The Best Activities in Coastal Towns Commutable to London

London offers so much for visitors and locals alike, but sometimes you need to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy some fresh air and new experiences. Whether you’re looking for a day-trip or a weekend away, there are some great coastal towns within easy reach of the capital, offering a range of activities for all ages.

Whitstable

Whitstable is a quaint coastal town, full of charm and character. It’s a great place to get away from it all and enjoy some peace and quiet. The town is best known for its oysters, with the annual Whitstable Oyster Festival taking place every year. There are plenty of seafood restaurants to choose from, all offering fresh, locally-caught fare. There’s also plenty to do on the water, with kayaking, paddleboarding and sailing all popular activities. For those looking for something a bit more leisurely, there’s a picturesque beach, perfect for a stroll or a picnic.

Brighton

Brighton is a vibrant and lively city, with plenty of things to keep you occupied. The city has a great selection of shops, restaurants and bars, as well as a stunning beach. The iconic pier is a great place to spend a day, with its array of attractions and amusements. There are also plenty of cultural attractions, such as the Royal Pavilion and the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery. For those looking for some outdoor activities, there’s a great range of watersports, including kitesurfing, windsurfing and sailing.

Dover

Dover is a historic port town, steeped in history and legend. The iconic White Cliffs of Dover are a sight to behold, and the nearby castle offers some spectacular views. Dover also has plenty of activities to offer, from the lively St James’s Street, full of independent shops and restaurants, to the picturesque seaside promenade. The Dover Castle is a great place to explore, with its tunnels, ramparts and secret wartime operations. For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, the nearby Dover Marina offers a range of watersports, including windsurfing and kitesurfing.

Rye

Rye is a beautiful town on the edge of the Romney Marsh, with a unique charm. The town centre is full of independent shops and art galleries, while the nearby beach offers plenty of opportunities for watersports. For those looking to explore the local history, there’s the Rye Heritage Centre and the nearby Rye Castle. The town also has some great pubs and restaurants, with an emphasis on locally-sourced produce.

Margate

Margate is a traditional seaside town, with plenty to keep you occupied. The town’s main attraction is the Dreamland amusement park, with its vintage rides and games. There’s also a great selection of shops, cafes and restaurants, as well as a long stretch of beach, perfect for sunbathing or a stroll along the promenade. The Turner Contemporary gallery offers a great selection of contemporary art, while the nearby Shell Grotto is a must-see for those looking for something a bit different.

Broadstairs

Broadstairs is a charming seaside town, with plenty to keep you busy. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The nearby Bleak House is a great place to explore, as is the nearby Viking Bay. There’s also a great selection of pubs and bars, as well as a thriving music scene.

Eastbourne

Eastbourne is a vibrant and bustling seaside town, with plenty of activities to keep you occupied. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The Eastbourne Pier is well worth a visit, as is the nearby Sovereign Harbour. The town also has some great museums and galleries, as well as a lively nightlife.

Bexhill-on-Sea

Bexhill-on-Sea is a traditional seaside town, full of character and charm. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The nearby De La Warr Pavilion is well worth a visit, as is the nearby Bexhill Museum. The town also has some great pubs and bars, as well as a thriving music scene.

Southend-on-Sea

Southend-on-Sea is a vibrant and bustling seaside town, with plenty of activities to keep you occupied. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The Southend Pier is well worth a visit, as is the nearby Adventure Island amusement park. The town also has some great museums and galleries, as well as a lively nightlife.

Hastings

Hastings is a bustling seaside town, with plenty of activities to keep you occupied. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The Old Town is a great place to explore, with its cobbled streets and quirky shops. The town also has some great pubs and bars, as well as a thriving music scene.

Bournemouth

Bournemouth is a vibrant and bustling seaside town, with plenty of activities to keep you occupied. The town’s main attraction is the beach, which offers a great selection of watersports, as well as a long stretch of golden sand. There’s also plenty to explore in the town itself, with a great selection of independent shops, cafes and restaurants. The pier is well worth a visit, as is the nearby Oceanarium. The town also has some great museums and galleries, as well as a lively nightlife.

Summary

London offers a great selection of coastal towns, all within easy reach of the capital and offering a range of activities for all ages. Whether you’re looking for a day-trip or a weekend away, there are plenty of activities to choose from, ranging from watersports and beach activities to exploring the local history and culture. From Whitstable and Brighton to Rye, Margate and Eastbourne, there’s something for everyone in these coastal towns commutable to London.