When the sun is shining and you need an escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, there’s nothing better than a beach day. While London may not be known for its seaside proximity, there are plenty of hidden beaches within a few hours’ travel that offer tranquil sands, scenic views, and refreshing waters. Here are 9 hidden beaches near London that make for the perfect day trip.
1. Botany Bay, Kent
Tucked away between Margate and Broadstairs, Botany Bay is a serene and picturesque spot known for its white chalk cliffs and clear waters. The beach is less crowded than some of its neighboring stretches, making it an ideal choice for a peaceful escape. The dramatic cliffs and rock pools are perfect for exploring at low tide, and the soft sands are great for sunbathing or building sandcastles. Botany Bay is also a popular spot for kayaking and paddleboarding, offering plenty of opportunities for adventure.
- Distance from London: Approximately 2 hours by car or train.
2. Mersea Island, Essex
A unique beach experience awaits on Mersea Island, located in Essex. The island is famous for its oyster beds, and you can sample some of the best seafood at local eateries near the beach. The beach itself is a mix of sand and shingle, with colorful beach huts lining the shore. East Mersea Beach is the quieter of the two main beaches on the island, offering a secluded atmosphere and natural beauty. Keep an eye on the tides, as the causeway connecting the island to the mainland is occasionally covered by water.
- Distance from London: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
3. Frinton-on-Sea, Essex
For a classic seaside experience without the crowds, head to Frinton-on-Sea in Essex. Known for its long stretch of golden sand and peaceful ambiance, Frinton-on-Sea is a family-friendly destination with a more laid-back vibe than nearby Clacton or Walton. The Victorian beach huts, wide promenade, and immaculate lawns add to the charm, and the beach is ideal for swimming, picnicking, or just lounging in the sun. It’s also a great spot for kitesurfing and windsurfing if you’re looking for a bit of excitement.
- Distance from London: About 1.5 to 2 hours by train or car.
4. Camber Sands, East Sussex
For those seeking dunes and endless stretches of sand, Camber Sands is a perfect choice. Located in East Sussex, it’s one of the few beaches in the area with expansive sand dunes, offering plenty of space for beachgoers to find their own spot. The beach is popular for kite surfing and horseback riding, and there are plenty of areas to explore along the five-mile stretch of sand. It can get busier in the summer months, but the sheer size of the beach ensures you can still find a quieter corner.
- Distance from London: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by train or car.
5. Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable is known for its pebble beaches, colorful beach huts, and oyster heritage. While the beach itself is more shingle than sand, the charming town and fresh seafood more than make up for it. The beach offers beautiful views over the Thames Estuary, and the working harbor is an excellent place to enjoy some freshly caught oysters. The town’s quirky shops, galleries, and cafes add to the laid-back atmosphere, making Whitstable a great choice for a cultural and coastal getaway.
- Distance from London: Approximately 1.5 hours by train.
6. Dungeness, Kent
If you’re looking for something a little more unique, Dungeness offers a rugged, almost otherworldly landscape. Often described as a desert in the UK, this shingle beach is home to stark scenery, a lighthouse, and modernist cottages. It’s a haven for birdwatchers and photographers, with its unusual setting and haunting beauty. The area is also famous for its seafood shacks, where you can sample freshly cooked fish. While it may not be a traditional sandy beach, its distinctive atmosphere makes it worth a visit.
- Distance from London: Roughly 2 hours by car.
7. West Wittering, West Sussex
West Wittering Beach is a Blue Flag beach, known for its golden sands, clean waters, and spectacular views over Chichester Harbour. This beach is a popular choice for families, thanks to its gentle surf and ample space for picnics and beach games. The surrounding area also has woodland trails and coastal paths, making it great for those who love both the beach and a bit of a walk. Windsurfing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding are popular here, too.
- Distance from London: About 1.5 to 2 hours by car.
8. Sunny Sands Beach, Folkestone
Located in Folkestone, Sunny Sands Beach is a sandy beach that’s sheltered by cliffs, making it a popular choice for families. It’s one of the few sandy beaches in Kent, and is perfect for a day of sunbathing, paddling, or building sandcastles. There are also plenty of cafes and restaurants nearby, so you won’t have to travel far to grab a snack. The Folkestone Harbour Arm offers additional entertainment options, such as live music, markets, and pop-up food stalls.
- Distance from London: Around 1.5 to 2 hours by train.
9. Minnis Bay, Birchington-on-Sea
For a quieter seaside retreat, head to Minnis Bay on the Isle of Thanet. This hidden gem has a lovely sandy beach, tidal pools, and a coastal cycle route. Minnis Bay is great for families, offering calm waters for paddling, and there’s even a children’s play area. At low tide, the beach expands significantly, giving plenty of room to explore the exposed rock pools. If you’re into cycling, the Viking Coastal Trail runs through here, providing a scenic route to discover more of the coast.
- Distance from London: About 1.5 to 2 hours by train or car.
Conclusion
Whether you prefer sandy shores, shingle beaches, or dramatic landscapes, there are plenty of hidden beaches near London that offer the perfect escape from city life. These coastal gems, just a short drive or train ride away, promise a refreshing break, combining natural beauty and unique experiences. So grab your sunscreen, pack a picnic, and enjoy a day trip to one of these stunning seaside destinations!
