A small independent shop in a Kent seaside town has captured the hearts of social media users, becoming an unexpected must-visit destination for Londoners seeking a dose of joy and nostalgia.
From Online Hype to Real-World Wonder
The shop, named Silly, opened its strikingly bright orange doors on Hawley Street in Margate's Old Town in the autumn of 2025. It has since transformed from a local curiosity into an internet sensation, thanks largely to visitors sharing its unique charm online.
One such visitor, Imogen Tinkler, decided to put the social media buzz to the test. After her visit, she took to TikTok to confirm that the hype was absolutely justified. "Went to see if it was actually that good... spoiler: it really, really is," she declared. She described Silly as a "tiny treasure" packed with items you don't need but instantly desire.
What's Inside the Orange Treasure Trove?
True to its motto of "trinkets, bits and things and such", Silly offers an eclectic array of weird and wonderful goods. Its shelves are crammed with a nostalgic mix that includes:
- Retro children's toys and Simpsons memorabilia
- 1990s kitchen crockery and books
- An "insane troll collection" and other curiosities
The shop also sells its own branded merchandise, ranging from clothing and stationery to candleholders. Imogen's experience resonated with many, with one TikTok user praising the shop's colour alone for making people smile, while another simply exclaimed "Nostalgia!"
A Shop That's More Than Just Silly
For owner Sheri Scott, also known as Forever Yours Betty, the shop has been a profound personal journey. She recently reflected on Instagram, stating that in just two months, "this not-so-silly orange shop became my saving grace... reminding me that joy and magic still exists." She revealed that a note she wrote in May 2025 saying "only something silly will save me" had prophetically come true, changing her life's trajectory.
The journey from London to Margate takes around 90 minutes on faster train services, with average travel times of about one hour and 45 minutes from London Victoria. Ticket prices can start from as little as £12, making it a feasible and charming day trip for those in the capital seeking an unusual retail experience.
