10 Best Beaches Near London 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿: My Personal Guide about Beautiful Beaches with Hotels

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the stunning beaches near London, perfect for a sunny day out. From the shingle shores of Whitstable Beach to the spectacular sandy expanses of West Wittering Beach near Chichester, there are plenty of coastal gems within easy reach of the capital. Whether you’re looking for a quick getaway just minutes from London or a day trip a few hours away, you’ll find an array of options to suit every beach lover.

Or take the train to the south coast and experience the charm of Brighton’s pebble and sand beach, home to the second longest pier in England. So grab your sunscreen and prepare to discover the best beaches near London, where city life feels miles away and relaxation is always on the agenda.

Our Pick of the Best Hotels near London 💎 :

• 💎 Luxury Hotel: Roslin Beach Hotel
• 🏨 4-Star: Hamiltons Boutique Hotel
• 🛏️ 3-Star: Willow House B&B
• 💸 Cheap: Richmond Luxury flat Fabulous location
• 🏡 Villa: Entire house - Walk to beach
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Families: Palm Bay's Luxury Bungalow
• 🏩 For Couples: The Little House - Boutique Home Near The Sea

Favorite Beaches near London: Quick Overview 📃

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 For Family: Littlehampton Beach, West Sussex
• 🏖️ For Sandy Beach: Camber Sands, East Sussex
• 🌊 For Swimming: West Wittering, West Sussex
• 🌅 For Scenery: Botany Bay, Kent
• 🍦 For Traditional Seaside Experience: Southend-on-Sea, Essex

1. Brighton Beach, East Sussex – Perfect Sand Beach for a Classic British Seaside Experience 🌊

🎡 Iconic Brighton Pier: The Brighton Palace Pier offers traditional arcade games, funfair rides, and classic fish and chips. It’s a quintessential feature of the British seaside experience, stretching out into the sea. The pier provides stunning views of the coastline and is beautifully lit up at night.

🏖️ Pebble Beach with Character: Brighton’s famous pebble beach stretches for miles along the coast, creating a unique texture. Despite being pebbly, it’s still great for sunbathing and enjoying the sea. The distinctive surface adds to the beach’s charm and creates a soothing sound as waves wash over.

🎨 Vibrant Arts Scene: The beach area is surrounded by a thriving arts community and numerous galleries. Street art and creative spaces near the beach showcase local talent. The annual Brighton Festival brings additional cultural flair to the seaside town.

🛍️ The Lanes Shopping: Just steps from the beach, The Lanes offer a unique shopping experience with quirky independent shops. Visitors can browse through boutiques and find unique souvenirs. The narrow, winding alleyways create a charming atmosphere for exploration.

🌈 LGBTQ+ Friendly Atmosphere: Brighton is renowned as one of the UK’s most LGBTQ+ friendly destinations. The beach area hosts various LGBTQ+ events, including the annual Pride parade. It’s a welcoming and inclusive environment for all visitors.

Best Hotels Near Brighton Beach 🏨

• DoubleTree by Hilton Brighton Metropole – This grand Victorian hotel overlooks Brighton’s pebbly beach and is just a 15-minute walk from Brighton Pier. It features an indoor pool, spa, and two restaurants with sea views, making it perfect for a luxurious seaside getaway.
• Holiday Inn Brighton Seafront – Located directly on Brighton’s seafront, this hotel offers modern rooms with sea views and is just steps away from the beach. It’s an ideal base for exploring Brighton’s shops, restaurants, and nightlife.
• Leonardo Royal Hotel Brighton Waterfront – This beachfront hotel boasts stunning sea views and is just a short walk from Brighton Pier. It features an indoor pool, spa facilities, and a restaurant with panoramic views of the English Channel.

2. Camber Sands, East Sussex – Best for Sand Dunes and Water Sports 🏄‍♂️

🏜️ Impressive Sand Dunes: Camber Sands boasts the only sand dune system in East Sussex. Visitors can explore these natural wonders, which provide a unique backdrop to the beach. The dunes are home to diverse flora and fauna, adding ecological interest to the visit.

🏄‍♂️ Watersports Paradise: The beach is renowned for its excellent conditions for windsurfing and kitesurfing. Beginners can take lessons from local schools, while experienced riders enjoy the challenging waves. The vast expanse of sand provides ample space for land-based kite flying as well.

🐎 Horse Riding: Visitors can experience horseback riding along the beach and through the dunes. Local stables offer guided rides for all skill levels, providing a unique way to explore the coastline. It’s an unforgettable experience, especially during sunset rides.

🎣 Fishing Opportunities: The beach is popular among anglers, offering good catches of bass, flounder, and more. Fishing is particularly good during the winter months when the beach is quieter. Local shops provide bait and tackle for those wanting to try their luck.

🦅 Birdwatching: The nearby Rye Harbour Nature Reserve is a haven for birdwatchers. Visitors can spot a variety of coastal birds, including terns, plovers, and oystercatchers. The diverse habitats around Camber Sands attract both resident and migratory bird species.

Best Hotels Near Camber Sands 🏨

• The Ship Inn – Located in nearby Rye, this charming inn offers cozy rooms and is just a short drive from the stunning sandy beach of Camber Sands. It’s perfect for those looking to explore both the historic town and the beautiful coastline.
• The George in Rye – This luxurious hotel in Rye combines historical charm with modern amenities and is just a 10-minute drive from Camber Sands. It’s an excellent choice for a sophisticated stay near one of England’s most beautiful beaches.
• Magnolia House – This bed and breakfast in Rye offers comfortable rooms and is within easy reach of Camber Sands. It’s ideal for those seeking a homely base from which to explore the beach and surrounding area.

3. Whitstable, Kent – Best for Fresh Seafood and a Charming Atmosphere 🐚

🦪 Oyster Paradise: Whitstable is world-famous for its oysters, cultivated in the area for centuries. Visitors can enjoy fresh oysters at beachside restaurants or during the annual Oyster Festival. The town’s connection to oysters is celebrated in its history and local culture.

🐚 Picturesque Pebble Beach: Whitstable’s beach is a beautiful stretch of pebbles and shingles. Colorful beach huts line the shore, adding to the charming seaside atmosphere. The beach offers stunning views across the Thames Estuary and is perfect for leisurely walks.

🚣‍♀️ Working Harbour: Whitstable’s active harbour adds to its authentic coastal charm. Visitors can watch fishing boats come and go, bringing in the day’s fresh catch. The harbour area is lined with seafood stalls and restaurants serving the local bounty.

🏠 Quaint Town Centre: The beach is just steps away from Whitstable’s charming town centre. Visitors can explore independent shops, boutiques, and cafes along quaint streets. The town’s architecture and atmosphere harken back to a traditional English seaside village.

🚴‍♀️ Coastal Cycling: The Oyster Bay Trail offers a scenic cycling route along the coast. Cyclists can enjoy views of the sea while pedaling between Whitstable and neighboring towns. Bike rentals are available for those wanting to explore the coastline on two wheels.

Best Hotels Near Whitstable 🏨

• Passengers House – This stylish guesthouse is located in the heart of Whitstable, just a short walk from the beach and famous oyster restaurants. It offers uniquely decorated rooms and is perfect for a seaside getaway.
• The Old Schoolhouse – This charming bed and breakfast is set in a converted schoolhouse and is just a 5-minute walk from Whitstable’s pebbly beach. It offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast, making it ideal for a relaxing coastal break.
• Marine Cottage – This cozy cottage is located right on the seafront in Whitstable, offering stunning sea views and direct beach access. It’s perfect for families or groups looking for a self-catering option by the sea.

4. Southend-on-Sea, Essex – Best for Traditional Seaside Fun and Amusement Parks 🎠

🎡 Adventure Island: Southend is home to Adventure Island, a popular amusement park right on the seafront. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of rides and attractions suitable for all ages. The park’s location adds an extra dimension of fun to a traditional beach day.

🚂 World’s Longest Pleasure Pier: Southend Pier stretches 1.34 miles into the Thames Estuary, making it the longest in the world. Visitors can walk or take a train ride to the end, enjoying panoramic views of the coast. The pier hosts various events and has a museum showcasing its rich history.

🎨 Colorful Beach Huts: The seafront is lined with rows of vibrant beach huts, adding charm to the coastline. Visitors can rent huts for the day, providing a perfect base for beach activities. The huts create a classic British seaside atmosphere and great photo opportunities.

🌊 Sea Life Adventure: This aquarium, located near the beach, offers close encounters with marine life. Visitors can see a variety of sea creatures and learn about marine conservation. It’s a great educational addition to a beach day, especially for families with children.

🏖️ Seven Miles of Beaches: Southend boasts seven miles of beaches, offering a variety of coastal experiences. From bustling main beaches to quieter coves, visitors can find their perfect spot. The beaches are a mix of sand and shingle, suitable for sunbathing and beach activities.

Best Hotels Near Southend-on-Sea 🏨

• Roslin Beach Hotel – Roslin Beach Hotel offers stunning views of the Thames Estuary and is just steps away from the sandy Thorpe Bay beach. The hotel features a spa, fine dining restaurant, and stylish rooms with sea views, making it perfect for a luxurious seaside getaway.
• Hamiltons Boutique Hotel – Hamiltons Boutique Hotel is a charming property located in the heart of Southend-on-Sea, just a short walk from the beach and pier. This boutique hotel offers individually decorated rooms, some with sea views, and is known for its excellent breakfast and personalized service.
• Luxury Flat Fabulous Southend Location – This luxury flat offers a home-away-from-home experience in a prime Southend location. With modern amenities and easy access to the beach and local attractions, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a more independent stay near the seaside.

5. West Wittering, West Sussex – Best for Unspoilt Sandy Expanses Walks 🚶‍♂️

🏝️ Stunning Sandy Beach: West Wittering boasts a genuine sandy beach, a rarity among beaches near London. The golden sand stretches for miles, providing ample space for sunbathing and beach games. It’s one of the most photographed beaches in the UK, offering picturesque views of the coastline.

🦅 Nature Reserve: West Wittering is part of an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and borders a nature reserve. Visitors can explore diverse wildlife habitats, including salt marshes and sand dunes. It’s an excellent spot for birdwatching and observing unique coastal flora.

🚶‍♂️ Scenic Coastal Walks: The beach offers access to beautiful coastal walks along the Chichester Harbour. Walkers can enjoy stunning views of the South Downs and the Isle of Wight. It’s a great way to escape the crowds and immerse yourself in nature.

🧺 Perfect for Picnics: The expansive sandy beach provides ideal spots for family picnics. Visitors can bring their own food or enjoy refreshments from the on-site café. The beach’s natural beauty creates a perfect backdrop for a relaxing day out.

🌅 Spectacular Sunsets: West Wittering is known for its breathtaking sunsets over the water. The west-facing beach provides the perfect vantage point for evening views. It’s a romantic spot for couples and a photographer’s dream.

Best Hotels Near West Wittering 🏨

• Willow House B&B – Willow House B&B is a cozy bed and breakfast located near the stunning sandy beach of West Wittering. It offers comfortable rooms and a delicious breakfast, making it an ideal base for exploring the beautiful coastline and South Downs National Park.
• Entire House Walk to Beach – This spacious holiday home is perfect for families or groups, offering easy access to West Wittering’s beautiful beach. With multiple bedrooms and a fully equipped kitchen, it provides a comfortable and convenient base for a seaside holiday.
• The Little House Boutique Home Near the Sea – The Little House is a charming boutique property close to West Wittering beach. This stylish accommodation offers a unique stay with modern amenities and is perfect for couples or small families looking for a peaceful coastal retreat.

6. Botany Bay Beach, Kent – Best for Dramatic Cliffs and Fossil Hunting 🦴

🏔️ Stunning White Cliffs: Botany Bay is famous for its dramatic white chalk cliffs, creating a spectacular backdrop. These cliffs are one of the most photographed landscapes in Kent. Visitors can admire the natural beauty of the coastline from the beach or cliff tops.

🦴 Fossil Hunting: The beach is a popular spot for fossil hunting, especially during low tide. Visitors can search for ancient treasures like shark teeth and bivalves in the chalk. It’s one of the best places near London for amateur paleontologists.

🏊‍♀️ Wild Swimming Spot: The bay offers clear waters perfect for wild swimming, especially during high tide. The beach’s sheltered location provides a more secluded swimming experience. It’s an ideal spot for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature.

🦀 Rock Pooling Adventures: Low tide reveals numerous rock pools teeming with marine life. Kids and adults alike can explore these natural aquariums, spotting crabs, small fish, and sea anemones. It’s a fun and educational activity, making Botany Bay great for families.

📸 Photography Paradise: The unique landscape makes Botany Bay one of the most photographed beaches in Kent. The combination of white cliffs, golden sand, and clear blue waters creates stunning photo opportunities.

🚆 Easy Day Trip from London: Botany Bay is approximately two hours from London by train, making it perfect for a day trip. Visitors can take a train from London Victoria to Broadstairs and then a short bus or taxi ride. It’s one of the closest beaches to London offering such dramatic coastal scenery.

Best Hotels Near Botany Bay Beach 🏨

• Smiths Court Hotel – Smiths Court Hotel is located in Margate, a short drive from the picturesque Botany Bay Beach. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, some with sea views, and is well-situated for exploring the beautiful beaches and attractions of the Kent coast.
• Palm Bay's Luxury Bungalow – This luxury bungalow offers a private and comfortable stay near Botany Bay Beach. With self check-in and parking, it’s perfect for those seeking independence and easy access to the stunning coastline.
• Home from Home Stay Margate – Home from Home Stay Margate provides a cozy and welcoming atmosphere close to Botany Bay Beach. This property offers a comfortable base for exploring the local area, including the nearby sandy beaches and Margate’s attractions.

7. Margate Main Sands, Kent – Best for Traditional Seaside Charm and Cultural Attractions 🎭

🎭 Turner Contemporary Gallery: Margate’s famous art gallery sits right on the seafront, offering world-class exhibitions. Visitors can combine beach time with cultural experiences. The gallery’s presence has transformed Margate into a hub for arts and culture.

🎡 Dreamland Amusement Park: This historic amusement park, just steps from the beach, offers retro-style fun. Visitors can enjoy vintage rides, including the UK’s oldest wooden roller coaster. It’s a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern entertainment.

🏖️ Sandy Beach: Margate Main Sands offers a large, sandy beach, ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The beach is easily accessible from the town, making it convenient for families. At low tide, the expansive stretch of sand is perfect for beach games and long walks.

🍦 Traditional Seaside Treats: The beachfront is lined with ice cream parlors, fish and chip shops, and arcades. Visitors can indulge in classic British seaside treats while enjoying sea views. It’s one of the best places to experience traditional seaside charm near London.

🚂 Easy Train Access: Margate is easily accessible by train from London St Pancras or Victoria stations. The journey takes about 90 minutes, making it one of the closest beaches to London. The train station is just a short walk from the beach, perfect for day-trippers.

Best Hotels Near Margate Main Sands 🏨

• Old Marke House in the Heart of the Old Town – Old Marke House is a charming property located in Margate’s Old Town, just a short walk from Margate Main Sands. This historic house offers unique accommodation with easy access to the beach, local shops, and restaurants.
• Andorinho Sea View Apartment – Andorinho Sea View Apartment offers stunning views of Margate Main Sands and the sea. This modern apartment provides a comfortable stay with all the amenities needed for a relaxing beach holiday.
• Garden Oasis Margate – Garden Oasis Margate is a peaceful retreat close to Margate Main Sands. This property features a beautiful garden and offers a tranquil base for exploring Margate’s beaches and attractions.

8. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset – Best for a Resort-Style Beach Experience 🌴

🏖️ Seven Miles of Sandy Beach: Bournemouth boasts seven miles of golden sand, one of the longest stretches in the UK. The beach offers plenty of space for sunbathing, beach games, and relaxation. It’s consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Britain.

🌊 Safe Swimming: The beach is known for its calm waters, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach during peak seasons, ensuring visitor safety. The gently sloping seabed makes it suitable for families with children.

🚡 Cliff Lifts: Unique funicular cliff lifts provide easy access between the beach and the town. These historic lifts offer panoramic views of the bay as you descend to the beach. They’re an attraction in themselves and add to Bournemouth’s Victorian charm.

🌳 Gardens and Parks: Beautiful gardens run parallel to the beach, offering a green retreat. Visitors can enjoy mini-golf, art exhibitions, and bandstand concerts in the summer. The gardens provide a pleasant walk from the town center to the beach.

🚆 Accessible from London: Direct trains run from London Waterloo to Bournemouth in about two hours. The beach is a short bus or taxi ride from the station, making it feasible for day trips. It’s one of the best beaches within easy reach of London for a full seaside resort experience.

Best Hotels Near Bournemouth Beach 🏨

• The Majestic Hotel – The Majestic Hotel is a grand Victorian building located close to Bournemouth’s stunning sandy beach. With its elegant rooms and excellent facilities, including an indoor pool, it’s perfect for a luxurious seaside break.
• The Cumberland Hotel – The Cumberland Hotel offers Art Deco-inspired accommodation overlooking Bournemouth’s East Cliff. With direct access to the beach and excellent dining options, it’s ideal for those seeking a stylish seaside stay.
• Derby Manor – Derby Manor is a boutique hotel offering luxurious rooms and exceptional service, just a short distance from Bournemouth Beach. Its elegant decor and attention to detail make it a standout choice for a refined coastal getaway.

9. Ruislip Lido Beach, West London – Best for a Landlocked Beach Experience 🌳

🏞️ Surprising Urban Oasis: Ruislip Lido offers a sandy beach experience in West London, surprising many visitors. This man-made beach surrounds a 60-acre lake, providing a unique inland beach atmosphere. It’s one of the closest beach-like experiences to central London.

🌳 Woodland Setting: The beach is surrounded by 726 acres of ancient woodland, perfect for nature walks. Visitors can combine beach relaxation with forest exploration. It’s an ideal spot for picnics and enjoying nature close to the city.

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family-Friendly Facilities: The lido features a children’s splash pad and playground near the beach. There’s also a pirate ship play area, making it exciting for kids. It’s one of the best places for families looking for a beach day without leaving London.

🚫 No Swimming Beach: While swimming isn’t permitted in the lake, it’s perfect for sunbathing and beach games. Visitors can enjoy paddle boating and fishing in designated areas. The no-swimming rule actually makes it a quieter, more relaxed beach experience.

🚇 Easy London Access: Ruislip Lido is accessible via the London Underground, just a short walk from Ruislip station. It’s about 30 minutes from central London, making it perfect for a quick beach escape. This proximity makes it one of the most convenient ‘beach’ experiences for Londoners.

Best Hotels Near Ruislip Lido Beach 🏨

• Tudor Lodge Hotel – Tudor Lodge Hotel is a charming property located near Ruislip Lido Beach, offering a unique “beach near London” experience. With comfortable rooms and a restaurant on-site, it’s perfect for those seeking a quick escape from the city.
• Leafy Suburban Bed and Breakfast – This B&B offers a peaceful stay in a leafy suburb close to Ruislip Lido Beach. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to combine a visit to London with a relaxing beach experience.
• Beautiful House in Ruislip – This beautiful house in Ruislip provides spacious accommodation near Ruislip Lido Beach. It’s ideal for families or groups looking to enjoy both the beach and easy access to London.

10. Littlehampton, West Sussex – Best for family-friendly Activities and the UK’s Longest Bench 👪

👪 Family-Friendly Beach: Littlehampton’s East Beach is a mile-long stretch of sand and shingle, perfect for family outings. The beach has won awards for its cleanliness, safety, and facilities, making it ideal for children.

🪑 World’s Longest Bench: Littlehampton is home to the UK’s longest bench, stretching over 1,000 feet along the promenade. The unique, undulating design was created with input from local school children.

🏰 Harbour Park Amusements: Located right on the seafront, Harbour Park offers a variety of rides and attractions for all ages. Kids can enjoy traditional fairground rides, adventure golf, and indoor soft play areas. The park’s location allows families to easily combine beach time with amusement park fun.

🌳 Mewsbrook Park: This beautiful park, just a short walk from the beach, offers a tranquil retreat for families. Kids can enjoy the playground, boating lake, and miniature railway. The park also features a café, picnic areas, and ample green space for games and relaxation.

🚂 Littlehampton Museum: Housed in the old railway station, this charming museum offers a glimpse into the town’s history. Families can explore exhibits on local archaeology, geology, and the town’s maritime heritage.

Best Hotels Near Littlehampton 🏨

• Arun Sands – Arun Sands is a beachfront property in Littlehampton, offering direct access to the sandy beach. With comfortable rooms and sea views, it’s perfect for a relaxing coastal holiday.
• Berry House Bed & Breakfast – Berry House B&B offers cozy accommodation close to Littlehampton’s beach and town center. Known for its warm hospitality and delicious breakfasts, it’s an excellent choice for a traditional seaside stay.
• The Arun View Inn – The Arun View Inn is a charming pub with rooms, offering beautiful views of the River Arun and easy access to Littlehampton’s beach. Its riverside location and traditional pub atmosphere make it a unique choice for a coastal break.

FAQs about Trip to Top 10 Beaches Near London ❔

Which is the most beautiful beach near London?

Some of the most spectacular beaches near London include West Wittering in West Sussex with its stunning sandy beach, Camber Sands in East Sussex with its impressive sand dunes, and Botany Bay in Kent with its dramatic white cliffs.

Which beach is easiest to get to from London?

The beach that is easiest to get to from London is actually a landlocked beach – Ruislip Lido in west London. It’s on the Piccadilly line and features a sandy beach, woodland walks and a miniature train.

What is the closest ocean beach to London?

Southend-on-Sea is generally considered the closest proper beach to London. It has seven miles of coastline with a mix of sand and shingle beaches. There are plenty of beaches to choose from and it’s just an hour’s train journey from London.

Where is the clearest sea in England?

Some of the beaches with the clearest water in England can be found along the south coast. Woolacombe Beach in Devon, Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall, and Priory Bay Beach on the Isle of Wight are known for their turquoise waters. Sunny Sands Beach in Folkestone