Shell Grotto
An underground passage accidentally discovered in 1835, with its walls covered in around 4.6 million shells, and its origins still a mystery.
The Shell Grotto consists of a winding underground passage and an altar chamber. Its roughly 2,000 square metres of walls are decorated with shells arranged into stars, deities and patterns. Its construction date and purpose are debated, with theories ranging from an ancient temple to a Georgian whim. It is small, and a visit takes about 30 minutes. Admission is about £6–8, and there is a small exhibition room and a shop. It is located in a residential area east of Margate's old town.
Opening hours
About 10:00–17:00 (shorter hours in winter)
Nearby sights
- Turner Contemporary
- Dreamland Margate
- Botany Bay
- Broadstairs & Viking Bay
- Sandwich
- Deal Castle
- Walmer Castle and Gardens
- Reculver Towers & Roman Fort