London may be known for its bustling city life, historical landmarks, and picturesque parks, but did you know that there are some incredible beaches just a short trip away? If you’re craving a coastal retreat without straying too far from the capital, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we will reveal the top five beaches near London that offer the perfect seaside escape for everyone, from families to solo travellers.
Whether you’re looking for a tranquil spot to soak up the sun, enjoy beachside activities, or simply breathe in the fresh sea air, these beaches have something for everyone. Each destination offers its unique charm and attractions, so let’s dive in and explore the best beaches (lakes and sea) within easy reach of London (approximately 2 hours by train, max).
Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach is a lively and iconic destination, known for its pebbled shore, Victorian pier, and vibrant atmosphere. Located just 54 miles south of London, it’s a popular day trip choice for Londoners looking to soak up some sun and enjoy the bustling beachfront.
At Brighton, you’ll find a variety of attractions, including the historic Brighton Palace Pier, which features an amusement park, arcade games, and food stalls. The beach is also lined with colourful beach huts, and there’s a thriving arts scene in the area, with plenty of galleries and boutiques to explore. The nearby Brighton Marina offers water sports activities, such as sailing and kayaking, as well as a variety of restaurants and bars.
To reach Brighton Beach from London, you can take a direct train from London Victoria, London Bridge, or London Blackfriars stations. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and there are regular services throughout the day. By car, the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Birling Gap
Birling Gap Beach, situated along the picturesque East Sussex coastline, offers a unique mix of rugged cliffs, a pebbly beach, and breathtaking views of the Seven Sisters chalk cliffs. This beach is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a tranquil escape from the city. Located about 65 miles south of London, it’s an excellent choice for a day trip or weekend getaway.
At Birling Gap, visitors can enjoy coastal walks, rock pooling, and fossil hunting, as well as a visit to the nearby National Trust visitor centre. The beach is also part of the South Downs National Park, so there are plenty of walking and hiking trails to explore in the surrounding area.
To reach Birling Gap Beach from London, take a train from London Victoria to Eastbourne, which takes approximately 1.5 hours. From Eastbourne, you can catch the bus number 13X towards Brighton, which stops at Birling Gap.
Ruislip Lido Beach
Ruislip Lido Beach is a hidden gem located in the heart of Ruislip Lido, a 60-acre lake surrounded by woodland in the London Borough of Hillingdon. With its sandy beach and beautiful scenery, Ruislip Lido offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, while still being within easy reach of Central London.
This family-friendly destination features a children’s splash pad, playgrounds, a miniature railway, and walking trails around the lake. There are also picnic areas, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day out with friends or family. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the surrounding Ruislip Woods, which is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
To get to Ruislip Lido Beach from London, take the Metropolitan Line from Baker Street or King’s Cross towards Uxbridge and alight at Ruislip Station. From there, it’s a 25-minute walk or a short bus ride (H13 or 331) to the Lido. The total journey time, including walking, is around 1 hour.
Margate
Margate Beach, located on the Kent coast, is a beautiful sandy beach with a rich history and a thriving creative scene. Just 74 miles east of London, Margate has been a favourite seaside destination for generations, offering a mix of traditional charm and modern attractions.
Visitors to Margate Beach can enjoy the classic British seaside experience, complete with a Victorian-era amusement park, Dreamland, as well as the iconic Margate Harbour Arm. The town is also home to the Turner Contemporary art gallery, which showcases both local and international artists. With its array of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants, Margate is a vibrant and bustling destination.
To reach Margate Beach from London, take a direct train from London St. Pancras, London Victoria, or London Bridge stations. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. If you prefer to drive, the trip takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Whitstable
Whitstable Beach, situated on the north coast of Kent, is a charming pebble beach known for its picturesque harbour, colourful beach huts, and thriving oyster industry. Located about 60 miles east of London, Whitstable offers a laid-back and friendly atmosphere that attracts both locals and tourists alike.
This quaint coastal town is famous for its annual Whitstable Oyster Festival, celebrating its rich maritime history. Whitstable also boasts a vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, studios, and independent shops. The beach itself is perfect for leisurely strolls and picnics, while the waters are popular for sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.
To get to Whitstable Beach from London, take a direct train from London St. Pancras or London Victoria stations. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
West Wittering
West Wittering Beach, located on the south coast of England in West Sussex, is a beautiful sandy beach with stunning views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. About 84 miles southwest of London, West Wittering offers a pristine and tranquil escape from the city.
With its Blue Flag status, West Wittering Beach boasts clean waters and excellent facilities, making it a popular destination for families. The beach is also known for its water sports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. The surrounding area offers scenic walks and nature reserves, perfect for birdwatching and exploring the local flora and fauna.
To reach West Wittering Beach from London, take a train from London Victoria to Chichester, which takes approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Chichester, you can take the bus number 52 or 53 towards West Wittering. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Southend-on-Sea
Southend-on-Sea, located in Essex, is a popular coastal town featuring a long stretch of pebble beach and the world’s longest pleasure pier. Approximately 40 miles east of London, Southend-on-Sea provides a classic British seaside experience, complete with amusement parks, arcades, and beautiful sea views.
Visitors to Southend can explore Adventure Island, a popular amusement park with thrilling rides and attractions, as well as the historic Southend Pier, which extends 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, a variety of restaurants and cafes, and an array of water sports activities, such as sailing and windsurfing.
To reach Southend-on-Sea from London, take a direct train from London Liverpool Street or London Fenchurch Street stations. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. If you prefer to drive, the trip takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Camber Sands
Camber Sands is a stunning sandy beach located near the village of Camber in East Sussex. With its vast stretch of golden sand and impressive sand dunes, it’s a popular destination for beachgoers seeking a picturesque escape from London, approximately 76 miles southeast of the city.
The beach at Camber Sands is perfect for sunbathing, building sandcastles, and enjoying a variety of water sports, including kite surfing, paddleboarding, and windsurfing. The surrounding area is rich in history and natural beauty, with the medieval town of Rye nearby and the Romney Marshes providing excellent opportunities for walking and birdwatching.
To get to Camber Sands from London, take a train from London St. Pancras or London Bridge stations to Rye, which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Rye, it’s a 10-minute taxi ride or a 20-minute bus ride (bus number 102) to Camber Sands. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Frensham Great Pond
Frensham Great Pond, situated in Frensham Common in Surrey, offers a unique inland beach experience surrounded by beautiful heathland and forest. Located approximately 40 miles southwest of London, Frensham Great Pond provides a tranquil and picturesque retreat for those seeking a peaceful day out close to the city.
The sandy beach at Frensham Great Pond is perfect for sunbathing, picnicking, and paddling in the clear waters. The area is also popular for sailing, fishing, and birdwatching, with numerous walking trails and cycling routes to explore in the surrounding Frensham Common.
To reach Frensham Great Pond from London, take a train from London Waterloo to Farnham, which takes around 1 hour. From Farnham Station, it’s a 15-minute taxi ride or a 30-minute bus ride (bus number 19) to Frensham Great Pond. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Walton-on-the-Naze
Walton-on-the-Naze is a charming seaside town in Essex, boasting a beautiful sandy beach and the second-longest pier in the UK. Located around 72 miles east of London, Walton-on-the-Naze offers a traditional British seaside experience, complete with stunning coastal views and a friendly atmosphere.
The beach at Walton-on-the-Naze is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games, while the historic Walton Pier offers amusements, ten-pin bowling, and fishing opportunities. The town is also home to the Naze Tower, an 18th-century navigation tower that now houses an art gallery and museum. The nearby Hamford Water National Nature Reserve provides excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks.
To get to Walton-on-the-Naze from London, take a direct train from London Liverpool Street station, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Broadstairs
Broadstairs is a charming seaside town on the Isle of Thanet in Kent, known for its picturesque sandy beaches and rich literary history. Situated approximately 80 miles east of London, Broadstairs offers a delightful blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, and family-friendly attractions.
Viking Bay is the town’s main beach, featuring a beautiful horseshoe-shaped bay, sandy shores, and colourful beach huts. Other nearby beaches include Joss Bay, Botany Bay, and Stone Bay, each offering their unique appeal. Broadstairs is also famous for its connection to Charles Dickens, with the Dickens House Museum and the annual Dickens Festival celebrating the town’s literary heritage. Visitors can explore the quaint streets, independent shops, and numerous cafes and restaurants that line the clifftop promenade.
To reach Broadstairs from London, take a direct train from London St. Pancras, London Victoria, or London Bridge stations. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Leigh-on-Sea
Leigh-on-Sea is a picturesque coastal town in Essex, located on the north side of the Thames Estuary. Approximately 40 miles east of London, Leigh-on-Sea boasts a rich maritime history, charming old town, and a beautiful pebble beach.
The beach at Leigh-on-Sea, also known as Bell Wharf Beach, offers stunning views of the estuary and the opportunity to explore the local cockle sheds and seafood stalls. The town’s Old Leigh area features narrow cobbled streets, traditional fishermen’s cottages, and a variety of pubs and restaurants offering local seafood. Leigh-on-Sea is also home to the Leigh Heritage Centre, which showcases the town’s history and its connection to the fishing industry.
To get to Leigh-on-Sea from London, take a direct train from London Fenchurch Street station, which takes around 50 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Dungeness
Dungeness is a unique and fascinating destination on the Kent coast, known for its stark beauty, shingle beach, and otherworldly landscape. Situated approximately 80 miles southeast of London, Dungeness offers a truly distinctive coastal experience, attracting artists, photographers, and nature lovers alike.
The beach at Dungeness features a vast expanse of shingle, dotted with historic fishing boats and rustic beach huts. The area is also home to the Dungeness Nature Reserve, a Site of Special Scientific Interest and a Ramsar site, where visitors can observe a diverse range of bird species and rare flora. Other attractions include the Dungeness Lighthouse, the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway, and the strikingly modernist Dungeness Power Station.
To reach Dungeness from London, take a train from London St. Pancras or London Bridge stations to Ashford International, which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Ashford, take a connecting train to Rye or Appledore, followed by a bus or taxi to Dungeness. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Minnis Bay
Minnis Bay is a lovely sandy beach located near Birchington-on-Sea on the north Kent coast. Approximately 70 miles east of London, Minnis Bay offers a peaceful and family-friendly beach experience, complete with a range of leisure facilities and stunning coastal views.
The beach at Minnis Bay is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and building sandcastles, while the grassy clifftop area is ideal for picnicking and relaxing. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including windsurfing, kitesurfing, and coastal walks along the Viking Coastal Trail. Minnis Bay also features a children’s playground, beach huts for rent, and a popular beachfront restaurant.
To get to Minnis Bay from London, take a direct train from London St. Pancras, London Victoria, or London Bridge stations to Birchington-on-Sea, which takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes. From Birchington-on-Sea station, it’s a 20-minute walk or a short taxi ride to Minnis Bay. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Greatstone Beach
Greatstone Beach is a vast and beautiful sandy beach located near the village of Greatstone in Kent. Approximately 75 miles southeast of London, Greatstone Beach offers a tranquil and unspoiled beach experience, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the city.
The beach at Greatstone is known for its fine golden sand, ideal for sunbathing, beach games, and building sandcastles. The shallow waters are perfect for paddling and swimming, while the consistent winds make it a popular spot for kitesurfing, windsurfing, and land yachting. The surrounding area also offers excellent opportunities for walking and birdwatching, with the nearby Dungeness Nature Reserve and the Romney Marshes.
To get to Greatstone Beach from London, take a train from London St. Pancras or London Bridge stations to Ashford International, which takes around 1 hour and 10 minutes. From Ashford, take a connecting train to New Romney or Appledore, followed by a bus or taxi to Greatstone Beach. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Eastbourne
Eastbourne is a popular seaside resort town in East Sussex, known for its stunning seafront, Victorian architecture, and beautiful beaches. Located approximately 66 miles south of London, Eastbourne offers a range of attractions and activities, making it an ideal destination for a day trip or longer stay.
The town’s main beach, Eastbourne Beach, features a long stretch of shingle with sandy patches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games. The iconic Eastbourne Pier, with its amusement arcades, cafes, and events, is a popular attraction. Other highlights include the picturesque Beachy Head cliffs, the historic Redoubt Fortress, and the Towner Art Gallery. Eastbourne also hosts various events throughout the year, such as the Eastbourne Airshow and the Eastbourne International tennis tournament.
To get to Eastbourne from London, take a direct train from London Victoria station, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Goring Beach
Goring Beach, located in the village of Goring-by-Sea in West Sussex, is a peaceful and picturesque pebble and sand beach that offers a relaxing retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. Situated approximately 60 miles south of London, Goring Beach provides a serene environment for visitors to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the shore.
The beach features a mix of sand and shingle, with a promenade that’s ideal for walking, cycling, and rollerblading. Goring Beach also boasts a wide expanse of green space behind the beach, perfect for picnicking and family activities. The nearby village of Goring-by-Sea offers a range of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and shops.
To reach Goring Beach from London, take a train from London Victoria station to Goring-by-Sea, which takes around 1 hour and 40 minutes. From Goring-by-Sea station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Bournemouth Beach
Bournemouth is a vibrant and bustling seaside resort town in Dorset, known for its beautiful sandy beaches, lively atmosphere, and a wide variety of attractions and activities. Located approximately 107 miles southwest of London, Bournemouth offers something for everyone, from families and couples to groups of friends looking for a fun-filled getaway.
The town’s main beach, Bournemouth Beach, boasts seven miles of golden sands, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beach games. The historic Bournemouth Pier offers amusements, an adventure park, and a variety of entertainment options. Other attractions in Bournemouth include the Oceanarium, the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, and the Lower Gardens. The town also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with numerous bars, clubs, and restaurants.
To get to Bournemouth from London, take a direct train from London Waterloo station, which takes around 1 hour and 50 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the journey takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Mersea Island
Mersea Island is a picturesque and tranquil island located in Essex, known for its beautiful beaches, unspoiled natural beauty, and delicious seafood. Situated approximately 70 miles east of London, Mersea Island offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to escape the city and reconnect with nature.
The island’s main beach, West Mersea Beach, features a mix of sand and shingle, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. The beach also offers stunning views across the Blackwater Estuary. Mersea Island is famous for its oysters, with the Company Shed and the West Mersea Oyster Bar being popular spots to sample the local delicacy. Other attractions on the island include the Mersea Island Vineyard, the Mersea Island Museum, and the charming fishing village of West Mersea.
To reach Mersea Island from London, take a train from London Liverpool Street station to Colchester, which takes around 50 minutes. From Colchester, take a bus or taxi to Mersea Island. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 hours, depending on traffic.
Clacton Beach
Clacton Beach is a popular and lively sandy beach located in the seaside resort town of Clacton-on-Sea in Essex. Approximately 80 miles east of London, Clacton Beach offers a fun and family-friendly beach experience, complete with a range of attractions and entertainment options.
The beach features golden sands, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and building sandcastles. Clacton Beach is also home to the iconic Clacton Pier, which boasts an array of amusements, rides, and entertainment for all ages. The town itself offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a bustling seafront promenade.
To get to Clacton Beach from London, take a direct train from London Liverpool Street station to Clacton-on-Sea, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Clacton-on-Sea station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the beach. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
Jaywick Beach
Jaywick Beach is a wide, sandy beach located in the village of Jaywick in Essex. Approximately 80 miles east of London, Jaywick Beach offers a peaceful and spacious environment for visitors to enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and leisurely strolls along the shore.
The beach features a long expanse of golden sand, backed by grassy dunes and a promenade that’s perfect for walking and cycling. While Jaywick Beach is less developed than some of the nearby resorts, it provides a tranquil atmosphere for those seeking a more relaxed beach experience.
To reach Jaywick Beach from London, take a train from London Liverpool Street station to Clacton-on-Sea, which takes around 1 hour and 30 minutes. From Clacton-on-Sea, take a bus or taxi to Jaywick Beach. Alternatively, you can drive, which takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
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Hi! I am George and I am the Content Lead for Stasher.com. I love travel, writing, making music and meeting new and interesting people.