The Perfect Stop from Margate Train Station to the Beach – Buoy & Oyster
- Josh Wood
- Mar 9
- 4 min read

If you’re planning a day trip to Margate by train, one of the things that makes the town so special is how effortless it is to go from station to seaside in just minutes, and along the way, there’s a fantastic spot to stop for a delicious meal with stunning views. Buoy & Oyster, located just a short walk from Margate train station, is the ideal place to fuel up before hitting Main Sands, offering fresh coastal flavours, excellent drinks and a relaxed seaside ambience that perfectly captures this Kent town’s charm.
Whether you’re arriving early for beach strolls, heading back after a swim, or simply making a day of dining and sightseeing, Buoy & Oyster is the perfect pit‑stop between Margate train station and the beach.
A Short Stroll from the Station to Seaside Flavours
Margate train station boasts excellent connections along the Kent coast and from London, making it a popular choice for both day trippers and weekend visitors. Once you step off the platform, it’s just a gentle walk through the town’s vibrant streets towards the sea, and there’s no better place to pause than at Buoy & Oyster.
The restaurant is tucked along Margate’s High Street, close enough to the station that you can easily make it a first stop on your itinerary, but also perfectly situated to continue to the beach afterwards. Its relaxed yet polished vibe sets the tone for a day of seaside exploration, with seafood, beautiful views and refreshing drinks waiting for you.
Fresh, Seasonal Seafood That Reflects the Coast
At Buoy & Oyster, the emphasis is on showcasing the very best of coastal Kent through seafood that’s fresh, seasonal and locally sourced. Working with trusted suppliers, the restaurant brings the sea’s bounty straight to your plate, whether you’re craving something light or something boldly flavourful.
Classic options such as fish and chips allow you to enjoy traditional seaside dining at its best, while seasonal specials like the Louisiana‑inspired seafood boil highlight the kitchen’s creative flair. This dish brings together mussels, clams, cod and prawns in a rich Old Bay‑spiced shellfish bisque with charred sweetcorn, new potatoes and spicy chorizo, a hearty meal perfect for warming up after a breezy beach walk.
Whether you’re sharing oysters at the seafood bar, indulging in a seafood platter or savouring a heartier main, Buoy & Oyster’s menu celebrates the flavours of the Kent coast and sets you up perfectly for the rest of your day.
A Place to Relax Before or After the Beach
Part of what makes Buoy & Oyster such a great stop between the station and the beach is its welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant’s seaside setting, with large windows and an open interior, lets you enjoy the light and energy of Margate even while you’re indoors. Or, on warmer days, you can choose to sit outside and watch the world go by as you enjoy your meal.
This makes Buoy & Oyster a flexible choice whether you’re arriving in Margate and ready for lunch, or ending your beach day with a memorable dinner and drinks before heading home. The setting enhances every dish, and gives you a little extra time to savour the coast.
Drinks to Complement Your Coastal Meal
No seaside meal is complete without the right drink to match, and Buoy & Oyster’s drinks menu is thoughtfully curated to complement its fresh seafood offerings. Whether you’re in the mood for a refreshing beverage before heading to the sands or something more indulgent after dinner, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s what’s on offer:
Cocktails: The cocktail list features both classic favourites and inventive creations, each prepared with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. From crisp and citrusy to bold and flavourful, these drinks elevate the dining experience.
Wine: A carefully curated wine selection includes whites, rosés and reds chosen to pair beautifully with seafood. Lighter wines highlight the briny freshness of oysters and shellfish, while fuller wines complement heartier dishes.
Beer & Cider: For those who prefer something lighter or more casual, beer and cider options offer a refreshing accompaniment, especially lovely on a sunny day near the sea.
Non‑Alcoholic Options: Fruit juices, squash and other soft drinks ensure that all guests, including younger travellers and designated drivers, can enjoy a refreshing beverage with their food.
Whether you’re toasting the start of your Margate adventure with a cocktail or unwinding with a glass of wine after seafood, Buoy & Oyster’s drinks selection enhances every moment between train and beach.
Perfect Timing for Any Trip
One of the great things about Buoy & Oyster is its versatility. Arrive mid‑morning and enjoy a leisurely brunch before exploring the beach. Stop by for lunch before a swim. Or make it your final stop after a day of paddling and sightseeing, there’s always a place at the table and something delicious on the menu.
For travellers arriving by train, having a restaurant that’s easy to walk to and perfect for meals, drinks and views makes all the difference in planning your Margate daytrip. Buoy & Oyster is more than just a meal; it’s part of the coastal experience, and a delightful bridge between rail and sand.
A Coastal Favourite Worth Visiting Again and Again
From its fresh seafood and creative dishes to its refreshing drinks and seaside atmosphere, Buoy & Oyster has earned its place as one of the best stops on the walk from Margate train station to the beach.
Whether this is your first visit to Margate or one of many, this restaurant ticks all the boxes: quality food, great views, excellent drinks and a welcoming vibe that complements any seaside adventure.
So next time you arrive in Margate by train, make sure Buoy & Oyster is your first (or last!) stop on your way to the beach, you won’t regret it.



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