London might not be blessed with a plethora of sandy beaches within its city limits but there are plenty of exotic-looking ones that sit within a short train ride from the capital. So, put on your flip flops and grab your bucket and spade (and an ice cream, of course), and check out our list of the most amazing beaches near London.
You’ll find glistening golden sands on this Kentish coastal retreat, which is renowned for its clean water and picturesque scenery. It’s a popular spot for families and is dotted with cafes, restaurants and amusement rides too.
Despite being one of the exotic beaches near London, this stunning stretch of sand actually feels like a million miles away. It’s backed by dunes, chestnut fences and marram bushes for an Arabian-like feel and is a favourite for windsurfers and kite surfers.
The sandy crescent of beach backed by cliffs and holiday villages in this Essex seaside town was once a regular holiday destination for Charles Dickens and it still has a charming feel to it. It’s a Blue Flag beach that can get busy on summer weekends and you’ll also find a pier, promenade, shops and restaurants to keep the family entertained.
A beautiful bay framed by sand dunes and pine trees, Barafundle is a real beauty. This east-facing beach has a Caribbean-esque feel to it and is a haven for wildlife. It’s a great place to take a stroll and to soak up the sun in complete peace and tranquility.
You’ll be hard-pressed to find a more dramatic coastline than this on the south coast of England. The National Trust’s Kynance Cove is a spectacular stretch of beach and has been described as ‘heaven on earth’, thanks to its crystal-clear water and fine white sands backed by dramatic rocky outcrops.
Located on the edge of the picturesque village of Hythe, this beach is perfect for kids and dog owners as it’s a Blue Flag beach that has shallow waters so is safe for little ones to swim in. It’s a popular spot for fishing, crabbing and walking along the promenade and the pebbly beach is adorned with colourful beach huts.
Known for being the most easterly inhabited island in Britain, this estuary beach is a nature lover’s paradise. It’s a great spot for exploring rock pools and for fossil hunting and you can also hire rowboats to explore the bird colonies on the marshes that encircle the shore. The shingle beach is also home to a number of historic buildings including the Grade II-listed Old Town Lighthouse and a set of Martello towers that were built to protect the coast during the Battle of Britain.