This is a post about the best beaches near London by train.
I used to think that, if London had a beach, it would be the perfect place and everyone would want to live here. That’s when the city wasn’t as expensive and crowded as it is now! But I digress… turns out London DOESN’T have a beach but it’s got some pretty decent ones you can reach on a quick train ride.
Whether you’re after classic seaside charm, a peaceful coastal walk or somewhere to soak up the sun, there are plenty of beach escapes perfect for a day trip or weekend break. Here’s your guide to the best beaches near London that you can easily reach by train:
Brighton Beach
Let’s start with the main one. One of the most famous beaches in the UK, Brighton is the go-to coastal escape for Londoners. Just an hour by train from London Victoria or London Bridge, Brighton offers a vibrant mix of seaside fun and city buzz. The pebbled beach is lively all year round with beach bars, fish and chip stalls and deck chairs lining the promenade. Make sure to visit the iconic Brighton Palace Pier and explore The Lanes for quirky shops and cafés. The British Airways i360 offers sweeping views of the coastline and the South Downs. While the beach itself is not sandy, its atmosphere and accessibility make it a top contender.
I remember the first summer I felt DESPERATE for a beach, I hopped on the train to Brighton for the first time and imagine my disappointment when coming across those huge pebbles! Havaianas on the beach? Nope, not the right choice. But Brighton’s come a long way and just sitting by the ocean feeling that salty air and listening to the waves is pretty great, to be honest. And when you need a break from the sun, Brighton’s got loads of great cafes around!
Read more: 10 Best Hikes Near London by Train for an Adventurous Day Out
Whitstable
A few years ago Whitstable was all Londoners could talk about! So many artists made the move to the Kent coast. This charming coastal town in Kent is famous for oysters, independent boutiques and a relaxed seaside vibe. It’s around 90 minutes by train from London St Pancras or Victoria. The beach is made of shingle and offers lovely views, especially at sunset. Whitstable is perfect if you’re after good food and a laid-back day. Head to the Lobster Shack or Wheelers Oyster Bar for fresh seafood and take a stroll along the harbour. It’s also a great place for vintage shopping and browsing local galleries.
Camber Sands
If you’re looking for actual golden sand, Camber Sands is your best bet. It’s a bit more effort to reach but well worth it. Take a train to Rye from London St Pancras and then a short bus or taxi ride to the beach. The sweeping sand dunes and vast flat beach make it one of the best spots in the southeast for beach walks, kite flying and beach games. It’s also popular with photographers and families. Pack a picnic or stop in Rye, a historic town full of cobbled streets and tea rooms.
Camber Sands is probably my favourite (I’m sure the sand has everything to do with it!). I remember the first time I went there. It was midweek so not busy, the day was absolutely beautiful and I spent the whole of it there laying on the sand just enjoying that salty air (yes, I am going to write “salty air” a lot here – it’s the best!). The way home was lit up by a beautiful orange sunset… I was so enamoured with that place because I hadn’t been to the beach in so long, I had the best day! The next day on the news I read that a few people died because they didn’t understand the tide…it recedes A LOT but then it rises quickly and you don’t even notice so people walk all the way in. The water comes back quickly and they don’t have time to get back to shore. So kids, be careful out there!
Bonus: if you’ve got time, I’d definitely recommend stopping in Rye for a little explore!
Read more: Best Day Trips from London in Spring
Margate
Once a classic Victorian resort town, Margate has had a hip revival in recent years. Remember I said many artists moved to the Kent coast? This was the main destination! A train from London St Pancras will get you there in about 90 minutes. The sandy beach is great for swimming and sunbathing and there’s even a tidal pool if you prefer calmer waters. Dreamland, the vintage amusement park, is ideal if you’re visiting with kids or feeling nostalgic. The Turner Contemporary gallery offers a cultural escape just steps from the beach. There are lots of independent coffee shops, vintage stores and seafood shacks to explore too.
Broadstairs
Close to Margate but a little more low-key, Broadstairs is a quaint town with a classic English feel. The train from London St Pancras takes just under two hours. Its main beach, Viking Bay, is sandy and framed by colourful beach huts and Victorian buildings. Charles Dickens had a summer house here and the town still celebrates that connection with museums and events. There’s actually a Dickens House Museum you can visit! Not his actual house…but one that inspired him. The beach is perfect for a calm day with swimming, rock pooling and ice cream on the promenade. Don’t miss Morelli’s Gelato, which has been serving Italian ice cream since 1907.
Botany Bay
One of the most photogenic beaches in the UK, Botany Bay is known for its chalk cliffs and dramatic rock formations. You can get there via a train to Broadstairs or Margate and then walk or take a short taxi ride. It’s less crowded than its neighbours and popular with photographers and people looking for a quiet escape. When the tide is out, there are plenty of rock pools to explore and even small caves in the cliffs. Bring your own snacks or stop in Broadstairs afterwards for lunch.
Southend-on-Sea
Just under an hour from London on the c2c train line from Fenchurch Street, Southend is a classic seaside town. It’s close enough that, if you look up flights to/from London, their airport often shows up! Its beach may not be the prettiest but it’s convenient and packed with entertainment. The town is home to the world’s longest pleasure pier and Adventure Island amusement park. It’s a good pick if you want a quick seaside fix with lots of activities for families and kids. The high street has everything from arcades to fish and chips to waterfront pubs.
Hastings
With its mix of pebbled beaches, a lively old town and dramatic coastal views, Hastings is a brilliant option for a day by the water. It’s less polished than Brighton or Whitstable but full of character with narrow medieval streets, quirky independent shops and fresh seafood shacks. I really enjoyed it! You can walk up to Hastings Country Park for sweeping views of the coastline or take the charming funicular railway for a bit of old-school fun. The beach is relaxed and often less crowded and there’s something special about the blend of history and SALTY AIR. Trains from London take under two hours making it an easy and slightly offbeat escape from the city. Sadly, the lovely Brazilian cafe there used to be in the town centre is no more, however, you can find the highly rated South American Cumbia Kitchen in the St Leonard’s area for a deliciously refreshing açaí bowl!
West Wittering
I’ve added this one to the list because it’s very popular but I have to say – personally, didn’t love it. This West Sussex spot is a bit harder to reach without a car but still doable. Take a train to Chichester and then hop on a bus or taxi. West Wittering has a long sandy beach with clear water and views across Chichester Harbour. It’s a peaceful place perfect for picnics, swimming or even paddleboarding. The beach is part of a conservation area and offers one of the most natural and scenic escapes from city life. Many people say it’s worth the extra effort for a full-day trip or weekend visit.
Eastbourne
Just 90 minutes from London, Eastbourne is one of the easiest and prettiest seaside towns to reach by train. With its long pebble beach, elegant pier and backdrop of the South Downs, it’s a classic yet calm choice for a beach day. There’s also a promenade perfect for long walks. The famous Beachy Head cliffs are only a short drive or hike away if you’re in the mood for spectacular views (or the whole Seven Sisters Walk if you’re feeling energetic!). Eastbourne gets sunshine year-round and often flies under the radar compared to its neighbours, which makes it ideal if you’re after something a little more peaceful.
Weymouth
A little further afield but well worth the journey, Weymouth offers that classic British seaside charm with a sweeping sandy beach, colourful beach huts and a historic harbour. It’s one of the UK’s most beloved beach towns and has a bit of everything – family-friendly shores, shallow water for paddling and a traditional promenade lined with fish and chips shops and arcades. If you’re after more than a beach day, explore the Nothe Fort or pop over to Portland. Now, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can do the Jurassic Coast hike all the way to Durdle Door! I’d highly recommend stopping at The Smugglers Inn for a pint/coffee and cake halfway through. Trains from London Waterloo take around 3 hours and, the downside is, they’re super pricey! Usually around £70 RT so make the most of your trip!
If going by car, get there early because the car park fills up quickly! I think Kate Winslet lives around there too… not that it makes much of a difference, just a little fun fact!
Frinton-on-Sea
Located in Essex and just under two hours from London Liverpool Street, Frinton-on-Sea is peaceful and family-friendly with sandy shores and classic beach huts. Unlike neighbouring Clacton or Southend, Frinton is quiet and less commercialised. The town has strict rules on arcades and commercial development so it retains a nostalgic English seaside feel. It’s ideal if you’re looking to escape the crowds and just enjoy a walk by the sea and a moment of calm.
Deal
Deal is a charming seaside town in Kent, also accessible by train from London in just under two hours. While the beach is pebbled, the town itself has a lot to offer with a lovely pier, independent shops and a thriving food scene. The beachfront promenade is perfect for cycling or walking and Deal Castle adds a historical touch to your day out. The town feels relaxed and authentic, with fewer crowds than nearby options like Margate. It’s also not too far from Dover if you want to go explore the White Cliffs instead and maybe hop on a ferry to France for sunnier shores?!
Will you be hitting the beach this summer? Let me know if I missed any hot spots!
This was a post about the best beaches near London by train.
