Question 1

I'm not Jewish and/or I don't know much about Jewish culture. Can I join a tour?

Accepted Answer

Of course you can! No prior background or knowledge is required. I will try to explain any terms used, and if you don't know what something means, please don't hesitate to ask.

Question 2

Is there parking nearby?

Accepted Answer

Cliftonville’s roads can be busy with limited parking. I recommend using paid parking at Trinity Square Car Park or the Lido, both within walking distance of the starting point outside the Winter Gardens.

Question 3

Can I travel to the event by train?

Accepted Answer

Margate train station is about a 15-minute (0.7 mile) walk from the Winter Gardens, mostly along the seafront. It’s a scenic route, or you can take a local bus to nearby stops like Cecil Square or Marine Terrace for a shorter walk.

Question 4

Can I travel to the event by bus?

Accepted Answer

Many bus routes stop at Cecil Square, just a 1-minute walk from the Winter Gardens. Cliftonville and Margate are also served by the Thanet Loop, a circular bus running every 8–10 minutes with multiple stops along Northdown Road.

Question 5

How long is the tour, and where does it start?

Accepted Answer

The tour lasts around 2.5 hours and begins near the Margate Winter Gardens at 1:30 PM (location TBC). Please arrive a few minutes early to check in.

Question 6

Where does the tour end?

Accepted Answer

The route spirals around Cliftonville and ends at Ark on Godwin Road, close to public transport links on Northdown Road and parking options. Full route details will be provided on the day.

Question 7

What should I wear/bring?

Accepted Answer

Please wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing. Bring water and sun protection if it’s hot, or an umbrella if it’s drizzling - we go in all weathers unless conditions are severe.

Question 8

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Accepted Answer

We try to choose step-free routes wherever possible, but some areas may have uneven pavements or narrow pathways. Please contact JTH in advance to discuss your specific access needs.

Question 9

Are there places to sit or rest?

Accepted Answer

The tour includes a great deal of standing and walking for extended periods. If this is something you may find uncomfortable, it may be worth bringing a portable camping chair with you.  Please contact JTH in advance to discuss your specific access needs.

Question 10

Will there be opportunities for toilet breaks?

Accepted Answer

There will be opportunities to use toilet facilities along the way, but due to the amount of time available, the tour will not be able to pause while in progress. We suggest that if you need the toilet along the route, to discuss your options with the guide.

Question 11

I have hearing or cognitive difficulties that are helped by using a transcription app. Can I use it?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Please contact JHT or tell the guide in advance that you are using this. Please note, video or audio recording will not be allowed.

Question 12

I'm a bit sensitive around certain subjects. Can I get a heads up if something is coming up?

Accepted Answer

Of course! Please speak to your tour guide, who will indicate when certain subjects will be covered, giving you the option to discreetly move away. It should come as no surprise, though, that being a Jewish history tour, there will be many references to unpleasant parts of Jewish history.

Question 13

Is the tour suitable for children?

Accepted Answer

The tour covers serious topics including anti-Semitism, persecution, and the Holocaust. It may not be suitable for children under 12, but this is at the discretion of the parent or guardian. All under-18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Question 14

My ancestor(s) lived/worked in Cliftonville! Can I ask more about them?

Accepted Answer

Yes, please do! These stories are part of what makes these tours come alive! However, it may be useful to contact JHT in advance with details of your specific ancestor(s), as then you can be provided with greater detail.

Question 15

I would love to know more about current Jewish life in the area. Can you tell me more?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! The tour guide will happily provide you with this information, including places of Jewish worship, local kehillah/community, access to kosher food, and any other queries you may have. If you are planning a visit to the area, contact JHT in advance for recommendations.

The Jewish History of Cliftonville West Evening Walking Tour