Distance from London:<\/strong> 1 hour by public transport or car <\/p>\n\n\n\n Ruislip Lido<\/a> would likely be found near the top of any list of London\u2019s best-kept secrets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This delightful stretch of sand in zone six sits along the edge of a 60-acre lake that backs onto a huge nature reserve<\/a>. Your little ones will love the play areas and climbing frames here, and they can take a ride around the water on a miniature train.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be aware that swimming in the lake is not permitted, but you can still appreciate the view out over the lake from the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n For freshly made hot meals, snacks, drinks and a toilet stop, head to the Lakeside Caf\u00e9<\/a>. This is an ideal spot to end your day with a tasty treat on the terrace and enjoy the sunset.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It takes only an hour to reach this gem from central London, whether you\u2019re travelling by car or using public transport (you\u2019ll need to take a tube ride to Ruislip Underground Station, followed by a quick bus ride). There are several car parks to choose from, so don\u2019t worry about finding a spot if you do decide to drive!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dogs aren\u2019t permitted on the main beach area at Ruislip Lido, but there\u2019s a separate space nearby for your four-legged friends, and it is the only dog beach<\/a> in all of Greater London!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport, 2-3 hours by car Camber Sands<\/a> is one of just a few sandy beaches along the Sussex coast and boasts the only sand dunes in East Sussex. This much-loved beach can get super busy in the sunnier months. However, as it covers such a wide area, you won\u2019t have any trouble finding a peaceful spot for yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The range of activities on offer here makes it an ideal destination for the whole family, with windsurfing, kitesurfing, donkey rides and more. Of course, you may decide that you\u2019d rather build a few sandcastles and enjoy the view. It\u2019s also very easy to find caf\u00e9s, toilets and parking spaces along the beach.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are travelling by car, you can arrive at Camber Sands from London in two to three hours, depending on the traffic. If you opt for public transport, you can expect to reach the beach within two hours from London Bridge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dogs are allowed on most of Camber Sands Beach throughout the year. Please note, however, that some places are signposted as dog-free in the summer months.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours when travelling by public transport or car If you like to pack a lot of different activities into one day, Margate Main Sands<\/a> won’t disappoint. With children’s rides, an adventure golf park, amusement arcades, and a tidal pool within walking distance of the beach, there’s something for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you\u2019re feeling particularly adventurous, Margate Old Town, which is bursting with independent shops, galleries, caf\u00e9s and much more, is just a short stroll away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Even at high tide, most of the 200-metre stretch of sandy beach can be explored, and public toilets with accessible facilities are available on both sides.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you decide to drive to Margate Main Sands, you can arrive from central London in just over two hours, and there are two large car parks to choose from. For those looking to travel by train, a direct route from Kings Cross, plus a 15-minute walk, will have you on the beach in less than two hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please note that dogs are not allowed on any part of the beach between the hours of 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. from May 1 – September 30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport, 1.5 hours by car Frensham Beach<\/a> is a man-made beach in the market town of Farnham, Surrey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The beach area can be found on the edge of Frensham Pond and is surrounded by a stunning nature reserve. Don’t miss the opportunity to take a walk and soak up the natural beauty!<\/p>\n\n\n\n A snack bar close to the water is open every day of the week from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., offering a range of hot and cold food and drinks. Picnic tables around the pond are the perfect place to enjoy refreshments, with accessible public toilets just a moment away.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Frensham Pond and the beach are very popular spots for sun-seekers in summer, so it’s wise to arrive early to beat the crowds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you decide to come by car, you can make the trip from central London in an hour and a half. The entire area is owned and managed by the National Trust, so parking is free for members.<\/p>\n\n\n\n However, be advised that the car park fills up fast! If you opt instead for public transport, you can arrive in approximately two hours, with a train out of London followed by a bus ride and a short walk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Whilst there\u2019s a designated walking route for dogs in the nature reserve, bear in mind that they’re not allowed on the sand, so you’ll want to leave your four-legged friends at home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 1 hour by public transport, 2 hours by car Chalkwell Beach<\/a> in Southend-on-Sea is an award-winning beach made up of a combination of sand and pebbles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This area is great for those who want a relaxing break from the main seaside area of Southend-on-Sea, which can get quite busy from June through August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can choose from a selection of enticing caf\u00e9s along the seafront if you fancy some refreshments, and there are also kiosks selling beach toys in case you left any essentials behind!<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can reach Chalkwell Beach in less than two hours from central London, and there’s a car park by the promenade. For a quicker trip, you can arrive on a direct train from Fenchurch Street in less than an hour, with the seafront just a five-minute stroll from the train station.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Please note that dogs are not allowed on Chalkwell Beach between May 1 and September 30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport, 2-2.5 hours by car West Mersea Beach<\/a> has a charmingly old-fashioned feel to it, with its long row of charming, colourful beach huts and unspoilt landscape. This seafront hotspot is renowned for its laid-back atmosphere, making it a great destination for a relaxing family day out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you’re looking for a sit-down meal, the nearby Sandbank Pub & Restaurant<\/a> is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to midnight. If you\u2019d prefer a casual bite to eat, there are plenty of excellent caf\u00e9s and diners along the beach. Also, public toilets are easy to find.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Driving here from central London will take 2-2.5 hours, and there are a number of pay and display car parks in the area. Using public transport will take you door to door in less than two hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dogs are always welcome on the beach, but visitors are required to keep them on a lead when walking through certain sections during the summer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2.5 hours when travelling by public transport or car Botany Bay<\/a> is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful beaches on this list, thanks to its towering chalk stacks and stunning white-cliff backdrop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Your adventurous young ones will have hours of fun in the vast expanse of rock pools that are revealed at low tide. A walking trail can be found just behind the beach and passes by a pub, so you can enjoy refreshments along the way. There are also caf\u00e9s and public toilets just a short walk away from the sea.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are travelling by car from central London, you can expect to arrive at Botany Bay in two and a half hours. You should bear in mind, however, that parking in the area is limited. It’s a better idea to head to neighbouring Palm Beach Bay<\/a>, with its large car park, and then walk along the cliff top. Travelling by public transport will also take around two and a half hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Botany Bay offers plenty of stunning dog walks along the cliff tops. However, dogs are not allowed on the beach from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. between May 1 and September 30.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 3.5 hours by public transport, 2.5 hours by car Lydden Spout Beach is a wonderfully secluded spot tucked away in Samphire Hoe<\/a>, which is surrounded by the stunning white cliffs of Dover. While this area of outstanding beauty is mostly made up of shingles until the tide goes out, there is plenty of sand to enjoy when the tide goes out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Refreshments are available at Samphire Caf\u00e9, which is just a short walk away from the beach and includes outdoor seating and public toilets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n It takes two and a half hours to reach Samphire Hoe by car from central London. Pay and display parking is readily available, and you can then set off on foot to Lydden Spout. It’ll take you slightly longer to arrive by public transport, as the walk from the bus stop to the beach takes around half an hour or so.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dogs are welcome year-round at Samphire Hoe, but they must be kept on a lead at all times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport, 3 hours by car East Beach in Littlehampton<\/a> is a beautiful mile-long stretch of the West Sussex coast.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This award-winning, family-friendly beach is close to several expansive green spaces, meaning it’s great for all kinds of activities. Play ball games on the grass and tuck into a picnic before heading out to the beach to build a sandcastle and paddle in the sea. Kidcare bracelets are available to purchase, providing you with extra peace of mind during your day out.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can reach East Beach in under three hours when travelling by car from central London, and there are several pay and display car parks nearby. Alternatively, you can arrive in two hours by public transport.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dogs are restricted to the area east of Norfolk Road between May 1 and September 30, but they are welcome to roam the whole beach for the rest of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport, 2.5 hours by car Minnis Bay<\/a> borders the picturesque village of Birchington-on-Sea in Kent, where visitors can dine at local pubs and restaurants and visit the Powell-Cotton Museum.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This Blue Flag beach has activities for all age groups. The older kids can make the most of the water with sailing, kayaking, and windsurfing. For your younger ones, there’s a paddling pool and play area for all-day fun.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Caf\u00e9s and kiosks surround the beach, and there is also a picnic area nearby, so there are plenty of food and drink options.<\/p>\n\n\n\n You can reach Minnis Bay from central London in two and a half hours by car, and there are plenty of paid and free parking spots available. Alternatively, you can jump on a direct train to Birchington from London Victoria, and then take a short walk, which will bring you to the beach in around two hours.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Unfortunately, you can’t bring your dog with you in the summer months, but they are welcome for the remainder of the year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you and your family don’t need sand for the perfect seaside day out, then the following shingle beaches also make for a fantastic trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport or car Rottingdean<\/a> is a small village not far from Brighton, where you can find a peaceful stretch of beach backed by white chalk cliffs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n A popular cafe sits on the seafront with public toilets to the side. For shops, pubs and restaurants, you can take a short walk into the village itself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 2 hours by public transport or car Whitstable Beach<\/a> is home to the famous Whitstable Oyster Company restaurant, a great choice if you’re in the mood for fine dining. There are also caf\u00e9s and a friendly pub to opt for instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n This mile-long stretch of shingle is surrounded by colourful beach huts and charming cottages, creating that nostalgic British seaside feel.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London: <\/strong>2 hours by car and 3 hours by train St Margaret’s Bay Beach<\/a> has the advantage of being one of the quieter beaches along the Kent coast but still enjoys the beauty of the white cliffs of Dover. If you want to sit and take in the view while the kids poke around the rock pools, then this is the place for you.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Distance from London:<\/strong> 1.5 hours by public transport, 2 hours by car
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.4\/5 stars from 1,012 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Ruislip](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/1e73ad3a-ruislip-lido-sandy-beach-west-ruislip_2179583711.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to eat at Ruislip Lido<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Ruislip Lido<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
2. Camber Sands, Sussex<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.6\/5 stars from 2,693 reviews on Google\u2028<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Camber](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/5ac0702e-camber-sands-beach-sussex_2021209373.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do at Camber Sands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Camber Sands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
3. Margate Main Sands, Kent<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.4\/5 stars from 862 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Margate](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/06a593fd-margate-main-sands_2038945610.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do at Margate Main Sands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Margate Main Sands<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
4. Frensham Beach, Surrey<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.5\/5 stars from 499 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Frensham](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/7927f08f-frensham-beach-frensham-common_300487253.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to eat at Frensham Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Frensham Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
5. Chalkwell Beach, Southend-on-Sea<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.4\/5 stars from 321 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/69cdb198-chalkwell-beach-southend-on-sea-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_1490371703.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to eat at Chalkwell Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Chalkwell Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
6. West Mersea Beach, Colchester<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.6\/5 stars from 449 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/1556454b-west-mersea-beach-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_1133298050.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to eat at West Mersea Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to West Mersea Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
7. Botany Bay, Broadstairs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews: <\/strong>4.6\/5 stars from 6,865 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/41a0c349-botany-bay-broadstairs-beach-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_1328707595.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do at Botany Bay<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Botany Bay<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
8. Lydden Spout, Samphire Hoe, Dover<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews: <\/strong>4.7\/5 stars from 535 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/7ba54026-samphire-hoe-beach-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_2284948643.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhere to eat at Lydden Spout<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Lydden Spout<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
9. East Beach, Littlehampton<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.5\/5 stars from 1,137 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/186c0ba9-east-beach-littlehampton-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_1144712804.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do at East Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to East Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
10. Minnis Bay Beach, Kent<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.5\/5 stars from 913 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Best](\"https:\/\/storage.googleapis.com\/loopla-events\/2024\/05\/19b55c8f-minnis-bay-beach-best-sandy-beaches-near-london_1244454259.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nWhat to do at Minnis Bay Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
How to get to Minnis Bay Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Other need-to-knows<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Shingle Beaches Near London<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Rottingdean Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.6\/5 stars from 175 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\nWhitstable Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.6\/5 stars from 721 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\nSt Margaret’s Bay Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
<\/strong>Reviews:<\/strong> 4.6\/5 stars from 999 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\nBrighton Beach<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Reviews:<\/strong> 4.5\/5 stars from 5,359 reviews on Google<\/p>\n\n\n\n