About The Oval Cafe
The Oval Café (opening 25th April 2026) is a welcoming, community-run café located within The Oval Bandstand & Lawns in Cliftonville, Margate. The bandstand amphitheatre sits within over four acres of publicly accessible gardens and lawns close to the seafront. We are part of a wider not-for-profit community venue focused on bringing people together, improving wellbeing, and tackling loneliness and social isolation.
As a Chatty Café venue, we offer a dedicated table where anyone is welcome to sit if they feel like a chat. Whether you come on your own or with friends, you’ll find a friendly atmosphere, affordable refreshments, and a relaxed space to spend time.
Alongside the café, The Oval is home to a small community bookshop and a packed programme of inclusive events throughout the year, including social activities, wellbeing sessions, performances, and family-friendly community gatherings. These activities help create natural opportunities for connection and conversation.
The café sits within a beautiful outdoor amphitheatre with step-free access, accessible toilets nearby, and plenty of outdoor seating overlooking the gardens. We especially welcome older people, local residents, and anyone looking for a warm, inclusive place to connect with others.
If you would like to volunteer to help host a Chatter & Natter table at this venue, apply here.
