seaside day trips uk

26 Best Seaside Day Trips From London

Time to share the best seaside day trips from london. whether you’re driving or travelling by train, all of these offer everything you could want from a day at the beach..

There’s nothing more quintessentially ‘English’ than a day trip to the seaside. Escaping the city and enjoying the squawks of seagulls, the smell of salty sea air and a familiar package of battered fish and chips smothered in salt and vinegar.

We’ve saved up our 20ps to waste in the arcades, got excited for ice cream in an old-fashioned cone, and shouted ‘I can sea the sea’ the minute that slither of blue on the horizon comes into view.

For me it all started with Brighton. Each summer, my Dad would drive us the hour and a bit to the coast. My sisters and I would skim stones on the beach, eat our body-weights in ice cream, enjoy mammoth portions of fish and chips (under the beady eyes of the patrolling seagulls) and spend a whopping £2 on the pier, attempting to beat the arcades.

One year, I played a game on the pier and won a stuffed panda that was bigger than me. I carried it around for the entire day, feeling proud of my achievement. A week later, its polystyrene ball stuffing was pouring out of its armpit and he was looking rather sad.

Yet, it’s fond memories like these that last a lifetime. The adrenaline rush as you see the sea, the scents associated with it – it’s just lovely. Thankfully, there are LOTS of great seaside day trips from London, so you can make some memories of your own.

From the old-fashioned charm of towns like Aldeburgh and Deal, to the beautiful sandy beaches of Camber and Bournemouth, and the bustling resort towns of Southend, Hastings and Weymouth, you’re bound to find somewhere you fancy visiting.

All of these are within one to three hours of London, by train or car. Timings are calculated from Central London but will vary depending on where you’re starting your journey from. I’ve divided them up according to their direction from London, but they span the coastline from Suffolk, through Kent, East and West Sussex and Dorset. There’s even a surprise entry right here in London!

Seaside Day Trips North East Of London

Felixstowe, suffolk.

One of the most popular beach destinations in Suffolk, Felixstowe has four miles of sand and shingle beaches, stretching all the way from the Felixstowe Ferry to the Landguard Peninsula. It’s the perfect family day trip from London.

Head to Felixstowe South Beach where kids can splash in the sheltered bay or build a giant sandcastle on the shore. When you fancy a break from the beach, you can stop by one of the shops on the seafront and pick up an ice cream or some fish and chips! It’s great for photography too, with lots of colourful beach huts to snap photos of.

Drive from London: 1 hour 58 Train journey from London: Just over 2 hours Train route from London : London Liverpool Street – Ipswich – Felixstowe

Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Aldeburgh has that traditional English seaside feel and is full of charm. Wander the old-fashioned promenade taking in views of the pastel coloured houses, in shades of yellow, blue and pink. Then watch the fishing boats coming and going from the shingle beach.

The town itself is famous for its music and arts festival which takes place in June each year, and this is arguably the most cultural of all the seaside day trips from London.

Drive from London: 2 hours 20 Train journey from London: Over 3 hours Train route from London: London Liverpool Street – Ipswich – Saxmundham, then a bus.

Clacton-on-Sea, Essex

One of Essex’s premier seaside resorts, Clacton-on-Sea has everything you could need for a seaside day trip from London. There’s Clacton Pier, which has arcades, rides and plenty to keep little ones entertained. There’s a large sandy beach, which is spacious enough to spread out for a nice sunbathing session. Plus, the town has plenty of shops and restaurants to keep you entertained.

It’s fair to say that like many English seaside resorts, Clacton-on-Sea was bustling at the turn of the 1900s, and while it has grown a little tired over the years, there’s a lot of regeneration going on.

Drive from London: 1 hour 48 Train journey from London: 1 hour 26 Train route from London: Direct train from London Liverpool Street to Clacton-on-Sea

Mersea Island, Essex

How about visiting an island for seaside day trip from London? Mersea Island in Essex is eight miles square and sits within the Blackwater Estuary. The beaches on Mersea Island are a mix of sand and shingle. One of our favourite things to do on a day trip is walk along the Victoria Esplanade which is lined with colourful beach huts.

If you’re an adventure lover, you could go on a boat trip, try your hand at stand up paddle boarding, hire a kayak or learn how to sail. If you’re feeling peckish, you can’t beat the fresh seafood from The Company Shed in West Mersea.

Drive from London: 1 hour 41 Public transport from London: 2 hours 14 (trains and buses) Public transport from London: London Liverpool Street – Colchester, then two buses. Drive if you can!

Seaside Day Trips East Of London

Southend-on-sea, essex.

With the world’s longest pleasure pier, a vibrant seafront, and plenty of beautiful beaches, there are plenty of fun things to do in Southend-on-Sea. It’s another iconic seaside town, that was a popular holiday spot in Victorian times for upmarket city types.

In recent years, Southend has experienced a mini renaissance. It’s now a bustling seaside town with some excellent restaurants and a thriving local arts scene. Spend a few hours screaming on the rides at Adventure Island, head to the golden sands of the beach, enjoy a gourmet dinner at one of the town’s top restaurants or walk the Thames Estuary Path.

If you’re looking for the closest seaside day trips from London by train, then Southend is a great option, with direct trains taking under an hour. You can find out more about visiting in our guide to the top things to do in Southend .

Drive from London: 1 hour 15 Train journey from London: 51 minutes Train route from London: Direct trains from London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central

Seaside Day Trips South East Of London

Whitstable, kent.

This cute town in Kent is one of the most popular seaside day trips from London. Part of the reason it’s such a favourite is how accessible it is. You can catch a direct train from London Victoria to Whitstable in under an hour and a half.

This adorable pebble beach town has lots to shout about. Famed for its fresh oysters, independent shops and photogenic beach huts, it’s a great spot to visit when the sun is shining. When you get peckish head to The Lobster Shack, Wheelers or The Whitstable Oyster Company for some of the best oysters in town.

Drive from London: 1 hour 34 Train journey from London: 1 hour 21 Train route from London: Direct train from London Victoria to Whitstable

Margate, Kent

One of my new favourite seaside day trips from London, Margate is full of surprises! I visited last year on a sunny day and enjoyed a day being a big kid at Dreamland – one of the UK’s oldest amusement parks, which has been lovingly restored in recent years. I screamed my way around the rollercoasters, yelped as I was dropped from dizzy heights, and enjoyed some great food in a colourful setting.

Margate has a huge beach too, and it’s another English seaside resort which feels like it’s on the up. Trendy vintage stores and antique shops share adjoining walls with hipster cafes and chic seafood restaurants.

On sunny days, you’ll find the beach packed with kids building sandcastles and paddling in the chilly English waters, while the grown-ups feast on fish and chips and read their latest holiday novels. For something a little more cultural, there’s Turner Contemporary – the town’s cultural hub, which showcases the best in modern art.

Drive from London: 1 hour 53 Train journey from London: 1 hour 38 Train route from London: Direct train from St Pancras International to Margate

Botany Bay, Kent

This incredible beach on the eastern corner of Broadstairs in Kent is home to some seriously surprising views. Wander the sandy beach at low tide and enjoy views of the impressive chalk stacks and epic white cliffs. When the tide is out, rock pools are revealed – which provides lots of fun for kids to explore.

At this time, you can also take a walk across to Joss Bay which is popular with surfers. It’s worth noting that some of the beach gets cut off at high tide, so check the timings before you venture off too far.

Drive from London: 1 hour 54 Public transport from London: 2 hours 8 Public transport route from London: Train from London St Pancras – Broadstairs by train, then catch a bus

Ramsgate, Kent

Ramsgate is a pretty harbour town in Kent, and has a buzzy atmosphere, with lots of restaurants, cafes and bars dotted along the waterfront. The town has plenty of cute gift shops, as well as a lovely sandy beach. We love walking around the harbour, choosing our favourite yachts and imagining life on the high seas.

The chalk cliff coastline in this region is stunning for photography. It’s also a great place for water sports, with kayaking, sailing and kitesurfing all popular.

Drive from London: 1 hour 48 Train journey from London: 1 hour 24 Train route from London: Direct train from London St Pancras International to Ramsgate

Broadstairs, Kent

I’ve mentioned Botany Bay, which is part of the Broadstairs coastline, but now it’s time to focus on the main town of Broadstairs. This is another fantastic seaside day trip from London, and was even Charles Dickens’ favourite holiday spot!

As well as a huge beach, there are kids rides on the seafront, a mini golf course, a few art galleries, charming cafes, independent shops and even an annual food festival.

Drive from London: 1 hour 50 Train journey from London: 1 hour 30 Train route from London: Direct train from London St Pancras International to Broadstairs

I’ll always remember visiting Deal with my Dad on a seaside day trip from London. The old town has a pier stretching out into the sea, and all the classic gift shops, fish and chip shops and places to buy ice cream. It doesn’t have the holiday resort brashness of places like Margate and Southend, so if you like the simpler things in life, it’s a lovely spot to visit.

If you like a bit of history you can walk along the beach to Deal Castle. Built for King Henry VIII, it’s one of the finest Tudor artillery castles in England.

Drive from London: 1 hour 51 Train journey from London: 1 hour 23 Train route from London: Direct trains from St Pancras International to Deal

Folkestone, Kent

Another lovely seaside town that has been regenerated and falls perfectly into ‘underrated’ territory! The town has a buzzy creative quarter filled with colourful stores selling art and gifts you never knew you needed. There’s Sunny Sands – a small sandy beach, and plenty of independent restaurants and quirky cafes dotted around the town.

It’s a town famed for its art scene, with a mermaid sculpture to rival Copenhagen’s and a cast iron statue of a human by Anthony Gormley, which stands looking out from under the Harbour Arm. It’s less of a seaside trip for sitting on a beach with a bucket and spade, but if you’re looking for good food and some creative places to explore, Folkestone is a fab option.

Drive from London: 1 hour 30 Train journey from London: 53 minutes Train route from London: Direct trains from St Pancras International to Folkestone

Dover, Kent

Dover isn’t a classic option for an English beach trip, but it’s a great one if you like hiking. It’s a port town, with ferries leaving for Calais throughout the day. The town is famed for its white cliffs and history. Spend the day getting out of London, exploring the beautiful coastal landscapes with a hike over those pearly white cliffs, before taking a tour of Dover Castle.

Oh, and don’t forget to look out, you might just spot France across the English Channel!

Drive from London: 1 hour 58 Train journey from London: 1 hour 14 Train route from London: Direct trains from St Pancras International to Dover

Camber Sands, East Sussex

Unlike many of the beaches in Sussex, Camber is covered in beautiful golden sand, and is also home to some pretty dunes. It’s often referred to as one of the best beaches in the UK, and thankfully, also boasts some of the best weather too! Kids will adore this beach – it’s a great one for building giant sandcastles or having a paddle in the waves.

While the beach is long and wide, it’s known for being pretty windy. In fact, it’s the strong winds that attract top wind surfers and kite surfers to the area. There are a few holiday parks located right on the beach, plus some gorgeous holiday cottages for a longer break.

Drive from London: 2 hours 6 Public transport journey from London: 1 hour 37 Public transport route from London: St Pancras International – Ashford International – Rye then a bus to Camber Sands

Hastings, East Sussex

Hastings is one of my favourite seaside day trips from London. I’ve been twice in the last few years and have loved exploring all the things you can do there. Hastings is like a more rugged cousin of Brighton! It’s got the kooky cafes, street art and independent stores… but it’s got a bit more too!

There’s the old funicular railway going up the cliff, a huge crazy golf course out by the beach, a pier lined with candy-coloured beach huts and an area of fisherman’s huts where you can pick up the freshest seafood in town.

If you’ve visited Brighton a million times, give Hastings a go next! Watch out for the seagulls though – last time I visited one swooped down and plucked my ice cream out of my hand!

Drive from London: 2 hours Train journey from London: 1 hour 27 Train route from London: Direct trains from London Bridge or Victoria (slower trains from Victoria)

Seaside Day Trips South Of London

Eastbourne, east sussex.

One of the most popular seaside day trips from London, Eastbourne has it all: a Victorian pier, a three-mile long beach and plenty to do when the sun is shining. If you don’t fancy relaxing on the beach, you could walk to Birling Gap to see the beautiful chalk cliffs at Beachy Head and Seven Sisters (more on that coming up).

Or, you could enjoy some live music at the Eastbourne Bandstand, which has the nickname ‘the busiest bandstand on planet earth (unless you know better)’!

One of the best seaside activities in Eastbourne? Sitting on the bumpy pebbles of the beach, with fish and chips lathered with salt and vinegar, sweating slightly through the paper they’re wrapped in. Nothing beats it! Just avoid the hungry seagulls…

Drive from London: 2 hours 17 Train journey from London: 1 hour 23 Train route from London: Direct trains from Victoria to Eastbourne

Birling Gap, East Sussex

If you’ve always wanted to take in the stunning views of the chalk cliffs at Beachy Head and Seven Sisters, then this is the seaside day trip from London for you. Birling Gap is the National Trust area located on the South Downs coast, and is a great spot from which to start a hike along the South Downs Way or enjoy the nature reserve. There’s a café too, so grab an ice cream and fuel up before your walk.

If you’re craving some beach time, you can get down to Birling Gap Beach. Head down the steps and you’ll feel just how vast the chalk cliffs are as you stand at the base looking up. It’s worth noting the cliffs here are known for occasional rock falls, so don’t get too close.

Drive from London: 2 hours 15 Train journey from London: No direct routes so driving is recommended, or you could walk from Eastbourne

Brighton, East Sussex

The ultimate seaside day trip from Brighton, I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve been to this vibrant seaside town. It’s one of the best seaside day trips from London by train (only takes an hour!) which makes it seriously popular when the sun is shining. In fact, we love it so much we highlighted it as one of the best places to visit on our 10-day England itinerary !

There’s so much to do in Brighton. There’s the pier which is crammed full of terrifying rides, noisy amusement arcades and food outlets wafting the sickly scent of donuts through the air. There’s the mammoth pebbly beach, lined with little art galleries, gift shops and restaurants. There’s the i360 – a tourist attraction which offers great views of the area. Plus, there are some absolutely gorgeous hotels along the seafront, perfect for longer breaks.

Then there’s the main town area, where you’ll find endless wiggly streets with independent stores, quirky cafes and fabulous local restaurants. Shop for vintage jewellery, bohemian clothing and vegan delights in The Lanes and North Laine. There’s a reason everyone loves Brighton, it’s just as great as it sounds, and it’ll have you coming back for more, time and time again.

Drive from London: 1 hour 50 Train journey from London: 1 hour Train route from London: Direct trains from London Bridge and Victoria to Brighton

Worthing, West Sussex

With its wide promenade and pier, you could be fooled into thinking Worthing is just another English seaside town, but there’s a little more going on than you might expect. It’s home to one of the oldest working cinemas in the UK, has some cool microbreweries and the beach huts here aren’t just used by tourists, some are the quirky studios of local artists.

Head to Warwick Street, Portland Road and Rowlands Road for a range of quirky and independent shops. Or take a walk down Tarring High Street to see the town’s historic architecture.

Drive from London: 1 hour 55 Train journey from London: 1 hour 27 Train route from London: Direct trains from Victoria to Worthing

Bognor Regis, West Sussex

Oh Bognor, how ridiculed you’ve been over the years, but we feel it’s unfair! Bognor Regis is a proper summer holiday town on the south coast of England. Think candy floss, fish and chips, amusement arcades and a great beach. I guess some of its naf reputation has come from the Butlins Resort, located to the east of the town.

We say, leave your expectations in London and head to the coast for a day of out and out fun. Bognor Regis is officially one of the sunniest towns in the entire country, so what better place for a day on the beach!

Drive from London: 2 hours 5 Train journey from London: 1 hour 45 Train route from London: Direct trains from London Victoria to Bognor Regis

Seaside Day Trips South West Of London

West wittering, west sussex.

If all you want is a sandy beach close to London, West Wittering is a great option. It’s one of the best Blue Flag beaches in the country, known for the highest water quality and top facilities. Kids will love playing on the sand and running in and out of the water. It’s popular with swimmers too.

There are some great views from the beach areas. You can see Portsmouth and the Isle of Wight across the water, as well as Chichester Harbour and the South Downs. It doesn’t have the fairground appeal of the resort spots around the coast, but it’s one of the best sandy beaches in England.

Drive from London: 2 hours Public transport journey from London: 2 hours 20 Public transport from London: London Victoria – Chichester then a bus to West Wittering

Bournemouth, Dorset

One of the most popular beach breaks in England, Bournemouth has four Blue Flag beaches – Alum Chine, Durley Chine, Fisherman’s Walk and Southbourne. The area boasts some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK, so it’s one of the few places you might feel confident taking a dip!

There’s loads to do in Bournemouth too including crazy golf at Smuggler’s Cove, the amusement arcades along the seafront, the Oceanarium, the cliff lift and even the town’s iconic land train. It’s the perfect place for some good, old fashioned seaside fun!

Drive from London: 2 hours 9 Train journey from London: 2 hours 2 Train route from London: Direct trains from London Waterloo to Bournemouth

Poole, Dorset

Located just south of Bournemouth, with easy access to the stunning Dorset coast, Poole has long been one of southern England’s premier tourist destinations.

This classy town sits on the largest natural harbour in the United Kingdom, and is packed with quaint winding streets, beautiful buildings, and great shops. There are so many things to do in Poole, from water sports and walking, to enjoying a lovely meal on the waterfront or enjoying some a play at the world-class arts centre. You can find out more about visiting this great seaside town in our guide to the top things to do in Poole .

Drive from London: 2 hours 22 Train journey from London: 2 hours 13 Train route from London: Direct trains from London Waterloo to Poole

Sandbanks, Dorset

If you’re looking for an upmarket seaside day trip from London, head to Sandbanks. This small peninsula crosses the mouth of Poole Harbour and has boasts some of the softest sand in England. It’s a wealthy area, with lots of luxurious mansions and holiday apartments lining the seafront.

In the warmer months, Sandbanks is the ideal place to spend a day. You’ll find everything you need, including shops selling beach toys and ice creams, as well as companies offering all kinds of water-sports and activities in the bay.

Try your hand at crazy golf or volleyball, or simply lie back on a deckchair and soak up the rays. For lovers of gourmet food, there’s even a Rick Stein restaurant in Sandbanks.

Drive from London: 2 hours 20 Public transport from London: 2 hours 35 Public transport route from London: London Waterloo – Bournemouth by train, then catch the No.50 bus

Weymouth, Dorset

Weymouth is another great English beach destination, and while it’s a little further away than some on this list, it’s about as far as we’d recommend going for a seaside day trip from London.

If you’re trying to find activities to keep the whole family entertained, it’s a great option. There’s a huge beach, adventure golf course, SeaLife Centre and a pretty harbour area with colourful buildings. When we last visited Weymouth, we hired a kayak and headed out for a paddle. It was lovely to see the start of the Jurassic Coast from another angle!

Drive from London: 2 hours 40 Train journey from London: 2 hours 41 Train route from London: Direct trains from London Waterloo

Seaside Day Trips In London

And finally, a beach right here in London…

Ruislip Lido, North West London

I discovered Ruislip Lido last summer. My sister moved to the area and heard about somewhere with a ‘beach’ nearby. I couldn’t quite believe it when we turned up at Ruislip Lido. It really did feel like being at the beach. Families were scattered on the sand, kids building sandcastles while the adults relaxed and read books.

The reservoir has an artificial beach plus an adorable miniature railway, which goes from the car park to the main beach area. If you have kids this is a great day trip in London.

Drive from Central London: 45 minutes Public transport from Central London: Around an hour. Catch the Piccadilly Line to Ruislip then the H13 bus.

I hope you’ve enjoyed reading about these amazing seaside day trips from London. Let us know where you decide to go, or if you’ve got any favourite spots that we haven’t mentioned.

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Lady’s 13 Seaside Day Trips from London You’ll Love

Today I want to bring you my guide to the best seaside day trips from London. There are some beautiful spots to go to the beach and explore the coast near the city, and these places are ideal for sun, sand, and strolls when the weather warms up. Many of them are within an hour of London, and some of the best are accessible by train or coach. I hope you like them as much as I do.

Seaside Day Trips from London

My list of seaside day trips from London contains a variety of beaches and waterfront areas along the south coast of England.

Whether you’re looking for pebbles in Kent or sand in Sussex, delicious seafood or an iconic pleasure pier, there’s a coastal destination near the UK capital you’ll love.

Some of these places are ideal day trips from London by train , while others make quick day trips from London by car . Whichever way you choose to travel, I hope you have as much fun visiting these seaside spots as I have.

There’s more about day trips in the book Escape London: Days Out within Easy Reach of London , too. You can get it on Amazon here .

1. Seaside Day Trip to Brighton

I’ll start my list of seaside day trips from London with Brighton. It’s the most famous beach destination near the UK capital for good reason.

Located on the south coast in East Sussex, Brighton has everything from big pebble beaches with striped chairs to a famous pleasure pier with restaurants and rides.

Brighton is also known for the flamboyant Royal Pavilion and the shops and restaurants in The Lanes and North Laine. They make a day trip to Brighton a great idea.

Brighton is also one of the top day trips from London to the seaside by train. It’s an easy rail journey from the UK capital, and the trip takes around an hour each way.

You can get good deals on advance fares, so Brighton can also be one of the best cheap day trips from London .

2. Seaside Day Trip to the Seven Sisters

Also in East Sussex, the Seven Sisters make a great seaside day trip from London. Set against the famous chalk cliffs on the South Downs, the pebble beaches on the English Channel here are beautiful.

This is an easy beach day trip by car, as there’s a National Trust information center with parking at Birling Gap and the Seven Sisters. There’s a cafe and ice cream van here, and visitors can walk down a set of stairs to get to the beach below.

3. Seaside Day Trip to Camber Sands

Camber Sands comes next on my list of seaside day trips from London. This is one of the best beaches in East Sussex , and it’s one of the most popular stretches of shoreline on the south coast.

With its rolling sand dunes, pretty pebbles, and abundance of dogs, Camber Sands is the perfect place to go on a sunny day in England.

Add to that great local seafood shops and the nearby town of Rye , and this is one of my top picks for places to go to the seaside near London .

4. Seaside Day Trip to Hastings

Hastings also ranks among the top seaside day trips from London. This coastal town in East Sussex is known for its Norman history, but its beaches are what draw the majority of visitors.

There’s no shortage of them, either. Rock-A-Nore Beach is known for having stunning cliffs behind it. Hastings Beach offers a wide apron of pebble shoreline. It’s also home to Hastings Pier, which has striped beach huts on it.

The Stade, a shingle beach, is backed by colorful fishing boats, nets, and stalls selling fresh fish and seafood.

The waterfront in Hastings is packed with carnival rides, historic net huts, and lively restaurants. Behind them lies a maze of streets with heritage houses and a clifftop castle.

Taking a Hastings day trip is straightforward by rail, as there are direct services from London to the heart of town. Along with Brighton, it’s one of the easiest seaside day trips from London by train.

5. Seaside Day Trip to Beachy Head

Also in East Sussex, Beachy Head makes a great seaside day trip from London. Set above the chalk cliffs on the English Channel, the views of the coast here are unparalleled.

Beachy Head is known for its clifftop trails and famous lighthouse. You can park by The Beachy Head Story and explore the small museum before walking out to the RAF Bomber Command Memorial.

From there it’s a short walk to viewpoints where you can see the Beachy Head Lighthouse. There’s also a restaurant for lunch next to The Beachy Head Story, so it’s easy to make a day of it.

6. Seaside Day Trip to Margate

Over in Kent, Margate is another of the best seaside day trips from London. This hipster town is famous for both its waterfront and its vintage shops.

There’s a big beach in Margate with a lighthouse in the distance. The seafront is backed by colorful buildings and the famous Turner Contemporary art gallery. The Dreamland Margate amusement park is near the water, too.

Margate’s vintage clothing shops, cafes, and restaurants round out the scene, which is to stay nothing of the 16th-century Tudor House and streets like Love Lane.

It’s easy to go on a Margate day trip by train. There are direct services from London, and it’s a scenic journey.

7. Seaside Day Trip to Ramsgate

Ramsgate is next on my list of seaside days out from London. Not far from Margate, Ramsgate is a waterfront town in Kent known for its big sandy beach, heritage architecture, and royal harbor.

Ramsgate is one of the best beach day trips from London because its beach is huge.

Beyond the sand, the town is known for everything from shops to seafood restaurants and heritage houses. The side streets are fun to explore, and the views of the boats from the hill are exciting to see.

There’s a railway station in Ramsgate with direct services to London, so the town is an easy beach day trip from London by train.

8. Seaside Day Trip to Whitstable

Located on the north coast of Kent , Whitstable is another fun seaside day trip from London. It’s the perfect place if you love eating seafood by the shore.

That’s not least because the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival takes place in town every summer. It’s a fun event to attend if you like shellfish and good entertainment, and it makes Whitstable one of the best summer day trips from London .

But Whitstable is a great place to visit at other times, too. The beach is a fun spot to soak up the sun, and the high street has cute shops and great restaurants and cafes.

There’s a train station in Whitstable with direct links to London, so this is another good day trip if you want to travel by rail.

9. Seaside Day Trip to Deal

Also on the coast, Deal, Kent is another of the most popular seaside day trips from London. Located where the North Sea meets the English Channel, Deal features wide pebble beaches and a long pier.

Deal is most famous for what lies behind the beach, though. The seafront Deal Castle is legendary, and the pastel houses and historic pubs on Middle Street are both eye-catching and steeped in smuggling lore. There’s great shopping here, too.

There’s a train station in Deal with direct services to London, so this is an easy day trip if you want to take the train.

10. Seaside Day Trip to Folkestone

Folkestone is another of the top seaside day trips from London. Located on the south coast in Kent, this historic English Channel port town features big beaches and stunning cliffs.

Folkestone Beach is the perfect spot to soak up the sun on the waterfront. It has views of the lighthouse on the Folkestone Harbour Arm. Sunny Sands beach is a good alternative if you prefer sand to pebbles.

Beyond beaches, Folkestone offers an abundance of shops and streets to explore. You can even do a Folkestone to Dover walk and enjoy the beach under the famous white cliffs when you get there.

There are direct rail services to Folkestone from London, so this is a good option for a day trip by train.

11. Seaside Day Trip to Dover

Next on my list of seaside day trips from London is Dover. This coastal port town in Kent is known for its hilltop castle, chalk cliffs, and ferries to Calais.

Dover is popular with history lovers. Its seaside castle is one of the most famous in England, not least because of its layers of heritage and secret wartime tunnels.

It’s also a top pick for nature lovers. The White Cliffs of Dover form a sheer face above the Strait of Dover, and you can see all the way to France on clear days.

The coastal paths along the cliffs are great places for walks with views. There are beaches below, too.

Direct rail services operate from London to Dover , making it an easy day trip by train.

12. Seaside Day Trip to Eastbourne

The next place on my list of seaside day trips from London is Eastbourne . This resort town on the southeast coast in East Sussex is a popular place to go to the beach near the UK capital.

Eastbourne and the surrounding areas have miles of shingle beaches packed with pebbles and pools.

Eastbourne Beach features Eastbourne Pier, a Victorian landmark with great views of the town. There’s also a 1930s bandstand with live music performances on the waterfront.

Nearby Holywell and Falling Sands feature coastal views and rock pools bursting with sea life. Beachy Head and the Seven Sisters are close to Eastbourne, too.

There are direct trains to Eastbourne from London, so it’s an easy day trip by rail from the capital.

13. Seaside Day Trip to Chichester Harbour

Last on my list of seaside day trips from London is Chichester Harbour. This waterfront area in West Sussex is a great place for country walks .

The Chichester Harbour Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) covers 46 square miles (74 square kilometers) of land, sea, and intertidal habitats. It’s full of bird life and quiet villages, and it’s a popular place for walking and sailing.

The area is right by Chichester, a famous cathedral city in England . It’s easy to combine walks around Chichester with the urban highlights.

There are train services from London to Chichester and the surrounding area, so this is an easy day trip by rail.

I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of seaside day trips from London, and that it’s helped you discover places you’ll love by the water.

If you have a bit more time, spots like Southwold , Norfolk , and St Ives are great coastal destinations for weekend breaks . Happy travels!

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30 best seaside towns UK

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• britains-30-best-seaside-towns

written by Lottie Gross

updated 18.10.2023

The very best seaside towns in the UK offer everything from traditional fun to tongue-in-cheek kitsch. Days out on the beach with bucket and spade in hand continue to be a great British tradition, and best of all, there's always another coastal town in the UK waiting to be discovered! The following information is taken from The Rough Guide to England , Scotland and Wales , your best travel guides for visiting the United Kingdom.

• 1. Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear: Newcastle's nearest seaside

2. Southwold, Suffolk: one of the best seaside towns UK

3. porthmadog, gwynedd: seaside by snowdonia national park, 4. whitstable, kent: a bohemian seaside escape, 5. aberystwyth, ceredigion: the great victorian seaside, 6. shanklin: the quaint isle of wight seaside town, 7. hastings, east sussex: the refreshed seaside town, 8. pittenweem, fife: east neuk seaside favourite.

• 9. Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire Coast

10. Crosby, Merseyside: seaside home to 100 iron men

11. gardenstown, aberdeenshire, 12. tenby, pembrokeshire.

• 13. Lochinver, Sutherland: Scotland's seaside foodie

14. Folkestone, Kent: best seaside towns UK for festivals

15. new brighton, merseyside, 16. bournemouth, dorset, 17. margate: seaside cool in kent, 18. portmeirion, gwynedd, north wales, 19. filey, north yorkshire, 20. st ives, cornwall: seaside with an art scene.

• 21. Salcombe: Devon's genteel seaside town

22. Plockton, Ross and Cromarty

23. brighton: best of the best seaside towns uk, 24. stromness, orkney, 25. llandudno, conwy county borough, 26. ilfracombe, north devon, 27. barton-on-sea, hampshire, 28. weymouth, dorset, 29. padstow, cornwall, 30. portree, skye, inner hebrides.

Whether you want nice beaches in England , pebble bays in Wales or coastal artists' retreats in Scotland , the UK certainly doesn't disappoint when it comes to seaside towns. Wondering where you should go? Read our guide to the top 30 best seaside towns in the UK.

1. Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear: Newcastle's nearest seaside

A 25-minute drive or Metro hop from central Newcastle , Tynemouth lies exactly where its name suggests – at the mouth of the river Tyne.

Of its beaches, surf-hub Longsands gets most of the accolades. But clamber down the stairs from the clifftop to King Edward's Bay, and you’re in for a real treat. This is where Geordie foodies flock, in fine weather or otherwise, to enjoy superb seafood and real ales at Riley’s Fish Shack , a simple hut-kitchen that is the beach’s lone structure.

Tynemouth also has a ruined priory and castle to enjoy, plus a Sunday flea market. For dog-friendly local beaches head to East Beach, Ryhope South Beach and Whitely Bay year-round. Check the rules for other beaches, where restrictions for dogs are generally in place during the main summer season.

Where to stay near Tynemouth

• For stylish stays : Choose The Sea Hotel close to the seaside in South Shields. Smart rooms feature chic, tiled bathrooms and you have the choice of two restaurants and bars.
• For beach stays : The Little Haven Hotel is a minute's walk from the beach. All rooms have private bathrooms, and if you want to make the most of the sea air, book one with a balcony.
• For family stays : A choice of spacious family rooms with ensuite bathrooms, makes Dunes Hotel in Whitely Bay perfect for a trip to the seaside with kids.

Find more accommodation options in Tynemouth

Beach huts are a feature of the best UK seaside towns © Adrian Rawlinson/Shutterstock

Perched on the east coast of England, the small town of Southwold is one of the best coastal towns in the UK. Southwold offers typical seaside merriment with its sandy beach, traditional pier and candy-coloured beach huts. A working lighthouse (open to visitors) stands sentinel, surveying the bay, while the Adnams Brewery, which still operates on the same site after 670 years, wafts early morning hops into the sea air.

Once a bustling fishing port, today Southwold is a delightful seaside resort that makes up one of the best parts of northern Norfolk . Southwold has managed to retain a genteel feel to it, with numerous nearby walks to enjoy. Still, there's no denying the electric buzz that surrounds the popular Latitude Festival which is held in the area every year.

Plenty of excellent eating and accommodation options range from smart hotels on the picturesque market square to nearby campsites – all a pebble’s throw from the sea. If you're keen to know what else is going on locally, start with our 15 reasons to visit Norfolk .

Where to stay in Southwold

• For luxury stays : Just minutes from the beach, Sutherland House might date back to 1455 but its rooms are contemporary and luxurious, although often with charming period details.
• For budget stays : Set in a restored Edwardian property, Blyth Hotel is a good value two star. Its restaurant has a pretty outdoor dining terrace and features local produce on its menu.
• For town centre stays : The Swan Hotel sits right on the town square in the centre of Southwold and is known locally for its excellent restaurant.

Find more accommodation options in Southwold

Porthmadog © Andrew Davies/Robert Harding Library

If Porthmadog is handsome, it owes at least a portion of its good looks to the magnificent views all around. From town, you can gaze up the Vale of Ffestiniog and across the estuary of the Glaslyn River to the mountains of Snowdonia .

Indeed, there's no finer base for trips into Snowdonia National Park , and Porthmadog is also the terminus of a fabulous narrow-gauge rail line. The 22km-long Ffestiniog Railway is the finest of its kind in Wales, and runs from Porthmadog harbour to the slate-mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

A mile south of Porthmadog, Borth-y-Gest is little more than a semi-circle of low, brightly painted Victorian houses lining the beach – and utterly charming in its simplicity.

In terms of beach-side spots, Snowdonia's Black Rock Sands is a long, wide stretch of beach. Despite its name, there is no black sand in sight, but it is a haven for nature and marine life. You can drive on the beach, however, steer clear of North Bank with its soft sands and sand dunes.

Where to stay in Porthmadog

• For charming stays : The Golden Fleece Inn offers individually designed rooms laid out across three beautifully restored historic buildings close to the centre of Porthmadog.
• For luxury stays : Plas Tan-Yr-Allt Historic Country House sits in beautiful grounds just outside Porthmadog. All luxuriously comfortable rooms come with mountain or sea views.
• For heritage stays : Built in 1925, historic Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth overlooks the tranquil Dywryd Estuary and incorporates a luxury spa and wellness centre.

Find more accommodation options in Porthmadog

Whitstable beach © Deaglan McCabe/Shutterstock

Whitstable , on the north Kent coast, is a popular seaside town near London . As much as it's a much-needed escape route for many city-dwelling Londoners, don't let that put you off. There's a defiantly bohemian atmosphere in Whitstable, with a vibrant High Street and colourful, Instagram-worthy beach huts.

Another of the major attractions here are the local oysters, which the town has been famous for since Roman times. The annual highlight is the Oyster festival (last two weeks of July), when you can expect oyster-eating competitions, parades and performances. At any time of year, however, this is a great place to come for fresh seafood and windswept coastal walks.

Where to stay in Whitstable

• For traditional stays : Set on Tankerton Cliffs The Marine is every inch a classic seaside hotel. Many bedrooms include charming features like fireplaces and freestanding baths.
• For beachy stays : Hotel Continental sits minutes from the beach in Whitstable. Fresh, contempory rooms echo the seaside theme and the hotel bistro specialises in oysters and local ales.
• For family stays : Warehouse Holiday Lets is a terrace of bright, modern family homes, each with a balcony and more than enough room for a family of four.

Find more accommodation options in Whitstable

Aberystwyth © Billy Stock/Shutterstock

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Two sweeping pebble bays, soft-hued Georgian houses lining the promenade, the nineteenth-century Royal Pier, Aberystwyth has all the hallmarks of a traditional British seaside resort. Yet this mid-Wales hub offers more than just bucket-and-spade amusements.

Aberystwyth is a blast of fresh salty air with a lively student population, plentiful pubs, booming café culture, and a strong sense of national pride. Combine this with a thriving art scene and superlative live Welsh music, and what do you get? One of the best coastal towns UK (in Wales, at least).

Without a doubt, Aberystwyth is the liveliest seaside resort in Wales, and its enviable location makes it a clear winner when it comes to sussing out great beaches. You can enjoy the two long, gentle bays curving around between rocky heads, as well as plenty of other things to do here.

Where to stay in Aberystwyth

• For budget stays : Stately Queensbridge Hotel exudes a British seaside holiday vibe and sits at the quieter end of Aberystwyth's Victorian promenade.
• For beachy stays : The Glengower is a pretty seafront hotel with fantastic views over Cardigan Bay. It also has a cosy bar, extensive sun terrace and Aberystwyth centre is an easy walk away.
• For family stays : A short drive from the town centre, Aberystwyth Park Lodge Hotel offers a range of bright and modern family rooms all with private bathrooms.

Find more accommodation options in Aberystwyth

Shanklin Beach , Isle of Wight, is a great place for a UK holiday by the beach © Dinko G Kyuchukov/Shutterstock

Possibly the most idyllic seaside resort on Isle of Wight , Shanklin has a delightfully quaint Old Village with thatched pubs, sweet shops and traditional tearooms. At the bottom of the steep cliffs is a family-friendly beach, where you can hire kayaks and the like in front of a row of whitewashed guesthouses, cafés and restaurants. Simply put, Shanklin is one of the best beaches in the UK .

While you're in Shanklin, don’t miss Shanklin Chine, a mossy gorge with a waterfall at the top, a twisting nature trail and fascinating World War II military connections.

After your walk, take afternoon tea at the award-winning Rylestone Gardens and watch nature dart around in front of you. In need of more beach fun? Continue down to Sandown beach with its amusement-filled pier.

Where to stay in Shanklin

• For luxury stays : Somerton Lodge Hotel is an elegant Victorian house transformed into a luxurious hotel. The gardens are lovely and there's an excellent hotel restaurant.
• For country house stays : Luccombe Manor Hotel sits on the cliff top overlooking Shanklin Beach. The views are wonderful and the hotel also has an outdoor spa pool and hot tub.
• For village stays : Right in the heart of Shanklin village, The Grange is a lovely four-star B&B which offers spa treatments as well as massage therapy and a guest sauna.

Find more accommodation options in Shanklin

Hastings Old Town as seen from East Hill © Christophe Cappelli/Shutterstock

Once seen as a tired and tacky seaside resort, Hastings in East Sussex doesn't get the love it deserves. We'd argue that it's one of the best seaside resorts in the UK! After all, the town has the country's largest land-launched fishing fleet, which means ultra-fresh seafood on offer just behind the working beach.

A host of small restaurants also serve the delicious catch of the day. There are curios and antiques galore on the Old Town's George Street, and even a funicular to take you up the cliffs for a great view over the town.

But it's not all about the old in Hastings. The town's new pier opened in 2016, after the previous one was ravaged by fire, and gave the town a fresh lease of life.

Where to stay in Hastings

• For boutique stays : An elegant 18th century villa set in lovely grounds minutes from the sea, The Old Rectory is one of the finest boutique hotels in Hastings.
• For budget stays : The Lansdowne is an affordable small hotel only a minute from the beach and a short walk from the town centre and Hastings train station.
• For active stays : The Old Town B&B in the centre of Hastings invites guests to play tennis and billiards on site. Alternatively, the beach is just a few minutes' walk away.

Find more accommodation options in Hastings

Pittenweem © Stefano_Valeri/Shutterstock

The secret’s out. Pittenweem in Fife is one of the favourite seaside destinations in Central Scotland . This pretty village thrives on its steady tourist trade, but it also remains a functioning fishing town and has become something of an artists’ colony in recent years.

An annual arts festival takes place here in early August and dozens of locals turn their homes into temporary galleries for a week - one of the reasons Pittenweem is in our 10 great post-corona summer holidays within the UK guide. And don’t miss the unusual Kellie Castle, three miles north, with its under-manicured gardens and twin 16th-century towers.

Where to stay in Pittenweem

• For romantic stays : The Hayloft apartment is completely self-contained and minutes from Pittenweem harbour.
• For family stays : Set in a traditional 18th century Pittenweem house, The Crow's Nest holiday home is a short walk from the beach.
• For harbourside stays : Four-star Pittenweem Harbour Location sits seafront in the village, so the views from this cosy apartment are incredible.

Find more accommodation options in Pittenweem

Robin Hood’s Bay © Michael J. Eves/Shutterstock

9. Robin Hood's Bay, North Yorkshire Coast

Despite its name, Robin Hood's Bay has no connection to the eponymous folk hero. Instead, this isolated village was the busiest smuggling community on the North Yorkshire Coast back in the 18th century.

Walking down the hill into the village feels like a descent through the centuries, with old, higgledy-piggledy houses crammed in around you, and a steep cobbled road leading slowly down to the sea.

At low tide you can walk out quite far along the bottom of the cliffs, so this dramatic coastline is perfect for adventuring. Be sure to make it back for fish and chips, regarded by many to be among Yorkshire's best.

To continue exploring this fascinating coastal town, you can take an easy 2.5-mile circular walk to Boggle Hole. The return route is slightly more inland and takes you past the old Scarborough to the Whitby rail line.

• Where to stay
• For beachy stays : Minutes from the beach and only a short drive to Whitby, Victoria Hotel is a traditional British seaside hotel right down to its stunning seaside views.
• For active stays : Set on the edge of the North York Moors National Park yet close to the beach, Grosvenor Hotel is ideal for outdoorsy breaks.
• For family stays : The Manor of the Bay family holiday home comes with fabulous sea views, plenty of space and a private terrace with hot tub.

Find more accommodation options in Robin Hood's Bay

Crosby Beach © Chris Hepburn/Robert Harding Library

Where the River Mersey becomes the Irish Sea, and industrial Liverpool softens to leafy, suburban Merseyside, there’s a town called Crosby, home to some 50,000 people – and one hundred iron men.

Artist Antony Gormley’s cast-iron replicas of his own form stud the 3km stretch of Crosby Beach from Waterloo north to Burbo Bank in an installation entitled Another Place. With each identical statue facing the horizon, they’re a moving sight, if a little unsettling, when the tide begins to submerge them.

Carry on up the coast to the bleak beach at Hightown, with its prehistoric submerged forest, and Formby’s National Trust coastal reserve, which is home to red squirrels and some Neolithic footprints preserved, against the odds, in the sand.

Where to stay in Crosby

• For seaside stays : Traditional Aberley House hotel is just a few minutes walk to the beach and a short drive from Liverpool city centre.
• For arty stays : Overlooking the Mersey Estuary, The Royal Hotel is a good choice for visiting Antony Gormley's art installation 'Another Place'.
• For family stays : The Beach House holiday home in Crosby offers 8 spacious bedrooms as well as a private garden and terrace.

Find more accommodation options in Crosby

Gardenstown, a quaint and calm UK coastal town © Olaf Schubert/Shutterstock

Scotland’s northeast coast has a bleak, rugged quality, with a series of small fishing villages dotted along the miles of lonely beaches. The prettiest of the lot is Gardenstown , with stone cottages huddled around a wave-gnawed bay, and newer buildings clinging to the nearby cliffs.

There’s little to do here beyond soaking up the solitude, taking a windswept stroll along the waterfront, and dropping into the small gallery and teashop down by the harbour. Pure bliss.

As seaside towns go, Gardenstown is pretty quiet, but its neighbouring villages along the Moray coast – Pennan, Portsoy and Cullen – are just as pleasantly charming, too.

Where to stay in Gardenstown

• For beachfront stays : A charming, two bedroom holiday home in Gardenstown, The Blue Hoose sits right on the waterfront for great sea views.
• For family stays : With two spacious bedrooms, private terrace and patio with open sea views, Sunnyside House is ideal for family breaks in Gardenstown.
• For romantic stays : Cute Ellie-Jo Cottage is one of the original village houses and sits right above the seawall in Gardenstown.

Find more accommodation options in Gardenstown

Tenby © Billy Stock/Shutterstock

Tenby – or to give it its Welsh name, Dinbych-y-Pysgod, which means Little Fortress of the Fish – is perhaps Wales' most charming seaside resort.

This Pembrokeshire town, a cluster of quaint houses in bright colours, is encircled by medieval stone walls, and the three beautiful Blue Flag beaches on its doorstep are the starting point for numerous coastal walks.

Does it warrant a place on our 21 most beautiful beaches in Wales list? Well, not only is it home to the impressive, 186 mile-long Pembrokeshire Coast Path , but there's a smattering of cliffside hotels that you can rest up in at the end of a long day.

Where to stay in Tenby

• For seafront stays : No 1. The Esplanade is a traditional seaside B&B known for cosy rooms with private bathrooms and great views.
• For budget stays : Clarence House Hotel sits close to Tenby's beaches and offers wide open views of Caldey Island from its sunny outdoor terrace.
• For boutique stays : Charming Trefloyne Manor is in the heart of Pembrokeshire Coast National Park and a few minutes' drive from Tenby.

Find more accommodation options in Tenby

Assynt © Paul A Carpenter/Shutterstock

13. Lochinver, Sutherland: Scotland's seaside foodie

One of the busier fishing harbours in the Highlands of Scotland , Lochinver has a pleasingly down-to-earth atmosphere. It’s also the natural base from which to explore the Assynt region, with extraordinary peaks like Suilven within easy reach.

The harbour town (really an oversized village) is on the North Coast 500, one of our brilliant bike routes in the UK . More surprisingly, it's also known for unusually good restaurants, like Inver Lodge, and Lochinver Larder which serve impeccable pies.

Where to stay in Lochinver

• For luxury stays : Inver Lodge matches its excellent restaurant with spacious rooms and a stunning setting just outside Lochinver.
• For romantic stays : Custom-built Suil na Mara Pod is the cosiest cabin for couples, overlooking the sea on the edge of Lochinver village.
• For country stays : The Albannach guest house features individually designed rooms in a traditional country house setting just outside Lochinver.

Find more accommodation options in Lochinver

Folkestone © Flyby Photography/Shutterstock

Wondering where to go on the UK coast? For years a shabby seaside town, Folkestone has reinvented itself in recent times. Now it has a designated Creative Quarter as well as a hub of artists' workshops, independent galleries and shops.

There are good beaches too. As the name suggests, Sunny Sands is a golden stretch that gets busy in summer. At the bottom of the Zig Zag steps which run through the lush Lower Leas Coastal Park is the pleasant pebble Mermaid Beach.

The Folkestone Triennial sees public areas transformed into exhibition spaces. Usually held in September, this annual art exhibition features impressive contemporary installations on street corners, community centres and the beaches themselves.

Where to stay in Folkestone

• For boutique stays : Three minutes from the beach, Rocksalt Rooms features individually designed bedrooms with antique beds and ultra-modern bathrooms.
• For budget stays : The Grand Burstin Hotel sits beachfront and offers cosy rooms, some with private balconies. The hotel also has an indoor pool and leisure centre.
• For luxury stays : Five-star guest house, The Relish , is a short walk from the sea and offers elegant rooms with views over Augusta Gardens.

Find more accommodation options in Folkestone

New Brighton © Paul Ellis/AFP/Getty Images

For photography fans, New Brighton is a place of pilgrimage, as Magnum photographer, Martin Parr , the greatest living documenter of everyday life in the UK, shot his seminal series The Last Resort here in 1983–85.

With these 40 photographs Parr depicted the sort of scene that befalls a declining seaside town when the great, sun-deprived British public descend on it, ice creams in hand and dogs in tow.

New Brighton has undergone a £60 million refurbishment in recent times, with new restaurants and bars, and the coast on the other side of the Wirral peninsula (a 25-minute drive) is a pretty day-trip. While you're there, try West Kirby, cute Thurstaston beach and eerie Parkgate.

Where to Stay in New Brighton

• For good value stays : The New Brighton Hotel is a minute from the beach and offers a range of reasonably priced accommodation, including spacious family rooms.
• For independent stays : Holland House features a choice of independent units, each with their own kitchen and several with private balconies.
• For family stays : With four ensuite bedrooms, a private patio and beachfront location, Entire Seaside Home is ideas for families.

Find more accommodation options in New Brighton

Bournemouth © allouphoto/Shutterstock

With wide stretches of golden sand, fish and chips available on the seafront and the obligatory arcade on the pier, Bournemouth is a relic of the Victorian beach break.

It's also undoubtedly one of the best coastal towns in southern England and boasts one of the cleanest beaches in the country. But it has more to offer than its traditional, somewhat outdated roots suggest.

The chic Hilton is an accommodation game-changer and proves itself a welcome break from the town's many resorts left over from the 1960s. Meanwhile, the nearby area of Boscombe has a refreshing carefree vibe with great beachfront cafés and an artificial surf school.

• For luxury stays : Five minutes' walk from Bournemouth's famous promenade, Hilton Bournemouth is one of the most stylish seaside stays in town.
• For budget stays : For good value, spacious rooms and a friendly atmosphere choose Hotel Celebrity , just a short stroll from the beach.
• For seafront stays : As this name suggests, four-star Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott enjoys a dramatic setting overlooking the beach.

Find more accommodation options in Bournemouth

The seafront at cool Margate in Kent

Margate isn't a chocolate-box seaside resort, and nor is it twee. In fact, this seaside town is pretty darn cool. The Old Town is the focus of recent regeneration, with a main square and narrow lanes packed with independent businesses.

The Turner Contemporary glints proudly on the seafront, a beacon for the town's arty vibe, and Dreamland amusement park has reopened its doors for traditional fairground fun.

Thanks to its high-speed train connection, Margate is another popular London day-trip destination. It's ideal for those seeking the seaside with a hipster edge, but there's just as much traditional beachside fun to get nostalgic over – jellied eels or oysters, anyone?

Where to stay in Margate

• For central stays : The Sherwood Hotel has a friendly, traditional B&B atmosphere close to the centre of Margate and within walking distance of the beach.
• For budget stays : Cosy and welcoming Rosslyn Court is a charming little guesthouse with a pretty terrace close to the seafront in Margate.
• For romantic stays : One bedroom Fort Crescent apartment is bright and colourfully decorated, perfect for couples and only a short walk to the beach.

Find more accommodation options in Margate

Portmeirion © EddieCloud/Shutterstock

Not so much a functioning town as a semi-fictional village, Portmeirion is unlike anywhere else in Britain.

A swish, Mediterranean resort plonked in wildest North Wales , it is the brainchild of eccentric architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who built this Italianate village with a piazza, grand porticoes and terracotta-roofed houses, all in bright pastel colours.

This Italianate haven has often been described as a "dream village". But if the architecture on this rocky peninsula isn't enough, the seascape it backs onto is just as picturesque.

Where to stay in Portmeirion

• For luxury stays : Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth sits right on the Dywryd Estuary. As well a charming rooms, it offers a spa and award winning restaurant.
• For boutique stays : The Golden Fleece Inn is quaint and historic but individually designed bedrooms and a pretty courtyard garden elevate it from b&b to boutique guesthouse.
• For traditional stays : The Royal Sportsman is the only hotel in Porthmadog, very welcoming and a good base for breaks in nearby Snowdonia National Park.

Find more accommodation options in Portmeirion

Filey © northallertonman/Shutterstock

This quaint little Edwardian seaside town in North Yorkshire has homely pubs, quirky shops and a weekly farmers' market.

Scramble up the hillside by the beach for a great view over the huge orange-sand bay, and follow up with some top-notch fish and chips from one of the stalls on the popular beachside slipway, Coble Landing.

At low tide, head out to the peninsula of Filey Brigg – a fossiliferous, rocky promontory that's popular with fishermen and naturalists alike.

Filey is one of two main resorts on the East Yorkshire coast , which curves south in an arc from Flamborough Head to Spurn Head. Between the two points are a number of tranquil villages and windswept dunes, in which Filey and Bridlington are located.

Where to stay in Filey

• For view-rich stays : The White Lodge Hotel has offers panoramic views over Filey Bay from many of its comfortable rooms thanks to an exceptional clifftop location.
• For romantic stays : Adults-only White Rose Guesthouse offers stylishly decorated bedrooms, a pretty garden and great breakfasts.
• For budget stays : Friendly and welcoming Athol House bed and breakfast sits close to the beach, choose a room with a view if you can.

Find more accommodation options in Filey

St Ives © ian woolcock/Shutterstock

St Ives in Cornwall has long been associated with a vibrant local art scene. There are more galleries, exhibitions and culture than you can shake a stick at, including the town's branch of the Tate and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden.

The Penwith landscape, with its stunning azure seascapes and white sand beaches, is the backdrop to a charming higgledy-piggledy town of narrow cobbled streets and fishermen’s houses.

Porthmeor Beach dominates the northern side of St Ives, where the surfer crowds head to. The broader Porthminster Beach, south of the station, is usually less busy.

A third town beach, the small and sheltered Porthgwidden, lies between Porthmeor and Porthminster, while east of town a string of magnificent golden beaches lines St Ives Bay on either side of the Hayle estuary.

Where to stay in St. Ives

• For stately stays : Tregenna Castle Resort sits in over 70 acres of private grounds overlooking the coast. As well as a good choice of apartments, the resort also has an indoor and outdoor pool and 18-hole golf course.
• For beachy stays : Elegant Pedn-Olva sits just above the beach in the heart of St. Ives. All rooms are bright and stylish, and the hotel restaurant is excellent.
• For budget stays : The Western sits in St. Ives town, close to beaches and galleries. Rooms are comfortable and the hotel bar features live music most evenings.

Find more accommodation options in St. Ives

Salcombe © ian woolcock/Shutterstock

21. Salcombe: Devon's genteel seaside town

Salcombe is undoubtedly one of the most genteel seaside towns in Devon . Pastel-coloured houses stagger up the hill and the winding streets are crammed full of little shops, old pubs and surprisingly contemporary cafés.

Visit after the school holidays, as in high summer you'll struggle to negotiate the thronging crowds. While you're there, take the ferry out onto the estuary to seek out quiet little soft-sand coves and beaches so scenic you'll forget you're in the UK.

The selection of restaurants are top-rated, too. Expect to dine on catch-of-the-day menus while you're seated between amateur yachties and other well-heeled clientele.

Just a short drive from Salcombe lies Hope Cove, a secluded spot home to two sandy beaches, Mouthwell Sands and the Harbour beach.

Where to stay in Salcombe

• For spa stays : Salcombe Harbour Hotel sits right on the waterfront and features a luxurious spa as well as spacious, modern rooms and spectacular views.
• For family stays : With two bedrooms, two bathrooms The Booty apartment is ideal for families and only a short walk from the beach.
• For charming stays : Hope Thatch is a sweet little terrace cottage with a thatched roof and beautifully renovated interior just a few minutes from Salcombe.

Find more accommodation options in Salcombe

Plockton © Christine Dodd/Shutterstock

With its picture-postcard cottages curved behind a tiny harbour and views across Lochcarron to the Northwest Highlands mountains, Plockton is one of the most handsome seaside settlements on the west coast of the Scottish Highlands.

The town is packed in high season with tourists squelching across the seabed at low tide. The brilliance of the light has also made it something of an artists’ hangout. Plockton may look familiar to first-time visitors as its flower and palm-filled seafront feature in the cult film, The Wicker Man .

This delightful village is a refreshing alternative to its neighbour, Kyle of Lochalsh , with cottages grouped around a yacht-filled bay and Highland cattle wandering the streets.

In fact, this "jewel of the highlands" is a great place to visit as part of a larger Highland road trip through the Isle of Skye , Loch Ness and Edinburgh .

Where to stay in Plockton

• For family stays : Smartly designed with great views, The Haven Guest House features spacious family rooms with private bathrooms.
• For cottage stays : The pretty Holiday Home Tigh na Dalach is every inch the traditional Highland cottage right down to its cosy bedrooms, woodburning stove and sweet garden.
• For off-beat stays : The Duirinish Pods cleverly conceal a surprising amount of space in their cute design, they even include their own private hot tubs.

Find more accommodation options in Plockton

Brighton Pier © Hert Niks/Shutterstock

Brighton isn’t short of famous landmarks. Its exuberant Royal Pavilion, migraine-inducing Brighton Pier and labyrinthine Lanes have long been on the tourist trail.

Not only is it Britain’s LGBTQ capital and home to the largest annual Pride celebrations in the country, but its beach is pretty enviable, too. Brighton Beach is a pebble beach but at low tide the sand stretches out – so sandcastle-building sticks to a strict timeframe!

Meanwhile, the fish and chips and ice cream trade continues to boom ad infinitum. Just as interesting though, is an exploration of Brighton’s car-free Lanes. This maze of narrow alleys marks the old town, and afterwards you can meander through the quaint, more bohemian streets of North Laine.

Where to stay in Brighton

• For designer stays : Unique and exciting My Brighton features designer rooms, a vibrant atmosphere and its very own Indian restaurant.
• For luxury stays : The Grand Brighton is a sumptiously decorated, vintage seaside hotel minutes from the beach in the heart of Brighton.
• For good value stays : OTTO Craven Hotel & Spa has a great location close to the centre of Brighton and walking distance to the seafront.

Find more accommodation options in Brighton & Hove

Stromness © johnbraid/Shutterstock

Stromness is one of Orkney's two chief settlements, an attractive old fishing town, it lies on the far southwestern shore.

An enchanting arrival point, Stromness has a picturesque waterfront with a procession of tiny sandstone jetties and slate roofs nestling below the green hill of Brinkies Brae.

Unlike Kirkwall , the capital of Orkney , Stromness still hugs the shoreline. Its one and only street is a narrow, winding affair paved with great flagstones and fed by a tight network of alleyways. Come in May for the barnstorming four-day Orkney Folk Festival.

Once you've finished up in Stromness, take the passenger ferry across to Hoy . Orkney’s second-largest island has a dramatic landscape made up of great glacial valleys and mountainous moorland. This moorland rises to more than 1500ft and drops into the sea off the red sandstone cliffs of St John’s Head.

Where to stay in Stromness

• For budget stays : Right in the centre of Stromness, overlooking the harbour, Stromness Hotel is a good base for exploring the local area
• For family stays : Set in large gardens with great views, Standing Stones Hotel offers spacious bedrooms and a range of family rooms with private bathrooms.
• For cosy stays : The award-winning Ferry Inn features a friendly bar, comfortable bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms and an excellent pub menu showcasing local produce.

Find more accommodation options in Stromness

Llandudno © S-F/Shutterstock

Llandudno ticks all the boxes of a great British seaside destination. There are long sandy beaches, grand Victorian facades, a two-mile stretch of promenade, and more than a fair share of chic hotels and good restaurants.

Yet arguably the town’s top attraction is not the shoreline but the slice of wilderness on its doorstep in the form of the great limestone lump of Great Orme. Old-style trams and cable cars climb up to the 680ft summit. From here there are stunning views of the Snowdonia mountain range as well as countless trails for bracing walks.

Not only is Llandudno a fun seaside resort, but you can explore its ancient history at the Great Orme Ancient Mines, a Bronze Age settlement developed around what are now the Great Orme Copper Mines.

Where to stay in Llandudno

• For luxury stays : The grand St George's Hotel sits right on the waterfront at Llandudno and minutes from the impressive bulk of Great Orme.
• For budget stays : The Post House has plenty of charm as well as good size rooms and a great central location minutes from Llandudno promenade and beaches.
• For beachy stays : Belmont Llandudno sits almost right on the beach, several rooms have small balconies and the views are spectacular.

Find more accommodation options in Llandudno

Ilfracombe © Alexey Lobanov/Shutterstock

The little town of Ilfracombe on the North Devon coast is synonymous with its picturesque working harbour.

Verity, a striking 66ft bronze-clad sculpture by Damian Hirst, stands guard on the quayside. Beyond the Lantern Hill headland the iconic twin chimneys of the Landmark Theatre are another sign of change in the sea air of Ilfracombe.

That said, there are plenty of traditional pubs that can still be found on historic Fore Street and Broad Street.

Where to stay in Ilfracombe

• For comfortable stays : Wildercombe House is a traditional seaside bed and breakfast with comfortable rooms and great views along the coast.
• For budget stays : Minutes from the beach and close to Ilfracombe Harbour, Royal Britannia Hotel is a great value choice for exploring the local area.
• For family stays : St. James By The Quay two bedroom apartment has a good central location for family breaks in Ilfracombe.

Find more accommodation options in Ilfracombe

Barton-on-Sea © Loretta Damska/Shutterstock

Located on the edge of the New Forest , Barton-on-Sea offers stunning coastal walks and a fascinating glimpse into prehistoric marine life.

In terms of fossils, it has particularly rich pickings with some finds dating as far back as 40 million years and budding palaeontologists can search for preserved shark teeth, fish bones and gastropod shells.

When you’ve had your geological fill, enjoy breathtaking views across the Solent to the Isle of Wight. On a clear day, the iconic chalk Needles and St Catherine's Lighthouse can just be seen in the distance.

Where to stay in Barton-on-Sea

• For beachfront stays : Cliff Top Studio lies just one minute away from the beach in Barton-on-Sea. The one bedroom apartment also has a private patio and barbecue.
• For luxury stays : Five-star Chewton Glen Hotel sits in gorgeous grounds at the edge of the New Forest and a short drive from the coast at Barton-on-Sea.
• For coastal stays : The Barn not only offers individually decorated bedrooms with private bathrooms it has a good restaurant, friendly bar and pretty terrace with views.

Find more accommodation options in Barton-on-Sea

Weymouth © ian woolcock/Shutterstock;

When the sun shines there are few happier places to be than the former royal resort of Weymouth . George III was a big fan and he pretty much invented the British craze of sea bathing here.

It's worth a visit for the fine sandy beach alone, but Weymouth's biggest joy is its Old Harbour. Here you can while away hours watching the boats from one of the quayside pubs. Come in September for the Dorset Seafood Festival when the quays are lined with dozens of stalls selling all manner of fishy delights.

Just south of the town lies Portland Harbour, and a long causeway links Weymouth to the Isle of Portland. The 18-mile bank of pebbles known as Chesil Beach, runs northwest towards the fishing port of West Bay, and is another top local seaside spot.

Where to stay in Weymouth

• For boutique stays : Only a minute's walk from the sea, The Roundhouse guest house sits at the end of the Esplanade between Weymouth Beach and the historic harbour.
• For budget stays : The Redcliff bed and breakfast sits close to the beach and offers views across Weymouth Bay from its cosy dining room.
• For family stays : The Royal Hotel Weymouth is a good choice for families and for a small fee even makes pets welcome in its traditional seaside setting.

Find more accommodation options in Weymouth

Padstow © PJ photography/Shutterstock

Often nicknamed 'Padstein' for its association with celebrity chef Rick Stein, Padstow is North Cornwall's principal fishing town. With this comes some of the country's best seafood restaurants (four of which are owned by Stein) and a jam-packed harbour full of boats.

It's all about simple pleasures here. Spend your morning on one of the many pretty beaches nearby, and after lunch try your hand at crabbing. Crabbing lines can be bought from a number of shops around the harbour. Just don't forget to return the little creatures to the water afterwards!

The bustling harbour is filled with launches and boats offering cruises in the bay, while a regular ferry carries people across the river to ROCK, close to the isolated church of St Enodoc (John Betjeman’s burial place).

But the beach fun doesn't end here; the tours continues on to the good beaches around Polzeath.

Where to stay in Padstow

• For seafront stays: With a beautiful location overlooking the Camel Estuary, Lellizzick offers cosy, rural bed and breakfast accommodation just outside Padstow.
• For luxury stays: The Old Custom House offers light, elegant bedrooms with luxurious bathrooms and views over Padstow’s medieval harbour.
• For designer stays: Padstow Harbour Hotel sits a few minutes walk from the beach and features a popular restaurant as well as bright, individually styled rooms.

Find more accommodation options in Padstow

Portree © Nataliya Hora/Shutterstock

A metropolis by Skye standards, Portree is one of the most attractive ports in northwest Scotland.

Its deep, cliff-edged harbour is filled with fishing boats and circled by multicoloured houses, with the few excellent restaurants in town, including the Michelin-starred Scorrybreac, serving up the catch of the day.

Portree is now also home to the Skye Live Festival in mid-May, which hosts a vibrant line-up of local and international bands and DJs.

Where to stay in Portree

• For boutique stays : Contemporary Bosville Hotel overlooks Portree’s quaint harbour and serves fresh produce from Skye and the surrounding Scottish Highlands in its restaurant, Dulse & Brose.
• For budget stays : Portree Pod is a one bedroom, one bathroom chalet/cabin with a private patio and sea views from the garden.
• For seaside stays : The Beach House bed & breakfast is only a minute's walk from the beach in Portree and as well a lovely bedrooms, offers a shared lounge and garden.

Find more accommodation options in Portree

Ready for a trip to England ? Check out the Rough Guide to England . If you travel further in England read more about the best time to go and the best places to visit . For inspiration speak to our local experts . A bit more hands-on, learn about getting there , getting around the country and where to stay once you are there.

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The 16 best seaside towns to visit near London

The Thames not big enough for you? Upgrade your summer days by the water in one of these cute coastal towns near London

When the sun shines, unimaginative Londoners head straight to the nearest beer garden  or patch of grass to soak up some rays. But with a little planning, it’s perfectly easy to slink off a little further afield and upgrade your patch in the park to a seaside deckchair. 

The UK’s wild and sweeping coastline is peppered with pretty little towns – some of which are surprisingly close to London.  Don’t be fooled by the small stature of these seaside spots – they’re packed with plenty of things to do , see, eat, drink and explore. Here are the best seaside towns near London: they’re kitsch, cool and perfect for flip-flopping your way through a day of salty, sandy fun. Plus, the coast's arty renaissance means that many of them boast galleries galore for rainy day exploring. 

And for adventures further afield, check out our comprehensive guide to the UK’s best and coolest seaside towns .

RECOMMENDED: The best  beaches near London

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16 seaside towns near London

1.  Whitstable, Kent

What’s the vibe: Chocolate-box seaside town with a modern, indie undercurrent. 

Why go: The Kent coast is dotted with pretty towns, and Whistable is among the best. With its pastel-painted shop fronts, long shingle beach and seaside restaurants selling locally farmed oysters and the freshest seafood, the fishing town is tailor-made for weekend getaways. 

Don’t miss : The Lobster Shack  is a charming seafront spot to crack into a fresh lobster or shuck the famous local oysters. 

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London Victoria to Whitstable; around two hours by car. 

2.  Margate, Kent

What’s the vibe? Shabby chic, with a growing emphasis on the chic.

Why go? City vibes meet coastal relaxation in Margate. Attractions are plentiful, including Japanese-inspired restaurant Mori Mori, retro funfair Dreamland, uber-cool skincare shop Haeckels and the Shell Grotto, where 4.6 million shells create spectacular murals in a subterranean chamber. Oh, and the Turner Contemporary’s pretty awesome too. 

Don’t miss: Margate’s newest attraction, Margate Caves, is an eighteenth-century chalk mine decorated with unusual carvings and paintings. The caves have been used as a wine store and an air-raid shelter, and now they’re the seaside’s shadiest spot. 

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London St Pancras to Margate; around two hours by car. 

3.  Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex

What’s the vibe? Laidback wildlife haven lined with golden sandy beaches.  

Why go? If gaudy amusements aren’t your thing, this quiet town is a rustic seaside paradise. Think unpretentious caffs and tea shops, b ric-à-brac emporiums, and colourful beach huts. While there’s not much in the way of entertainment - Naze Tower, a historic 86ft-tall cylinder with a small art gallery and museum is about it in the way of culture - nature’s the real draw here. Unspoiled headland The Naze is a wildlife haven, cliffs crumble away to reveal a treasure trove of fossils, and the backwaters around the estuary are ribboned with scenic walking trails. 

Don’t miss Hop onboard one of the regular wildlife boat trips. Guided by experts, it’s a chance to spot the resident seal population. 

Get there Two hours and 10 minutes by train from Liverpool Street Station; Around two hours by car. 

4.  Southend-on-Sea, Essex

What’s the vibe?  Nostalgic seaside fun with an arty undercurrent.

Why go? Essex ’s finest offers unbeatable seaside fare, from amusements and fairgrounds to ice-cream parlour Tomassi’s (which does the kind of towering, cream-topped and cherry-studded sugar bombs that are all too rare in twenty-first-century society) and old school chippies. But you’ll also find a new breed of ambitious seasonal eateries, like Aurum and The Pipe of Port. Plus, like Margate before it, a new arty set is bringing culture here in spades. Head to Focal Point Gallery for cutting edge exhibitions.

Don’t miss  At over one mile long, Southend is home to the world's longest pier. Stroll down to the restored Pier Head to see the ships coming in and out of the estuary, stopping by the cafe, sun deck, gift shop, and exhibition space on the way. 

Get there One hour and 15 minutes by train from London Liverpool Street; just under two hours by car. 

5.  Leigh-on-Sea, Essex

What’s the vibe? Tiny, sweet and quintessentially English. 

Why go? Old Leigh’s main street is lined with cheerful cafés, a gallery, a pottery studio, a couple of restaurants and plenty of pubs. Just around the corner on the seafront are cockle sheds, working boats and passing tankers out at sea. At the west end, a tiny sandy beach gives way to a muddy gulch when the tide goes out – kids love it, but parents might want to take some spare clothes and a plastic bag for the journey home. 

Don’t miss Sara's Tea Garden is a gorgeous spot for a scone, sandwich, or cuppa in a plant-filled courtyard .

Get there Just under fifty minutes by train from Fenchurch Street station; Around two hours by car. 

6.  Folkestone, Kent

What’s the vibe? A former seaport that’s way cooler than you think.

Why go? For almost 15 years now, Folkestone has been trying its damnedest to shed its image as a dreary Channel ferry port. An art triennial? Sure! The founding of an official Creative Quarter up the steep and curvy Old High Street? Yes, please! Nowadays the old Harbour Arm hosts street food stalls instead of cross-Channel hulks, and there are multiple actually-very-trendy restaurants. Add in the longer established pleasures of the massive Leas coastal park and one of the south coast’s few sandy beaches (even if the latter vanishes at high tide) and you’ve got yourself a real sleeper hit of a seaside town.

Don’t miss A glass of champers from the converted lighthouse at the end of the Harbour Arm. Look out for dolphins!  

Get there Around an hour by train from London St Pancras; Two hours by car. 

7.  Herne Bay, Kent

What’s the vibe? Nostalgic bucket-and-spade jollies.

Why go? Unlike its trendy neighbours, Herne Bay is relatively untouched by the trendy hordes of London. But what it lacks in style it makes up for with unspoilt beaches, charming traditional cafés and a recently jazzed-up pier. 

Don’t miss: The Vintage Empire Tearoom for outrageous cakes and doorstop sandwiches amidst the kooky retro glamour. 

Get there: One hour 20 minutes by train from London St Pancras International to Herne Bay; around one hour 40 minutes by car.

8.  Manningtree, Essex

What’s the vibe? A classy, historic hangout with winding ancient streets and a forward-thinking foodie scene.

Why go? Manningtree  is thought to be the smallest town in England, but don’t let its size fool you. Steeped in history, its Georgian high streets have hardly changed since they were built and, even further back, it's famous for its links to gruesome witch hunts. Nowadays, the time-worn streets are peppered with independent shops and eateries, like Townsends bookshop, Italian bistro Lucca Enoteca, and record and natural wine shop Winyl, as well as arty spots like North House Gallery. 

Don’t miss Sprawled over 60 acres, Wrabness Nature Reserve is a charming patch of green with stunning views over the Stour Estuary. Follow the coastline through the reserve and up to Wrabness where you’ll find Grayson Perry’s ‘House for Essex’. 

Get there One hour by train from Liverpool Street station; two hours by car.

9.  Broadstairs, Kent

What’s the vibe? 1950s seaside innocence, with liberal splashes of Farrow & Ball.

Why go? Super-cute Broadstairs has something for everyone. On the one hand the sandy beach and gaily painted huts of Viking Bay are a delight for families, but it has plenty of appeal for grown-ups too, including a tiny cinema, great food and a clifftop walk to romantic Botany Bay. 

Don’t miss: There are old-school fish and chip shops galore in Broadstairs, but if you want a next-level meal out, book in advance for Twenty Seven Harbour Street for small plates with memorable views over the coast. 

Get there: One hour 40 minutes by train from London St Pancras to Broadstairs; around two hours by car. 

10.  Worthing, West Sussex

What’s the vibe? Beach-boho with arty enclaves. 

Why go? As well as the usual seaside suspects (fish and chips, pier, sandy beach come as standard) there’s a raft of crafty, creative attractions including beachside artist studios, gorgeous art galleries and the Grade II-listed Dome Cinema. 

Don’t miss: The rows of quirky vintage stores, cafés and micropubs along Rowlands Road. 

Get there: One hour 20 minutes by train from London Victoria to Worthing; around 2 hours by car.

11.  Ramsgate, Kent

What’s the vibe? Artsy indies meet massive ’Spoons 

Why go? Previously in the shadow of bigger, better established seaside resorts, Ramsgate is now a destination in itself for day-tripping Londoners. Pretty townhouses, lifestyle shops and buzzing restaurants, this coastal town has the lot. Plus it’s home to the Royal Victoria Pavilion , the biggest Wetherspoon’s in the WORLD. Need we say more. 

Don’t miss: Enviably stocked charity and antiques shops: try Petticoat Lane Emporium  and  Arch 16 Antique Vintage and Retro Junk. 

Get there: One hour 40 minutes from St Pancras International

12.  Deal, Kent

What’s the vibe? Buzzy bars, contemporary crafts and the prettiest pebble beach.

Why go? Smaller than Whitstable and not as much of a hipster honeypot (for now) as Margate, the Kent town somehow manages to combine the best of both towns. Higgledy-piggledy Georgian houses, great food and a thriving creative community make for a special seaside spot. 

Don’t miss : Like a little piece of Bordeaux, Le Pinardier sells impeccably sourced bottles with a side of joie de vivre. 

Get there: One hour and 20 minutes by train from St Pancras International; around 2 hours by car.

13.  Rye, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? A history buff’s dream of winding streets, medieval inns and ancient castles. 

Why go? From the ancient Rye Castle to the twelfth-century St Mary’s Church, Rye has a fascinating history to explore. It’s not as coastal as some of the towns on our list, but urbanites can shake off the city by exploring Rye Nature Reserve  –  a pretty patchwork of grassland, saltmarsh and woods – or  take the very short trip to Camber Sands: it’s so wide and golden you’ll feel like you’re anywhere but the UK. 

Don’t miss : Marveling at Mermaid Street’s storybook charm – it’s all cobbles and wonky half-timbered houses.

Get there: One hour 10 minutes from London St Pancras International to Deal; around two hours by car. 

14.  Hastings, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? A characterful seaside escape despite a well-worn path from London.

Why go? From William of Normandy in 1066 to eighteenth-century smugglers, people throughout history have flocked like gulls to Hastings. Nowadays it’s Londoners that come to seize freshly caught fish, stroll along the pier and uncover the bubbling creative scene.

Don’t miss: Climb into the carriage of the East Hill Cliff Railway and soar skyward. It’s the steepest funicular railway in Britain, running from Rock-a-Nore at the base of the cliffs to the top of the East Hill.

Get there: One hour 30 minutes by train from London Bridge to Hastings; around 2 hours by car.

15.  Eastbourne, East Sussex

What’s the vibe? Old school seaside glamour meets cutting-edge culture.

Why go? All the classics are here: a trad Victorian pier, retro arcades, Victorian Tea Rooms, ice cream parlour and a handsome pebble beach. But, in recent years a burgeoning art scene has run through the town, including  Printers Playhouse, which  hosts comedy nights, live music from local bands and cutting-edge theatre.

Don’t miss: Rainbow-coloured arts centre   Towner Gallery holds collections by Grayson Perry, Wolfgang Tillmans and Eric Ravilious, and also puts on indie film screenings and creative workshops.  Get there One hour and twenty minutes by train from London Victoria; Two hours and twenty minutes by car.

16.  Brighton, Sussex

What’s the vibe? Cosmopolitan seaside party playground. 

Why go? Brighton’s delightfully kitsch pier is often the first port of call for visitors, but this beachside city has loads more to offer. For a bevy of unique boutiques, cafés and music shops, head to The Lanes. Brighton’s LGBTQ+ party scene is known the world over, and its clubs and bars are always buzzing. And if you're after a bit of seaside silliness,  there’s even a dayglo, dinosaur-themed crazy-golf course to be conquered.

Don’t miss: The Lanes are a delightful warren of narrow streets brimming with brilliant independent cafés, record shops, vintage emporiums, book stores and artwork – all housed in pretty eighteenth-century buildings. 

Get there: One hour from London Bridge.

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1.  The best day trips from London

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Coastal and seaside breaks

England’s coasts trim the country with gorgeous ocean views and sparkling sandy beaches. Take a traditional family seaside holiday or coastal break to Woolacombe in North Devon or St Ives in Cornwall, and let the kids build a sandcastle and lick ice cream as you relax in the sun. Wander coastline trails and stay in retro beach huts on a seaside break. Enjoy a festival weekend on the Isle of Wight, go fossil hunting on the beaches of Dorset or take a sailing course along Suffolk’s coastline. Once you’ve had your fill of fun, fill your stomach with locally caught fish dishes prepared in regional styles. There’s the old English favourite; fish and chips, which can always be found on a coastal holiday. With piers like Brighton and Bournemouth offering rides and amusements, your seaside fun can last well into the evening too.

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10 amazing walks on the England Coast Path

5 places for wildlife spotting along the coast

7 things to do in the Isle of Wight this summer

11 of the best seafood restaurants

Discover the Witterings on a coastal break

Spot multi-coloured sailing boats, follow your nose in fudge shops and snuggle down in cosy pubs on a visit to The Witterings.

Location: Witterings, West Sussex

Head to Salcombe for butterscotch beaches and bright blue waters

A haven for yachties and those who prefer to keep their deck shoes firmly on dry land.

Location: Salcombe, Devon

Take a bargain break with all the trimmings at Totland

On the west coast of the Isle of Wight, YHA Totland has the beach, heaps of countryside walks and great local attractions on its doorstep.

Location: Totland, Isle of Wight

Soak up the sun on a royal beach

Osborne House in the Isle of Wight was Queen Victoria's holiday home for many years. Pay a visit to this pretty spot to get a glimpse into her family getaways and even see her private beach!

Location: East Cowes, Isle of Wight

Trip-trap along the Red Squirrel Trail

This family-friendly cycle and walking path encompasses an exciting trail of artwork, sculpture and trolls under bridges.

Location: Newport, Isle of Wight

Bask in the traditional charm of Shanklin Seafront

Shanklin Seafront is one of the Isle of Wight's most popular seaside resorts, with loads to keep the kids quiet and plenty of places for adults to take it easy.

Location: Shanklin, Isle of Wight

Vintage escapes on the Isle of Wight

Spend the weekend in a traditional 1960's bungalow, vintage caravan or other relic.

Location: Isle of Wight

Marvel at prehistoric cliffs and caves

The magnificent coastline of South Tyneside tells a story that stretches far beyond the stunning aesthetics of the golden sands and rugged cliffs.

Location: Marsden, South Tyneside

Have a retro holiday at Butlin's

At Butlin's in Skegness you can have a good ol’ fashioned seaside holiday with a Blue Flag sandy beach on your doorstep.

Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire

Get your vintage chic on at Dreamland Margate

Indulge in an 'old fashioned yet oh so fashionable' break in the UK's trendiest seaside resort

Location: Margate, Kent

A coastal break with a unique twist

Swap a standard double for a balancing barn or geometric house, both are worthy of spot on Grand Designs.

Location: Thorrington & Thorpeness, Suffolk

Holiday amongst the clouds

For a fairytale holiday on the Suffolk Coast, drop your bags off at The House in the Clouds, a weird and wonderful holiday home.

Location: Thorpeness, Suffolk

Explore the bustling harbour at Maryport

Watch brightly-coloured trawlers unload the days’ catch, enjoy a bracing walk or coastal cycle, sample locally caught fish or go to a festival.

Location: Maryport, Cumbria

Run wild on Holkham Beach

Miles of white-gold sand with dunes and sandpits along the Norfolk coast.

Location: Holkham, Norfolk

Discover spectacular Lundy Island

A rare experience is to be found on the beautiful and wild Lundy Island just 12 miles off the North Devon Coast in the Atlantic Ocean.

Location: Lundy, Devon

Take a seaside break 50s style

Discover this iconic English seaside resort that people have been holidaying at since 1871 when the barrel organs on the pier first whirred into action.

Location: Clacton on Sea, Essex

Witness Northumberland’s violent history at its coastal castles

The Northumberland coastline is strewn with castles and time-ravaged ruins, providing great insight into the county's turbulent past.

Location: Craster and Warkworth, Northumberland

Go rugged and budget in Cornwall

Newly renovated, situated on the rugged cornish coast and cheap as chips.

Location: Boscastle, Cornwall

Peel away the layers of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast

Trace a history that goes back millions of years as you meander Dorset’s famous Jurassic Coast, England’s first UNESCO Natural World Heritage site.

Location: Dorset

Be seduced by ritzy Blackpool and its mighty Tower

Soar to dizzying heights at Blackpool Tower, whirl around on its famous dance floor and be dazzled by ‘the greatest free light show on earth’.

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire

Enjoy jazz, art and sunsets in St Ives

Some say it’s the painterly light that makes St Ives so special. For others it’s the great swathes of golden sand.

Location: St Ives, Cornwall

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The 10 best seaside towns in the UK for a classic beach holiday

With miles of scenic beaches and an abundance of fish and chips, these seaside towns in the UK are unbeatable for a summer holiday.

If the weather hits right the UK’s seaside towns are a dream for sandy beach walks, local seafood and homemade ice cream. Travelling with kids ? You’ll be spoiled with classic beachside entertainment like fairground rides, arcades and maybe even a dip in the sea.

Best seaside towns and beach holidays in England

Home of Victorian promenades and quintessential seaside towns, England has some stunning waterfront towns perfect for a UK beach holiday. From beachside funfairs to bucket and spade paradises, these are the best seaside towns to visit in England.

Southport, Merseyside

• Must try: Grab a traditional British fry-up at The Hideaway near Southport Pier.
• Where to stay: Waterfront Southport Hotel

If you love a classic beach holiday, Southport in Merseyside is for you. Southport Pier is one of the longest piers in the UK and has striking views across the Irish Sea.

For a fun seaside experience get the mini train to the end of the pier or stroll on the vast sandy beach at low tide. The pier and seafront have an old-school arcade with a bunch of retro attractions – including the Hall of Mirrors – that are great fun for kids.

If you’re looking for a family-friendly day out, the Splash World Waterpark is a short walk from the promenade. After, enjoy some classic British food at the Whistle Stop Café or at Southport Market .

Margate, Kent

• Must try: Fresh local produce at Angela’s Seafood Restaurant or a shellfish at the Buoy and Oyster .
• Where to stay: The Albion Rooms

Just a short train ride from London, Margate in Kent is the perfect seaside escape from the city. Margate is reminiscent of seaside resorts, such as Brighton, with its glitzy seafront promenade and colourful local characters, but is slightly quieter and less expensive.

If you’re heading to Margate with kids don’t miss Dreamland Funfair , which has a ton of thrilling rides and attractions. Do not miss the Scenic Railway, the UK’s oldest wooden rollercoaster.

Margate also has a beautiful sandy beach that’s perfect for kids to play on and great historical attractions nearby, like Margate Old Town and the Margate Caves .

St Ives, Cornwall

• Must Try: Sample some shellfish at the Mackerel Sky Seafood Bar .
• Where to stay: The Western

Located on the Cornish coast, St Ives is the perfect seaside spot for art lovers and for anyone who wants to enjoy a peaceful getaway.

The town has a thriving art scene and was historically the home of the St Ives School, which included many famous artists. This legacy continues today, with exhibits like the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden and St Ives Museum . The town is also a hotspot for surfers, with plenty of sandy beaches and incredible waves at Porthminster.

The Cornish coast is also famous for its stunning clifftop walks and delicious Cornish produce. Try the Lakeside Cabin Café for beautiful cakes made with Cornish butter and cream.

Lyme Regis, Dorset

• Must try: Little Colonel and Cranborne cheeses
• Where to stay: Rock Point Inn

Lyme Regis in Dorset is known for its fossils and is a particular favourite of mine when planning family holidays.

The area lies along the Jurassic Coast and is a World Heritage site due to the many fossils found here. The town has lots of brilliant museums, like the Dinosaurland Fossil Museum and the Lyme Regis Marine Aquarium , that can help kids engage with nature in a fun, interactive way.

There are plenty of activities to engage in with sandy beaches, fossil walks and a visit to the local brewery being only some of the ones I highly recommend.

Lyme Regis is also one of the best coastal towns in the UK for fish restaurants. Some of my favourites include The Eddy by Millside or Seagulls Restaurant .

Best seaside towns and beach holidays in Scotland

Scotland is famed for its rugged coastline and beautiful islands. These seaside towns in Scotland are the perfect way to soak up the atmosphere north of the border.

Rothesay, Isle of Bute

• Must try: Excellent Polish cuisine at the Waterfront Rothesay Bistro.
• Where to stay: The Glenburn Hotel

Bute is one of several islands located just off the West Coast of Scotland. From Skelmorlie, you can get the ferry to Bute’s seaside town of Rothesay , which has plenty of nice places to stay on the seafront.

Rothesay also has a gin distillery, where you can sample some unique cocktails. Do not miss the great historical attractions, like Rothesay Castle and Ardencraig Gardens .

Bute is also a great place to stay if you want to explore the surrounding islands. For example, you can get from Bute to the coastal town of Largs in around an hour, and then take a short ferry ride over to islands such as Arran and Cumbrae, which is a nature reserve and it will take you about 3-4 hours to walk around..

Plockton, Kyle of Lochalsh

• Must try: Seafood at Fisherman’s Kitchen or Hector’s Bothy .
• Where to stay: Plockton Inn

Plockton is a beautifully remote seaside town that gives you a true taste of Scotland’s rugged north coast. The picturesque town is located around a 2-hour drive from Inverness and is connected to the Isle of Skye by the Skye Bridge.

If you love to swim or explore the coast, you can head to unspoiled beauty spots, like Coral Beach. Water sports, like kayaking and paddle boarding, are also popular. Alternatively, take a boat tour with Calum’s Seal Trips and see some local wildlife.

Given its out-of-the-way location, Plockton is an ideal place to drive to. Having a car in Plockton will give you plenty of freedom to explore and means you won’t have to rely on local bus timetables, which can be slightly erratic.

Best seaside towns and beach holidays in Wales

Wales has acres of green coastline where you can enjoy a seaside break. Check out these beautiful Welsh towns by the ocean.

Aberystwyth, West Wales

• Must try: A plate of fish and chips at the Seabreeze
• Where to stay: Richmond Hotel

Aberystwyth is a seaside university town and offers a lively blend of live entertainment, nightlife and rural beauty. When you go to Aberystwyth, you can stroll on the sandy shore or ride the Cliff Railway up to Constitutional Hill and take in the views from the top.

Nature enthusiasts will love walks at the Bwlch Nant yr Arian Forest Visitor Centre . The town also has a great high shopping street with plenty of up-market shops. If you’re a hiker, you’ll enjoy the challenge of the nearby Ceredigion Coastal Path , which takes you past many scenic bays. It’s quite a tough walk, so make sure you’re fully kitted out before you set off.

Tenby, South Wales

• Must try: Cake and a cocktail at Westgate House.
• Where to stay: Farnham Hotel

Tenby is probably the best seaside in the UK if you love visiting medieval historical sites. This seaside town in South Wales still has its original medieval walls and is home to a 15th-century church and a medieval gatehouse.

Once you’ve seen the medieval sites, enjoy a stroll or build a sandcastle on Castle Beach. Tenby is also located right in the middle of the Pembrokeshire Coast Path , making it a great destination for hikers.

Tenby also has a great range of classic pubs where you can enjoy local food. Try The Brewery Inn for a pub lunch roast or The Stone Crab for seafood delicacies.

Best seaside resorts and beach holidays in Northern Ireland

If you love epic coastal scenery, a trip to Northern Ireland is something you should consider. Northern Ireland has some of the best seaside towns in the UK for an unforgettable trip.

Newcastle, County Down

• Must try: Enjoy a few pints of Guinness at Quinn’s Bar .
• Where to stay: Slieve Donard Hotel

Located inside the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on Northern Ireland’s East Coast, Newcastle in County Down has everything you want from a seaside town in the UK.

Newcastle Beach boasts sandy shores and incredible views of the hills that surround the town. For a unique stay, try the Slieve Donard Hotel , which is a converted country house with views over the bay. Staying in Newcastle also gives you great access to hiking areas, like the Silent Valley and Murlough National Nature Reserve . If you fancy shorter walks, then you might prefer a stroll by the Tollymore Forest .

If you’re looking for somewhere to eat, the Mariner Bar & Restaurant Newcastle has quality seafood and a beachside location.

Portrush, County Antrim

• Must try: Grab an ice cream at Morelli Ice Cream .
• Where to stay: Inn on the Coast

Portrush in County Antrim is Northern Ireland’s most northerly region, and the grand and rugged scenery certainly lives up to expectations.

Situated on a crag that looms into the Atlantic, Portrush is unlike any other seaside town in the UK. Take a stroll along the East Strand Seafront or visit the Portrush Countryside Centre , which is located right on the edge of the sea. The Countryside Centre has information and exhibits about local wildlife and is a great place for a day out with kids.

A hike along the cliffs to Magheracross Viewing Point will reward you with ocean views and looks across the ruins of an ancient Celtic castle. If you’re hungry after all that hiking, Kiwi’s Brew Bar is a great place to grab a bite.

Get more beach holiday inspiration in KAYAK’s guides to the best beaches , coastal walks and nude beaches in the UK, or check out the KAYAK Travel in the UK section for staycation ideas .

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15 Beautiful Beaches Near London For A Seaside Day Trip

Looking for a sunny getaway, but can’t afford the flight? Here is a list of the best beaches in and around London for all your summer needs!

1. Ruislip Lido Beach, West London

Ruislip Lido is a 60-acre lake sat on the edge of a lovely 726-acre nature reserve – that’s twice the size of Hyde Park, stats fans. Ruislip Woods National Nature Reserve is, as you might guess, mostly bucolic ancient woodland..  Nearest stations:  Ruislip and Northwood Hills, Zone 6 – it’s then a 20-minute walk.

2. Frensham Beach, Surrey

Frensham Great Pond, south of Farnham and, if traffic is kind, you can be there from much of west London in less than an hour.

Its beautiful sandy beach, formed by the sandy soil of Frensham Common, draws day trippers who flock there when the weather warms up.

It has two swimming areas in its lake, marked by white buoys, with a maximum depth of 1.4 metres in one and 1.2 metres in the other.

there’s also a brilliant and bizarre sculpture park with 600 statues to explore within walking distance.

3. Whitstable, Kent

Whitstable is a seaside town on the north coast of Kent in south-east England, 5 miles north of Canterbury and 2 miles west of Herne Bay Top it off with fresh seafood, and you’ve got a picture perfect day out.

Approximately 1.5 hours from London (train from St Pancras/Cannon Street/Victoria to Whitstable).

4. Brighton, Sussex

Vast, pebbled Brighton Beach, where locals, holidaymakers, and day trippers swim, sunbathe, and picnic, has a promenade lined with beach huts and lively eateries.

Approximately an hour from London (train from London Bridge/Victoria to Brighton).

5. Climping Beach, West Sussex

Sometimes all you crave is a bit of space and the simple sounds of the ocean. Climping Beach is quieter than its neighbours of Littlehampton and Bognor Regis, which makes it the ideal spot to clear your mind and enjoy quality time with the family.

Appromixately 2 hours from London (train from Victoria to Littlehampton).

6. Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex

Wander along the second longest pier in england, climb the naze tower, or hire one of their luridly colourful beach huts. in a seaside town brimming with history, a day out here is the perfect chance to make some memories..

Approximately 1.5 hours from London (train from Liverpool Street to Walton-on-the-Naze).

7. Sunny Sands, Kent

Sunny sands beach is a hugely popular sandy beach at the eastern end of the stade and folkestone harbour. it is a firm favourite with families throughout the summer, with good facilities nearby including toilets and cafés, pubs and beach shops..

Approximately 1 hour from London (train from St Pancras to Folkestone Central).

8. Bournemouth, Dorset

As beaches go, you won’t find bigger than this one. Bournemouth Beach is a whopping eleven miles long, so it’s easy enough to escape the crowds here. Amongst golden sands of spots like Sandbanks, you’ll also find shops, gardens, hotels, and restaurants. 

Approximately 2 hours from London (train direct from Waterloo to Bournemouth).

9. West Wittering Beach, West Sussex

Offering wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond, the natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering has been a favourite destination for a family day out for generations.  The highest water quality and excellent facilities have made it one of the premier Blue Flag beaches in the country. The extensive acres of neatly mown grass close to the beach are perfect for parking, and picnics.  The sea is popular with wind and kite surfers, while shallow lagoons are left on extensive sandy flats at low tide. The whole area is internationally recognised for its wildlife, birds and unique beauty.

Approximately 1.5 hours from London (train from Victoria to Chichester).

10. Botany Bay, Kent

When the tide is out, Botany bay is a great location for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools. There is plenty of exposed sand to enjoy when the tide is in, but due to the bay’s shape the ends are cut off at high tide.

Approximately 2 hours from London (train from St Pancras/Cannon Street to Margate).

11. Mersea Island, Essex

You’ll need to plan carefully to reach this one. Mersea Island is an island in Essex, England, in the Blackwater and Colne estuaries to the south-east of Colchester. Its name comes from the Old English word meresig, meaning “island of the pool”

Approximately 1 hour from London (train from Liverpool Street to Colchester).

12. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Approximately 1 hour from London (train from St Pancras to Rye). Camber Sands is a little unusual for a Sussex beach and the reason is in the name. Yes, sands! Unlike most beaches along the Sussex coast which are lined with pebbles and shingle held in place by a series of groynes, Camber Sands is covered in fine, golden sand. Not only that but Camber is home to the only sand dunes in East Sussex.

13. Dungeness, Kent

Approximately 1 hour from London (train from St Pancras to Rye).

14. Minnis Bay, Kent

Minnis Bay is a safe and secluded sandy bay with separate areas for swimming and watersports. Plenty of facilities, including a well-equipped children’s area. Coastal cycle and walking routes are clearly marked at the entrance to the beach. Popular for windsurfing and kite surfing. Served by an open-top bus in summer.

Approximately 1.5 hours from London (train from St Pancras/Cannon Street/Victoria to Birchington-on-Sea).

15. Eastbourne, East Sussex

Escape to the English countryside and explore Beachy Head in East Sussex. A favoured Victorian seaside retreat, you’ll find a historic pier,  sea front hotels, and a rather charming beach. It’s also not far from the utterly enchanting Beachy Head, which is as impressive a view as you’ll get on the south coast.

Approximately 1.5 hours from London (train from London Bridge/Victoria to Eastbourne).

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20 of the best seaside towns in the UK

Once revered then reviled, the uk’s coastal hubs are very much back in the ascendancy. here are a few of our favourites.

T hink of the British seaside and your mind’s eye may well grow confused. On the one hand it’s all promenades and ice creams and knotted hankies and deckchairs, but on the other it’ll be windswept and forlorn places, their best lives long gone. As there’s almost 19,500 miles of UK coastline, both of those images can of course be true — the fortunes of the nation’s coastal towns are not uniform. But a real renaissance has already begun in some corners, so here is our pick of the best seaside towns in the UK to visit right now.

Main photo: Exmouth in Devon (Alamy)

1. St Ives, Cornwall

Given just how remote St Ives is — or certainly was — its roaring popularity is a surprise to anyone who hasn’t been. Now synonymous with Cornwall ’s unrelenting overtourism, St Ives is nonetheless beautiful and virtually impossible to bypass for anyone journeying this far west. The town is a home of artists, surfers and other bohemian types; the Tate St Ives is its most famous gallery, but there are several others to peruse. There’s also an outstanding surf school in town, but if you’re not so interested in the water, the hike out to Clodgy Point from Porthmeor beach is a winner.

• Best things to do in Cornwall

2. Troon, South Ayrshire

For decades, if not centuries, the Ayrshire beach experience was best enjoyed in Ayr itself. Yet as that town’s star continues to wane, a few miles up the coast, Troon has grown in popularity. This affluent little town will be known to golfers — there are six courses here, including the Open Championship venue, Royal Troon. Beyond that, however, it has long, golden-sand beaches stretching north and south from the town centre, which is divided by a peninsula. Though it has traditionally been reserved for industry, head to its tip and you’ll find the Wee Hurrie, serving some of Scotland ’s best fish and chips.

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• Best golf hotels in the UK

3. Brighton, East Sussex

While the fortunes of many would-be Victorian rivals have faded, this city on the sea, with its colourful Georgian houses, excellent pier and long shingle beach, has only grown in popularity. No doubt having London tethered to it like a large balloon by the A23 has helped, but the money that has poured in has been spent on keeping Brighton tidy and, more importantly, relevant. Take the Brighton i360 for example, the rotating observation tower that was completed in 2016 at a cost of £46 million — you don’t get investment like that in Weston-super-Mare.

• Best things to do in Brighton

4. Ilfracombe, Devon

The focus for many holidaymakers is so locked on Cornwall that this corner of Devon can still feel a little undiscovered. For a time, battered old Ilfracombe was more actively ignored, but its renaissance was already under way before the ever-controversial Damien Hirst erected a 66ft statue of a sword-wielding pregnant woman above the town. Alongside traditional British seaside features including the promenade and craggy cliffs, there are plenty of award-winning restaurants in town. Book a table at the Antidote, which has boutique rooms too.

• Best hotels in Devon

5. Margate, Kent

Before the pandemic, before the redefinition of the term “staycation”, before it was even cool to rejuvenate your tired old seaside town, Margate was heading in that direction. This resurrection is arguably best demonstrated by its perseverance with Dreamland, its seemingly immortal amusement park. It’s not all about holding on to the past though: the free-to-enter Turner Contemporary gallery has won plenty of admirers since opening in 2011 and is an ideal indoor distraction if inclement weather keeps you off the beach.

• Best hotels in Kent

6. Lyme Regis, Dorset

While many seaside towns are desperately trying to modernise, Lyme Regis attracts a significant portion of its visitors by offering a slice of the prehistoric past. Before you’ve even made it to the fossil-packed cliffs outside the town, there’s Dinosaurland, which will delight any youngsters with even an ounce of interest in history. If they love it, head on a fossil-hunting walk when tides allow (run by the Lyme Regis Museum). Dinosaurs aside, Sandy Beach has been accurately named and Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s ever-popular River Cottage is five miles out of town if you want to show off your skills at one of its cookery classes.

• Best hotels in Dorset

7. Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear

It might not be the first place you’d think of for a beach break but Tynemouth is a real gem. Three sandy beaches are presided over by a working lighthouse and the ruins of the Tynemouth Priory and Castle; the former was plundered and eventually destroyed by Vikings in the 9th century. This dramatic setting would be reason enough to come, but for hardy sorts looking to surf in the bracing waters of the North Sea, Tynemouth is unmissable.

8. Tobermory, Isle of Mull

When it comes to exploring the Inner Hebrides, Skye is not the limit. Lesser-visited Mull has plenty to offer, and nowhere more so than in its colourful little capital, Tobermory. Just 1,000 people live in this tiny fishing port, making the kaleidoscopic façades of its sea-facing homes all the more remarkable. Beyond the pleasing aesthetic, there’s an 18th-century whisky distillery, while a continual stream of yachties over summer means the shorefront restaurants and pubs are far better than many elsewhere in the Highlands. Meanwhile, the family-friendly Hebridean Whale and Dolphin Trust provides lots of fun for kids.

• Best beaches in Scotland

9. Llandudno, Conwy

Depending on your perspective, the grande dame of Welsh seaside tourism has a formula that either doesn’t need fixing or is unfixable. It’s the embodiment of a classic Victorian beach town and has a promenade, sandy stretches on either side of the Creuddyn peninsula and, against considerable odds, a Punch and Judy show. The Codman family’s puppets have been delighting and confusing kids with their domestic disharmony since 1860. Away from the shore, most visitors now also choose to spend some time hiking the hulking peak known as the Great Orme.

• Best beaches in Wales

• Best affordable holiday destinations

10. Portrush, Co Antrim

For sports fans, Portrush really only appeared on the map when the Open returned to this Northern Irish seaside town in 2019 after an absence of 68 years. For locals its popularity was never in doubt, but the buzz around the golf tournament helped to fund some rebuilding and improvements — though not to the crumbling ruins of the clifftop Dunluce Castle. For a more typical coastal experience, try the East Strand for two miles of sandy beach and reliable surf-ready waves every summer. Be sure to grab a scoop or two of ice cream at Morelli’s.

11. St Andrews, Fife

At once the most and least Scottish town in the nation, much of St Andrews doesn’t feel as if it has locals in mind, but rather the legions of golfers who travel from across the planet to play at the world’s oldest course. Ignore the faux tartan-shortbread nature of parts of the town: it’s still a lovely place to visit, whether strolling along its windswept beaches , watching people nervously tee off on the Old Course, or visiting the St Andrews University buildings. Britain’s third-oldest university was already a remarkable place, long before Wills and Kate met there as students.

12. Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland

Berwick has more quirks than most towns of its size. It sits just about on the English side of the border but its football team plays in Scotland. The town was also thought to be independently at war with Russia for a while. That may not sound like much of a reason to go, even if peace has since been declared, but Berwick is prettier than many people know, and its Elizabethan walls make for a memorable mile-long stroll, offering views out to the North Sea.

13. Tenby, Pembrokeshire

While Llandudno in north Wales may offer a classically Victorian beachside experience, Tenby in Pembrokeshire presents something altogether quainter. Called Dinbych Y Pysgod in Welsh, it has centuries’ worth of varied architecture, from Norman walls to Georgian villas and rainbow-coloured terraces. With two small beaches and a functioning harbour, it may not be as showy as some of its nominal rivals, but its appeal is undeniable. The nearby Pembrokeshire Coast National Park is a wonder too, with near-endless opportunities for hiking and road trips in this glorious corner of Wales.

14. Lymington, Hampshire

Too many people use the one-time smugglers’ port of Lymington for nothing more than catching the ferry to the Isle of Wight. Those who linger are glad they did — cobbled streets house outstanding restaurants, including the exceptional Elderflower, as well as an array of nautical shops ready to kit you out before you hit the sea. There may not be much in the way of beach life here, but sailing culture is everywhere. Whether you’re an experienced helmsman, a total novice, or just like looking at the boats, the busy marina will have plenty for you.

15. Dungeness, Kent

Folkestone has rightly earned plaudits for regenerating its harbour over the past decade, but for a singular seaside experience, head to eerie Dungeness, 20 miles along the coast. A shale beach in the shadow of a nuclear power plant may not exactly call to mind images of string vests or buckets and spades, but this photographer’s dream is worth a detour. The eponymous hamlet is home to a couple of art galleries as well as the artist Derek Jarman’s Prospect Cottage, the residence in which he lived until his death until 1994.

16. Whitby, Yorkshire

This long-beloved coastal town in Yorkshire has two distinct faces either side of the River Esk — the East Cliff and the West Cliff. Ageing fishermen’s cottages adorn the former, while the latter is a more recognisable Victorian neighbourhood. Whitby Sands brings a classically British seaside experience, but the town has much more besides — history buffs will revel in knowing that the mighty Captain Cook first sailed from this harbour, while the ever-daunting Whitby Abbey offered inspiration for Dracula author Bram Stoker. If you’ve packed your hiking boots, you can always trek the seven miles from there to beautiful Robin Hood’s Bay too.

17. Portpartrick, Dumfries and Galloway

The hammer-headed peninsula known as the Rhins of Galloway gets bypassed by many tourists rushing to get north. Sitting in the heart of it, Portpatrick is a beauty, with scenic coastal walks, a historic port, and a series of excellent, locally owned hotels. Being based here also allows for easy exploration of the rest of this singular region, including the chance to visit the Mull of Galloway Lighthouse, the southernmost point of Scotland. From there, Northern Ireland and the Isle of Man are visible on clear days, as are hundreds of seabirds nesting on the dramatic cliffs.

18. Whitstable, Kent

Whitstable holds all the charms of a small fishing town, with a busy working harbour where fresh catch — oysters rather than fish in this case — is still landed daily. Time your visit for September and you can join all the festivities of the Whitstable Oyster Festival, celebrating the town’s main trade. At other times of the year, you’ll want to take your time strolling along the seafront to the shingle beach, before decamping to one of the excellent seafood restaurants on the shoreline. Whitstable Oyster Company is particularly good, just make sure you order a zippy white with your seafood supper.

19. Exmouth, Devon

Located at the meeting point of the River Exe and the sea, Exmouth is a dreamy coastal escape with a golden sandy beach and seaside promenade furnished with ice cream stops. The sheltered bay here means conditions are perfect for taking to the water, whether your choice of vessel is a kayak or a paddleboard. And further along the coast begins the Jurassic Coast for all the keen fossil hunters. Culinary stalwart Michael Caines has made his home in nearby Lympstone where Michelin-starred dining meets a small vineyard and outdoor pool, all with a view of the water.

• The best luxury hotels in Devon

20. Fishguard, Pembrokeshire

Tiny Fishguard might be small but it’s perfectly formed. The town is split into two halves by geography. Lower Town is set next to the natural harbour, where a row of cottages faces boats bobbing on the water and sea kayakers set off with regularity. A short hike up the cliffs to the west and you’ll find the main town, which surveys the picturesque coast. Directly opposite on the east is Fishguard Fort, and the start of the scenic Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Additional reporting by Qin Xie

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18 Seaside Towns Near London That Are Well Worth A Day Trip

Looking to escape the hustle and bustle of London? These lovely seaside towns - and limitless fresh sea air - will have you feeling restored in no time.

We’re firm believers that everything you need can be found in London, but we’ll begrudgingly concede that picturesque seaside towns are the exception.

Luckily, with the coasts of Kent, Essex, and Sussex reachable from the capital in under two hours, a weekend escape to coastal dreamlands awaits you at any of these gorgeous seaside spots. And there’s clearly no better time to plan such a trip than now, when London is about to enter is sunny golden period.

Here’s a rundown of 18 of the best seaside towns near London:

Table Of Contents

Kent seaside towns close to London

Sussex seaside towns near to london, essex seaside towns near to london.

This adorable coastal town in Kent is just under an hour and a half’s train journey from London and is so quaint, you’ll think you’ve taken a step back into the golden ages. A nice little escape from the hustle and bustle of the big smoke, and it has enough independent coffee shops and stores to make you feel right at home.

Oh and they even have a Michelin-recommended restaurant, Frog and Scot, which serves up French bistro classics – meaning that on a clear day, you can scoff French food and then catch a glimpse of the French coast.

🚂 Trains to Deal run from London Bridge or London Victoria and take around 90-120 minutes. 

Say what you want about Margate but if you’re looking for some fresh sea air, nostalgic fairground fun and a large haddock and chips for less than a fiver , then you’ve found your place.

Margate’s Old Town is pretty recognisable, but the place is also home to a couple of charming theatres, a Winter Garden, Dreamland , and an annual carnival and Pride every August .  Read our handy guide on the best things to do in Margate here .

🚂 Trains to Margate run from Victoria, Charing Cross and King’s Cross St. Pancras and take around 105 minutes. 

3. Broadstairs

So of course there’s the usual seaside fare available in this town, but who can be bothered to sunbathe when there are cute ice cream parlours such as Morelli’s? Founded in 1932, this fancy ice cream parlour boasts pink leather seating and an oh-so-retro interior.

We’re talking alcoholic flavours such as mojito and lime and delicious concoctions like caramel pecan & French vanilla. Even before Morelli’s appeared, Broadstairs was tempting the likes of Charles Dickens  for a sojourn, and the town celebrates this connection with a Dickens festival every June.

🚂 Trains to Broadstairs run from Victoria and King’s Cross St. Pancras and take around 105 minutes. 

4. Ramsgate

Should you find Broadstairs to be packed on a glorious summer’s day, salvation can be found a short hop down the coast. Ramsgate was one of the seaside towns du jour during the heyday of Victorian bathing holidays, and whilst it’s not quite as high on the bucket list nowadays, there’s more than enough charm to win you over.

Cold but clear waters invite a swim, and you can split your time on land between the nostalgic amusement arcades, and exploring the fascinating Ramsgate Tunnels, which housed the town’s residents during The Blitz.

🚂 Trains to Ramsgate run from Victoria, Charing Cross and King’s Cross St. Pancras and take around 105-110 minutes.

5. Whitstable

Whitstable is synonymous with one thing above all others: oysters. The town’s famed rock oysters can be sampled year-round from any number of restaurants around town, but The Lobster Shack has a reputation for some of the best.

Those with an aversion to seafood can still enjoy the town’s charms; settle in for a beachside pint at The Old Neptune pub, take an easy meander around Whitstable harbour, or dive into an eclectic range of independent shops hiding in the town’s backstreets.

🚂 Trains to Whitstable run from Victoria and Charing Cross and take around 80 minutes.

6. Dungeness

Another Kent coastal gem here – this time right on the east Kent headland. It’s all about the shingle beach here, which stretches for miles and is a great spot to go walking on and admire the sunset.

Other things to do here include visiting the Grade II-listed Dungeness Lighthouse , tucking in to some award-winning fish and chips and having a pint or two in the area’s two pubs. Sounds good to us!

🚂 There are no direct trains to Dungeness. You’ll have to catch the train to Folkestone and then get the Number 16 bus from there to Hythe. You can then hop aboard the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway which takes you to Dungeness. 

7. Hastings

Often dubbed the ‘new Brighton’, but a lovely town within its own right, Hastings is home to galleries, independent shops, fresh produce and plenty of references to 1066.

If you’re a history buff, there’s lots to see in the forms of museums and galleries , along with the moody ruins of Hastings Castle . Equally, if a relaxed day on the seaside is what you’re pining for, then this is the place for you.

🚂 Trains to Hastings run from Victoria, Charing Cross and King’s Cross St. Pancras and take around 90-120 minutes.

8. Eastbourne

Eastbourne is endlessly charming with its rockpools, seafront walks, rivers, and its handy proximity to the South Downs National Park . There’s quite a large number of things to get up to in Eastbourne – the more adventurous amongst you can strike out on a walk to picturesque nearby Beachy Head – and as it’s only an hour and a half train journey from London, you really have no excuse.

🚂 Trains to Eastbourne run from Victoria and take around 90 minutes. 

We’re cheating a little bit with this one, as Rye actually lies about two miles upriver from the English Channel. Still, since you can drive to the seaside in about ten minutes, we’re going to sneak this outstandingly cute town onto our list.

The much-photographed Mermaid Street seems to have stumbled out of a fairytale, as has its local pub The Mermaid Inn . Nearby Camber Sands is rightfully one of the UK’s best beaches , but we won’t blame you if the endless charms of Rye keep you from seeing it.

🚂 There are no direct trains to Rye so you’ll need to take a train to Ashford International and change platforms there.

10. Brighton

Couldn’t really leave this one out, could we? A favourite weekend getaway for Londoners, Brighton lies just an hour away by train and offers a wealth of delights, starting with the historic Brighton Palace Pier for cheap thrills and fairground rides. A visit to The Lanes for shopping and a tipple at famed gin bar The Gin Tub (130 gins and counting!) is a must, and you should also catch a peek at the exotic Brighton Pavilion before you hope on the train home.

Alternatively, if you plan on staying the night, catching a gig or music night at The Green Door Store is a must – it’s handily placed beneath the train station, for you to stumble bleary-eyed onto a morning train!  Check out our handy guide on the best things to do in Brighton here . 

🚂 Trains to Brighton run from London Bridge and Victoria and take around an hour. 

11. Bexhill-on-Sea

Bexhill-on-Sea has a fascinating history, particularly with regards to music. Bob Marley’s first ever UK gig was at the town’s iconic modernist De La Warr Pavilion, and the likes of Elvis Costello and Patti Smith have also played here. The pavilion remains one of the town’s major attractions, a space for art and expression which offers free exhibitions all year round.

🚂 Trains to Bexhill-on-Sea run from Victoria and take around 105-120 minutes.

12. Worthing

Just 80 minutes by train from central London, Worthing makes for a great day trip, and on top of all the usual seaside fair – sandy beach, fish and chips et al – there are also some great vintage shops and cute cafes  here. Head to the Grade II-listed cinema  to get an insight into the town’s history.

🚂 Trains to Worthing run from Victoria and London Bridge and take around 80 minutes. 

13. Clacton-on-Sea

In the 1950s and 60s, Clacton was another seaside town enjoying a boom in visitors. Whilst time hasn’t been quite so kind to the town in recent years, huge sandy beaches on Clacton seafront and at nearby Jaywick (pictured) still pull in the visitors.

As with any seaside town worth its salt, Clacton Pier offers amusement arcades aplenty, and a pair of historic theatres – Princes Theatre and West Cliff Theatre – provide a steady diet of music, comedy, and theatre.

🚂 Trains to Clacton-on-Sea run from Liverpool Street and take around 85 minutes. 

14. Southend

It’s a case of go big or go home in Southend, one of the nearest seaside towns to London. The town itself is home to the longest pleasure pier in the world (a whopping 2.16km in total), which features its own passenger railway. The Sea Life Adventure aquarium and Adventure Island theme park on the seafront should also provide family-friendly fun if you’re planning a day trip with little ‘uns .

🚂 Trains to Southend run from Fenchurch Street and Liverpool Street and take just under an hour.

15. Leigh-on-Sea

Leigh-on-Sea is technically a district of Southend, but it’s got more than enough going on to warrant a separate day trip . Cobbled streets and small independent shops make a lazy meander the best way to see the town (preferably with an ice cream in hand), and if you’re visiting in June, be sure to check out the Leigh Folk Festival .

It’s the UK’s biggest free folk festival , and brings a parade of musicians, storytellers, and poets to the town each summer.

🚂 Trains to Leigh-on-Sea run from Fenchurch Street and take around 70 minutes. 

16. Walton-on-the-Naze

There’s something about Essex and massive piers, because Walton-on-the-Naze is second only to Southend in the ‘longest pier in England’ sweepstakes. It’s far from the town’s only attraction, though, as one could also climb the Tower at the Naze for sweeping views across the Essex countryside and rolling waves.

As you may have guessed, the Naze is quite important around here – for those wondering, it’s the peninsula that hugs the coastline north of the town, and is well worth exploring. There are some excellent walks here.

🚂 There are no direct trains to Walton-on-the-Naze so you’ll need to take a train to Thorpe-le-Soken and change platforms there.

17. Mersea Island

Ok, we’re definitely cheating now by listing an entire island, but Mersea is an excellent spot for a day trip, and not just for the colourful beach huts that line the shore. An excellent day trip to the seaside from London, the beaches at this coastal town are excellent, and the island boasts its own vineyard, nature reserve, and oyster fishery. The only peril here is being cut off from the mainland when the tide comes in, so do plan your visit with a little care!

🚂 There are no direct trains to Mersea. You’ll either have to hop on the train to Colchester and change to a bus there or drive.

18. Manningtree

Rounding off this list of the best seaside towns near London is Manningtree, a charming little spot by the River Stour which is part of the Suffolk Coast and Heaths Area of Natural Beauty. Believed to be the smallest town in England, it’s a cute place which is steeped in history.

Beautiful Georgian streets now play host to independent coffee shops and lovely eateries , and the nearby  Wrabness Nature Reserve is a great area to spot birdlife and clear away the cobwebs!

🚂 Trains to Manningtree run from Liverpool Street and take around 60 minutes. 

So there you have it – a rundown of the best seaside towns near London for you to get out and about and breathe in all that sweet sea air. Why not escape the big city smoke and *ahem* sea for yourself? Sorry…

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17 Best Beach Day Trips from London | Seaside Day Trips (2024)

Looking for the best beach day trips from London? Well here are 17 of the best beaches near London to visit on a day trip. From sandcastles and surfing to soft-serve ice creams, these beaches have it all.

One of the biggest perks of living on a relatively small island is the inevitable proximity to the coastline. On many islands, this means being close to beaches, and the UK has a coastline full of them.

Let’s not get it twisted, the waters around the British Isles are not the most tropical (this is coming from someone born in Jamaica). But, come summer, with a little sun and a rise in mercury, many Londoners, myself included, like to pack up our beach towels, pull on our shorts and head to the beach.

We try our best to take advantage of the five days of sun we get during summer in the UK.

With the smog of the city somewhat overwhelming at times, it can be hard to think of a nice beach near London.

Seaside Day Trips from London

Surprisingly there are quite a few beaches near London. So, whether you are looking to feel the sand between your toes on a weekend off work, or seek something a little different on your holiday to London, there are some simply stunning beaches close to London to explore.

A beach day trip from London is perfect for everything from surfing to walking the dog, to building sandcastles or even sitting on the seafront with a cold glass of Pimm’s.

London and the surroundings have some great beaches, all less than just two hours away, so let’s get into the best beach day trips from London.

Tip: If you are looking for more day trips from London, you’ll love my list of 30 day trips from London by train guide.

Best Beaches Near London for Seaside Day Trips

You’re going to love these seaside day trips from London. Wait for a sunny day, fill your beach bag with all the makings for a beautiful beach day and get excited for some fun in the sun!

1. Ruislip Lido, West London

The closest beach to London, without being on the banks of the Thames when the tide is out, Ruislip Lido is an artificial beach and reservoir in the London Borough of Hillingdon. It’s one of the best London seaside day trips because you don’t have to leave the city.

With boating facilities having been available since 1933, Ruislip Lido also has its own railway, which opened in 1945, and will provide a much-needed lift around the waterway when the sunshine is just too hot to trek in.

One of the only beaches in London, the area boasts over 700 acres of woodland, nature trails and a pirate ship making Ruislip Lido much more than just sand-between-the-toes.

Whilst swimming is not officially allowed as there are no lifeguards, there is a children’s splash pool and plenty of space for beach games and sunbathing. So the next time you’re wondering which beautiful sandy beaches there are near you remember that Ruislip Lido is a stone’s throw away from the perfect day out at the beach.

How To Get There

Ruislip and Northwood Hills train stations serve the area within a 20-minute walk with lots of parking also available, if you decide to drive.

2. Frensham Beach, Surrey

Often rated ‘excellent’ by environment agencies, this landlocked beach offers everything you would expect of a coastal counterpart. From sunbathing on the golden sand to swimming and soft-serve ice cream (what British seaside dreams are made of), this beach offers Frensham Pond for a refreshing dip.

For something more unconventional, there is also a sculpture park where over 300 artists showcase over 800 weird and wonderful statues. This will keep you entertained for hours. The exhibit is open all year round but is particularly popular in the summer, with all of the sculptures actually being for sale, so no two visits to the park will be the same.

Tip: Check out this guide on the 30 best day trips from London by train , car and tour for more options.

You can get here by train from central London in under two hours, via Farnham or Guildford from London Waterloo.

3. Whitstable Beach, Kent

Whilst you may know Whitstable for its fresh seafood, here you actually have a great choice of beaches so, you can pick the one best suited to your mood. Whitstable is one of the best places to visit in Kent and is quite popular with sun seekers because of its stunning beaches.

West Beach is best for strolling along the coastline, whilst Tankerton Beach is pebbly and arguably the most picturesque area. At Tankerton, be sure to check out ‘The Street’, a stretch of shingle that becomes visible at low tide and is almost a kilometre long.

As the tide starts to close in, head to one of the town’s famous seafood restaurants, with some of the best oysters in all of the UK.

Along with a day trip from London to Dover , visiting the Whitstable beaches are hands down some of my favourite seaside day trips from London by train. These places will not disappoint, just remember to carry your wireless speaker and play some tunes as you relax on the beach.

Whitstable is one of the best beach towns near London for a seaside day. If you’re heading that way you can also check out my post on the top things to do in Whitstable beach.

Tip: Check out my detailed guide on how to get from London to Whitstable by train, car and bus.

Easy to access from London, it takes around 90 minutes to get to Whitstable from London Victoria or St Pancras International train stations.

4. Botany Bay, Kent

Not to be confused with Botany Bay in Sydney, Australia, this one is much closer to home, located near Broadstairs in Kent .

Between Ramsgate and Margate, this understated stretch of UK coastline is some of the most photographed in the country. Unlike many beach resorts, you will not find slot machines or funfair rides on this seafront location.

This is one of the best sandy beaches near London, Botany Bay has a very classy vibe to it. Instead of slot machines, there is 600 feet of sandy beach to enjoy, numerous rock pools to explore and ample fossils to hunt on this stretch of chalk cliffs, making it one of the best beaches in Kent.

Tip: If you’re looking to turn your day trip to Botany Bay into an overnight stay, book a stay at the cosy Botany Bay Hotel .

Just over an hour and a half from St Pancras by train, Botany Bay can also be reached by car in around two hours from the city.

5. Brighton Beach, East Sussex

Brighton is definitely one of the rockier beaches on this list. But it is one of the most well-known shingle beaches close to London and is a popular city break destination .

Brighton Beach is adorned with pebbles and is best suited for surfing, paddle boarding and water-based activities, making it one of the best seaside day trips from London.

You can also treat yourself to ice cream on the famous pier or find a local cafe to pick up the quintessentially English idea of fish and chips from yesterday’s newspaper. With lots of coloured and colourful beach huts lining the seafront, Brighton Beach has something for all of the family on the sunniest of summer days.

And, it also has an old-school arcade to keep everyone entertained if the famously unpredictable British weather decides to turn on you. Brighton Beach is one of the best beach trips from London because it guarantees loads of fun for everyone.

Hot tip: There is so much to do in the alternative, vibrant city of Brighton. If you want to turn your day trip into an overnight stay then check out the funky Artist Residence Hotel .

You can catch the train from London to Brighton Beach from stations such as Victoria and London Bridge, taking around an hour.

6. Sunny Sands, Kent

A popular sandy beach, close to central Folkestone in Kent ,  Sunny Sands Beach benefits from a great selection of amenities, making it an easy seaside day trip from London.

This includes a range of restaurants and lots of shops to slip into, should you be caught in a summer storm. With air described as delicious by Charles Dickens himself, it is no surprise that Sunny Beach is a popular retreat with Londoners looking to escape the smoggy, city air.

One of the closest sandy beaches to London, accessible in under an hour from St Pancras station, the sand quality on this beach is so good it plays host to an annual sandcastle building competition. Yes, there is an annual sandcastle building competition, so get your shovels ready to join in on the fun.

The only bummer is dogs are banned during the busier months, between May to October, the beach does have a lifeguard service on weekends throughout summer, and fantastic water quality for swimming, surfing and other water-based activities. Sunny Sands is also one of the most beautiful beaches near London.

 Hop on a 52-minute train from London St Pancras International to Folkestone Central.

7. Camber Sands, East Sussex

Camber Sands is one of the beaches close to London that would be able to easily pass as one of the most idyllic in the UK. With an impressive five miles of coastline and clear, calm waters (if you close your eyes, you can just imagine yourself on the beaches in Negril), Camber Sands is about 4 miles from the town of Rye .

Prone to a crowd or two in the summer, the beach is very popular with city folks looking to try their hand at something new – from kitesurfing to horse riding, you can try it all and so much more at Camber Sands. Looking almost Arabian, the sand dunes are kept in place by chestnut fences and billowy grasses.

About an hour and forty minutes outside London, Camber Sands can be reached by train from St Pancras via Ashford. It is also around two hours from the city by car, but either way, it’s one of the easiest day trips to the beach from London.

8. Hastings, West Sussex

Aww good old Hastings, a place you should visit at least once. It’s a predominantly shingle beach, Hastings is kept in place by a series of groynes. This being said, however, there is often sand to be seen at low tide so you could technically say it is a mix of shingle and sand along the.

Whilst it may once have had a reputation for being a bit rough and broken down, extensive investment in the area in recent years has really made waves when it comes to the rejuvenation of the area.

Particularly good for families with older children, again due to being primarily shingle, standout facilities include an underground BMX skate park which happens to be the biggest in the world.

With nature trails to track in the coastal country park, and Hastings Castle to explore if 11th-century Norman fortresses are your thing. Hastings also offers a funicular railway to get some great views of the area. There are loads of great things to do in Hastings , so be sure to keep it on your list of seaside trips to take in the future.

Trains connect central London with Hastings in just under two hours and run regularly from Charing Cross and St Pancras stations.

9. Margate, Kent

Probably one of the most popular beaches with Londoners looking to escape the city smog, Margate Beach on the Kent coast is full of charm. With a strong Tudor influence in the town, Margate Sands is one of the more typical British seaside experiences.

The soft sandy beach is often lined with colourful parasols and windbreaks in the summer months and is just as scenic for a winter walk in the colder months. With the Old Town offering independent galleries, pubs and lots of vintage shops to immerse yourself in, there is also a theme park dating back to 1880.

I did say you’ll get a very British seaside experience here. Even though the rides have been updated since then, the rides are pretty traditional – think dodgems, Ferris wheels and teacups.

One of the slightly more unusual things to do in Margate would be to visit the Shell Grotto.

It is an underground chamber stretching 30 metres into the chalky hills and decorated with an impressive 4.6 million shells. For one of those classic seaside trips from London, Margate comes highly recommended.

Margate is very well connected to central London, and there are regular trains connecting Kent town with London Victoria and St Pancras stations. The journey time is approximately 90 minutes.

10. Southend-on-Sea, Essex

Located right at the end of the River Thames, Southend-on-Sea has an impressive eight beaches. Although some of the beaches are somewhat less impressive than other beaches featured on this list, Westcliff and Chalkwell Beach are still quite pretty, and Three Shells is the most central one.

Some of the beaches in Southend are pretty small, such as the Leigh Bell Wharf beach, meaning they can get pretty crowded on the hot summer days. Southend-on-Sea is great if you want to have one of those quiet day trips to the beach from London.

Direct trains from London to Southend, running from Liverpool Street and Fenchurch Street stations run regularly and take about an hour, perfect for day trips to the seaside from London.

11. Ramsgate, Kent

One of the easiest seaside towns near London is Ramsgate in Kent . It takes about 90 minutes to reach and makes for one of the best beach day trips from London. Regular, direct trains depart from a variety of stations across the capital, including London Victoria, St Pancras and Charing Cross.

With pretty chalky cliffs, a harbour, a marina and some retro fairground ride for the children, Ramsgate Beach is one of the most popular beach options for families in London. Home to the UK’s only Royal Harbour , a visit to Ramsgate Beach can also be accompanied by a trip to the Maritime Museum or by visiting the Monkton Nature Reserve.

If you are determined to stay on the beachy head of the sands, why not try your hand at kitesurfing, which is one of the most popular things to try on Ramsgate beach.

The train from St Pancras, London to Ramsgate takes about 75 minutes and runs regularly.

12. Deal Beach, Kent

Deal Beach is punctuated by a pier that dates back to the 1950s, arguably perhaps the most common era that springs to mind when you think of an old school, a seaside resort on the UK coast. Although the pier is far from the prettiest in the world, it is lined with places to fish and lots of cafes to sample.

With a 16th-century fortress in Deal Castle to explore and another fortress built by King Henry VIII himself in Walmer Castle and gardens, a visit to Deal Beach can give you far more than sun loungers and ice cream. You can also try your hand at fossil collecting in the woodland areas near the beach and even cycling in Betteshanger Park.

Offering impressive views across France on a clear day, Deal Beach can be reached in under two hours from St Pancras via Dover Priory, although trains are not as regular as other beaches on the coast.

There are no direct trains from London to Deal Beach. Even so, it’s a quick journey by train from St Pancras, London with one change and takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Despite not having any direct train access, it still makes for a great coast day trip from London.

13. Walton on the Naze, Essex

With the second-longest pier in England, to put it simply, there is a lot to do on a visit to Walton on the Naze.

From searching for bird fossils and hunting for turtles, to scaling an old shipping tower now being used as an art gallery, almost 90ft into the sky, for the best panoramic views of the Essex coastline, there is no shortage of exciting things to do here.

If none of this tickles your fancy, why not try seal spotting in the harbour or at the Hamford Water Nature Reserve. If it is wildlife you seek, try taking a boat trip to explore the salt marshes, grasslands and tidal creeks.

Walton on the Naze is a Blue Flag beach and is reachable from central London in under two hours. Trains run via Thorpe le Soken from Liverpool Street station and take around 75 minutes.

14. Dungeness, Kent

Just a beach pebble’s throw from Camber Sands, Dungeness is the largest stretch of shingle beach in Europe. Impressive, I know. One of the less crowded beaches near London, this beach is not quite the place to don your swimsuit and grab an ice cream.

A more eerie beauty than touristically appealing, Dungeness is striking in a completely different way from many beaches on this list.

Littered with fishing huts and aircraft control towers from the 1930s, the concrete aesthetic of Dungeness makes for a very different day trip to the seaside from London. A truly unforgettable experience, Dungeness is home to the smallest passenger railway in the world.

Offering what many call the best fish and chips on the Kent coast, Dungeness is definitely worth a visit. Although Dungeness is not very well connected when it comes to public transport links to London, it is best reached by car, in less than two hours drive from the city.

Hop on a train from London St Pancras to Ashford International, which will take you just over an hour.  From there take a bus to the Lydd-on-Sea which will be around 30 minutes.

15. Mersea Island, Essex

The most easterly inhabited island in the UK, a visit to Mersea Island in Essex may require a little more planning than you would normally put into a quick London beach escape. This is because the island gets cut off when the tide comes in.

To access the island, you need to go via the Strood, essentially an old Roman road linking the island with the mainland.

If it is an adventure, you seek on your beach trip, head to the east of Mersea Island for hunting shark tooth fossils and animal bones. If it is the food you dream of, try exploring the west of the island for a range of oyster bars or head to the vineyard and brewery for a souvenir to remember. For a day trip with a difference visit Mersea island.

Tip: Read my detailed guide on how to get from London to Mersea Island .

Accessed in around two hours by car, you can also take a train from Liverpool Street to Colchester, before changing for a bus to the island.

16. Priory Bay Beach, Isle of Wight

Offering the beauty, pristine golden sands and peace and quiet that you just don’t get in central London, the beaches on the Isle of Wight are far removed from the chaos of the capital, despite being only a few hours from the city.

It’s a lovely change from the pebbly beach options on this list. If travelling by train and the ‘Fast Cat’ boat service, you can be on the Isle within two hours.

One of the most popular areas on the tiny island, Priory Bay is set within an impressive 60-acre estate. Dog friendly between St Helens and Seagrove, Priory Bay beach is truly one for all of the family.

From exploring the nearby woodlands and greeting otters, owls and alpacas at Seaview Wildlife Encounter, to taking a food tour, to exploring historical ruins, there is lots more to Priory Bay than simply lying on the beach, although that is also a brilliant option.

Catch a train from London Waterloo to Portsmouth. From Portsmouth, you can catch the ferry for your Isle day trip from London.

17. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset

A favourite with people of all ages, Bournemouth beach stretches for over seven miles along the south coast of the UK. The majority of the beach is genuine sandy beach, although there are some pebbly sections if that is what you prefer.

Bournemouth beach has something to suit everyone. With easy access from London Waterloo station, the journey time is close to two hours by train. Even on a busy day, there is still ample space to lay down your towel.

With lots of boutique shops and high street stores, shopping is also great at Bournemouth Beach, with gardens to explore too and plenty of space to run fast enough to get even the most stubborn of kites into the sky. Bournemouth Beach is truly one for a relaxing beach day.

Catch a direct train from London Waterloo to Bournemouth Station which is a short walk from the beach. The train ride is just under 2 hours.

What is the Closest Beach to London For Seaside Day Trips?

Southend-on-Sea is the closest seaside town to London with 8 beaches to pick from. If it is just a sandy beachy feel that you seek, or perhaps you live closer to the west of London , then Ruislip Lido beach is also a great choice nearby for a day out at the beach.

What Beaches Are Near London by Train and Bus?

All of the beaches in this list are accessible within two hours of the capital. With the exception of the Isle of Wight, which includes a boat, all can be accessed via public transport, with most of them having decent train links to the capital.

What are the Best Coastal Day Trips from London?

Walton on Naze is a great beach if you are looking for more than just laying on the soft sand, and building sandcastles as there is so much to do in the area. Bournemouth Beach is one of the biggest and the best options for those looking to lay on the sand and build sandcastles.

If you seek more than this on your beach day quest, Walton on Naze is a fantastic option, offering an array of activities and great amenities.

Enjoy Seaside Day Trips from London by Train, Car and Bus

Some of the best beaches in the UK are within easy reach of the city, making for a whole host of great seaside day trips from London within about two hours by train, bus or car ride.

Places with beaches near London are popular year-round with people looking to escape the sometimes harsh city heat, and hustle and bustle of busy London city life. Whatever your reason for the escape, be sure to visit one of the best seaside towns near London for an unforgettable day out at the beach.

These are some of the best day beach trips from London.

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Seaside Day Trips from London by Train: 8 Great Places to Visit on South East England’s Coast

By Jools Stone

Ahh, what can beat a fun-packed day trip in the great British summertime eh? Sea, shingle, sand, miles of smiles, sunshine… Well OK, you can’t always count on Mr Sun getting his hat on. But still, whatever the weather, there’s plenty to discover along England’s glorious southeastern coast.

So with a Mister Whippy in hand, our Railcards at the ready and our best beach towel packed, let’s escort you through 8 of our favourite British seaside towns to visit on day trips from London by train.

Margate’s golden Main Sands Beach is half a mile long and less than five minutes walk from Margate station – Image: ijclark

‘Merry Margate’s’ been a seaside stalwart for centuries, immortalised by everyone from JMW Turner to popular, chirpy London pop duo Chas & Dave, thanks to its sandy beach, something of a rarity for a southeastern English resort.

The half a mile-long Margate Main Sands Beach is a short five minutes walk from the station. Nestled in the Harbour Arm, it has a tidal pool, children’s rides, an amusement arcade and deck chairs – and acres of the lovely golden stuff of course.

There are plenty of other reasons to get ‘down to Margate’ (as the Chas & Dave song goes) after an extensive regeneration programme has done much to revitalise the formerly fading town.

The famous Dreamland amusement park reopened to much fanfare in 2015. After a few teething troubles, it relaunched in May 2017, with a £15 million revamp featuring landscaped gardens, art installations, and a live music venue for 15,000 people.

The vintage Scenic Railway Rollercoaster is the world’s second-oldest, while other white-knuckle wonders include the Hurricane Jets and the Chair-O-Plane.

You owe it to yourself to pick your way through the Shell Grotto, a vast warren of underground tunnels bedecked in stunning seashell mosaics. Afterwards, sit under the Grade II listed Nayland Rock Shelter looking out at the sands and wait for poetic inspiration to strike. The elegant structure where T S Eliot used to ponder was protected by a campaign championed by leading literary lights Alan Bennett and Poet Laureate Andrew Motion.

On a similarly refined note, the Turner Contemporary Gallery , set in the former boarding house where JMW Turner once stayed, should be high on your list. Since it was opened in 2011 by famous local artist Tracey Emin, it’s welcomed over 1.8 million art lovers through its doors, fast establishing itself as one of the UK’s most revered galleries.

Margate’s eclectic mix of beach, art and funfair makes it an ideal romantic day trip from London by train. Grab yourselves a Two Together Railcard and enjoy savings on your train fares.

Getting there

Direct trains from London St Pancras International and London Victoria go to Margate station . St Pancras services are faster, taking less than one hour and 30 minutes. Margate Main Sands Beach is 400 metres from the station.

Group of young girls enjoying themselves sat on a sea barrier during a blustery day at Whitstable Beach – image: Olly Coffey

Whitstable is perhaps the quintessentially British quirky, seaside resort. A lively community of students, artists and London day-trippers (or ‘Down-from-Londons’, as they’re often known locally) lend the town an irresistibly villagey vibe. At the same time, there are scores of cosy pubs, galleries and charity shops which seem lost in time.

The pebble beach, broken up with groynes in typical British seaside fashion is a 15-minute walk from the station. The most bustling stretch – where the beach widens out – is between Cushing’s View and the start of West Beach by the legendary Old Neptune pub. Picture-perfect cottages with brightly-coloured balconies and beach huts line this part of the beach.

Further, along at Tankerton Slopes, the greens leading down to the sea, are always busy with dog walkers and bike riders.

Whitstable Harbour lays claim to inventing scuba diving, which is commemorated by an iron sculpture, and it remains a popular pastime here today. Along with combing the fish markets for fresh seafood, enjoying the tinkly chime of yachts moored on the jetty and browsing the craft, jewellery and textile stalls at the open-air Harbour Market.

The horror and Star Wars actor Peter Cushing spent most of his later years in Whitstable. He’s now immortalised by a Wetherspoons pub no less, and of course, he also features in a display at the Whitstable Museum.

Whitstable’s most famous for its oysters, which is most celebrated every July at the Whitstable Oyster Festival. Foodies will love feasting on oysters, locally caught seafood, and drinking the finest Kent ales and cider. Festival-goers can also enjoy music, local arts and crafts, a seafront procession and traditional kids games.

You will probably want to sample some all year round seafood delicacies while you’re here. Try Wheeler’s Oyster Bar or the Whitstable Oyster Fishery Company, or for a traditional fish and chip supper, Ossies Fish Bar and VC Jones are hard to beat.

Whitstable is the perfect coastal spot for seafood lovers to enjoy day trips from London by train.

Direct trains from London St Pancras International and London Victoria go to Whitstable station . St Pancras services are faster, taking 1 hour and 10 minutes. The closest beach is 3/4 mile from the station.

Eastbourne’s award-winning, immaculate seafront and beach as seen from Eastbourne Pier – image: © The Train Hacker Images/Chris P King

Despite an unfair fusty reputation, Eastbourne has plenty going for it, with a pretty, well-maintained promenade, premier chalk cliff views and rows of whitewashed Victorian terraces.

Eastbourne offers more than three miles of shingle beaches with some sandy stretches and rock pools at low tide. The beach is less than 20 minutes walk from the station.

These days the traditional ‘caffs’ (like cafes, but distinctly more British!), tea rooms and Italian ice cream parlours have been joined by a Continental food market with wares from across the Channel. While the giddy heights of a Hot Air Balloon Festival and even an Extreme Sports Festival grace the resort in the summer months.

Not to be outdone by Margate and other coastal culture meccas, Eastbourne reopened the new Towner Gallery building in 2009, adding to an arts quarter boasting five theatres including the Under Ground Theatre Arts Centre. You’ll find 4,500 modern British artworks housed in the Towner’s suitably streamlined, modernist contours.

The recently refurbished Eastbourne Pier is an excellent example of iconic seafront architecture, complete with Victorian Tea Rooms, the state-of-the-art Atlantis Nightclub and a new jazz lounge and blues kitchen, 1901.

The beautiful Art Deco Bandstand is an inspiring sight, with its blue terracotta tiled roof. It’s still a popular venue with seating for 1,400 people who turn out for tribute shows, big band jazz, revival nights and classical concerts.

The 200-year-old Redoubt Fortress is one of only three surviving structures built to withstand Napoleonic attack and makes for a rousing family visit.

Of course, you shouldn’t miss the Eastbourne Miniature Steam Railway, as the 1/8 scale locomotives gently putter their way around a five-acre lake set in country grounds with picnic areas and abundant wildlife.

The relaxed pace of life here should appeal to all day-trippers from London by train, but it naturally attracts more mature visitors who can get cheaper rail fares with a Senior Railcard .

Direct trains from London Victoria go to Eastbourne with the fastest journey times from 1 hour and 20 minutes. Eastbourne seafront is under a mile from the station.

Punch, and Judy show on Southsea Common, one of the many events held there in spring and summer – image: Charles D P Miller

A popular Victorian resort, today Southsea is less crowded than most, but there are plenty of attractions and cultural sights for those who know where to look. Much of Southsea’s appeal centres on the seafront area.

Southsea Beach is a flinty, shingle 3-mile expanse running from Old Portsmouth to Eastney which slopes gently into the sea. From here you can look out at ‘Palmerston’s Follies’, a series of five defensive forts built in the 1860s and 70s to protect against inland invasion.

The South Parade Pier has partially re-opened this year after a five year, £5 million restoration project, with plans for a fish and chip shop, ice cream parlour, a ‘showbar’, zip wire, amusement arcade and various rides. The pier once featured in Ken Russell’s film of the Who’s rock opera Tommy.

Families can enjoy a stroll along Southsea Common and visit Clarence Pier Family Theme Park, one of the largest amusement parks on the south coast. Despite its name, the pier runs along the seafront rather than extending out over the sea.

Southsea Common hosts kite shows, military vehicle displays and other fun outdoor events, including visits by the Moscow State Circus. In summer, young children will love playing in the water at Southsea Splash Pool.

Further along at Eastney, the 1/12 scale Southsea Model Village is a fun place to keep the kids amused. A picnic area nearby offers scenic views of the Solent stretch of water and across to the Isle of Wight. There’s also a large canoe lake with pedal boats to hire.

Most of the town’s best eateries are clustered on Albert Road and Osborne Road, and you’ll find a higher concentration of independent shops, cafes and restaurants in general than in most British resorts.

Peter Sellers was one of Southsea’s most famous residents. You can see the blue plaque which commemorates the late actor above a Chinese takeaway on the corner of Castle Road, a 10-minute walk from the beach. You’ll also find historical blue plaque markers for other notable locals Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Rudyard Kipling.

A little further afield, the historic naval dockyard in nearby Portsmouth offers many famous ships, including HMS Warrior 1860, HMS Victory and the Mary Rose, along with the Royal Navy Submarine Museum and plenty of interactive exhibits to excite kids of all ages.

While you’re in Portsmouth, you can also drop into the Charles Dickens Birthplace Museum and see three furnished rooms, along with various memorabilia such as his snuff-box, inkwell, pocket knife and the couch on which he expired.

Southsea makes a great day out from London by train and particularly appeals to families and history buffs. Save money on a family trip and get reduced train fares with a Family & Friends Railcard .

Direct trains from London Waterloo and London Victoria go to Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth harbour stations . The fastest trains from Waterloo take 1 hour and 39 minutes to Portsmouth Harbour, and a few minutes less to Portsmouth & Southsea.

Clarence Esplanade at Southsea Beach is one and a quarter miles from Portsmouth Harbour station. The scenic walk goes through charming Old Portsmouth and along the sea wall.

Take a stroll along the delightful Palace Pier – also known as Brighton Pier – one of the many things to do in hip Brighton  – image: Dun.can

Brighton is a bohemian enclave that knows how to let its hair down. The kiss-me-quick hats are long gone, replaced by bearded, tattooed hipsters, gourmet burger joints, artisanal gelato bars and cool coffee houses frequently used for arts and comedy events.

Brighton’s pebble beach is easily accessible and less than 15 minutes walk from the station. Leaving the station, head straight down Queen Street and you’ll soon see it.

You’ll probably want to stroll along the Palace Pier and take some pictures of the beautifully ruined remains of the West Pier. On the seafront near the West Pier, you’ll find the fantastic King’s Road Playground. The enclosed space has heaps of natural sand, sturdy climbing frames, paddling pools and plenty of equipment to keep kids entertained.

The BAi360 moving observation tower is one of the city’s newest attractions and also ‘the world’s tallest vertical pier.’ There’s also a two-person zip line over the beach and the charming Volks Railway, the oldest electrical railway in the world, which runs along the seafront.

The Royal Pavilion – mixing Regency grandeur with Indian and Chinese styles – is another must-do. The seaside pleasure palace of King George IV is an extraordinary building, both inside and out. The adjoining Brighton Museum is well worth a few hours’ explorations too.

Wander around the shops in the narrow Lanes and the even better North Laine, packed with indie boutiques, traditional pubs, cafes and delis. Come in May to experience the Brighton Festival, the UK’s second-biggest arts shindig.

Of course, Brighton is great for day trips from London by train for anyone. But the high concentration of pubs, clubs and live music venues here, not to mention independent shops, makes it very appealing to younger people, who can save on rail fares with a 16-25 Railcard .

Direct trains from London Victoria, London Bridge and London Blackfriars go to Brighton station . The fastest route is from Victoria, which takes around 55 minutes. Trains from London Bridge take one hour. Brighton Beach is just over half a mile from the station.

View of Hastings Old Town and beach with the old pier in the background from East Hill – image: Berit Watkin

The recent revival of Hastings is a case study in British seaside reinvention. The former declining town has been subject to vigorous regeneration for over a decade, the effects of which are starting to pay off.

For starters, it has one of Europe’s most stylish piers. Unveiled in 2015 to great acclaim, Hastings Pier is a spectacularly sleek piece of minimalist contemporary design. In place of the usual outlets, the pier now offers frozen yoghurt stands, gourmet coffee and The Deck roof terrace cafe. Little wonder it was voted 2017 Pier of the Year.

Hastings’s 3-mile shingle – and at low tide sandy – beach with its elegant, double-tiered promenade is a 10-minute walk from the station.

Hastings’s pedestrianised Old Town is the town’s most charming stretch. Its narrow, cobbled streets are packed with restaurants, characterful pubs, artisan bakers, antiques and home and giftware shops. Poke your way through the town’s ‘twittens’, narrow alleyways which thread through the back streets, to see what you can discover.

The True Crime Museum is one of the town’s quirkier attractions. Others include the award-winning Jerwood Gallery collection of British contemporary art, Hastings Castle, Hastings Fisherman’s Museum , the Shipwreck Museum and the East Hill Cliff Railway, a lovely clifftop funicular.

A little way inland on West Hill lies the St Clements Caves, home to the Smuggler’s Cave Adventure tourist attraction, where costumed guides recreate the area’s smuggling heritage.

Hastings is ideal day trips from London by train. For a more extended day out, combine it with a trip inland to Battle, scene of the Battle of Hastings.

Direct trains from London Charing Cross and London Victoria go to Hastings station . The fastest route from Charing Cross takes around 1 hour 35 minutes. Hastings Beach is 500 metres from the station.

Hastings’s smaller sister town of St Leonards is also worth exploring. St Leonard’s Warrior Square is the next stop on the train from London.

Celebrating Broadstairs’ Charles Dickens heritage on a sunny midsummers day at the 80th Broadstairs Dickens Festival in 2017 – image: Funk Dooby

Broadstairs

Broadstairs is one of Kent’s most attractive seaside towns, thanks to its numerous sandy beaches , which include three – Botany Bay, Joss Bay and Stone Bay – award-winning Blue Flag beaches.

The main beach at Viking Bay is an excellent example of an archetypal southern England seaside resort with a clifftop promenade, horseshoe-shaped harbour and sloping Victoria Gardens overlooking the bay, complete with bandstand, clock tower and Indian-inspired shelter.

The town has been smartened up significantly in recent years, with a great selection of Italian-run gelaterias, bistros and cafes, plus a clutch of art galleries.

There’s no shortage of enjoyable attractions besides the beach. The Dickens House Museum celebrates Charles Dickens’ 22 years in the town, which he christened ‘our English watering-place.’ Housed in the cottage which inspired the home of Betsey Trotwood in his novel David Copperfield, the museum is complete with a flower garden and authentic Victorian parlour.

Continuing the Dickens theme, you can also visit Bleak House, where Dickens spent many happy childhood holidays looking out onto Viking Bay. There’s a Dickens Festival held here each June as well.

Lilliput Mini Golf is a traditional British seaside family fun. The championship designed mini-golf course features many famous landmarks, and the tea garden is known for its toasted teacakes.

Broadstairs also offers one of England’s unique independent cinemas. The intimate Palace Cinema has been around for over a century, during which time it has hosted everything from puppet shows to cartoons. It passed into new ownership in 2016 and now has 111 seats and shows blockbusters, critics’ favourites and art films alike.

Broadstairs is a perfect day out from London by train with plenty of things to do. Beach lovers, who don’t mind a walk, will enjoy the quieter Blue Flag beaches to the north of town.

Direct trains from London St Pancras International and London Victoria go to Broadstairs station . The fastest route is from St Pancras, which takes from 1 hour and 21 minutes. Broadstairs’ main beach, Viking Beach, is half a mile from the station.

King George V Colonnade in the foreground and view of dinghies sailing on the English Channel at Bexhill-on-Sea – Image: Mrs eNil

Bexhill-on-Sea

Bexhill is something of a well-kept secret, has retained its character as a quiet and quirky seaside resort. Handsome Victorian and Edwardian architecture abounds, and the two-mile shingle beach, which gets sandy at low tide is a big draw too.

There are some excellent independent retailers, such as Music’s Not Dead Records and Maud’s Emporium. The 20 vintage and charity shops make the town an excellent spot for those who enjoy foraging for rare clothes, books, antiques and other collectables.

Bexhill’s shining star is undoubtedly the De La Warr Pavilion , an iconic and eye-catching modernist building on the seafront which hosts a fantastic range of art exhibitions, live music, comedy and theatre. The 1930s Grade 1 Listed building is a destination in itself, thanks to its helix staircase, balconies, panoramic rooftop terraces and bandstand.

The freshly-renovated King George V Colonnade, a focal point for entertainment and music throughout the year, neatly complements the pavilion’s architecture.

Bexhill is also the ‘birthplace of British motor racing’, celebrated by the annual 100 Classic Car Show in August. The town also offers two of Sussex’s best golf courses: Cooden Beach and Highwoods.

Bexhill-on-sea is an underrated resort on England’s south coast and well worth exploring on a day out from London by train. Before you travel, pick up a  Network Railcard and save on your train journey.

Direct trains from London Victoria and London St Pancras go to Bexhill station . Trains from Victoria are more frequent with both routes taking from 1 hour and 46 minutes.

We hope our selection of seaside day trips from London by train along the Hampshire, Sussex and Kent Coast has inspired you to grab your Railcard and pack your bucket and spade.

Discover even more southeastern day trips and check out our guide to some of the best National Trust properties to visit by train in south-east England . Finally, I found out how you can save money on rail tickets and passes, tours and holidays with our train deals and discounts .

Image credits: Elvin (header edit) ,  ijclark (edit) , Olly Coffey (edit), Charles D P Miller (edit), Berit Watkin (edit) , Funk Dooby ,  Mrs eNil

About Jools Stone

Jools Stone is a freelance travel writer, copywriter and blogger based in Brighton. Follow his rail travel adventures on Twitter .

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Saturday 4th May 2024: An Excursion to Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza with Whittle Coaches

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16 Best Seaside Holidays In the UK

The UK has an amazing coastline to explore! There are loads of little villages, gorgeous bays and dramatic cliffs that make for some of the best seaside holidays in the UK.

Sometimes, it’s easy to think that we Brits have a raw deal when it comes to seaside spots.

It’s true, we don’t have the islands of the Maldives , warm Caribbean waters or the crystal-clear Arctic seas (though, it can feel like at times).

That being said, it doesn’t mean we don’t have an amazing coastline that can rival most places across the world. In fact, I’d go as far as saying we have some amazing gems.

Now, a seaside holiday in the UK has lots of connotations with Victorian promenades, plenty of seagulls, some colourful deckchairs and plenty of ’99’ ice creams but there are so many more spots that don’t immediately spring to mind.

That’s why I wanted to show you some little haunts for the best seaside holidays in the UK.

Take a look at 16 of the best seaside holidays in the UK, below.

1.) Portrush, Northern Ireland

Perched in County Antrim, Portrush and Dunluce Castle is one of the prettiest seaside spots in Northern Ireland. Steeped in history and with a stunning (and rugged) coastline, it’s the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a gorgeous beach and a beautiful castle.

Rest assured, though, you’ll find the most amazing sandy beach at nearby Portrush on the way towards Dunluce Castle.

Read more: Best things to do in Northern Ireland

2.) Durdle Door, England

Nestled on the coastline of the Jurassic Coast , Durdle Door and the Man O’War Beach is a great place to visit for a relaxing day at the seaside. Make sure to walk the South West Coast Path, find some stunning coves (like Lulworth Cove) and walk west to Bat’s Head.

If you want to visit some pretty villages, pop into Chaldon Herring with its stunning cottages all nestled between the green hills surrounding this area. It’s so pretty.

Read more: How to find fossils on the Jurassic Coast

3.) Portmeirion, Wales

Now, don’t be fooled, this isn’t Italy! Portmeirion is a gorgeous Italian village that’s perched on the coastline of Wales and one of the best seaside holidays in the UK that I guarantee you’ll enjoy.

Once there, take a wander around the beautiful village, take in all that Italian heritage and even stay at the stunning Hotel Portmeirion that’s right on the waterfront.

If it’s a secluded beach you’re after, take a ramble slightly west from the town and you’ll come across the most unspoilt and little known about beaches in Wales (if you check on Google Maps, you’ll see the spot exactly).

Read more: Best places in Wales to visit

4.) Watergate Bay, England 

Another Cornish gem, Watergate Bay is a stone’s throw from the larger town of Newquay but a world away in terms of how intimate it feels.

Head onto its gorgeous beach, stay at the Watergate Bay Hotel (which you’ll love) and gorge on all that seafood that’s served up fresh each day! It’s one of the best seaside spots around.

Plus, it’s a great spot for surfing too.

Read more: What to do at Watergate Bay

5.) St Michael’s Mount island, England

I go on about St. Michael’s Mount a lot, I know – but it’s so amazing! If you’re in Cornwall and you’re looking for a little seaside break, you have to visit here.

Perched on the south coast, St. Michael’s Mount is a stunning (tidal) island that’s so gorgeous.

Best yet, on a sunny day (or with a wetsuit) you can pop into the sea at Long Rock Beach. It’s a matter of minutes from St. Michael’s Mount and a great way to spend a lazy weekend.

Read more: Best seaside places in Cornwall

6.) Neist Point, Scotland

Perched on the Isle of Skye , off the west coast of Scotland, Neist Point is a great place to visit on your trip around the Highlands .

Pop over to the Isle of Skye , walk the many coastal paths and stop off at Walrus Rock if you’re walking a longer route.

Though you won’t find a beach right next to Neist Point, you will find lots of rugged coastlines that you can enjoy. If you’re still hankering for a little beach time, pop over to Varkasaig Beach (with a picnic in hand).

Read more: Best things to do in the Highlands

7.) Robin Hood’s Bay, England

Nestled on the coastline of Yorkshire, Robin Hood’s Bay is a stunning little village that’s pretty close to the nearby Whitby (and its famous abbey). Now, the village itself might not strike you straight off as a seaside hot spot – but trust me when I say it is. The beach is gorgeous.

Plus, the village, with all its little fishing cottages, is so beautiful to explore and they have a substantial number of local watering holes to grab a shandy in! 

This whole area is known for its seafood too, so make sure you gorge on as much as you can. You’ll be spoilt for choice. 

Read more: Best things to do in Robin Hoods Bay

8.) Llanddwyn Island, Wales

Just off the west coast of Anglesey (an island in Wales), Llanddwyn Island is a gorgeous spot to see. Technically, an island (Llanddwyn) just off an island (Anglesey) that’s just off an island (Great Britain) – it’s a spot that’s easily reached.

Once there, make sure to visit the lighthouse and enjoy the gorgeous sands of Llanddwyn Bay too. 

Read more: Best things to do in Wales

9.) Seven Sisters, England

On the south coast of England, the Seven Sisters stand proudly in between Seaford and Eastbourne and are perfect to start one of your best seaside holidays in the UK.

Head along the cliff walk, though, as always treat the cliffs with the respect they deserve and don’t get too close to the unstable edge.

Afterwards, pop over to Seaford to grab some fish and chips on the beach. Yum! 

Read more: Best things to do in South Downs National Park

10.) Talland Bay, England

Just west of Looe in Cornwall , Talland Bay is a stunning seaside spot to explore.

Within the bay itself, there are two small beaches that are just too charming to miss. Pack your swimming trunks and head for a dip.

If your tummy begins to rumble, hop in the car (for about 2 miles) and head to The Kitchen in Polperro – they serve one of the best lunches in the area.

Read more: Best places to see in Cornwall

11.) Llandudno, Wales

On the north coast of Wales is the historic seaside town of Llandudno. A perfect spot for a holiday in Wales. Once there, walk the length of the Promenade, explore the pier and take the Great Orme Tramway too. It really is a gorgeous place.

For a tasty bite to eat, pop into The Cottage Loaf which serves up a hearty lamb shank. 

12.) Cromer, England

Cromer and its famous pier have been drawing us seaside lovers to the town for decades.

Nestled on the coastline of Norfolk, it’s a great seaside spot at any time of the year. In the summer months, you’ll want to take some time to relax and splash about on the beach.

Whilst in the winter, you’ll want to enjoy some of the coastal paths that crisscross this region.

Oh, don’t forget to check out the Crab & Lobster Festival too – it’s a fun day!

13.) Sand Beach, Scotland  

In the gorgeous Highlands of Scotland is a Sand Beach, aptly named due to the gorgeous sands it has.

The beach itself is about 4-5 miles from Applecross (the closest village) and probably the best beach in the area.

On a sunny day, it’s a perfect spot to relax and enjoy some of that seaside charm, all before heading to Applecross for a hearty meal in the local.

We went for Lobster and Cod – both were delicious!

You can read more on our route to take in the Highlands

14.) Blackpool, England

Yup, this is possibly one of the most famous seaside spots in the UK. Once a thriving seaside town, Blackpool lost a lot of visitors in recent decades but there’s still those die-hard fans of Blackpool that love it.

Once there, make sure to enjoy some seaside time at the beach, ride the rollercoasters at Pleasure Beach and head to the top of the Blackpool Tower.

From November, you can even see the town come alive with the Blackpool Illuminations.

Don’t forget a big stick or rock too. The aniseed and the mint rocks are my favourites! 

15.) Newburgh, Scotland

About 20 miles north of Aberdeen is Newburgh, a stunning coastline that’s perfect for a seaside getaway.

As this is on the east coast of Scotland, it’s a great spot to see the sunrise too.

Read more: Best things to do in Aberdeen

16.) Gower Peninsular, Wales

The Gower Peninsular in South Wales is one amazing place for sandy beaches and some lovely waters. It’s also an epic spot for surfing too – if that’s your thing.

After enjoying some of the seaside air, pop over to nearby Mumbles for a little wander around and a bite to eat. It’s a lovely little town right on the seafront.

Read more: Best day trips in the UK

12 Best Day Trips In England

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Coastal Breaks

Escape the hustle and bustle and enter a world of tranquillity and calm with a relaxing coastal break – views included!

Fresh sea air and amazing views

There’s nothing more refreshing than a seaside break, and with great little breaks, you can relax and unwind on the beach as well as discover the miles of heritage coastline up and down the UK. Whether you want to enjoy a mid-week or weekend stroll along the beach, dip in the sea or just enjoy some fish and chips, we’re sure to have the perfect holiday just for you.

Lounge on a deck chair and experience the fresh sea air and indulge in some charming seaside must-haves. Go for ice cream or if you want to head away from the promenade, visit some of the fantastic independent shops.

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Easy London Seaside Day Trips

Getting from the city to the sea is a breeze. There’s plenty of variety—from quaint old-school promenades to more upmarket alternative beach getaways. The London seaside day trips featured here are easy to get to within two hours from central London and cost under £ 50.00 in travel fares.

Note: We looked at day returns for weekday travel, but be sure to check the prices of returns, as well as tickets on different days, for potential savings. Fares vary quite a bit!

Looking for something a little less sandy? You’ll find more cheap and easy day trips here.

1. Brighton, Sussex

Not your typical seaside hangout, Brighton has always been one of the UK’s cooler, edgier coastal towns. It has most of what Londoners love about the capital’s best neighbourhoods: great pubs, music venues, clubs, restaurants, independent shops and cafés. But it has the one thing us Londoners don’t—a beach.

It’s a pebble beach, rather than a sandy beach, so factor that in if you’re craving a walk across some sand. However, with so much else to do besides taking in the sea air, it’s fun to visit Brighton all year round.

At just over an hour’s journey time from central London, it’s perfect for a day trip. The main hub for wandering about away from the seafront itself is the Lanes. It’s a maze-like cluster of narrow streets filled with great, independent places to shop, eat and drink. You can also peruse curios, vintage finds and random chintz at Snooper’s Paradise, check out street art in North Laine and stick around for live comedy at Komedia in the evening (in ordinary times, anyway).

Food and drink

There’s no shortage of great places to eat and drink in Brighton—if you’ve a craving there’s somewhere to satisfy it, particularly if you’re veggie or vegan. Modern Indian restaurant The Chill Pickle has great lunchtime Thalis for £ 17.00 – £ 19.00 , or go for low-key Vietnamese street food at Milk No Sugar, close to the station, or Goemon Ramen near the Hove seafront. But you’ll never be more than a stone’s throw from a decent place to eat in Brighton, whatever your dietary requirements. If you opt to eat outside though, be warned– the seagulls are massive and notorious for swooping down to steal chips from unsuspecting tourists.

Getting there

Transport is easy, there are lots of trains running on both the Southern (From Victoria) or Thameslink route (via London Bridge, St Pancras, Blackfriars and Farringdon). Going from Victoria is roughly £ 10.00 more than going via Thameslink though, so your best bet is from one of the other stations listed. Then you’ll have a healthy chunk of change left over for chips. Just be sure to eat them out of sight of the seagulls.

Cost : £ 21.60 off-peak on Thameslink, return ( super off peak weekend tickets from £ 14.50 ) Journey time : Approx. 60–90 minutes from Victoria, Blackfriars, St Pancras or Farringdon

2. Margate, Kent

Unlike Brighton, Margate on the Kent coast has sandy beaches. More than one, in fact. It’s become so popular with Londoners looking for a new, cheaper place to live that it has a kind of Hackney-on-Sea vibe. These days you’ll find spots like Cliffs , a coffee shop/yoga studio and barbershop all in one, pink-fronted vintage shop Peony Vintage and experimental arts venue Tom Thumb Theatre (imagine an old Vaudeville theatre as reimagined by David Lynch).

Aside from the hipsterfication of Margate, the soaring retro colours of the Dreamland amusement park, crazy golf and old school ice cream shops along the seafront keep a classic British promenade feel.

With its decent size and holiday atmosphere, Margate Main Sands is the most popular beach by far. But if you want a less crowded beach for a wander and swim, Westbrook Bay is the place to be. It’s a more secluded spot with space to admire the pretty beach huts and check out rock pools at low tide.

There are plenty of things to do and see close to the beach too. Turner Contemporary is a relatively new gallery. Open since 2011, it’s a bright airy space and the regular galleries are free to visit. The cobbled streets of Margate Old Town are pretty to amble through, and are filled with brilliantly-named shops and pubs like Handsome Freaks and The Lifeboat Ale and Cider House.

Round off a nautical wander with a trip to the Shell Grotto —Margate’s very own local mystery. The grotto is a 21 metre-long, subterranean winding passageway covered with mosaics made of over 4 million shells. Nobody is quite sure who built it or why. Age estimates range wildly between 200 and a rather fanciful 3,000 years old.

Food and Drink

Margate has a decent and growing foodie scene. For fish and chips. Head to Peter’s Fish Factory, a family-run place in the Old Town if you’re looking for some classic seaside fayre. For Caribbean flavours, head to Mullins Brasserie, which is a modern European brasserie that uses Caribbean. Bajan chef-owner Antonio Forde has transformed old butchers into contemporary restaurants serving up dishes like creole fish stew, ital stew (vegan), and jerk chicken, with mains ranging from £ 11.00 – £ 17.00 .

One of the best spots for seafood is Angela’s of Margate, which has a changing menu based on what’s fresh off the boats that morning, but with dishes that include Dover Sole with green sauce and Monkfish bisque and mains between £ 20.00 – £ 25.00 , it’s no surprise that it’s a Margate favourite.

Cost : £ 30.00 off-peak, one way Journey time : Approx. 90 minutes from St Pancras

3. Leigh-On-Sea, Essex

At under an hour direct from the city on the (C2Sea) link, Leigh-on-Sea in Essex is one of the closest sandy beaches to central London. This laid-back town is quite a bit smaller and calmer than Brighton or Margate, more quaint than cool.

It’s a lovely place to spend a low-key, sunny Sunday away from the City. With an old town vibe and an historic centre, there are considerably fewer people around than at nearby southend on sea. Just on the edge of Old Leigh is the small but delightful Leigh-On-Sea Beach, with old fishing boats, fresh seafood and cute cockle sheds (little painted shacks).

If you fancy stretching your legs after lazing on the sand, you can stroll along the Leigh Heritage Trail , where you’ll find cinder paths, old houses with cliffside gardens, a metal obelisk and a yacht club (sailing is a big thing around here).

Stage 2 of the trail also includes the pubs, small galleries and cafés of Old Leigh, like Sara’s Tea Garden. Further along the trail, you’ll pass a bird reserve and the old ruins of Hadleigh Castle. Some of the trail is fairly steep though, so not one to attempt if you’ve only got sandals or flip-flops to walk in.

Food-wise, seafood is a big draw in Leigh-on-Sea. That said, places like The Oaktree serve up Mediterranean and Asian food with plenty of veggie, vegan and gluten-free options. Main courses will set you back around £ 15.00 .

Cost : £ 20.10 off-peak day return Journey time : Approx. 45 minutes from Fenchurch Street

4. Bexhill-on-Sea, Sussex

Bexhill is a charming coastal town with interesting architecture and a shingle (pebble) beach. The town centre is a haven for vintage fans, with independent shops and pop-up fairs. Bexhill-on-Sea even made it into the Guinness Book of World Records in 2017 for hosting the world’s largest Charleston dance.

One of the main draws is the 1930s, modernist De La Warr Pavilion . Re-opened in 2005, the building acts as a major arts and culture venue. During the day you can visit free exhibitions, or take a £ 5.00 architecture tour.

There are plenty of pre-1930s buildings around Bexhill old town, it’s full of old Georgian buildings, and you can also visit the ruins of an old 13th-century manor house .

If you fancy exploring a little further afield, take one of the cultural trails, to see more of the East Sussex coast. Hop on a local Line 98 bus (around 45 minutes) or split a cab (20 minutes) to Herstmonceux Castle . This beautiful 15th Century castle is surrounded by 300 acres of woodlands. Entrance to the grounds and gardens costs £ 8.00 .

Restaurants in Bexhill tend to be of the traditional (Fish & chips) British seaside variety, but you can grab a savoury bite or a slice of cake at cafés like The Old Town Tea Room or lunch or dinner at The Sackville Bistro.

Cost : £ 38.20 off-peak day return Journey time : Approx. 1 hour 50 minutes from Victoria or St Pancras

5. Whitstable, Kent

You’re pretty spoilt for choice along the Kent coast, with Margate, Whitstable, Ramsgate and Broadstairs all close by if you’re thinking of getting away for longer than just a day – more on the last two later.

But if you’re short on time, Whitstable alone is a fine day out by the sea. Tankerton Beach at Whitstable is a pebble beach, so if it’s sand you’re after then Broadstairs only costs around £ 10.00 by train. It’s about 30 minutes away, so it’s possible to do both in a day. Broadstairs is more of a classic seaside, and Whitstable is its cooler, more artsy neighbour. Once you’re done paddling in the nippy Whitstable waters, head into sea-worthy locals like The Old Neptune (Or Neppy as it’s known around these parts). Here you can enjoy a locally-brewed pint from nearby Faversham, and watch the sunset.

You can also visit the pretty Whitstable Harbour, with its rows of pastel-coloured beach huts, arts and crafts market and small fishing boats. The Harbour is also home to a much larger boat, Greta, an historic sailing barge. Built in 1892 to transport cargo on the River Thames and the Thames Estuary, these days it’s mainly used for passenger trips. These can last about six hours, so it’s only worth it if you’re planning on spending a weekend by the sea.

Wander along to Harbour Street, the High Street and Oxford Street to explore independent shops, galleries and places to eat. You can get lost in rows of old books at Oxford Street Books, check out local artists at Fish Slab Gallery, peruse vintage treasures at Anchors Aweigh Vintage and get ice-cream from Sundae Sundae.

Seafood lovers should head to the seafront for Oysters (Oyster season is any month with an R in it) at places like The Forge beach shack. If you prefer a portion of fish and chips to fancy Oysters and Lobster on the seafront, there are plenty of traditional chippies to choose from like VC Jones on Harbour Street. For snacks and coffee, check out Blueprint Books & Coffee, locally sourced, healthy food from Gill’s Cafe and Delicatessen.

Cost : £ 28.70 super off peak day return Journey time : Approx. 1 hour 20 minutes from Victoria

6. Broadstairs, Kent

Broadstairs has that most elusive of coastal towns within easy reach of London: sandy beaches (seven of them!), and it’s filled with colourful beach huts and plenty of other British seaside favourites including crazy golf, and of course ice cream. We recommend Morelli’s Gelato, which has been serving up scoops since 1907.

For stunning sea views, head to the Viking Coastal trail which you can walk or cycle. It’s a 25 mile loop around the Isle of Thanet, but if you don’t fancy such a massive trek, it’s only 3.5 miles to Margate, with the pretty Botany Bay in the middle.

If you want to know a bit about local history, do the Broadstairs Town Trail self guided walk, which you can download or pick up a leaflet from the Visitor information kiosk. You can also find out why Charles Dickens loved the area so much at The Dickens House Museum, which was the inspiration for the character of Betsey Trotwood’s house in David Copperfield, entrance is only £ 3.50 too.

Another great feature of UK seaside towns in charity shops, so hit up the highstreet to peruse second hand books, clothes and records. The town also has great independent shops and galleries around Albion Street and Harbour Street.

When in Broadstairs, eat fish and chips (if you eat fish!). There are plenty of spots to choose from, including Fish & Chips co, which you buy from a hatch and eat on the beach. Broadstairs has some great pubs from the more traditional The Charles Dickens to the slightly more alternative The Chapel Bar and Bookshop.

Cost: £ 31.90 super off-peak day return Journey time: Approx. 1 hour 40 minutes from St Pancras International or Victoria

7. Ramsgate, Kent

As you’ve gathered by now, the Kent coast is fantastic for seaside day trips, and we’ve got plenty of tips if you want to make a weekend of it . But, like the nearby coastal towns, Ramsgate offers a grand day out in its own right.

It might seem counterintuitive to suggest exploring below ground in a town with a sandy beach and a lovely harbour. But one of the most interesting and unusual things to see is Ramsgate Tunnels , the UK’s largest civilian wartime network of tunnels, it’s open all year round and tours range from £ 12.00 – £ 22.00 (the higher price is for the deepest tunnel tour, but you can also take an overground/underground tour). You’ll need to set aside a couple of hours and wear comfy, sensible shoes too.

The town also has some interesting architecture, with 19th Century Gothic Revival buildings by Ramsgate resident, the excellently-named Augustus Pugin. Seaside towns are also known for games arcades and Ramgate is no exception. Although if 8-bit is more your thing head to Ramsgate Micro Museum for a personal collection of old computers and consoles and to play retro video games,

As with other coastal towns like Bexhill-on-Sea, Ramsgate is also a haven for vintage shopping, particularly the arches by the waterfront and Paraphernalia, with two floors of antiques.

For harbour views, seafood and sundowners – head to the Royal Harbour Brasserie on Ramsgate East Pier. It has a huge outdoor terrace and overlooks the harbour and lighthouse, perfect for a sunset dinner, although it’s a good idea to book ahead. If you want seafood but don’t fancy fish and chips, check out Kyoto Sushi. There are a couple of decent Italian restaurants in the area too, including Il Tricolore and La Magnolia.

Cost : £ 31.80 super off-peak day return Journey time : Approx. 1 hour 30 minutes from St Pancras International

8. Camber Sands and Rye, Sussex

Camber Sands has something quite rare in Sussex, a sandy beach. In fact, it’s home to the only sand dunes in the county. It’s a good trip to combine with Rye, which is around a 20 minute bus journey. As well as the beach at Camber Sands, you can also visit the ruins at Camber Castle, built during the reign of Henry VIII. It’s also a great place to visit if you’re interested in watersports – Camber Sands is one of the best places in the UK to go kitesurfing. But if you prefer dry land, there are plenty of walks or cycling trails and you can hire electric or pedal bikes from Ebike Hire for £ 30.00 for three and half hours.

If you’ve had an active morning around the dunes and coastal trails at Camber Sands, Rye is a great place to while a few hours before catching the train home. It’s a very picturesque, medieval town filled with cobbled streets, old pubs and antique shops.

There are more options for food and drink in Rye than in Camber Sands, especially for dinner, including quaint old pubs like The George Inn and The Mermaid Inn. For more modern dining, there’s restaurants including The Union Rye that serves a seasonal menu using British produce and the Landgate Bistro, which is a modern British restaurant.

Cost : £ 34.70 super off-peak day return to Rye, then 102 bus to Camp, Lydd Journey time : Approx. 1 hour 12 minutes from St Pancras International (change at Ashford International) / 20 minutes bus Rye-Camber Sands

9. Deal, Kent

We’ve covered the famous spots along the Kent coast, and while it may not have the same hipster appeal of Margate, Ramsgate or Whitstable – there’s plenty of reasons to visit Deal.

What’s the deal in Deal? Well, despite the name, it is not the gambling capital of the south coast. The town is charming, filled with pastel-hued houses, independent galleries, and great places to eat.

Deal Castle is as good a place to start as any. Henry VIII left his mark in a few places in Kent, largely for military defence reasons. Deal Castle is one of several forts constructed along the Kent coast to guard against invasion. You can also visit nearby Walmer Castle and wander in its lovely grounds.

If you’re interested in maritime history, head to Timeball Tower, and hang about there at 1pm to see the time ball drop, a signal that ships used to use to set their clocks. And if that’s not enough nautical knowledge for you, you can do more naval gazing at Deal Maritime and Local History Museum. Deal also has a thriving art scene, with several independent and contemporary art galleries including Don’t Walk, Linden Hall Studio, and Sea Lark Studio where you can check out works by local artists.

Like Margate and Ramsgate, Deal is a fairly foodie seaside town. For seafood (and the occasional steak) with view, head to Deal Pier Kitchen. Other options include French Bistro Frog & Scot, and Victuals & Co. But if it’s a classic portion of fish and chips you’re after – head to The Blue Mermaid Fish Bar, The Fryer Tuck, or Middle Street Fish Bar.

Cost : £ 56.60 anytime day return from St Pancras International Journey time : Approx 1hr 30 minutes

While we do our best to ensure it’s correct, information is subject to change. Post first published in August, 2019. Last updated in May, 2023.

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If you are looking for a great day out from the west midlands this year, then join one of johnsons coaches on one of their exciting day excursions. .

There is a wide range of day trips to choose from that you will be spoilt for choice! We have 18 different distinct themes of days out such as Historical Houses, 'Showtime' Theatre Trips, Guided Town and City Tours, Luxury Traveller, National Trust and RHS Flower Shows themes too!

Find the perfect coach trip for you

Let Johnsons help you to find the perfect day coach trip near you. Benefit from our wealth of experience in running coach trips by travelling with us on a scheduled day excursion. Our day coach trips have been designed with you in mind to provide you with the optimal exploring experience. With an unrivalled array of destinations, we have something to offer everyone for a great day trip by coach in the UK. We factor in customer comfort, value for money and efficiency, so no matter where you’re headed, you can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.

With our day trips by coach, you can visit seaside towns, chocolate box countryside scenes, historical hot spots, iconic landmarks and even shopping destinations for your retail therapy needs. Coach day trips are friendlier on the environment as you and your friends and family can travel alongside other day trippers. This helps with cutting down on fuel use and allows passengers to meet fellow travellers and share in the delights of the Johnsons coach day trip experience.

A day excursion is a one-day long slice of adventure. Our customers can choose their destination and hop on board at the designated time to enjoy a day full of exploration with all the travel arrangements seamlessly taken care of. We have got a huge offering of diverse day trips by coach for you to choose from and we guarantee you will find a day trip by coach to suit your interests. Day excursions by coach make a wonderful mini holiday and could even be the perfect birthday or festive gift for a loved one. Escape with a Johnsons coach day trip in the UK and make wonderful memories that will last well beyond the day itself.

If you’re looking for an overnight or weekend coach trip , you can visit our Great Breaks page for more information on our fabulous weekend coach break packages. With 2-day coach trips, trips for singles and even Christmas coach breaks, we are confident we will have something for you

Boarding Points for Day Excursions

You can board your Johnsons Day Excursion from 40  local boarding points including Sutton Coldfield, Pype Hayes and Castle Bromwich in the north; Coventry, Warwick and Leamington in the east; Alvechurch and Barnt Green in the west; Evesham, Stratford-upon-Avon, Wellesbourne and Shipston-on-Stour in the south; and Birmingham and Solihull in the middle. Or you can park for free at our yard in Henley-in-Arden to join your day trip.

We provide full details and times for each Day Excursion so that you can clearly see what is included and how the Excursion has been designed to run. Reserved seating is provided on all day trips. Just choose your seat when you book – we find most people generally like to be near the front, so the earlier you book the better choice of seats you have.

What you can expect on board

Our wonderful fleet of coaches offer a luxury travelling experience with onboard entertainment and spacious seating. With air conditioning for the warmer months and heating to keep you toasty in the winter, we aim to provide total comfort for all our passengers whatever the season. Our large coaches are all fitted with toilets and seatbelts for our customer safety and convenience when on board. We have only run our services with our own high specification vehicles including minibuses to seat 6, right up to luxury charter coaches for 63 passengers.

Each of our coaches is driven and managed by one of our uniformed drivers. All of our drivers are enrolled in continuous training so you may rest assured that you are in the safest and most capable hands for your day trip by coach.

At Johnsons coaches we are passionate about using our decades of experience in providing high quality travel services to bring the joy of travel and adventure to all of our customers. We know how to take the fuss out of coach travel and our expert team are here to help you get connected and on the road.

To book online please click on the themes to visit our booking site. To order your free copies of our brochure please email [email protected] or call our friendly team on 01564 797000 .

We look forward to welcoming you on-board a Johnsons day trip soon!

Additional coach trip services and coach holidays we offer include:

Coach Trips for Singles

Corporate Team Building Coach Trips

Group Breaks

Luxury Coach Holidays

Team Building

Christmas Trips  

Easter Breaks

Winter Breaks

UK Locations

Chester Coach Holidays

Devon Coach Holidays

England Coach Holidays

London Coach Holidays

Scotland Coach Holidays

Sidmouth Coach Holidays

Suffolk Coach Holidays

The Isle of Wight Coach Holidays

The Lake District Coach Holidays

Wales Coach Holidays

Isle of Scilly Holidays

Continental Locations

Belgium Coach Holidays

Europe and Continental Coach Trips

France Coach Holidays

Ireland Coach Holidays

Why Choose Johnsons?

• > Why Choose Johnsons
• > Our Loyalty Club
• > Our Couriers
• > Our Brochures
• > Top Quality Hotels
• > Our Door To Door Servce
• > Excursions Included
• > Sign Up to our E-Newsletter
• > Gift Vouchers
• > Holiday Insurance
• > Reviews
• > Watch Our Videos
• > Request Brochures

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