As travelers consider London as a world unto itself, it is hardly surprising that few never look beyond the confines of the city when they want to get away.
However, once you have had your quota of the best museums and wandered through the vast green spaces, you might be keen to explore the beaches on the country’s exotic coastline which lies just beyond the capital.
From the pebble shores of Brighton to the sweeping sands of Camber, here are a few slices of paradise that are either just a short train ride from London or a shore excursion on your UK cruise day itinerary for that refreshing dose of sea air to lift the spirits.
Brighton
Owing to its tranquil seaside ambience, Brighton is considered to be one of the best beaches near London, which offers a peaceful break from the hustle and bustle of hectic city life.
Also referred to as pebble beach, the other key features of Brighton are the beautiful pier, beach arcades and cafes selling fresh seafood.
At Brighton, you can take a stroll on the seashore, go paddleboarding or simply gaze in awe at the incredible sunsets.
Camber Sands, East Sussex
Camber Sands is located on the east coast of Sussex and is another popular beach ideal for day trips from London. Incidentally, this is the only beach in the area which has sand dunes.
The beach is quite unspoilt and is very popular with kitesurfing and windsurfing enthusiasts.
The golden sands stretch for as many as five miles and provide a stunning scene against the backdrop of the high sand dunes. Needless to say, the beach is great for building sand castles.
Whitstable Beach
Located in Kent, Whitstable is another great beach which is easily accessible from London. The beach is known for its native oysters which can be gathered during low tide.
Apart from gorgeous sunsets, Whitstable is home to some beach huts and fishing boats which are anchored there.
There are several bakeries and bookstalls on the pebble beach where you can purchase traditional homemade bread and handicrafts and more.
Sunny Sands
Ranked among the top in the country, Sunny Sands is another of its kind in the region known for its fine golden sands. The beach is located on the edge of the Folkestone Harbor and is another one great for building sand castles.
Moreover, the waters of Sunny Sands are quite warm, which makes it perfect for a swim to cool off on a hot summer day.
Speaking about sand castles, Sunny Sands is also the venue of the annual sand castle building competition, where you can live out your childhood fantasy of building or seeing the best sandcastles ever during your visit in this period.
Minnis Bay
The Blue Flag beach of Minnis Bay is, of course, know for its picturesque sunsets, but it is also a great place for a family outing.
Children can frolic in the play pool and watch crabs and other marine creatures. The waters are warm and are suitable for sailing and windsurfing.
Visitors can rent a bicycle or go for long walks on the sandy shore.
These coastal escapes offer a refreshing contrast to London’s cityscape, providing visitors with several seaside experiences within easy reach. Whether you want relaxation, water activities, or mouthwatering food, these beaches cater to every type, making them ideal for day trips or extended stays.