Whether you prefer buzzing seaside towns, deserted shingle beaches or windswept sandy bays, plan your next trip to the great British seaside with these top picks spanning Kent, Sussex and Essex, and all within a couple of hours from London.
Camber Sands, East Sussex
Tucked away near Rye in East Sussex, Camber Sands is a dreamy five-mile (8km) stretch of soft golden sand backed by rolling dunes, marram grasses and chestnut fences.
Explore one of the most beautiful beaches near London and why not try kitesurfing or windsurfing, both popular activities thanks to the area’s windy conditions.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one hour from London. Take the train from London St Pancras to Rye (with one change at Ashford International).
Brighton, East Sussex
Head to one of the UK’s coolest beach cities on a day trip from London to Brighton. It might be filled with pebbles, but Brighton Beach is a hit with Londoners and tourists alike, thanks to its year-round seaside attractions.
Quintessentially British striped deck chairs on the beach? Check. Seaside foodie classics aplenty, from delicious fish and chips to moreish ice cream? Check. Fun rides and retro arcade games on the pier? Check. When it comes to seaside fun, Brighton delivers in spades!
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one hour from London. Take a direct train from London Bridge or London Victoria to Brighton.
Birling Gap, East Sussex
If you prefer quieter, unspoilt spots set in dramatic surroundings, pack your swimmers and fossil hunting tools and make your way to the wild rocky beach at Birling Gap in East Sussex.
With its towering white chalk cliffs and deserted pebbly beach laden with prehistoric treasures, Birling Gap is the place to go for rock pooling and fossil hunting. Access it via steep steps beneath a faded hotel – all adding to the adventurous vibes of this beach escape near London.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately two hours from London. Take the train from London Victoria to Eastbourne, then hop on a local bus to complete the journey.
Whitstable, Kent
Famous for its wonderful oysters and family-friendly seaside vibes, Whitstable makes for a lovely beach day trip from London.
Discover Tankerton Beach, a particularly scenic spot, with its grassy banks, colourful wooden beach huts and gently sloping shingle beach. At low tide, a natural path leading right out to sea is excellent for paddling and rock pool exploring.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London St Pancras or London Victoria to Whitstable.
Broadstairs, Kent
Another seaside spot in Kent popular with families and Londoners alike is pretty Broadstairs, with its seven sandy beaches, scenic clifftop walks, quaint fishermen's cottages and independent shops.
Head to central Viking Bay for bucket loads of family fun, Botany Bay for a more unspoilt and secluded vibe, or Joss Bay for fun activities including surfing and sandcastle-building.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London St Pancras or London Victoria to Broadstairs.
Margate, Kent
Come to Margate for the sandy beach and stay for the retro arcade games, cutting-edge art and cool vintage shops. This classic seaside town in Kent is one of the best and most popular beach getaways from London.
After indulging in a rejuvenating swim and a tasty fish and chips on the beach, don’t miss Dreamland’s iconic vintage rides, including the UK’s oldest roller coaster, plus all the town's hip galleries, shops and cafes.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London St Pancras or London Victoria to Margate.
West Wittering, West Sussex
Venture to the idyllic sandy shores of West Wittering, near Chichester in West Sussex, for clear and calm waters, beautiful dunes backed by grassland and gorgeous sunsets.
The family-friendly Blue Flag beach offers stunning views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. It’s also a popular spot for birdwatching.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London Victoria to Chichester.
Littlehampton, West Sussex
With both buzzing and quiet stretches of shingle and sand, Littlehampton in West Sussex is a great bucket and spade destination near London.
Kids in tow? Head to East Beach on the town seafront, with its old-school funfair, long promenade and calm waters ideal for swimming. For a more rural, tranquil beach experience, opt for West Beach or Climping Beach.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take a direct train from London Victoria to Littlehampton.
Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex
Last but not least, travel to the traditional seaside town of Walton-on-the-Naze for bucketloads of fun things to do on the east coast of Essex.
Explore Walton’s gently shelving sandy beaches lined with colourful beach huts, wander down the second longest pier in England, go on wild walks in nature reserves and climb up the Naze Tower, a 26m (86ft) shipping tower turned art gallery, for epic views over the Essex coast.
Where is it and how can I get there? Approximately one and a half hours from London. Take the train from London Liverpool Street to Walton-on-the-Naze (usually with one change en route).
