Welcome back to The Velvet Runway and this feature about the Top 4 beach destinations near London.
Whether you are a resident in England’s capital or looking to add some countryside to your city break, don’t miss out on a trip to one of these four beach destinations near London.
Top 4 beach destinations near London
1. Brighton
For a lively and youthful atmosphere, Brighton is the best choice. This buzzing beach town is known for its welcoming people and green culture and can be reached in just an hour from London.
Brighton’s most famous attraction is its pier which dates back to the 19th century and is now the site of an amusement park with fairground rides and rollercoasters. On either side of the pier is a golden beach with a fun atmosphere perfect for families with children.
Other local entertainment on offer here includes music concerts, comedy gigs, and drag shows.
2. Eastbourne
Also within striking distance is Eastbourne which is just 90 minutes from London by rail with trains running frequently.
Eastbourne is one of the sunniest spots in the UK, so time your trip right and you are almost guaranteed blue skies for your visit. This weather is perfect for enjoying a spot of sunbathing on the pebbly beaches or going on a walk through the spectacular South Downs countryside just inland.
There are plenty of things for kids to do here, too, making it another popular spot for London families. In addition to its own pier, there are children’s cycling trails and indoor play areas.
3. Broadstairs
Drive 80 miles east of London and you will arrive at Broadstairs, the absolute tip of the county of Kent. This county has some of England’s most-visited tourist destinations including Canterbury with its medieval cathedral and Dover known for its iconic white cliffs.
Broadstairs is a series of seven spectacular bays. All of the bays boast sandy beaches, but each has its own unique character and charm. For example, Viking Bay in the town centre is busier with colourful children’s rides while Botany Bay in the rural outskirts is beloved for its eye-catching chalk stacks.
Broadstairs itself is a collection of fishermen’s cottages and independent shops, separated by quaint cafés and restaurants selling delicious local fare. You will also find the Dickens House Museum as Broadstairs was a favourite holiday hotspot of the world-famous Victorian writer.
4. Camber Sands
Stretching between East Sussex and Kent is the three-mile beach Camber Sands. It stands alone between a river estuary and a long coastline of shingle.
Camber Sands is one of the most picturesque beaches in England with an uninterrupted stretch of soft, deep golden sand backed by a wave of shallow sand dunes. This near-deserted location is visited by more wildlife than people, and tourists have the chance to spot a wide variety of birds.
Final words on our Top 4 beach destinations near London
From the soft golden sands of Camber Bay to the quaint fisherman’s cottages of Broadstairs and the lively urban vibes of Brighton, each destination offers a unique experience just a short distance away from London.
Whether you’re drawn to lively cities or serene natural settings, these destinations will provide a fulfilling and enriching experience for any traveller.
I hope you enjoyed this feature about the Top 4 beach destinations near London and you can also have a look more of our travel features.
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October 10, 2023 at 12:45 amI’d heard of Brighton but none of the others. Thanks for sharing.
October 22, 2023 at 3:02 pmThanks Hena. Brighton is probably the most well known, but they are all great destinations x