The Bulls Head, Margate

There has been a pub on the site since at least the 1730’s which actually predates the Market Place itself however the current building appears to be late Victioria. The traditional style exterior bears 2 notable features, the first a bulls head protruding from the high up on the corner and secondly, a blue plaque commemorating Eric Morecambe who married the then landlord’s daughter (who just happened to be Miss Margate at the time) in 1952 and held his wedding reception in the pub. The interior wraps itself around a central island bar that was at one time 5 separate bars but now knocked through although one corner housing a pool table is still partly sectioned off. The general décor is quite plain with bare floors and mostly dark paneled walls although the false ceiling isn’t one of the better features. The double sided fireplace appears to be original and still used. The furnishings were largely small tables around the edges or stools at the bar where most people seem to be gathered although there are also seats out in the Market Place itself, one of Margate’s more picturesque little corners. Sadly the pub falls short on the beer front with no ales and just the usual mass market kegs, lagers, etc although prices were pretty reasonable (I had a Strongbow for £3.10). The woman behind the bar was quite a character and very welcoming although some elements of the customer base could do with a few charm lessons. I was also surprised to find the pub open at half past 10 on a Sunday morning but cannot say whether this is a regular thing or just for the Olympic Games which were being shown on the pub’s Big Screen. My visit was more one of convenience than anything specific and without any ales I can’t see myself opting for a return visit given that the excellent Lifeboat is on the other side of the road. That said, I have no major gripes and it is certainly worth a look if you’re not too fussed about the beers.