Best beaches close to London

If you need a break from city life, you’re in luck! London is located near both the Kent and Sussex coast with plenty of beaches to choose from! We’ve short-listed our favourites, so grab your bucket and spade, hit the beach and enjoy the summer!

Margate, Kent

This beach is a classic and will not disappoint! There’s a tidal pool, amusement arcades and traditional seaside entertainment. The seafront is lined with restaurants, ice cream parlours and shops – all only a short walk from Dreamland amusement park.

Brighton, Sussex

Seaside fun is mixed seamlessly with the night life here. Take a walk along the famous Brighton Palace Pier, visit Sea Life and take the world’s oldest electric railways along the seafront. You can also get a bird’s eye view of it all by riding the British Airways i360 all the way to the top – 450ft!

Camber Sands, Sussex

Camber Sands is the perfect get-away spot with unspoilt views of sand and sea stretching for miles. Take a stroll along the golden sand dunes, embrace the sea air, kitesurf and bird watch. Also look out for some celebrities as it is often used as a film location for Hollywood movies! Dunkirk and The Theory of Everything had scenes that were shot here. The sunsets/sunrises in Camber are spectacular – catch them if you can!

Joss Bay, Kent

This is any surfer’s ultimate paradise, with a 200m long bay, surrounded by fields and a golf course! If surfing is your thing, make your way over to the surf school on the beach where you can hire boards and wetsuits! You can also explore the spectacular chalk cliffs, rock pools and go fossil hunting.

Ruislip Lido, West Ruislip

Believe it or not, the closest beach to London is actually along the Piccadilly line in Ruislip! This 700-acre nature reserve is home to an incredible natural lake and sandy beach. Take a walk through the ancient woodlands and find the beach on the southern side! Swimming and boating are currently not permitted at the lake.

Sandbanks, Dorset

If you don’t mind a longer journey, you might want to consider Sandbanks – one of Britain’s best beaches! It’s known for its soft sands and breath-taking views. Adventure away from the beach to visit the local museums and farmer’s markets. You could also take a short ferry ride to Brownsea Island and explore the history and wildlife.