Name: The Shell Grotto
Rating: 5.0

The Shell Grotto

SHELL GROTTO GROTTO HILL MARGATE Kent, CT9 2BU

1-90 Years

Paid

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Description

The Shell Grotto spans 2000 sq ft of mosaics, showcasing 4.6 million shells and extending 70 feet of tunnels. The design, made from humble cockles, whelks, mussels, and oysters, creates a swirling profusion of patterns and symbols. This enigmatic site invites numerous interpretations, including trees of life, phalluses, gods, goddesses, and what seems to resemble an altar, all adding to the Grotto's mysterious

The Shell Grotto offers an incredible experience for all ages with ticket prices as follows: £2 for children, £4.50 for adults, £4 for concessions, and a £10 family ticket..

If you are looking for Best Caves and Mines in Margate , Kent then you can visit The Shell Grotto. The Shell Grotto is one of the places in Margate Kent for day out with kids and families. If you are searching for Best Landmarks and Attractions, then you can get all the information here.

Features

Paid
Host birthday parties: No

Features

Museum Room: Before entering the Grotto, visitors descend into the Museum Room, where the scene is set with insights about the Grotto's history, conservation efforts, and items from the archive. A colour panel shows the bright colours of the Grotto when it was first created. Interactive features include a Victorian stereoscope, a colouring table, and a coming soon shell mosaic board. The Georgian chest of drawers offers in-depth reading, with large print and foreign language versions available.
Group Visits: Available for groups of 10 or more. Pre-booking required and subject to availability. Groups are divided into smaller groups of 15-20 due to the delicate nature of the Grotto. Allow around 45 minutes for groups of 20 or fewer, plus 20 minutes for each additional group.
Private Tour: Delve into the mystery of the Grotto, housing 4.6 million shells, with an expert-led private tour. Explore its fascinating history, from accidental discovery to becoming a major attraction.
Grotto Shop: Browse a wide selection of unique items in the shop, from products inspired by the Grotto’s designs, the seaside, and shells, to a curated collection of jewellery, fossils, crystals, and books perfect for souvenirs or gifts.
Outreach Talks: Discovered by chance in 1835, the Grade-I listed Shell Grotto is the most extensive and stunning shell mosaic in Britain and one of the world's most intriguing and mysterious structures.
School Visits: The Shell Grotto offers educational experiences that tie into the national curriculum, including art, design, and the natural world.

Facilities

Photography for personal use is allowed.
No pets allowed
Onsite restaurant.

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Price

Price: Paid

Price Details

Price:
- £2 CHILD
- £4.50 ADULT
- £4 CONCESSION
- £10 FAMILY
Outreach Talks: Price: From £75 + VAT

Pricing URL: http://www.shellgrotto.co.uk

Birthday Parties

Offer Birthday Parties: No

Opening Times: Wednesday to Sunday, 10-5

Address: SHELL GROTTO GROTTO HILL MARGATE Kent, CT9 2BU

Post Code: CT9 2BU

Council: Thanet

County: Kent

Parking: No on-street parking outside the Grotto, but surrounding roads have no restrictions. Nearest Pay & Display car park is at Trinity Square, CT9 1QY.
By Train: High-speed services from London St Pancras to Margate take 90 minutes. Slower trains also run from Charing Cross and other stations. Visit National Rail Enquiries for details.
By Coach: National Express runs services to Margate. Check their website for routes.
By Bus: The Grotto is on The Loop, No 8, and No 32 bus routes. Visit the Stagecoach website for details.