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The Shell Grotto

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The Shell Grotto is one of Margate's most awe inspiring and unusual attractions. Here you'll find 4.6 million shells, 2000sqft of mosaic and one big mystery!

In 1835 Mr James Newlove lowered his young son Joshua into a hole in the ground that had appeared during the digging of a duck pond. Joshua emerged describing tunnels covered with shells. He had discovered the Shell Grotto; 70ft of winding underground passages leading to an oblong chamber, its walls decorated with strange symbols mosaiced in millions of shells. Is it an ancient pagan temple? A meeting place for some secret cult? Nobody can explain who built this amazing place, or why, or when, but since its discovery visitors from all over the world have been intrigued by the beautiful mosaic and the unsolved mystery.

The Grotto has been in private hands since its discovery and remains so today. However, being a Grade 1 listed structure, English Heritage watches over its preservation.

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the grotto's dome roof
the shell grotto
beautifully intricate mosaics

Details

Further Information: The Eighth Wonder Café serves freshly-ground coffee and speciality teas, plus cold drinks and cakes, while our shop is stocked with a wide range of gifts. The Mystery Museum shares the artefacts relating to the Grotto and airs some of the many theories that attempt to explain its history. All are open at the above hours.
Opening Times: Open every day from Good Friday to Halloween, 10am-5pm. In winter we open at weekends only, 11am-4pm and we are closed over Christmas and New Year. Admission prices are £2.50 for adults, £1.50 for children or £7 for a family ticket (two adults and two children). Children aged three and under are free.