Shell Grotto

Museum · Margate

Shell Grotto

Museum · Margate
33 Grotto Hill, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 2BU, United Kingdom

Photos

Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null
Shell Grotto by null

Highlights

Ornate shell-lined passages, mosaic chamber, shop, and cafe  

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33 Grotto Hill, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 2BU, United Kingdom Get directions

shellgrotto.co.uk
@shellgrotto

Information

Static Map

33 Grotto Hill, Cliftonville, Margate CT9 2BU, United Kingdom Get directions

+44 1843 220008
shellgrotto.co.uk
@shellgrotto
𝕏
@shellgrotto

Features

gender neutral restroom
restroom
wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Nov 3, 2025

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Dineshika Sandaruwani

Google
Visited the Shell Grotto and really enjoyed it. The staff were very friendly. And there's a nice selection of items you can buy in the shop. Definitely worth seeing. It was quite busy when we went in Sunday, but you can explore it in about 15 min. A short but very interesting experience.

Gill Green

Google
Interesting place to visit and cheap activity. It takes approx 10 mins to walk around you can make it longer if you really want to inspect the design. But it is very small so if you area bit wary of tight spaces be aware this may not be for you. They have some interesting facts before you head down to the grotto. The team are friendly and the gift shop is lovely if a bit small when there are lots of people. Definitely worth a visit

Steve Wagstaff

Google
The Shell Grotto is definitely a unique and interesting place to visit - I just wish it was a little bigger/there was a little more to see. Fascinating series of passages and small rooms beautifully decorated with shells. And how and why it was done is still a mystery. I enjoyed reading all the history and info. Recommend. Only a 10/15 min walk from the old town (and we also saw a lovely Tudor house).

Ertuğrul Gazi Alperen

Google
Visiting the Shell Grotto was an unforgettable experience. The moment I stepped inside, I couldn’t believe my eyes — every surface is covered in intricate patterns made entirely from seashells. It’s both mysterious and magical, and truly unlike anything I’ve ever seen before. This is absolutely a must-see destination for anyone. After exploring the grotto, I enjoyed browsing the charming gift shop, which offers a wonderful selection of seashells and other unique treasures to take home as souvenirs.

Vijay Joshi

Google
What a wonderful place. I think that this place deserves more visibility to the tourists than it has got at the moment. The place is truly the work of someone with a fine artist mind and a lot of patience and dedication. It is beautifully done. Thankfully it is now preserved well so the general public can enjoy the lovely artistic work.

Peter Sz (Crick3t)

Google
Stunning place decorated with many shells. Definitely worth a visit. There is also a shop to buy all sorts of small things. Not far, 3-4 minutes walk, there's a carpark with a pound stretcher, there the parking is free for two hours.

Paul Stiling

Google
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Absolutely mesmerizing! The Shell Grotto is one of Margate's hidden gems and a truly unique experience. From the moment you descend into this mysterious underground tunnel, you're transported into something magical. The intricate shell mosaics covering every surface are breathtaking - it's incredible to think that millions of shells were carefully arranged to create these beautiful patterns and designs. The craftsmanship is extraordinary, and the fact that we still don't know who created it or exactly when adds to the mystique. The audio guide is excellent and really helps you appreciate the history and theories surrounding this fascinating place. The lighting creates a wonderful atmospheric experience that makes the shells shimmer and come alive. Perfect for families, history buffs, or anyone looking for something completely different. The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, and the gift shop has some lovely souvenirs. Don't miss this incredible piece of Margate's heritage - it's unlike anywhere else in the world! Well worth the visit and the ticket price. Highly recommended!

Grace Pullen

Google
Much smaller than expected but still very interesting with a little bit of history and alot of skill. I feel the entry price is far too expensive for something that took me 5 minutes to walk around, but for someone particularly interested in the artwork and fancy something different to look at, its still good. The gift shop is a must see as has plenty of gorgeous seashells and a few other pretty items for sale. No toilets or parking, if your lucky you can find free street parking nearby.