5 Seaside Resorts Near London

Southwold

Southwold is a beautiful seaside town on the heritage coast of Suffolk. There is just one road leading into the town, which dates back to the 11th century. 

Where to go?

Southwold just happens to be the home of the famous brewery company Adnams. Adnams offer tours of the victorian building in which the modern distillery is located. It’s the perfect way to see how Adnams creates their award winning beers and spirits and guests can even create their own unique gin.


Southwold Pier and its adjacent beaches offer a variety of things to do and see. A stroll along the beach to the pier will take visitors past a range of colourful beach huts. There are a few gift shops along the way as well as plenty of restaurants and cafes. The Boardwalk Restaurant offers stunning views across the sea with fresh and seasonal cuisines served throughout the day. The Treat Parlour guarantees you won’t leave empty-handed with the array of ice creams, sweets, fudge and shortbreads.


Other attractions include the Water Clock, built in 1998 it was designed to represent the importance of water recycling. For something a little bit different, the model yacht regattas occur throughout the summer months. The regattas are held on a boating lake next to Southwold pier called “The Pond.” The unique activity has been ongoing in Southwold for more than 100 years and all ages are welcome to try out in the competition. The organisers can even provide you with a model yacht if you don’t own one yourself.


How to get there?

Experience the true Essex and Suffolk countryside on this lovely drive from the M25 up to Southwold. For a quick route take the A12 and A1095 all the way or divert for a smooth drive through the Suffolk hills to the town. If you’re looking to drive over the Suffolk hills on a sunny day in the ultimate style, roll down the roof of a Porsche or a Ferrari through Supercar Hire UK. 

Hastings

The “new Brighton”, Hastings holds film festivals, farmers markets and sports a smart new pier. The town claims fame from the Battle of Hastings which was fought in 1066 between the Norman-French army and the English army of Harold Godwinson.


Where to go?

The Pier has been transformed into a glitzy beach destination on an international level after a £14million refurbishment. Just close to the pier is Hastings Old town, the area that dates prior to the nineteenth century. An afternoon stroll through the streets will please visitors due to the unique sights; The Net Shops and the Stade make up around 50 tall black wooden sheds which were built to protect fishing gear from the weather. After wandering around the old town, take the funicular up the cliff to Hastings Castle and St Clement’s Caves.



How to get there?

The A21 will lead you all the way to Hastings and it’s just a 40 mile trip from the M25. 

  

What is it?

We know that Folkestone is no match for the beaches of the French Riviera - think shingle instead of sparkling white sands. However, this seaside resort is very close to London and has some unexpected sights.



Where to go?

Wondering around the town, you’ll probably come across the 200 foot cliff. The lift will transport you all the way down to the beach. After further exploration, you’re likely to come across the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, a miniature railway which has been delighting visitors for over 88 years. The locomotives are one-third of the full size Steam & Diesel engines. The 13.5 mile track features four stations, all within walking distance of a beach. Some stations also offer catering, museums and gift shops.



How to get there?

This seaside resort near London is easily found via the M25 and the M20. If you prefer to take a more scenic route through the countryside, try exiting the M20 at Maidstone before heading down the A274 for some beautiful Kent scenery. Drivers will pass the village of Biddenden with its exquisite and Edwardian architecture as well as the Biddenden Vineyards where Apple cider, brandy and wine are produced. Don’t forget to head back east on the A28 to ensure you reach Folkestone.



What is it?

Officially one of Britain's most iconic seaside resorts with its monumental 9 miles of sandy beaches.



Where to go?

Dreamland amusement park in Margate has been entertaining the whole family for decades. The park was refurbished and reopened in June 2015 after years of decline. Traditional street food stalls dot the town's streets where visitors can try a range of snacks such cockles, fish & chips and candy floss. Shell Grotto can not be a missed, a series of underground passageways and rooms covered in shell mosaic. Some believe the grotto is an ancient temple built around 2000 years ago.



How to get there?

Margate is accessible from the A2 from London which leads to the A299 taking you straight to the seaside resort. For those looking to adventure further, a detour to the Isle of Sheppey via the A249 will only set you back a few more minutes.

Brighton

What is it?

Without a doubt, Brighton has been at the forefront of the British seaside getaway for years. Easily accessible from London with plenty of entertainment for the whole family. The renowned nightlife and endless water sport activities, amusement arcades and shopping have made Brighton a busy bustling holiday destination in its own right.



Where to go?

Brighton Pier is a focal point and the exemplary landmark of the city. Hours can be spent exploring the array of shops and food stalls and let's not forget the rides and attractions for the whole family. If traveling through the British countryside in a supercar was not enough, adrenaline junkies are spoilt for choice with rollercoaster “Turbo” and wooden log water ride, “Wild River”. During the day, Pebbly Beach offers traditional seaside fun while at night, the sea front transforms into a fashionable beachside club scene.



How to get there?

The seaside road trip to Brighton will lead drivers straight down the M/A23 past Crawley. If you’ve had enough of the motorway madness, Nywards near Haywards Heath is a quick detour off the A23. The romantic house and ruins are surrounded by exquisite gardens open to all the family. If you’re looking to transport the whole family in style, experience the Range Rover Sport with luxury car hire UK.