Beloved Kent seaside pub that’s a favourite with dog walkers re-opens after six-figure refurb

The Belle Vue now boasts an expanded drinks selection
-Credit:The Belle Vue


A popular seaside pub has re-opened following a six-figure revamp that has brought about a whole host of improvements. The Belle Vue in Cliftonville, Margate, shut its doors at the start of January to allow for a thorough refurbishment of the venue.

Having relaunched on Tuesday (January 21), the seaside boozer is welcoming punters back to check out the variety of changes made within. Found at 159 Northdown Road, the pub has become a hit with sports enthusiasts and now boasts a shiny new darts area with two oches.

Enhancing its reputation as the go-to spot for live sports, the Belle Vue has been equipped with Sky Sports and TNT Sports, alongside Sky Q. All this means that footie fans will be able to catch the latest matches from multiple leagues under one roof.

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Patrons are sure to notice many alterations to the interior of the revamped venue as soon as they walk through the front door. There is a totally new layout which aims to create a more open and spacious setting to unwind with your tipple of choice.

After closing in early January, the pub relaunched on Tuesday, January 21
After closing in early January, the Margate pub relaunched on Tuesday, January 21 -Credit:The Belle Vue

These changes help accommodate Belle Vue’s increased focus on hosting private events and the pub is now accepting bookings for a variety of functions. Bosses hope the fresh look will kick off a “new chapter for the pub”.

Of course a pub is only ever as good as its drinks, and the refurb is accompanied by an expanded selection with popular pints, Inch’s Cider and Camden Hells, now available. They join a wide variety of beers, ciders and wines sold at “some of the most competitive price points in the area”.

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Plus there are no and low alcohol offerings to cater to all guests through Dry January and beyond. Thanks to its location near Dane Park, the pub has become a real hit with dog walkers and welcomes pooches of all shapes and sizes to stop by for some R&R alongside their owners.

There will be a weekend of events to celebrate the relaunch from Friday, January 31
There will be a weekend of events to celebrate the relaunch from Friday, January 31 -Credit:The Belle Vue

To kick off the relaunch, the Belle Vue will be hosting a weekend of events for locals to come and enjoy. On Friday, January 31 local DJ and fundraiser Graham Burns invites punters to flex their singing skills at karaoke while also hosting an annual quiz night on the same evening.

That night, a fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research will take place as well. Then on Saturday, February 1 the pub will come to life with a variety of tribute acts, beginning with a Chas and Dave covers performance in the afternoon followed by an Elvis tribute in the evening.

Finally on Sunday, February 2, karaoke and a traditional meat raffle will take place, while the pub screens the weekend’s big matches. The Belle Vue boasts a TripAdvisor rating of five stars, with guests having praised the friendly staff and affordable drinks prices.

Alterations to the layout have been made, creating a more open and spacious environment for punters to enjoy
Alterations to the layout have been made, creating a more open and spacious environment for punters to enjoy -Credit:The Belle Vue

One reviewer raved: “The Belle Vue Tavern is a must-go-to place. Whether you're a local, holiday maker or day-tripper. Excellent entertainment most nights of the week.” They added that this is “everything a public house should be”.

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Sharron Cove, operator at the Belle Vue, said: “All of us have been working hard behind the scenes for the past few weeks making improvements to our beloved pub, so it’s been great to welcome guests, both old and new, back to the Belle Vue. The feedback we’ve received from our guests about how much they love the new décor and all the new features we’ve invested in has been brilliant to hear.

The Belle Vue has become a hit with Thanet sports enthusiasts
The Belle Vue has become a hit with Thanet sports enthusiasts -Credit:The Belle Vue

“We know the work completed has not only enhanced our warm and welcoming atmosphere but also strengthened the pub's community spirit, which was at the heart of our thoughts during the investment.” The pub’s opening hours are as follows:

  • Monday: 11am to 11pm

  • Tuesday: 11am to 11pm

  • Wednesday: 11am to 11pm

  • Thursday: 11am to 11pm

  • Friday: 11am to 11pm

  • Saturday: 11am to 11pm

  • Sunday: 12pm to 10pm

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