If you want your choice of beaches in one area – then this is the best place for you. The great part is – it’s just under 2 hours away from London and it’s great for a family day out
It can be difficult for parents to think of something fun for the family now the summer holidays are in full swing. And with a new London heatwave on the cards this week, the first initial thought is wanting to get to the beach immediately.
So if you fancy venturing out of London and enduring a 2-hour long drive, then this place is perfect for you. It’s so great that people even said it has “one of the best beaches in the UK”. The gorgeous coastal town has multiple sandy beaches, opportunities for surfing and a wealth of activities for everyone.
So which destination are we referring to?
Broadstairs is the seaside resort town in east Kent which is just under 2 hours from London by train – and social media users cannot stop raving about its spectacular beaches.
In a TikTok clip, the account declared: “You’ve just found one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK,” with the video receiving dozens of likes.
There’s no shortage of attractions in Broadstairs, from unwinding on Viking Bay to treating yourself to Morelli’s Gelato and discovering the Dickens House Museum.
This delightful seaside town combines excellent beaches with rich local heritage, making it ideal for a family outing. Visitors can choose from seven sandy beaches and bays stretching approximately 4.5 miles along the coast.
Best Places To Visit In Broadstairs: Viking Bay, Botany Bay, and Joss Bay
Viking Bay is the principal horseshoe-shaped sandy shore boasts vibrant beach huts, donkey rides and a surf school. Visitors can take surfing lessons or hire paddleboards from Kent Surf School, which operates from March through to October.
The Kiddie’s Corner offers a charming vintage roundabout, swing boats and bouncy castle. For those keen to search for marine life amongst the rocks, the tidal pool is ideal.
Meanwhile Botany Bay is more of a tranquil location renowned for fossil hunting, rockpooling and water sports. Coastal rambles are excellent, allowing you to wander along the sand towards the adjacent Joss Bay.
Alternatively, follow a picturesque clifftop route forming part of the Viking Coastal Trial.
Family Activities and Travel Guide: Driving or Train Routes from London
And finally Joss Bay is great for its surfing, family beach pursuits, as well as coastal walks. Highlights include riding waves at the local surf school, unwinding on the sandy shore and exploring the clifftop trails.
There’s also a seasonal Kids’ Corner operating daily throughout school holidays and weekends. This includes an inflatable air cushion, bouncy castle and trampolines for approximately £8.50 per day.
Driving to Broadstairs from London can take about 2 hours, covering around 78 miles via the A2 and M2.
The trip can slightly differ in travel times depending on what area of London you’re coming from. For example, departing from west London can take about 2 hours and 11 minutes, if not a lot more during rush hour.
Taking the train is best suited to get to Broadstairs as this takes about 1 hour and 47 minutes from London Victoria. Just make sure you check train times before leaving your house.
