The best beaches near London

The hustle and bustle of London can be overwhelming at times. However, it’s easy to escape when you need to recharge your batteries. And where better to do that than by the sea? Whether you're looking for a quick day trip or a weekend getaway, there are plenty of beautiful beaches, just a stone's throw away from the city.

Let's take a look at some of the nicest beaches near London.

The best sandy beaches near London

If you’re looking to play in sand dunes and build some castles, then you need the best sand beaches near London. Located in East Sussex, about two hours from London by car or train, Camber Sands is a stunning stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and picturesque views of the English Channel.

Camber Sands is a popular spot for sunbathing, swimming, and sandcastle building, and it's also a great place to try water sports, such as kite surfing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. In addition, the beach is surrounded by a nature reserve, providing ample opportunities for wildlife spotting and scenic walks.

Located just 2 hours from London by train, Bournemouth beach is one of the most popular beaches on the south coast. With its seven miles of golden sand and crystal clear waters, it's easy to see why this beach is so popular with locals and visitors alike. There are also plenty of fish and chip shops, restaurants, and ice cream parlours just steps away from the beach, so you can easily make a day out of it.

The best beaches near London by train

A popular destination in Kent, Margate has a long sandy beach, a historic pier, and a charming old town with vintage shops and art galleries. The train journey from London St Pancras to Margate takes around 1.5 hours.

Located on the south coast of England, West Wittering beach is stunning, with crystal clear waters and picturesque sand dunes. The trains from London Victoria to Chichester take around 1.5 hours, followed by a bus or taxi to West Wittering.

Just over 2 hours on the train, Gorleston-on-Sea is an ideal day out at a perfectly British seaside location. This lovely seaside town has miles of golden sand and plenty of places to eat, drink and shop. It’s perfect for families with children, as you’ll find an amusement arcade and a playground right on the beachfront. Plus, if you fancy something a bit more adventurous there’s also jet skiing or parasailing available.

A classic British seaside resort town, Southend-on-Sea is located about an hour east of London by train. The town boasts a long pier, amusement park, and sandy beaches. Old Leigh is a charming fishing village located just a short walk from Southend-on-Sea. You can wander through the narrow streets, browse the shops and galleries, and sample some of the local seafood.

The best dog-friendly beaches near London

With so many beaches to choose from, it’s hard to know which ones are pup-friendly and which aren't. Some beaches may have restricted hours for dogs, so it’s best to double check before you and your four-legged friend head off. Here are a few to get you started.

Whitstable is a short trip by train and allows dogs on parts of the pebbly beaches all year round. West Beach in Whitstable is said to be one of the most dog-friendly in the UK, so there will be lots of new doggy chums to play with. And while your dog enjoys a scamper on the shingle, you can tuck into some freshly shucked oysters.

Dogs are welcome all year round on Bournemouth beach, making it a great destination for those looking to spend a day out with their fur-babies. There are also plenty of doggy-friendly pubs and restaurants nearby if you want to grab a bite after your day at the beach.

Botany Bay is another picturesque beach in Kent that is a great spot for a day out with your furry friend. Dogs are allowed on the beach year-round and there are plenty of walking trails and picnic areas nearby.

Dog-friendly West Mersea beach is located on the Essex island of Mersea. The spot has ample space for your pooch to run around without a care in the world. It also makes for an ideal family day out, as you can relax in the waves or explore the many rock pools in the area. Don’t forget to collect shells around the area!

If you and your pooch prefer sand, head to Camber Sands. Dogs are allowed on most parts of the beach and can run around without a care in the world.

Over in Kent, Kingsgate Bay near Broadstairs allows dogs on the beach all year round, as does Dumpton Gap, which is closer to the town. There are great clifftop walks nearby and it’s a short stroll into Broadstairs. Don’t forget to sample Morelli’s ice cream when you get there.

Or why not go walkies on a beach with famous views? Cuckmere Haven is set against a dramatic backdrop of white cliffs and has featured in many films, including Harry Potter.

No matter where you decide to go, just remember that safety should always come first - make sure your pup stays close by and remains leashed at all times.

The best hidden beaches near London

If you’re looking to go off the beaten path, then a hidden London beach is just what you need.

Dungeness Beach is a unique pebble beach located on the south-east coast of England in Kent. It's a 2-hour drive from London and is famous for its unusual landscape, with old fishing boats and quirky cabins dotted along the shoreline.

Pett Level Beach is located within the East Sussex Heritage Coastline, about two hours from central London. This secluded beach features stunning chalk-white cliffs and offers excellent opportunities for kite-surfing, fishing, and even fossil hunting. For those who appreciate nature, this beach has an abundance of wildlife, including seals, dolphins, and seabirds. There's also a pet cemetery nearby that can be visited as part of your day trip.

Avoid the crowds at Margate and make your way Minnis Bay instead. Near Birchington-on-Sea railway station, it’s just an hour and a half or so away from London and has long stretches of sand. Perfect for a lazy day paddling and sunbathing.

The best family beaches near London

If you're looking for a beach that’s a bit quieter than the rest, Sandbanks Beach might be perfect. This beach is located in Dorset on the south coast of England and is known for its stunning views across Poole Harbour and Studland Bay. It's perfect for families because there's plenty of space on this long stretch of golden sand — making it easy to find that perfect spot away from everyone else. Plus, there are lots of shops nearby, so you can pick up whatever supplies you need before settling down on this secluded beach for the day.

Viking Bay is a popular family beach located in the town of Broadstairs on the Isle of Thanet in Kent. The beach is known for its wide expanse of golden sand and clear blue waters, and it is a great place for families to enjoy a day out in the sun. The beach is surrounded by cliffs and is sheltered from the wind, making it a great spot for swimming and other water activities. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months to ensure the safety of visitors. There are also several cafes and restaurants in the area, as well as public restrooms and showers.

London may not be known as a seaside destination but that doesn't mean there aren't some great options when it comes to finding family beaches near it. Book a train journey in advance to take advantage of the best prices before your trip.