THE LOCATION

Tucked just a short stroll from the golden sands of Margate beach, Dreamland is a seaside spot that’s managed to hold onto its retro soul while keeping things fresh. With its century-old history, vintage style fairground rides, and a calendar full of gigs and festivals, it’s a place that blends nostalgia with a proper day out.

THE LOWDOWN

Dreamland isn’t just an amusement park; it’s part of British seaside heritage. It first opened back in 1920 and now it stands as a brilliant mix of vintage style and modern-day fun. But it’s not all fast thrills, think Waltzer’s, Dodgems, and the beautifully restored Gallopers. One of the highlights is the Big Wheel, which gives you a proper view of the Margate coastline, whilst the Wild River water ride, brings a splashdown that brings smiles and squeals in equal measure!

Entry to the park is free, make use of the fun with their unlimited ride wristbands, season tickets or use their pay-per-go token system, so you can dip in and out at your own pace.

WHAT’S ON

Dreamland doubles as a creative and cultural space, with some seriously cool venues: The Scenic Stage Arena is where you’ll find big-name gigs and festival vibes under the open sky. Hall by the Sea handles indoor concerts and larger events. The Ballroom keeps things classy with a Grade II listed setting for more intimate events and The Roller Room brings the disco back with its original Art Deco ceiling. Whatever your thing is — live music, pop-ups, food trucks or roller discos — there’s usually something going on.

The outdoor festival vibes kick off with Lovebox (Fri 29 & Sat 30 May), a two-day park takeover with packed line ups across both days. Headliners include Rudimental on the Friday and Scissor Sisters on Saturday. Further highlights in the calendar of events include Tom Grennan (Sat 14 June), Garbage & Skunk Anansie (Fri 19 June), Bowling For Soup + Frank Turner & The Sleeping Souls (Thurs 25 June), Chris Isaak (Sat 4 July), Kesha (Sun 5 July), David Gray with The Divine Comedy (Fri 10 July), Alex James’ Britpop Classical ( Fri 24 July) and Bastille (Sat 22 Aug)  For the full line up and to get tickets check out their What’s On page.

Whether you’re in it for the music, the setting, or just a good time with mates, it’s worth checking out what’s coming up.

VISIT NOW

Dreamland’s 2026 outdoor season starts from Fri 3 April with the amusement park open every day during school holidays and at weekends throughout the season, until the end of October. It’s easy to get to by train, it’s just a short walk from Margate Train Station. Or if you’re driving, there’s parking close by at Arlington Car Park and Belgrave Road Car Park. If you’re coming down from London, it’s a straight shot down the M2 or M20.

Check opening times, what’s on and plan your visit.