Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Experience the Charm of Walpole Bay Hotel
Walpole Bay Hotel stands as a testament to timeless elegance and historical preservation, offering guests a unique blend of heritage and hospitality. Established in 1914 and lovingly restored by the Bishop family since 1995, our Edwardian-era hotel combines period charm with modern comforts. Guests experience a warm, home-from-home atmosphere complemented by our 1927 Otis trellis-gated lift, flower-decked terrace with sea views, and an Edwardian-style restaurant serving traditional British cuisine. Our Living Museum, spanning five floors, showcases the hotel's rich history and local heritage, while our Napery Gallery displays textile art on linen napkins.We host weddings, conferences, and film productions, leveraging our distinctive architecture and vintage ambiance. With free parking, pet-friendly policies, and 24-hour reception, we cater to diverse needs while maintaining a commitment to preserving our historic property. Our team's decades of experience in hospitality and heritage conservation ensures every guest enjoys an authentic, memorable stay rooted in the traditions of Margate's golden age.
Services
Hotel Accommodation
Event Hosting
Museum Tours
Film Location Hire
Restaurant Services
Wedding Receptions
Conference Facilities
Historical Preservation
Catering Services
Vintage Prop Hire
Details
- Year established: 1914
Highlights and features
- We offer over a century of hospitality heritage with continuous operation since 1914
- Our 24-hour reception ensures round-the-clock guest support
- Unique Living Museum spans five floors with original period features
- Award-winning film location with vintage props and Edwardian architecture
- Family-run with four generations of hospitality expertise
Services
Historic Hotel Accommodation
Experience Edwardian elegance in our individually designed rooms with sea views. Original features include our 1927 Otis lift and period furnishings. Guests enjoy modern comforts while immersed in historical ambiance. The hotel's living museum offers daily exploration of its 110-year history.
Event Hosting Services
Host weddings, conferences, and private events in our 1920s ballroom with sprung maple floor. Licensed for 120 guests with flexible table plans. Two bars and dedicated event coordination available. Ideal for both formal occasions and themed celebrations.
Living Museum Tours
Explore our five-floor museum showcasing original 1914 features and historical artifacts. Self-guided access to exhibition cabinets, period memorabilia, and geological displays. Educational walks available with local geologist. Free entry with optional donations for preservation efforts.
Film Location Services
Offer Edwardian architecture, vintage props, and period rooms for film and photo shoots. Proven track record with BBC, Channel 5, and feature films. Dedicated contact for location scouts with access to ballrooms, corridors, and authentic 1920s interiors.
Dining Experience
Enjoy traditional British cuisine in our Edwardian restaurant open from 7am daily. Specializing in cream teas and Sunday roasts. Room service available with crockery and cutlery provided. Partners with local restaurants for evening meal delivery options.
People
Jane Bishop
Owner & Director
Jane Bishop has led the restoration of Walpole Bay Hotel since 1995, transforming it into a heritage destination. With decades of hospitality experience, she combines historical preservation with modern guest needs. Jane actively engages with visitors, sharing the hotel's history and managing its museum and cultural initiatives.
Peter Bishop
Director
Peter Bishop contributes to the hotel's strategic direction with extensive experience in heritage property management. He oversees operational aspects while maintaining the family's commitment to preserving the hotel's historical integrity and providing authentic guest experiences.
Justin Bishop
Director
Justin Bishop brings expertise in hospitality operations and event management to the family business. He ensures the hotel maintains its unique character while meeting modern service standards, particularly in hosting weddings and conferences.
Gemma Bishop
Director
Gemma Bishop focuses on guest experience and marketing, leveraging her knowledge of the hotel's historical significance. She manages digital presence and cultural initiatives, including the Napery Gallery and film location partnerships.
Questions
What historical features can guests expect at The Walpole Bay Hotel?
Our hotel features original 1914 architecture, a 1927 Otis trellis-gated lift, Edwardian decor, and a living museum with period artifacts across five floors.
Can I host events at The Walpole Bay Hotel?
Yes, we offer ballroom hire for weddings, conferences, and private events with capacity for 120 guests and flexible seating arrangements.
Is the hotel suitable for film productions?
Our Edwardian architecture and vintage props have been featured in BBC programs and feature films, making us an ideal film location.
What dining options are available?
Our Edwardian restaurant serves breakfast until 10am, cream teas, and snacks until 9pm, with room service and local restaurant delivery options.
Are there special amenities for guests?
We offer free parking opposite the hotel, 24-hour reception, complimentary WiFi, and pet-friendly policies with cycle storage available.
How does the hotel support preservation efforts?
We operate a living museum with free public access, host educational programs, and maintain a restoration fund supported by guest donations.
Reviews (4)
Tony Line
Dec 05, 2021
Report
There has been plenty written about The Walpole, but you need to visit to fully appreciate the hotel. We had fabulous cream tea on the last Sunday before it closes for the winter. We will be back next spring.
Bub Gd
Dec 03, 2021
Report
Love this hotel! I booked it for my birthday with a group of friends and we had the best time. We were hosted amazingly and its got the most beautiful decor.
Hoping to come back many times in the future
Hoping to come back many times in the future
Calvia Henry
Nov 24, 2021
Report
Ive just visited this hotel for the first time and just loved it! A totally unique hotel, full of character, warm, clean and comfortable with very good service. I cant begin to describe it - please visit to experience this delightful place yourself. Highly recommended.
Stanley Dunthorne
Nov 22, 2021
Report
Had a grand one night stay here. It's a funny old hotel with bits and bobs all over the place. Our double room (105) was very spacious, clean and the bed was comfy. The shower worked well, but the only issue we had with our stay was that the bathroom blind was missing a few slats, it was a clear window and we were only on the first floor. So I'm pretty sure people might have been able to see in! Breakfast buffet (included in the 105) was decent, with a selection of hot stuff, cereals, yoghurts etc.
