10 Interesting Coastal Places to Visit Near London Beyond Brighton and Dover: A Complete Guide

But when visitors think of the coast of England around London, they tend to immediately picture locations such as Brighton and Dover. Nevertheless, there is a host of interesting locations to visit on the coast of the capital, ranging from picturesque seaside towns and harbors to amazing cliffs, beaches, and villages. Therefore, regardless of whether you plan a weekend trip, a day trip with the whole family or a drive, you have a choice of many different alternative locations to visit.

While discussing the transportation issues of visiting the UK, it seems that Glasgow Airport Taxis are not connected with exploring the south coast at all. Nevertheless, there is one lesson for travelers who want to travel between multiple cities during their trip. In case if you have already arrived in London, it will be easy for you to visit the coast, which is located nearby and will offer you great relaxation and rest after busy city streets.

1. Whitstable – A Charming Seaside Town in Kent

Whitstable, which lies on the northern coast of Kent, is a great choice for tourists who desire something less hectic and traditional. Known for its oysters, colorful harbor and unique shops, this charming coastal town has a unique flavor that sets it apart from other holiday towns.

One can leisurely explore the picturesque Whitstable Harbor, taste fresh seafood and shop in local boutiques. In addition, the narrow lanes of the town add appeal to the place for photography lovers.

Whitstable is especially recommended to food lovers. The town's association with oysters goes way back into centuries and seafood continues to play an important role in the local cuisine.

2. Eastbourne – Beaches, Cliffs and Beautiful Coastal Views

Eastbourne is a great place where you can both relax on the beach and enjoy the breathtaking nature. It is located in the county of East Sussex and is famous for its seaside front, Victorian buildings and its vicinity to such places like the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head.

For those who enjoy strolling, the promenade of the town will be very convenient, but also the famous Eastbourne Pier will offer a chance to have great views of the English Channel. Gardens, cafés and cultural institutions can also be found around.

One of the main attractions is definitely Beachy Head – one of the most famous chalk cliffs in Great Britain.

3. Hastings – History, Culture and the English Channel

Hastings is yet another equally interesting coastal destination that should be included in your travel plan. Despite the fame of the Battle of Hastings of 1066, the present-day town offers a lot more than just historical sights.

The Old Town has many individual shops, cafes, galleries, and ancient buildings to visit. Hastings Castle, situated above the town, provides information about the medieval history of the region and gives an opportunity to admire the coastal landscape.

Also, the fishing area is worth visiting. The traditional boats and maritime atmosphere distinguish Hastings from other destinations. For people who love history and culture, it will be particularly rewarding to visit Hastings.

4. Rye – A Picturesque Historic Town Near the Coast

Despite being somewhat inland, the association of Rye with the coastal parts of Sussex makes it a perfect place to visit along with other coastal towns. Rye is an old medieval town well known for its cobblestone lanes and historic buildings.

Among the most popular attractions is the Mermaid Street with many historical buildings with a timber frame that give the street its unique look. You can also visit the St Mary’s Church, Rye Castle Museum, and other cafés and galleries in the town.

Those travelers interested in a combination of heritage and coastal tourism will be pleased with their stay in Rye. Camber Sands is located close to Rye, so you can also visit the beach there.

5. Camber Sands – One of the Best Beaches Near London

Those who wish to have a truly classic beach vacation should visit Camber Sands, which is one of the most well-known beach locations in England.

A Chauffeur Service Glasgow is obviously meant for another part of Britain, but the idea of taking advantage of convenient private travel services would also work when planning a coastal journey by car. Those who plan a journey to the coast from other towns will find it helpful to organize a means of transportation, which will let them spend more time at destinations and not waste much time on transfers.

Camber Sands will especially appeal to travellers in the warm season when families can go to the beach and walkers can take walks through the dunes.

6. Southend-on-Sea – A Classic Essex Seaside Experience

Southend-on-Sea is among the most accessible seaside resorts in London and provides an excellent British coastal resort. The famous pier of Southend extends far into the Thames Estuary and is among the most prominent features of the town.

Tourists are provided with a range of amusement rides, restaurants, cafes, and seafront promenades. Tourists seeking amusement can get entertained at Southend and those seeking tranquillity can visit the nearby beaches and parks.

Its easy accessibility makes Southend-on-Sea very much suited for tourists who would like to spend a day at the seaside within reasonable proximity of London city center.

Also read: What Is a Recommended Road Trip Route for Traveling Through Scotland, Wales, and England?

7. Deal – A Peaceful Coastal Town in Kent

Deal is an ideal destination for visitors who are looking for a more tranquil alternative to Dover. This quaint seaside town boasts the charm of a classic promenade along with historic architecture and individual shops.

Deal Castle is among the most significant sites within this charming town. Dating back to the times of King Henry VIII, this castle is an integral part of a historic system of defenses built to guard England from any invasions.

Another landmark of Deal worth visiting is the town’s pier. One can enjoy beautiful sea views while walking on it.

8. Margate – Art, Culture and Seaside Attractions

There have been many changes to Margate in recent years, and the town has become a place where people are drawn to art and culture. The Turner Contemporary gallery is one of these places, featuring contemporary art in a unique seaport location.

The town also boasts sand beaches, old-fashioned seaside attractions and the Old Town. People can shop in independent boutiques, enjoy coffee in cafes and galleries before relaxing by the sea.

Margate is particularly recommended for young travelers or creative types looking for a beach town that is more contemporary than others.

9. Broadstairs – A Beautiful Traditional Seaside Escape

Broadstairs gives people an opportunity to have a more intimate experience on the coast. The presence of beaches, picturesque streets and its association with Charles Dickens make the place unique, uniting nature and culture.

Viking Bay is the largest beach in the area and is framed with picturesque cliffs and old-fashioned beach architecture. People can swim there, take walks along the coast or just spend time by the sea.

Broadstairs is located near several other coastal locations in Thanet, thus, it becomes convenient for visiting them at once.

10. Dungeness – A Unique Coastal Landscape

For something entirely unique, you should try going to Dungeness. The unique shingle formation on the Kent coast is famous for its unique natural surroundings, wildlife and unique blend of both industrial and natural sights.

Two lighthouses, unique houses and vast expanses of open land can be found here. It attracts photographers and people looking for a place that is not on the beaten path.

It also offers chances to spot some birds or walk in nature. Its uniqueness makes it one of the most unique coastal spots near London.

Planning Your English Coast Road Trip

It all depends on what kind of holiday you wish to enjoy. Whitstable and Deal are fantastic locations if you are looking for typical coastal experience, whereas Hastings and Rye would be perfect for historical and cultural holiday. Eastbourne gives great landscape views, Camber Sands is good for sandy beach day, while Margate is a great location that offers a combination of art and seaside holiday entertainment.

Should you have more days at your disposal, think of combining destinations instead of concentrating only on one place. For instance, you could visit Whitstable and Margate on one day, or Hastings, Rye and Camber Sands altogether.

Remember to find out about opening times and local travel conditions before departure, especially on summer weekends. Coastal climate may be quite changeable, so wearing suitable clothing would not be a bad idea.

Final Thoughts on Coastal Destinations Near London

The coastlines of England around the London area provide much more diversity than people can imagine. From fish to traditional harbors, beaches, medieval roads, cliff faces and modern art; it has something for everyone.

There are the popular Brighton and Dover, but other towns like Whitstable, Eastbourne, Hastings, Rye, Camber Sands, Southend-on-Sea, Deal, Margate, Broadstairs and Dungeness have just as much to offer when it comes to England’s coastline charm.

If you’re looking for a short day out or an extended road trip, then visiting these unexplored locations will give you the opportunity to see another side of England that is full of tradition, history, landscape and adventure.