If you’re based in London and dreaming of salty air, soft sand, and a break from the city, you’re in luck. A number of the UK’s best beaches are only a short train ride or drive away, making them perfect for a day trip. Whether you want to paddle, picnic, stroll the promenade, or just soak up the sun, heading to the coast from London is an easy escape.
Londoners love escaping to the coast because the change of scene is dramatic: skyscrapers and concrete give way to sea breezes and horizon lines; the hustle slows to the rhythm of waves; and even a few hours beside the sea can recharge you. The fact that you don’t need a long-haul flight makes these trips all the more appealing.
In this guide, we’ll cover why the coast calls, then explore the best beaches near London, how to get there, what to do when you arrive, and some handy tips for the day-trip. It’s all aimed at helping you pick the right destination and make the most of it.
Why Londoners love escaping to the coast
The draw is simple: fresh sea air, the sound of waves, and a sense of space. After a week of city rhythm, a seaside outing offers contrast: wide open skies, stretching coastline, and a slower pace. The coast invites you to pause.
Also, many of London’s easiest beach escapes are remarkably reachable: within about an hour to two hours from central London by train or car. That means you can set off in the morning, be on the sand by lunchtime, and still be home by evening. With ease of access, these spots become realistic, not just weekend escapes.
On top of that, there’s something deeply British about the seaside: fish & chips by the promenade, colourful beach huts, piers, a mixture of modern cafe culture and heritage resort vibes. Whether you go as a family with kids, as a couple seeking a laid-back break, or even solo with a book and a towel, the coast has something.
Top 12 Beaches Near London
1. Brighton Beach (East Sussex)
Often, the first beach that comes to mind when thinking of day trips from London. It’s reachable in around an hour from London Victoria or Blackfriars on a direct train. Brighton offers a lively resort feel: a long promenade, the iconic pier, lots of cafés, shopping, and a vibrant atmosphere. A caveat: the “beach” is more pebbles than fine sand, so if you’re specifically after soft sand, it might not fit all expectations.
Still, for accessibility, amenities, and the sheer variety of things to do next to the seaside, Brighton remains one of the best beaches near London.
The typically British Seaside Experience
From Southend, our direction shifts to Brighton beach. It is the second closest if you are travelling from London. 54 miles to the South, reaching Brighton Beach requires a 1.5-hour drive or train ride from the capital.
Brighton has a pebbly beachfront, which might keep it from entering the ‘favourites list’ of sandy-beach lovers. Apart from that, it has everything a beach-lover can ask for.
- A wide and long promenade for long walks by the seaside
- A marina for yachting and speedboating
- Calm waters for a safe swimming experience
Lastly, an optional but highly recommended activity is to enjoy the panoramic coastal views from Brighton i360 observation tower.
Brighton beach is particularly favored by families. The reason is its priority on safety. Designated swimming areas and presence of seasonal lifeguards keep children safe as they indulge in sea-side fun.
For those looking for more:
- The Brighton Palace Pier
- The Royal Pavilion with exotic architecture
- Several beachfront shops offering crisp fish and chips
Commute from London to Brighton
Your train journey will start at London Bridge and take around an hour to reach Brighton station. From there, the seafront is just a 10-minute walk away.
Luke Bertram
“We visited Brighton Beach during the summer holidays and it’s the same old story: if you can be bothered to walk an extra ten minutes, you’ll find some really quiet areas! I’m personally not a huge fan of the rocky beach, but it’s still an amazing beach and well worth making the effort for a day by the sea. It is a very clean beach!”
— Source: TripAdvisor
2. Camber Sands (East Sussex)
If you’re on the lookout for fine sand and dunes, Camber Sands ticks those boxes. It’s one of the rarer stretches of sandy beach in the south‐east. Getting there is a little less straightforward than Brighton (you may need a change of train at Rye) but the reward is a wide golden beach, rolling sand dunes, and a quieter, more relaxed feel. For anyone seeking the more classic “sand beaches close to London” experience, this is a top pick.
A Sandy Beach with Dunes
Located 80 miles east of London, reaching Camber Sands takes a 2 hour drive. If you are looking to
The reward is a wide golden beach. Rolling sand dunes, and a quieter, more relaxed feel.
Key highlights
It’s a beach that has a lot to offer to visitors. It’s a hotspot for surfing, kitesurfing, kite buggying and other watersport activities. If you wish for a slightly longer stay, The Gallivant, a hotel featured on ‘The Times’, offers an amazing place to stay and has some mouthwatering items on the menu.
Commute from London to Camber Sands
Recommended mode of commute: Car
Second best option: Train + Bus
Driving offers the most straightforward access. But if you opt for public transport, then take a train from London St Pancras to Rye (approximately 1 hour on high-speed services), then catch the 100 bus or a taxi for the remaining 4 miles to Camber. The bus service is seasonal and limited, so check schedules in advance.
Gracy F
“This beach is a beautiful sandy beach. However, the toilets are a bit far from the beach. You have to climb the slope to get to the toilets, which makes going to the toilet a bit difficult. Overall, a beautiful beach.”
— Source: TripAdvisor
3. Whitstable (Kent)
This charming seaside town is around 1 to 1 ½ hours from London via train. Whitstable gives you a mix of beach time, good food (it’s famous for its oysters), independent shops, and a relaxed harbour front. The beach itself is more pebbly than pure fine sand, but the overall experience is very pleasant.
For a seaside day that combines quality town character with the coast, Whitstable is one of the “British beaches near London” you’ll keep in mind.
Located 62 miles east of London, a drive to Whitstable takes roughly a 1.5 to 2-hour drive. The beach itself is perfect for long walks. And if you are like most beach-walkers, your stroll is likely going to be towards the colorful beach huts at Tankerton Slopes, where during low-tide, you will be amazed to see ‘the street’, a unique causeway extending into the sea.
Swimming tops the list of activities that are popular at Whitstable. The reason is the town’s sea-loving locals who take year-round dips. If hours of swimming leaves you tired, a freshly caught oyster dinner at the popular whitstable oyster company, will leave your hunger satiated.
Commute from London to Whitstable
Southeastern runs regular services from London Victoria and St Pancras International to Whitstable station. The beach is about a 15-minute walk from the station.
Whitstable Beach
“I sat on the many rocks along the beach since there isn’t much sand, and enjoyed an amazing view looking out over the water. It’s a peaceful spot perfect for relaxing and taking in the natural beauty. A great place to unwind and appreciate the seaside scenery!”
— Source: Google Maps
4. Bournemouth (Dorset)
This is a bit further afield than some other options, but still reachable for a full-day outing if you start early. Bournemouth is known for a classic beach resort vibe: a long stretch of sand, resort amenities, piers, cafés, and a lively atmosphere.
Though the beach is more of a classic seaside resort style and the water quality/sand texture may not be the same as more remote beaches, its ease and accessibility make it a top choice for a quick coastal escape. A great pick when you want a seaside dose without too much travel.
Southend is also home to the world’s longest pleasure pier, amusement arcades, and family-friendly attractions. There are plenty of cafés and promenades to explore, making it ideal for a relaxed and fun day trip.
Bournemouth Beach
“Bournemouth Beach is absolutely charming! The sand is soft and perfect for a relaxing day. I loved that there is access to fresh water to rinse off before leaving, which is super convenient. There are also public restrooms and plenty of street food options for a quick snack. A perfect spot to enjoy the seaside!”
— Source: Google Maps
5. Southend‑on‑Sea (Essex)
If proximity is your number one factor, Southend is tough to beat. Direct trains from London stations (such as Fenchurch Street or Liverpool Street) take around an hour.
Though the beach is more of a classic seaside resort style and the water quality/sand texture may not be the same as more remote beaches, its ease and accessibility make it a top choice for a quick coastal escape. A great pick when you want a seaside dose without too much travel.
A Fun Beach Experience Close to London
We start off the list with a beach that is the closest to London. Just 42 miles east of London with journey times of around 1 hour by car. Southend beach is one that makes Britisher’s proud. It features the world’s longest pleasure pier, which stretches 1.34 miles into the sea. The pier alone makes the trip to Southend worth it.
But if that doesn’t satisfy you, Southend has the following extras on offer:
- Adventure Island theme park
- Mini golf
- Countless ice cream vendors
Commute from London to Southend-on-Sea
C2C trains run frequently from London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central, taking about 50 minutes. From the station, the seafront is just a short walk away.
Shanroy Dehaney
“One of my favourite beaches in the UK and by far the closest to London (at least on the North side). Everything is accessible—from parking to playgrounds, a number of eateries, and gift shops. The town itself isn’t too far from the beach if you fancy going exploring.”
— Source: Google Maps
6. West Wittering Beach (West Sussex)
This spot appears in many lists of the best beaches near London. According to guides, it’s “perfect for families and regularly draws crowds who come for paddling in the shallow lagoons or hitting the waves”.
While the train will take roughly 2 hours or more, depending on connections and your start point, the payoff is a more peaceful, sandy beach environment. If your schedule allows, this is one of the more relaxed “great beaches near London”.
Distance from London
Situated 75 miles southwest of London on the Sussex coast, West Wittering takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours to reach by car.
A British Beach with Caribbean vibes
West Wittering consistently ranks among England’s finest beaches. To find out why, all you need is one visit.
The beach floor is decorated with soft golden sand that actually stays comfortable underfoot. Plus, it offers visitors a sight of sand dunes and protected nature reserves. On sunny days, the shallow turquoise waters give this British beach a Caribbean air.
Among popular activities here are windsurfing, kitesurfing, and paddleboarding, thanks to consistent winds and calm waters.
Key highlights
Watersports activities, the scenic East Head sand spit walk, rock pooling at low tide, and the protected sand dune ecosystem.
Commute from London to West Wittering
Recommended mode of commute: Car
Unfortunately, there’s no direct train service. The nearest station is Chichester (accessible from London Victoria), then you’ll need a bus or taxi for the remaining 8 miles. Driving or a Taxi service offers more flexibility and less stress.
Chandrasekhar Reddy
“Good place to visit with kids to play with sand and make castles. Easy to swim and we enjoyed it a lot. A good time to visit is after 12pm, and later in the day the water starts to return. If you are going on the weekend, it’s best to book a parking slot in advance.”
— Source: Google Maps
7. Margate Beach (Kent)
Margate is another favourite for a seaside day trip from London. With direct train journeys of around 1 hr 20 to 1 hr 40 from central London, it’s feasible for the day. It combines a beach with town life (trendy cafés, vintage shops, the restored amusement park “Dreamland”) for a stylish yet accessible beach outing. If you’re looking for something a little different but still handy from London, Margate fits well.
Distance from London
Kent’s creative seaside town sits 75 miles east of London, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic.
A Beach with History
Margate is a beach with some history. Once a faded Victorian resort, it’s now a vibrant hub where contemporary art, vintage culture, and traditional seaside fun collide beautifully.
The town’s regeneration centres on the Turner Contemporary gallery, whose striking architecture anchors the seafront. Margate inspired JMW Turner’s seascapes, and today attracts creative types who’ve filled the Georgian streets with independent cafes, vintage shops, and quirky galleries. The renovated Dreamland amusement park adds retro charm with its vintage rides and roller disco.
Wander beyond the main beach, and you will find the tidal pool, a seawater swimming pool filled naturally by the tide, and Margate Caves beneath the old town.
Key highlights
Turner Contemporary gallery, Dreamland’s vintage fairground, the historic Shell Grotto, and fresh seafood at Angela’s or Hantverk & Found.
Commute from London to Margate
Recommended mode of commute: Direct Train
Southeastern high-speed services from London St Pancras reach Margate in around 1.5 hours. The station is a 10-minute walk from the beach and town center.
Memorable Experience
“Margate offers a serene escape with stunning weather and picturesque views. The beach is impressively clean, and the town maintains a peaceful atmosphere. Safety isn’t a concern, making it a relaxing destination. While nearby clubs can liven up the weekends with some noise, the weekdays remain tranquil. Having visited multiple times, the experience remains consistently enjoyable. Definitely a recommended spot.”
— Source: TripAdvisor
8. Botany Bay (Broadstairs) (Kent)
This beach is slightly lesser known compared to some of the big names, but it’s lovely for sand, cliffs and a quieter atmosphere. The town of Broadstairs lies nearby and offers charm. Many lists of “best beaches close to London” include Botany Bay. If you prefer something a little off the beaten track, this is a fine choice.
The dramatic chalk cliffs and rock formations make it especially scenic, particularly at low tide. It’s a great spot for photography, peaceful walks, and enjoying a more natural seaside setting away from crowds.
Distance from London
This hidden gem near Broadstairs in Kent lies approximately 77 miles from London, roughly a 2-hour drive along the coast.
Dramatic chalk stacks and golden sands
If you’re seeking something genuinely special, Botany Bay won’t disappoint. This relatively small bay is framed by spectacular white chalk cliffs and punctuated by freestanding chalk stacks rising from the sand like natural sculptures.
Despite being beautiful, it’s hardly ever crowded. Limited parking naturally controls crowds. At Botany Bay, the most common ‘crowd’ you’ll find is photographers, particularly around sunset when golden light illuminates the chalk formations.
Key highlights
The dramatic chalk stacks and rock formations, excellent rock pooling at low tide, coastal walks along the clifftops, and relative seclusion compared to busier Kent beaches.
Commute from London to Botany Bay
Recommended mode of commute: Train then short journey
Take Southeastern services from London St Pancras to Broadstairs (around 1 hour 40 minutes on high-speed services). From Broadstairs station, Botany Bay is about 2 miles and is accessible by local bus, taxi, or if you are in a mood for it, a scenic 40-minute walk along the coast.
Kamila Kolakowska
“Our favourite family beach, not far from London—perfect if you’ve got a toddler and don’t want to travel long distances. It’s not overcrowded and offers beautiful views, a sandy beach, and great waves. Lifeguards are present to ensure children’s safety. There’s also a hotel on top of the cliff for dining, and during low tide you can explore caves and search for fossils.”
— Source: Google Reviews
9. Eastbourne Beach (East Sussex)
Eastbourne is listed among the go-to seaside day trips from London, reachable in about 1 hr 20 via train.
It has a classic resort vibe: promenade, pier, broad beach space, and easy access. While the beach itself may not always have the fine sand texture of dune-backed beaches, the town and surroundings make it a convenient and enjoyable escape.
Eastbourne also benefits from its proximity to the South Downs, offering scenic cliff walks and viewpoints like Beachy Head. This mix of seaside relaxation and countryside scenery adds extra appeal to a day trip here.
Geoff H
“As with most beaches around here, when the tide is in there is mainly shingle, which is neither wheelchair- nor pushchair-friendly. However, when the tide goes out there is sand. At the back of the beach, there is a wide, level promenade that is great for walking and is both wheelchair and pushchair friendly. Refreshment outlets are available in the town, and parking is nearby both on the road and in car parks.”
— Source: TripAdvisor
10. Little Hampton Beach, (West Sussex)
If you are searching for the closest beach to London that offers a bit of variety, Littlehampton is a top contender. It is unique because the River Arun splits the coastline into two very different sections. East Beach features the famous “Longest Bench in the UK” and the modern East Beach Café, while West Beach is a protected nature reserve with high sand dunes and a much quieter, wilder feel.
How to get there: Direct trains run from London Victoria straight to Littlehampton station. The beach is a 10-minute walk from the station.
Distance from London
65 miles south and taking around 2 hours to drive from London, is Littlehampton beach.
Beach with the UK’s longest bench
At Littlehampton, you get the unique view of the River Arun running alongside and merging into the main sea. Littlehampton also features a busy harbour and has the UK’s longest bench at East Beach, along with the famous East Beach Café. The West Beach is a protected nature reserve with high sand dunes and has a much quieter and wilder feel to it.
If you are visiting with family or kids, you can do so without worry. Littlehampton has an active safety crew during peak season, making the experience perfectly safe for families.
Key highlights
Key attractions at Littlehampton include Harbour Park amusements for kids, the 1,000-foot-long bench, and crabbing in the River Arun.
Commute from London to Littlehampton
Travel Time: Approximately 1 hour 40 minutes.
In addition to being close to London, it’s also quite simple to get to. Direct trains run from London Victoria straight to Littlehampton station. The beach is a 10-minute walk from the station.
Samantha H
“What a lovely sandy beach—great for relaxing, crabbing, and family time. We had a great day. There’s a little shop if you forget something, an ice cream shop, and a lovely sandy park, which makes it perfect for families.”
— Source: TripAdvisor
11. Clacton-on-Sea, (Essex)
Clacton-on-Sea is a staple when looking for British beaches near London that offer a traditional family day out. If you want the full “English Riviera” experience with piers, arcades, and candy floss, this is the place to go. It features a large, clean sandy beach and a massive Victorian pier that was recently refurbished, making it one of the best closest beaches london has to offer for keeping children entertained all day.
Distance from London
81 miles North-east of London, Clacton Bay beach is 2 hours away.
Best beach for family trips
What it offers is calm and gentle waters, but a busy shore with kids running around, adults sunbathing and coastal birds frequenting. If you are with a family, looking for a fun weekend at the beach, a trip to clacton on sea is sure to leave your kids happy.
It’s a busy beach with several shops offering souvenirs, toys, and traditional seaside treats. Seafront Kiosks & Gift Shops
Main attractions
Other attractions include Clacton Pier (with indoor rides and a sea aquarium), the seafront gardens, and Martello Bay for a slightly quieter swim.
Commute from London to Clacton-on-Sea
Logistics are quite simple as well. Direct trains run from London Liverpool Street to Clacton-on-Sea. The pier and beach are a short 10-minute walk through the town center.
Amy Louise S
“A good, clean beach with a mixture of sand and stone. We saw lots of dead jellyfish, so be mindful of your feet and where you stand. Despite that, it was a lovely day out. Cafes and shops closer to the pier are quite expensive, but if you walk along to the café next to Toby Carvery, the food and beach items like spades are much more reasonably priced.”
— Source: TripAdvisor
12. Priory Bay, Isle of Wight
For those willing to travel a little further for the closest sea to London that feels like a tropical escape, Priory Bay is a hidden gem. This is arguably the most beautiful of the closest beaches to london england, but it does require a bit more effort to reach. It is a private-feeling crescent of golden sand surrounded by lush woodland. Because there are no roads leading directly to the sand, it never feels crowded, even in the height of summer.
Distance from London
Priory Bay is 91 miles South of London, taking approximately a 3 hour-long journey.
Best Beach for Solitary Trips
Priory Bay is a privately owned beach, making public access hard and the beach environment free of noise and public interference.
Perfect for those who want their beach trips to be solitary, noise-free and borderlining spiritual. Priory bay gives that unwinding experience that very few places in Britain offer. Informing you of the beach, we also have to warn you! You might leave the beach, but its memory will never leave you.
If you are looking for more, Priory Bay also have the following on offer:
- Dining experiences
- Golf
- Watersport activities
- Seaside Tennis
Commute from London to Priory Bay
Speaking of logistics, it’s a bit tricky to get here since there are no direct roads. Your trip from London will involve a train journey, starting at London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour. From there, the FastCat ferry will take you to Ryde Pier Head. From Ryde, take a short bus (Route 8) or taxi to Seaview and a walk along the coast to reach Priory beach.
How to Get to These Beaches from London
Train routes and travel times
One of the great advantages of these coastal picks is that many are easily accessible by train from London.
- Brighton: direct trains from London Victoria/Blackfriars in about 1 hour.
- Whitstable: around 1 to 1½ hours.
- Margate: approx 1 hr 20–1 hr 40.
- Southend-on-Sea: about 1 hour.
- Camber Sands: around 1 hr+ (train + bus) depending on connection.
When planning a day trip, check the departure station (Victoria, St Pancras, etc), the arrival station, and whether there are additional local buses from the station to the beach.
Driving options
If you prefer driving, many of these beaches are reachable in around 90 minutes to 2 hours from London (traffic permitting). Do check parking availability, tide times (for wide sand stretches), and peak traffic (especially weekends/summer).
As you drive, the freedom to stop en route, enjoy coastal roads, and adapt your schedule can add flexibility.
Taxi / ride-share
If you reach the train station near the beach and want to get to a more remote part of the coast (e.g., dunes at Camber Sands, or a quieter cove) then a taxi or local ride-share may save you walking or bus waiting. If you’re already exploring the area as part of broader London tours, factoring this extra travel into your budget and time can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Top Things to Do at London’s Nearby Beaches
Beachfront cafés and restaurants
Whatever beach you pick, part of the pleasure is hanging out by the seaside café: fresh fish & chips, an ice-cream, a drink overlooking the sea. Towns like Brighton, Whitstable, Margate, and Eastbourne have vibrant café/restaurant scenes.
Whitstable in particular is known for its fresh seafood and harbour-front eateries. If you enjoy discovering unique food spots—much like exploring hidden gem restaurants in London—you’ll appreciate the coastal towns’ charming, lesser-known eateries just as much.
Watersports and beach activities
- At dune-backed beaches like Camber Sands or West Wittering, you’ll find more space for activities.
- Surfing, stand-up paddleboarding or kite-surfing may be options at beaches with good conditions (e.g., West Wittering).
- Even at more built-up resorts, there are often deck-chair hires, beach games, and sometimes boat or kayak rental.
Coastal walks
A great way to make the trip feel special is a walk along the shoreline: perhaps up to a headland, between beach huts, or through dunes. For example, if you stay at Broadstairs/Botany Bay, you can combine beach time with cliff views and scenic walking. Many of the “best beaches near London” lists highlight these kinds of coastal strolls.
Visitor Guide: What You Need to Know
Best time to go
- Sunny weekends obviously draw the crowds; if possible, aim for a weekday or early morning departure.
- Late spring through summer gives you the best chance of beach weather, but even in shoulder seasons, the coast is refreshing.
- Tide times matter (especially for sandy beaches): if the tide is very high, you may lose much of the sand, so check ahead.
Why Choose My London Transfer for Beach Trips
Getting to beaches near London can sometimes be tricky with trains and buses. My London Transfer provides a reliable transfer londres option, making the journey simple with direct rides from the city straight to the coast. It’s ideal for families, groups, or anyone travelling with luggage who wants a stress-free trip.
With flexible pickup times, professional drivers, and comfortable vehicles, this transfer londres service allows you to enjoy the beach sooner and start your day feeling relaxed and refreshed.
Alice Salmistraro
“The pick-up transfer driver was punctual, very kind, and drove safely all the way to our destination. The service was smooth and reliable, highly recommended.”
— Source: My London Transfer
Conclusion
Heading out from London to the coast is one of the simplest, most effective ways to refresh your mind, give yourself space, and enjoy a change of scenery, all without needing to travel far. Whether you’re after the bustling resort feel of Brighton, the fine sand dunes at Camber Sands, or the charming seaside town ambience of Whitstable, there is a beach for you.
When you count in accessibility, amenities, variety, and sheer pleasure of being by the sea, these destinations rank among the best beaches near London for a day escape.
So pick your favourite from the list, check train times or driving traffic, pack your beach-kit and set off for sand between your toes.
If you want a smooth and stress-free journey from London to any of these beach destinations, you can also book private transfers with My London Transfer. Whether you’re heading to the station, the seaside, or travelling with family and luggage, a pre-booked ride ensures comfort and convenience.
FAQs
What is the nearest beach to London by train?
Among the easiest to reach is Southend-on-Sea – direct trains from London take around an hour.
Which beach near London has the best sand?
If fine sand is your priority, then Camber Sands (with its dunes) or West Wittering are top choices for sand rather than pebbles or shingle. These are often cited among the “sand beaches close to London”.
What is the closest beach to London?
The closest beach most people visit from London is Southend‑on‑Sea in Essex, reachable in about an hour by train. It has long stretches of beach with a mix of sand and shingle, and plenty of seaside attractions nearby.
Can you visit a beach near London in one day?
Yes. Many beaches, like Brighton, Margate, Broadstairs, and Southend‑on‑Sea, are all within about 1–2 hours by train from central London, making them perfect for a day trip to the seaside.
Are there sandy beaches near London?
Yes. Beaches like Camber Sands and Margate Main Sands offer wide sandy areas. Some other nearby spots have a mix of sand and shingle. Not all beaches near London are purely sandy, but there are good options within reach.
What is the best time to visit beaches near London?
The best time is late spring through summer, when the weather is warmer and more pleasant for beach activities. Early weekdays or mornings in summer can also be quieter and more enjoyable.
