Crab Museum
Small not-for-profit museum in Margate Old Town about crabs and other decapods, mixing science with humour.
Have only individual sections read aloud
About the museum
The Crab Museum is run by Crab Museum CIC, a not-for-profit community interest company, and describes itself as the first and only museum in Europe devoted to decapods, the group of crustaceans that includes crabs, lobsters and shrimp. It is on the first floor of 9 Broad Street in Margate Old Town, above the Pie Factory Gallery.
The museum presents natural history with a light touch. Its displays cover crab biology, climate change and evolutionary history, and tell stories such as that of the giant Margate crab. It also runs events, talks and performances, and sells crab-themed gifts and zines in its shop.
Entry is free and the museum relies on donations. It states that it will never charge an admission fee.
Highlights
- Free museum devoted to crabs and other decapods
- Exhibits on crab biology, climate change and evolution
- Shop with crab-themed souvenirs and zines
- Events, talks and performances
- Crab Cafe serving drinks
Permanent exhibition
- Crab Museum displays – Displays on crab biology, climate change and evolutionary history, including the story of the giant Margate crab.
- Operated by
- Crab Museum CIC
Admission & discounts
Admission is free.
Admission is free and the museum relies on donations. Some events and performances need a ticket.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible: not available
- Elevator: no information
- Accessible restroom: no information
- Accessible parking: no information
- Service dogs welcome
- Tactile models & exhibits: no information
- Sign language tours: no information
- Easy-to-read materials: no information
- Audio description: no information
The museum is reached by a flight of stairs with handrails and contrasting nosing and is not currently wheelchair accessible because of the building; the museum hopes to find a solution. Assistance dogs are welcome. Visitors with other access needs are invited to contact the museum.
Kids & families
The museum is reached by a flight of stairs; wheelchair access is not currently available.
Getting there & parking
By public transit
Cecil Square (bus) · 5-min walk
The nearest railway station is Margate; follow the coastline to the right and into the Old Town. The bus stop at Cecil Square is about a 5 minute walk away.
By car
Limited paid on-street parking outside; free parking is within walking distance.
The entrance is on Broad Street in Margate Old Town.
Get directionsAmenities & dining
- Café
- Restaurant: not available
- Museum shop
The Crab Cafe serves soft and alcoholic drinks. The shop sells crab-themed trinkets, souvenirs and educational zines.
Events & venue rental
The museum hasn’t published any information on this.
Plan your visit
| Good to know | Groups and school visits are welcome; schools should get in touch in advance. |
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