Sometimes it is nice to escape the busy city and take in some sea air, so let’s take a look at some great beaches which make a fantastic day trip from London. Don’t forget your bucket and spade.
London may be a bustling city with a fast-paced vibe, but did you know it is close to many incredible beaches, ideal for sunny beach day trips?
Since the distances in England are not so vast, you can easily spend the morning shopping before relaxing at sea within an hour. But which ones are worth the trip?
So, if you fancy a combination of city and shore, then these ten beaches near London are a perfect choice.
10. Chalkwell Beach – a quick 90-minute ride from London
Located in Southend-on-Sea, Chalkwell Beach is a fantastic choice for a beach getaway since it is just 90 minutes by train from London.
Featuring a pebble and sand beach and a gorgeous promenade with plenty of places to grab seaside snacks, Chalkwell Beach is one of the prettiest places to take a walk or enjoy a refreshing swim.
Address: Southend-on-Sea, United Kingdom
9. Tankerton Beach – for gorgeous views and wooden huts
Tankerton Beach has many great features and stunning views, especially from the hilltop benches, but what makes it stand out is the colourful beach huts and long stretch of promenade, which is ideal for walking or cycling.
This is an excellent beach for swimming since the waters are known to be calm, and there are certain areas of the beach observed by lifeguards, making it perfect for families.
You can make your way to Tankerton from London Victoria, Cannon Street, or St Pancras.
Address: Tankerton Rd, Whitstable CT5 2BE, United Kingdom
8. West Wittering Beach – a simply gorgeous sandy beach
Just a 90-minute train journey from London will take you to West Wittering Beach, one of the best beaches near London for kitesurfing, picnics, and relaxing on the golden sand.
With excellent facilities, including parking, various eateries, and shallow waters, perfect for kids who love to swim, West Wittering Beach is one to add to the list for a combination of everything.
Address: Pound Rd, West Wittering, Chichester PO20 8AJ, United Kingdom
7. Whitstable Beach – for seafood lovers
Whitstable is an excellent choice for a beach day trip from London, especially if you enjoy oysters. The charming seaside town in Kent is well known for its annual oyster festival every July and is a mecca for some of the freshest oysters in England.
Whitstable Beach is a family-friendly shingle beach which is just a stone’s throw from all the best seafood restaurants, especially The Forge, which is famous for its high-quality fresh catch.
Address: 32 Island Wall, Whitstable CT5 1ER, United Kingdom
6. Camber Sands Beach, Rye – with rolling dunes and a relaxed vibe
Located just one hour by train from London, Camber Sands is one of the best beaches to visit, with its iconic dunes, water sports opportunities, and lifeguards on site to make it a safe beach for swimming.
This long stretch of shoreline allows you to find a peaceful spot for relaxation, plus it has on-site parking and is a great beach to beat the crowds and enjoy some tranquillity.
Address: United Kingdom
5. Botany Bay Beach – a Charles Dickens favourite under chalk cliffs
If it was good enough for Charles Dickens, it’s good enough for us. The stunning Botany Bay Beach is located in the small town of Broadstairs, where David Copperfield was written, adding to its already apparent charm.
The area of Broadstairs has a variety of excellent beaches, with Botany Bay Beach being one of the most popular choices, with rock pools and incredible cliff views. The chalk white cliffs make for the perfect backdrop.
Botany Bay Beach is also amazing for fossil hunting.
Address: Marine Dr, Cliftonville, Broadstairs CT10 3LG, United Kingdom
4. Margate Beach – an iconic seaside destination
Margate Beach is famous all over England since it is known for its bustling seaside vibes, arcades (Dreamland is the best!), eateries, and tidal swimming pool.
This landmark area is one of the best beaches near London, just a 90-minute train journey from the capital. For fun, frolics, and amusement park rides, Margate needs to be considered for an exciting day trip.
Address: Margate, United Kingdom
3. Southend-on-Sea – home to the longest pleasure pier in the world
If you are searching for a less crowded seaside resort close to London, Southend-on-Sea has to be added to your list. In this Essex resort town, you will find a lovely village, a long stretch of coastline, and beautiful views.
Famous for having the longest pleasure pier in the world, this place has many activities, attractions, and entertainment without massive crowds. A must for families!
Address: Southend-on-Sea, UK
2. Hove Beach – a laid-back, low-key option
Hove Beach is located in Hove, a neighbouring town to Brighton in East Sussex. While Brighton may be a bustling place to have fun and be entertained, Hove offers a more relaxing vibe which appeals to many.
This blue flag-awarded beach is an ideal place to swim and soak up the sun, while the area of Hove is known for its upscale restaurants, craft beer pubs and fancy chip shops.
Address: Hove, UK
1. Brighton Beach – a firm favourite for Londoners
Brighton Beach is the most popular beach for a day trip from London since it is just one hour by train from the city and has all the features that make up a fantastic seaside destination.
Brighton has long been a popular choice for Londoners to escape to the beach, where there are many entertainment options, eateries, cocktail bars, and Brighton Pier, as well as a long stretch of pebble beach to enjoy.
Address: Brighton, UK
Notable mentions
Ruislip Lido Beach: Just one hour on the Piccadilly Line or the Metropolitan Line, this west London beach is located within Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve, with a 60-acre lake and an artificial beach to enjoy.
Bankside Beach: This London beach is one of the best in the city for enjoying the sun while taking in the landmarks in the distance, all without having to journey too far.
Bermondsey Beach: Located within Central London, this secret beach along the Thames is ideal for a quick retreat to the waterside on a sunny day, with fantastic city views and more.
Birling Gap: At low tide here, there is a narrow sandy strip through the rock pools.
East Beach, Littlehampton: This beautiful beach is just 40 minutes from London Victoria or London Bridge. There is plenty of space for bathing and paddling.
Mersea Island: A causeway connects two stunning beaches on this Essex Island which is just one hour from Liverpool Street station.
The Naze, Walton-on-Naze: Quaint beach shops abut this beach – one of the cleanest in England.
Bournemouth Beach: Bournemouth Beach is just two hours from Waterloo Station. We love that the cafe offers a partial refund if you return your plastic cup.
FAQs about beaches near London for a day trip
What is the closest beach to London?
Bankside and Bermondsey Beaches are located in Central London, while Brighton Beach is one of the nearest beaches outside the city.
How far is Brighton from London?
Just one hour by train from St Pancras or Victoria. Perfect to get away from the city and enjoy some ice creams on a sunny day.
What is the most excellent beach in England?
Blackpool Sands in Dartmouth, Devon, is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in England.
So, if you are keen to get some beach time while in London, now you know which beaches are within easy reach by train.
