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Margate, at the moment, is trying to connect its past with its future. Its decline from seaside resort is well-documented: once famous for its sands, donkeys and Dreamland amusements, now only the sands remain as Dreamland has closed down and the donkeys have been led off to the glue factory.

But the cultural regeneration of Margate may see the return of Dreamland – and a lot more besides. An ambitious 10 year plan for Margate aims to develop the town into a cultural and creative hub for the area. The plan hinges on the Turner Contemporary Gallery, on target to open in Spring 2011, that will attract an estimated 130,000 tourists a year.

Even now, despite the slightly shabby first impression, Margate is full of hidden gems. Its Harbour Arm, overlooked by the Turner Contemporary Gallery, is a small community of quality bars, restaurants and shops. Across the main road from the Turner is the Old Town, with its furniture and clothes shops, galleries and cafes. It’s a world apart from the common image of Margate.

Away from the Old Town, Margate is home to the Theatre Royal, the second oldest theatre in the country, and the Tom Thumb theatre, the smallest in the country. Throw in the Ambrette, a unique Indian restaurant included in the Michelin Guide, and some of the excellent festivals run throughout the year, like Dippers and Dunkers, and you have the makings of a first-class cultural and culinary experience. In Margate, of all places. The future is already here.

That’s our beginner’s guide to Margate. Feel free to tell us how wrong / right we are.