Best Beaches for Day Trips Outside London

Since my relocation from Tel Aviv to London five years ago, there’s still a part of me that misses those beautiful beaches I left behind – however I have made it my mission to find them again here in the UK!

Today I’m thrilled to share some of my tried-and-tested best beaches near London for day trips within two hours by car (from North London where I reside). These destinations allow you to spend quality time sunbathing with your partner or children.

Before setting off to any beach from London:

1. Check the tide times!
   Don’t assume the sea will always be there when you arrive – many beaches are tidal, meaning low tide can bring many miles of shoreline with it – our recent trip to Southend-on-Sea involved arriving at 11:00 but waiting until 16:00 before seeing any sign of sea life! There’s plenty to keep you busy until then as well! Check back below to see more fun beach tips for beginners.
2. Visit on a weekday if possible
   To avoid crowds on hot summer weekdays with plenty of entertainment and food options readily available at your fingertips, try coming on a weekday if at all possible.
3. Book attractions in advance and get discounts – Picniq.com offers discounts for popular seaside attractions such as Brighton’s i360 (I managed to secure 40% off through there!)

* Car travel times displayed are relevant from North London, leaving home at 9:00 am as we usually do. Wherever public transport is not mentioned, that’s because it’s not accessible via public transport without massively extending the travel time, taking it beyond the scope of a day trip.

Southend-on-Sea

Car travel time: 1 hr 15 min

(1 hr by train from London’s Fenchurch Street)

Southend-on-Sea is considered by many to be one of the premier beach towns near London for all ages and occasions, due to its convenient proximity and diverse entertainment offerings.

Here are our favourite things to do in Southend as a family of 4:

1. Bring the whole family on a stroll along Southend Pier: Relax while walking or taking the train that travels along this longest pleasure pier in the world, boasting beautiful coastal views – you may even spot seals!
2. Visit Adventure Island: This amusement park boasts more than 60 rides and attractions, such as roller coasters, water rides, arcade games, and much more – making this trip sure to please both kids and adults!
3. Discover Sea Life Adventure Aquarium: Up close and personal, my kids enjoy watching penguins, sharks and colourful fish at this popular aquarium. My son especially enjoys seeing all of their favourites such as penguins, sharks and colourful fish up close!
4. Southend Beach: Spend the day creating sandcastles, flying kites and revelling in beachside fun. Pack up a picnic and soak up the sun – don’t forget to coordinate your arrival time with tide times!
5. Discover fun at The Palace Theatre: Take a look at their schedule for family-oriented shows and performances at this historic theatre; it is the ideal way to introduce children to live entertainment!

Bournemouth

Car travel time: 2hrs 30min

(2 hrs 30 mins from London’s Victoria Station)

Although Bournemouth may be further away, I consider it one of my top beach town choices due to its seven mile-long sandy beach which provides ample room for family beach vacationing (during summer months only!).

Discover all there is to do in Bournemouth by visiting its beach, which features golden sands and clear waters – ideal for fun family outings!

Accommodation Tip: Stay at Nici Hotel, it’s the most luxurious pet-friendly hotel I’ve ever been in.

1. Discover Bournemouth’s Oceanarium: Nestled along its seafront, Bournemouth’s Oceanarium provides an amazing opportunity for children and their parents to learn about marine life. With fascinating creatures such as sharks and turtles on display alongside engaging exhibits, kids will be fascinated with what lies beneath the waves!
2. Ride the Bournemouth Balloon: I can’t wait to experience this thrilling balloon ride over Bournemouth city and stunning coastline – kids of all ages will surely love this experience.
3. Discover Adventure Wonderland: Just outside Bournemouth lies Adventure Wonderland – a theme park tailored for younger children with rides, shows and attractions inspired by Alice in Wonderland that provide hours of enjoyment for them! It offers rides, shows and attractions like no other! It truly provides children an adventure they won’t soon forget!
4. Spend an enjoyable day at Bournemouth Gardens: These exquisite gardens provide plenty of room for picnicking, playtime and relaxation – there’s even a mini-golf course and an aviary the kids would love.

Camber Sands

Car travel time: 2 hrs 10 mins

Camber Sands boasts a gorgeous beach with lush dunes, providing the ideal place for beach games and picnics. Our favourite time of visitation during warm and sunny weekdays; on weekend mornings try arriving early so as to secure an ideal spot.
Camber Sands offers plenty of ways to spend quality family time, both with and without kids:

1. Enjoy relaxing on the beach: Camber Sands’ wide sandy beach offers endless opportunities for building sandcastles, flying kites and enjoying picnics; it also provides shallow waters suitable for little ones to play and splash around safely.
2. Watersports: If you and your family like exploring new adventures, watersports might be an exciting activity to try! Rent kayaks or paddle boards (my husband even brings his from home!) to explore coastal regions or take surf lessons with experienced instructors.
3. Explore Rye Harbour or Dungeness Nature Reserves: Take a short drive out to Rye Harbour or Dungeness Nature Reserves for some nature walks, birdwatching and learning about the varied wildlife in the area. These reserves provide an ideal way for kids and adults alike to connect with nature!

Margate

Car travel time: 2 hrs

(1 hr 30 mins from London St. Pancras International)

Margate, in Kent, is an attractive coastal town offering activities to keep kids and adults occupied for an enjoyable visit. Much like Southend-on-Sea, I find Margate especially appealing as it draws me closer to Botany Bay (my next target destination).

Here are the best things to do in Margate for all ages:

1. Have fun at Margate Main Sands: With its vast sandy beach and shallow waters, Margate Main Sands provides a fantastic environment for building sandcastles, flying kites and playing beach games; creating an ideal day trip experience for families of all ages.
2. Dreamland Amusement Park: This retro amusement park provides an array of classic and modern rides designed to excite kids of all ages, from vintage roller coasters and carousel rides, to carousel rides and arcade games – there’s sure to be no shortage of excitement at Dreamland!
3. Discover the Shell Grotto: Take an exciting underground journey in the mysterious Shell Grotto and be amazed by its intricate shell mosaic walls – young children as well as adults will be mesmerised! Explore its secrets while uncovering its unique appeal!
4. Explore the Turner Contemporary: Take a stroll along Margate’s seafront to visit this world-class contemporary art museum known for its interactive installations, workshops and special events tailored towards children. It often hosts installations, workshops and even events especially designed to cater to them!
5. The Sunken Gardens: Situated on Broadstairs and Botany Bay’s seafront promenade, the Sunken Gardens is a lovely green space where children can run, play and picnic amidst lush landscaping. Additionally, there’s even a play area featuring swings and slides designed specifically to entertain younger visitors.

Broadstairs and Botany Bay

Car travel time: 2 hrs 10 mins

Broadstairs and Botany Bay provide the ideal seaside escape, and is one of my favourite coastal retreats in Britain.

This peaceful sandy beach with chalk cliffs is the ideal location for strolls, picnics and building sandcastles. Our favourite time of year to visit this secluded spot is late summer when weather permits walking cliff-top trails. Tide times should always be checked to ensure plenty of sand for playtime!

Here are a few of the top activities in and around Broadstairs and Botany Bay:

1. Wold Bay Beach (Viking Bay Beach in Broadstairs) is ideal for paddling, swimming and exploring rock pools when the tide goes out – make it part of your day trip and experience this local treasure!
2. Dickens House Museum: Gain insight into Charles Dickens’ life and works at this museum located in his cottage home when visiting Broadstairs. Children will gain knowledge about this legendary author as they explore Victorian artefacts that date back to when Dickens resided there regularly.
3. Food Tip: Morelli’s Gelato: Give your kids something sweet to enjoy at Morelli’s Gelato on Eastbourne Promenade – offering delicious ice cream of every flavour imaginable and sweet treats to satisfy every sweet tooth! (West Sussex and Seven Sisters only).

Eastbourne and Seven Sisters

Car travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins

(1 hr 40 mins from London Bridge)

Eastbourne provides both sandy beach enjoyment and breathtaking cliffside scenery from its Seven Sisters white cliffs. To experience them at their best, go from late spring through early autumn – don’t forget your hiking boots as there’s plenty of adventure waiting to be explored at nearby South Downs National Park too!

Top accommodation tip: Although further from London than its counterparts, Eastbourne and Seven Sisters still make for excellent day trips from London. I highly recommend The View hotel in Eastbourne for fantastic views as well as breakfast at an affordable price. In Eastbourne there’s the Aquarium as well as walking tours. In Seven Sisters the two parks can provide ample activities as well. In Eastbourne there’s the historic Market Place with plenty of interesting shops; Seven Sisters has some beautiful nature walks

In Eastbourne:

1. Unwind and sunbathe on Eastbourne Beach’s long stretch of sandy shore: an ideal setting for sunbathing and taking in coastal life.
2. Coast Walks: Eastbourne Beach offers beautiful coastal walks to make for the ideal spot to unwind and unwind, with picturesque promenades lined by trees that lead you past stunning views of English Channel and Pier as you take a leisurely stroll along.
3. Swimming, Paddling & Watersports: If weather conditions permit it, grab or rent your paddleboard and explore the refreshing waters of the English Channel. Lifeguard supervision during summer months ensures safety; nearby rental facilities also offer equipment and lessons for various water activities.
4. Eastbourne Pier: Don’t miss a trip to Eastbourne Pier, which boasts amusement arcades, shops and food stalls as well as stunning panoramic coastal views from its decks. Don’t forget about taking a spin on its traditional Victorian carousel too!
5. Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway Adventure Park: Explore Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway’s charming miniature steam railway and experience all that this park offers with its play areas and outdoor attractions.
6. Treasure Island Adventure Park: Situated near the seafront, this adventure park provides an array of activities such as mini-golf, go-karts and a bouncy castle.

At Seven Sisters:

1. Seven Sisters Country Park: Head out with your family for an enjoyable stroll through this gorgeous Seven Sisters Country Park for breathtaking coastal views, winding trails and wildlife sightings!
2. Beachcombing and Fossil Hunting: Explore Seven Sisters Beach to search for seashells, fossils, and other treasures along the coastline.
3. Cuckmere Haven Beach: Enjoy an idyllic stroll along Cuckmere Haven’s winding river, taking in stunning natural surroundings while playing in the water and taking note of local flora and fauna. Kids may especially love playing here!

Brighton

Car travel time: 2hrs 10 mins

(1 hr from London Bridge)

Brighton’s pebble beach is one of the best-known near London, while the city itself offers plenty of activities to fill your day. Brighton can often be busy; for an unhurried visit, consider visiting during summer or late spring weekdays when there will be less crowds but you still get some sun!

1. Visit the Brighton Palace Pier: The Brighton Palace Pier is an iconic seaside attraction offering rides, arcade games, and food stalls. If you visit Brighton without taking a stop by this classic seaside attraction and taking pictures with its sign or colourful beach huts – have you actually been?
2. Explore the Brighton i360: Experience Brighton from above at 162 metres (531 feet), making it the world’s tallest moving observation tower! The futuristic design, including a slim tower and glass viewing pod, creates an iconic landmark along Brighton’s seafront; book early for discounts at picniq.com!
3. Enter The Upside Down House: Tickets cost around PS5, providing an enjoyable mind-bending experience that provides many photo ops for both kids and adults.
4. Visit Sea Life Brighton: Experience marine life like never before at this beach-front aquarium, featuring sharks, turtles and colourful tropical fish of all varieties – great fun for all ages.
5. Visit the Royal Pavilion: To appreciate this iconic landmark you don’t need to be an architecture aficionado or history scholar; anyone can appreciate this masterpiece built in 19th-century for George IV and featuring a combination of Indian and Chinese architectural styles reminiscent of a game of Tetris; definitely something a child of the 90s should visit!

Mersea Island

Car travel Time: 1 hour 40 min

This picturesque island off of Essex boasts both sandy and pebbly beaches. Renowned for its seafood offerings, I recommend spending your day exploring its beaches while tasting some of its celebrated oysters!

Mersea Island offers plenty of things to see and do:

1. Visit West Mersea Beach: My pick for an enjoyable beach experience where kids can have fun playing beach games and swimming in the sea. This sandy beach provides plenty of room for relaxing day trips.
2. Outdoor Adventures: Mersea Island offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun! My husband especially enjoys cycling here and we all take great pleasure from taking walks along its scenic coastal paths. Additionally, this island is popular for watersports such as kayaking and sailing; equipment rental can be found directly on Mersea.
3. Discover Cudmore Grove Country Park: This coastal nature reserve boasts walking trails, picnic areas and a sandy beach for kids to play on as they explore its rich array of flora and fauna as well as wildlife sightings.
4. Mersea Island Vineyard: Adults can explore this vineyard, gain knowledge about winemaking, and even sample some of the delicious wines created on Mersea Island.
5. Oyster Fishing Trips: Mersea Island is well known for its exquisite oysters. Why not go on an oyster fishing trip and learn all about harvesting them and even try your hand at catching some? Herne Bay also provides excellent oyster opportunities.

Herne Bay

Car travel time: 1 hr 50 mins

(2 hrs from London St. Pancras International)

Herne Bay is a laid-back seaside town, boasting both sandy and pebbly beaches. There are several attractions here including an attractive clock tower, museum, and small zoo for children to explore. Summer months offer even more attractions as their market on the pier opens (I sampled some delicious cherries along with various craft stands and (paid) shows every weekend!

1. Herne Bay Beach: Enjoy an idyllic day at Herne Bay Beach with its colourful promenade and beach huts that add charm. Additionally, there are cafes offering live music performances as well as numerous cafes that provide food services and facilities.
2. Herne Bay Pier: With breathtaking coastal views and exciting arcades and rides to keep both kids and adults busy for hours on end, Herne Bay Pier makes an excellent day trip destination.
3. Reculver Country Park: Situated just outside Herne Bay, Reculver Country Park provides scenic walks, wildlife sighting opportunities and an opportunity to discover the remains of Reculver Towers from history.
4. Mini Golf: Mini-Golf courses in Herne Bay offer children an enjoyable mini-golf experience, especially along the coast. There are a number of mini-golf courses, all offering friendly competition. A family favourite!

Hastings

Car travel time: 2hrs 10 mins

(1 hr 30 mins from London Bridge)

Hastings is an historic coastal town located in East Sussex. Perhaps best known for the Battle of Hastings that took place in 1066 and changed English history, although not actually taking place here, the town still bears its name and has an amazing past tied to that event – making for an enjoyable visit every time! Hastings offers an eclectic blend of history, culture and seaside charm which makes for an enjoyable visit time after time.

Best Things to do in Hastings:

1. Hastings Pier was first constructed in 1872 and has gone through many renovations over time – most notably in 2010 after suffering fire damage from an arsonist attack. Offering beautiful views over Hastings as well as family friendly fun such as arcade rides.
2. Explore Hastings’ Old Town: Take a stroll through Hastings’ charming Old Town for an experience you won’t soon forget! Wander its narrow, cobblestone streets, browse quirky stores and stop for sweets at one of its traditional sweet shops – you won’t be disappointed!
3. Hastings Castle: For history enthusiasts, Hastings Castle’s ruins hold significant importance and offer breathtaking views over Hastings Town. Kids will love exploring this mediaeval fortress while taking in panoramic vistas from its heights.
4. Alexandra Park: At approximately 109 acres in size, Alexandra Park features numerous lakes, lawns, gardens and woodland – perfect for family strolls or picnics!
5. Clement’s Caves: Now known as ‘Smugglers Adventure,’ these caves provide a journey back in time by sharing tales about smugglers who once used these caverns for trade purposes.
6. 1066 Battle of Hastings Abbey and Battlefield: Just minutes away from Hastings is the site of William the Conqueror’s abbey (free admission for English Heritage members). Here visitors can explore both battlefield and abbey ruins built by him – both sites can be explored during an English Heritage membership trip!
7. Take a ride on the East Hill Cliff Railway: For an exciting and unique ride up East Hill, hop aboard this funicular railway that transports passengers up to its summit. Children will especially love experiencing riding an elevated railway up a steep cliff while taking in breathtaking views over town and sea!
8. Hastings Miniature Railway: Take a journey on Hastings Miniature Railway, an adorable narrow-gauge train running alongside the seafront. Children love taking a ride on this charming narrow gauge railway with iconic blue and yellow steam engines!

Bexhill-on-Sea

Car travel Time: 2 hrs 10 min

(2 hrs 15 mins from London Bridge)

Bexhill-on-Sea is an idyllic seaside resort town in East Sussex, England, popularly known for its clean pebble beach, iconic De La Warr Pavilion and as the birthplace of British motor racing. Additionally, Bexhill boasts one of the first seafront promenades built in England; making this destination a must-visit!

Here are a few of the top things to do in Bexhill for kids and adults alike:

1. Bexhill Beach: Starting your exploration at this breathtaking stretch of shoreline offers endless possibilities – picnicking, building pebble towers, swimming (if the weather allows it), or simply strolling along its historic promenade are just a few ways it can fill a day!
2. Egerton Park: Situated just steps away from the beach, Egerton Park boasts a boating lake, tennis courts and children’s playground – plus there’s even an inviting cafe offering snacks or ice cream treats!
3. Drusillas Park: Situated nearby in Alfriston, Drusillas Park has earned its place as one of the top small zoos in Britain. Offering animals of all kinds as well as play areas and even an adventure train ride starring Thomas the Tank Engine!
4. Cycling tip: the beautiful, mostly flat cycle path running from Bexhill to Hastings is an amazing way to explore the coastline.

Whitstable

Car travel time: 1h 40min

While not sandy, Whitstable’s pebble beach is certainly worth visiting. Renowned for its oyster festival held annually in July and boasting colourful beach huts that add charm, Whitstable also offers boating and water sport opportunities for more daring adventurers.

Best things to do in Whitstable:

1. Whitstable Beach: Whitstable Beach offers children an ideal environment for building sandcastles, collecting seashells, and paddling in the water. There are colourful beach huts as well as an extended stretch of pebble shoreline to discover during their time at this Whitstable beach destination.
2. Whitstable Castle and Gardens: Explore Whitstable Castle and its charming garden surroundings, where children can explore enchanting garden grounds, play in its playground, and picnic on its beautiful lawns. In addition, events and workshops geared toward children may take place there as well.
3. Whitstable Harbour: Take a stroll along Whitstable Harbour to admire its fishing boats and yachts, watch local fishermen bringing in their catch, or sample fresh seafood at one of many stalls or restaurants along the harbour.
4. Crabbing: Whitstable is famous for its crab catching opportunities. Head down to the harbour with the kids and let them try their luck at capturing crabs using net and bucket. Crab fishing is an engaging and timeless activity, sure to delight.
5. Tankerton Slopes and Gardens: Take a walk along Tankerton Slopes for breathtaking seaside views and extensive green spaces perfect for picnicking, as well as play areas for kids, colourful beach huts and play spaces.

Walton-on-the-Naze

Car travel time: 2 hrs

This sandy beach destination is particularly appealing due to the landmark Naze Tower, an 86ft landmark offering breathtaking panoramic views from which one can appreciate late spring or summer’s coastal panoramas. Make sure not to forget checking out Hamford Water National Nature Reserve as well, where local wildlife resides!

Best things to do in Walton-on-the-Naze:

1. Walton Pier: Enjoy Walton Pier, stretching along the coastline. Featuring amusement arcades, rides and attractions suitable for all ages – kids will especially love playing games on its amusement arcades, riding its carousel or trying their luck at winning prizes.
2. Beach Fun: Make memories at Walton-on-the-Naze’s beautiful sandy beach for a day filled with fun activities for children of all ages. Build sandcastles, play beach games, swim in the summer seawater or explore this space on long walks, picnics and exploring excursions.
3. Naze Tower: Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from this historical landmark with panoramic views of both coastline and countryside. Inside this tower can also be found a small museum/art gallery highlighting local talent.
4. Explore Nature Reserves: Visit one of the many nearby nature reserves such as Walton-on-the-Naze Nature Reserve and Hamford Water National Nature Reserve, both boasting diverse wildlife and providing scenic walks, birdwatching, and photography opportunities in their landscapes.
5. Fossil Hunting: Walton-on-the-Naze is known for its rich fossil deposits in its cliffs. Take a stroll along its beach and try your luck at finding fossils – you may come across shark teeth, ammonites or other prehistoric artefacts! This area is particularly prolific.
6. Don’t miss Walton-on-the-Naze Carnival during your summer trip if possible – featuring parades, live music performances, stalls and various family-oriented activities, it promises a great time!

Littlehampton

Car travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins

(2 hrs 30 mins from London Bridge)

Littlehampton, located in West Sussex, is known for its sandy beaches and charming harbours, as well as an amusement park that can provide hours of fun. Summer is the ideal time to visit Littlehampton when all attractions are fully operational and the temperature is more inviting and warmer.

Littlehampton’s location near Arundel Castle provides opportunities for further exploration. Within an easy car ride away lies Arundel Castle – offering insight into local history and architectural style as well as offering beautiful gardens that add another dimension to Littlehampton’s seaside experience.

Best things to do in Littlehampton:

1. Visit the Beach: Littlehampton’s sandy beaches offer an ideal environment for families to relax, build sandcastles and take in all that the seaside offers. Plus, shallow waters make paddling and swimming safe for younger visitors!
2. Explore the Harbour: The harbour is a bustling hub of sail and fishing boats, making it a wonderful spot for families to learn about different types of vessels and have some fun discovering their differences.
3. Littlehampton Amusement Park: Located along the seashore, this amusement park provides rides and games suitable for children of all ages to enjoy.
4. Arundel Castle: Situated just a short drive away, Arundel Castle makes for an exciting day trip that allows families to learn about its rich history while taking in its magnificent gardens.
5. Harbour Park: Harbour Park offers family amusement along the seafront, offering both indoor and outdoor rides and attractions – making it a good choice no matter the season!
6. Norfolk Gardens: Offering mini golf, putting green, and tennis courts for families to enjoy.
7. Littlehampton Museum: This local museum provides exhibits about Littlehampton’s history, archaeology and geology – making it an educational visit perfect for families.

My To-Do List of Beaches Outside London

As much as we’ve enjoyed exploring many beaches and beach towns near London during weekend day trips, there are still quite a few I have yet to visit and so here is my “to do list”, I will update this post as we explore them all!

Clacton-on-Sea

Car travel time: 1 hr 50 mins

(1 hr 45 mins from Tottenham Court Road)

Clacton-on-Sea is a charming coastal town located in Essex that is well known for its idyllic sandy beaches and iconic British seaside charm. Clacton Pier, the highlight of the town, offers entertainment such as funfair rides, arcade games, live shows and various eateries.

Clacton Seafront Gardens provide a peaceful respite from the vibrant beach scene, while Martello Tower stands as an historical landmark offering stunning panoramic views. Additionally, Clacton offers many beachside activities for sunbathing, swimming and water sports such as kayaking or paddle-boarding.
I can’t wait to get there and report back!

Frinton-on-Sea

Car travel time: 2 hrs

Frinton-on-Sea is a relaxing seaside town known for its sandy beach and picturesque beach huts. Offering a relatively more serene atmosphere than other seaside locations, it sounds like the ideal spot for family picnics or strolls. According to my research though, in the summer however, Frinton comes alive with activities as Connaught Avenue becomes known as ‘Bond Street of East Anglia’!

Frinton-on-Sea’s culinary scene includes everything from cozy tearooms offering traditional British cream teas, to restaurants offering locally sourced seafood. Another one for the books!

Weymouth

Car travel time: 3hrs 30 mins

Though better to save this one for an overnight stay, weymouth is a southern idyllic coastal destination thanks to its lively atmosphere and stunning sandy beaches. A signature feature of Weymouth’s seaside town is its popular donkey rides for all ages! (so fun). Weymouth promenades are loved by explorers due to their beautiful Georgian architecture, creating captivating structures. enclosed by these captivating structures invite leisurely strolls for exploration.

Weymouth’s beaches become a hub of activity in the summer with water sports and beach games. Most visitors recommend the Sea Life Centre as a must. Weymouth is a great seaside escape for friends and families.

Dungeness

Car travel time: 2hrs 10 mins

Dungeness on Kent’s coastline is one of the most curious places I’m yet to visit, providing a relaxing beach experience like no other. It offers a desert-like escape, due to the sheer vastness of the shingle beach, low development and scarce vegetation. This atmosphere is enhanced further by two iconic lighthouses offering magnificent panoramic views over this distinctive environment.

Dungeness’ Miniature Railways look like the best way to add a sense of nostalgia to your visit, allowing you to explore its beauty from all angles, which become even more beautiful and lit especially in the summertime.

Folkestone

Car travel time: 1hr 50 mins

(2 hrs 30 mins from London St. Pancras International)

Folkestone offers both a sandy beach and revitalised harbour area, complete with pop-up restaurants and even a lighthouse champagne bar (which I still need to experience!). In addition, its Creative Quarter area hosts an active arts community. Places most visitors are excited about: The Lower Leas Costal Park, Riding the Leas Lift, Folkestone Harbour Arm and The Warren (a coastal nature reserve with stunning cliffs and walks.

West Wittering

Car travel time: 2 hrs 20 mins

West Wittering Beach in West Sussex is described by visitors as an idyllic coastal destination most known for its soft sandy beach and crystal-clear turquoise waters. This beach is perfect for sunbathing due to its dunes acting as natural windbreakers, so imagine a sunbathing in a relaxing atmosphere amidst serene dunes enclosing it all. Plus its inviting waters make for refreshing swims; making this destination both family- and solo travellers alike!

West Wittering Beach is not only packed with natural beauty but also offers incredible views of Chichester Harbour for an enhanced seaside experience. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are highly sought-after water sports in West Wittering thanks to consistently strong wind currents providing optimal conditions. Packing my bags as we speak.

Shoeburyness

Car travel time: 1 hr 25 mins

(1 hr 30 mins from Embankment)

Shoeburyness, located on the Essex coastline, is best known for its stunning coastline and scenic waterfront area. At its heart lies the Thames Estuary where there are beautiful sandy beaches.

Shoeburyness’s Blue Flag beach is a must-visit, according to many explorers, providing an idyllic stretch of white sand and clear waters, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and strolling. Additionally, windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts often make use of its favourable wind conditions.

East Beach is another recommended spot close by, an artist-friendly refuge known for its distinctive combination of shingle and mudflat landscape that creates striking, natural patterns.

Nature enthusiasts should make time for a visit to Gunners Park and Shoebury Ranges nature reserve, home to various bird species – perfect for bird watching!

Leysdown Beach

Car travel time: 1 hr 40 mins

Leysdown Beach on Kent’s Isle of Sheppey is known for its gorgeous golden sand and calm waters of the Thames Estuary, making it the perfect location for sunbathing, building sand castles, and shoreline strolls. At low tide rock pools appear, providing opportunities for exploration.

With many amenities nearby, the beach area features cafes, ice cream shops and classic fish and chip stands to add to the full English beach experience. Nearby arcades add nostalgic fun while outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy jet skiing, sailing and wind surfing ideal activities