Welcome to
Makcaris
Bandstand

History of The Bandstand

The Central Bandstand, known as the Bandstand, in Herne Bay, Kent, England, was designed by H. Kempton Dyson in 1924, extended with an art deco frontage in 1932,
and refurbished between 1998 and 1999.
It is one of the coastal landmarks of the town. When first built, it was a popular venue for visiting military band concerts and for tea dances. Edwina Mountbatten spoke there on behalf of the Red Cross in 1939. In the 1920s and 1930s a red carpet would be laid across the road and up to the stage for the conductor of the brass band to walk from the Connaught Hotel which was directly opposite the Bandstand.
Makcari's at 47-54 Central Parade first opened it's doors in 1931 and as such is one of the oldest serving and surviving business in Herne Bay. Originally forming just one unit where the ice cream was hand made on the premises, over the years due to its ongoing success the business expanded to now occupy numbers 47-54. The offering has increased and now includes an award winning fish & chips takeaway and award winning handmade gelato. Crazy flavours on offer have included Marmite, Mushy Peas and Tomato Ketchup flavoured ice cream. Quality of food and drink. pleasant service and a fun environment are what makes Makcari's a unique and historic must visit site whether it be at the Bandstand or Central Parade. In 2009 the Bandstand became the home of MAKCARIS. Huge efforts have been made over the last few years, and continue to do so, to bring "The Bandstand" back to its former glory. In 2019 "The Bandstand" has once again become a very popular local attraction for tourists and locals alike, not only for the good entertainment but also for the high quality service, freshly made food and coffee.
Not forgetting that it is here where specially trained Gelato Chefs make the famous MAKCARIS Gelato for all the MAKCARIS Parlours.