If you’re craving a breath of fresh sea air without the hassle of a long journey, you’re in luck. Just a short train ride or drive from London, some of England’s most charming coastal towns await—each offering sandy beaches, historic piers, delicious seafood, and a relaxing escape from city life. Whether you’re after family-friendly fun, quaint seaside charm, or a romantic weekend, these towns are perfect for a quick coastal getaway. Here are my top five picks, all easily reachable within two hours by train or car.
1. Whitstable, Kent
Known for its oysters and laid-back vibe, Whitstable is a favourite for Londoners seeking fresh seafood and a friendly atmosphere. The pebble beach, colourful beach huts, and independent shops make it picture-perfect. Don’t miss the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival in summer and the charming harbour views. The town’s seafood restaurants serve the freshest catch, and you can even watch oyster fishermen at work.
- Train time from London Victoria: About 1 hour 20 minutes
- Drive time from Central London: About 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on traffic)
2. Brighton, East Sussex
Brighton needs little introduction as one of the UK’s most iconic seaside resorts. Famous for its vibrant arts scene, pebble beach, and the majestic Royal Pavilion, Brighton blends traditional pier attractions with modern culture. Explore the quirky lanes filled with independent shops, enjoy fresh fish and chips on the beach, or stroll the famous Brighton Palace Pier. The nightlife here is lively, making it perfect for both day trips and overnight stays.
- Train time from London Victoria or London Bridge: About 1 hour
- Drive time from Central London: About 1 hour 30 minutes (depending on traffic)
3. Margate, Kent
Margate has undergone an impressive renaissance, blending nostalgic seaside charm with a contemporary arts scene. The Turner Contemporary gallery is a highlight for art lovers, while the sandy beach and vintage amusement park rides bring classic seaside fun. Margate’s old town is full of independent cafes and quirky shops, perfect for a relaxed day out. Don’t forget to try a traditional seaside ice cream!
- Train time from London St Pancras International: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Drive time from Central London: About 1 hour 50 minutes
4. Southend-on-Sea, Essex
Home to the world’s longest pleasure pier, Southend offers classic British seaside entertainment with arcades, mini-golf, and funfair rides. The beach is sandy and wide, ideal for families, and the town has a lively food scene with plenty of fish and chips shops. Southend is perfect for those wanting traditional seaside nostalgia with easy access from London.
- Train time from London Liverpool Street: About 1 hour
- Drive time from Central London: About 1 hour 10 minutes
5. Hastings, East Sussex
For a mix of history, culture, and beach, Hastings is a fantastic choice. Famous for the 1066 Battle of Hastings, the town combines a working fishing harbour with a vibrant Old Town full of shops, galleries, and cafes. The beach here is pebble-strewn, and the nearby Hastings Country Park offers stunning coastal walks with panoramic views. This town offers more than just sun and sea—it’s a place steeped in history and character.
- Train time from London St Pancras International or London Charing Cross: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Drive time from Central London: About 1 hour 50 minutes
Final Thoughts
These coastal towns prove that you don’t need to travel far from London to enjoy the charm and refreshment of the seaside. Whether it’s the artistic buzz of Margate or the lively pier at Brighton, each destination offers a unique coastal experience perfect for a day trip or weekend away. Pack your camera, grab your train ticket or car keys, and set off to discover England’s beautiful seaside towns just a stone’s throw from the capital.
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