but the theatre was rebuilt and later redesigned in 1874, boasting a classic horseshoe-shaped auditorium. During the late 19th century, Sarah Thorne, a renowned actress and manager, revolutionized the theatre by establishing Britain’s first formal drama school here.
Alternative Uses and Ghostly Tales
The Theatre Royal has played host to more than just performances. Over the years, it has transformed into a bingo hall and hosted other events, earning it a reputation for resilience. Yet, some claim the spirit of Sarah Thorne lingers, disturbed by these modern diversions.
Decline and Closure
In April 2022, the theatre closed, ending its operation under Your Leisure Kent Ltd. As of today, it remains on the Theatres Trust’s "Theatres at Risk" register, awaiting a sustainable plan for its revival. Despite its challenges, the Theatre Royal stands as a beacon of Margate's artistic legacy.
Coming up over the next few weeks, expect the usual historical insights in the bi-weekly newsletter, alongside The Margate Archive deep dives, which continue to build toward two articles a month.
Coming March 1st – we uncover the story of Princess Alexandra’s visit to Margate and the lasting impact it had on the town.
Thanks for reading!
— Luke
Sources:Sources: