If you’re yearning for a beach getaway without straying too far from London, you’re in luck! There are numerous fantastic options to choose from, offering everything from dramatic seaside cliffs to expansive sandy shores. These coastal destinations have something for everyone, making them the perfect escape for fashion lovers and beach enthusiasts alike. Get ready to have your jaw drop as we unveil the best beaches near London!
1. Camber Sands, Sussex
Located just 40 minutes away from London by train, Camber Sands is one of England’s finest beaches. With its four-mile stretch of pristine sands, families can enjoy safe swimming waters, kite-flying, and paddleboarding opportunities. The beach never feels overcrowded, and there are plenty of cafes, pubs, and shops to explore nearby.
2. Botany Bay, Kent
Head to Botany Bay near Broadstairs, Kent, for a unique beach experience. At high tide, the sea meets the cliff-tops at Newcastle Gap, creating a sheltered natural swimming pool to splash around in.
3. Ruislip Lido, West London
Although not among the country’s best beaches, Ruislip Lido is worth mentioning as it’s right on your doorstep! Only six minutes away from Ruislip station in West London, it boasts Europe’s largest open-air pool.
4. Frensham Beach, Surrey
Tucked amidst trees and hills, Frensham Beach’s beauty is accentuated by its location on a private estate. While there’s no public transport to the beach, it’s a beautiful place to spend the day and is arguably one of Surrey’s finest.
5. Whitstable Beach, Kent
Dubbed ‘the jewel of east Kent,’ Whitstable Beach was named the best beach in the UK by TripAdvisor. This two-mile pebble and shingle beach can be reached by a 40-minute train ride from London. Besides the sand, Whitstable is renowned for its galleries, museums, and a vibrant arts community.
6. Mersea Island, Essex
Mersea Island Beach, with its litter-free bay and soft sand dunes, is a popular getaway for Londoners. The beach has been awarded Blue Flag status for its water quality, cleanliness, and facilities.
7. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Bournemouth’s shingle beach, East Cliff, is one of the city’s seven award-winning beaches. The seafront boasts a pier and promenade, offering plenty of entertainment options.
8. Brighton Beach, East Sussex
No English beach list would be complete without Brighton Beach. This colorful beach town is perfect for a day out, regardless of the weather. Easily accessible by train, it’s a quick journey from London.
9. Hastings Beach, East Sussex
Hastings is another ideal seaside town for a day trip from London. The historic setting includes The Stade, the oldest pier in the country, dating back almost 600 years.
10. Southend-On-Sea, Essex
Southend-On-Sea may not be a hidden gem, but it offers a cheap and cheerful day trip option. With its pier, shops, and abundance of restaurants, there’s plenty to keep you entertained on the boardwalk.
11. Margate Beach, Kent
Inspired by Margate Beach, J.M.W. Turner’s famous painting, ‘The Fighting Temeraire,’ showcases the brig featured in the 1838 oil-on-canvas masterpiece. The beach has received the Seaside Award for four consecutive years, making it one of Britain’s cleanest.
12. West Wittering, West Sussex
Unlike the pebbled beaches on our list, West Wittering boasts sandy shores and vast sand dunes that stretch up to Chichester Harbour. If you seek tranquility away from the city’s hustle and bustle, this is the perfect beach destination.
13. Leigh-On-Sea, Essex
For those tired of sand but still yearning for a delightful seaside experience, Leigh-On-Sea’s shingle beach is an excellent choice. Situated between Southend-On-Sea and Shoeburyness, it offers plenty of parking and a whole shopping center dedicated to dining and drinking.
14. Shoeburyness, Essex
Shoeburyness Beach combines the pebbled shores of Shoebury Beach and the shingly beach of Shellness. Though it may require some effort to reach, settling into your deckchair will make the minor inconveniences seem trivial.
15. Herne Bay, Kent
With high water quality, Herne Bay’s award-winning beach is perfect for splashing around without worrying about contaminated water. A pier and a classic English amusement park add to its charm.
16. Great Yarmouth Beach, Norfolk
Offering 3.5 miles of golden sand and a range of entertainment options, Great Yarmouth Beach is just under two hours from London by car. Enjoy arcade games, carnival rides, water slides, and even a seal sanctuary.
17. Clacton-On-Sea Beach, Essex
Famous for being home to the world’s first-ever seaside pier built in 1853, Clacton-On-Sea still retains its old-school attractions, such as donkey rides and coconut shies. Live music events and an arcade add to the pier’s appeal.
18. Pevensey Bay Beach, East Sussex
Boasting three miles of golden sand, Pevensey Bay Beach is one of Britain’s largest sandy beaches. It’s located near Eastbourne and Brighton, making it an excellent option for those who prefer coastal landscapes.
19. Hampton Beach, Surrey
Only three miles from London, Hampton Beach is a stunning seaside resort with a natural harbor, vast sandy stretches, and abundant wild birdlife. It’s perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor gym enthusiasts.
20. Broadstairs Beach, Kent
Taking its name from Charles Dickens’ novel ‘David Copperfield,’ Broadstairs Beach was one of the author’s favorite spots, where he spent many summers. The beach’s pier with amusements and restaurants adds to the fun.
21. Bracklesham Bay, West Sussex
With a staggering 4.5 miles of sand, Bracklesham is one of the longest beaches in the UK. If you enjoy sandy landscapes and pedalo rides, this is the place for you.
22. Southwold Beach, Suffolk
Southwold Beach’s charm lies not only in its gorgeous scenery but also in its own pier, castle, and lighthouse. Enjoy exploring the coast and indulge in traditional English favorites like tea and scones.
23. Weymouth Beach, Dorset
Conveniently accessible by car along the M3 motorway, Weymouth Beach boasts a 4-mile stretch, providing ample space for everyone. Visitors can also enjoy quad biking near Corfe Castle.
24. Lyme Regis Harbour Beach, Dorset
A popular choice since the 1400s for its natural beauty, Lyme Regis Harbour Beach is just 40 minutes from London. Explore the town’s shops, cafes, and pubs after a relaxing stroll along the seafront.
25. Studland Bay, Dorset
Studland Bay has been a beloved spot in South England since the 1800s, attracting visitors with its beaches and clear waters. Indulge in ice cream and enjoy boating or fishing in Poole Harbour.
26. Osea Island, Essex
Osea Island is perfect for a weekend family beach trip. The private island
spans 1,500 acres of woodland and is located just five miles from Southend Pier. Choose from eco-friendly lodges or large cottages that accommodate up to ten people.
27. St Margaret’s Bay, Dover
Sailors will delight in the amazing views of the famous White Cliffs, while others can enjoy the golden sands and miles of coastline.
28. Cromer Beach, Norfolk
Steeped in history, Cromer Beach is one of Norfolk’s oldest towns. Enjoy watching ships arrive in nearby Sheringham or savor the famous crab sandwiches.
29. Walpole Bay, Kent
This seaside resort, located just two hours from London, is perfect for a weekend getaway. With numerous seafood restaurants, cafes, and a cricket club, it caters to a variety of interests.
With these hidden gems just a stone’s throw away from London, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to the perfect beach escape. Whether you prefer sandy stretches or pebbled shores, these coastal destinations are waiting to be explored. So, pack your beach essentials and head to these beautiful seaside havens!
