Best beach an hour from London named as heatwave roasts the city

The Kent beach has been named the best the county by Time Out — and it’s perfect for a London day trip as temperatures soar

A sandy beach has been crowned the finest in Kent, and it’s just an hour from London.

This week, the South East will continue to swelter in a heatwave that has warranted a rare Met Office ‘red’ heat warning.

The Kent coastline is expected to be slightly cooler than inland areas, including London, with late-20s temperatures making it ideal for a seaside outing. There is no shortage of wonderful beaches along the Kent coast, from the stunning Botany Bay in Broadstairs to the two-mile stretch of Greatstone Beach in New Romney, and the much-loved beach huts at Tankerton Bay in Whitstable.

As impressive as all these are, none have quite managed to claim the title of Kent’s finest beach.

That honour goes to Folkestone’s Sunny Beach. The town sits just 52 minutes from St Pancras via the high-speed Southeast train.

“Sunny Sands stands out in Kent for being the only sandy beach for several miles. Accordingly, its annual sandcastle competition is one of the hottest dates in Folkestone’s calendar. The rest of the year, keep your eyes peeled for Tracey Emin’s bronze simulacra of baby clothes hidden beneath benches, draped over railings and strewn on the kerb. When high tide hits, most of the beach gets covered over, but you can wait it out by ambling around Folkestone’s cool Creative Quarter for a few hours,” writes Time Out, which placed the Kent beach at 15 on its UK-wide list.

Sunny Sands is the sole sandy beach for miles around, yet it isn’t merely its rarity that makes it remarkable. The quality of the sand is so exceptional that it plays host to the beloved annual Folkestone sandcastle competition.

As its name implies, the beach benefits from a sunny, south-facing aspect and is protected from the wind by the adjacent cliffs and harbour walls, making it ideal for catching rays even when there’s a coastal breeze in other areas.

A seasonal, independently operated lifeguard service runs on Saturdays and Sundays from 10am to 4pm between April and September at Sunny Sands.

For those wanting to venture onto the water, Folkestone Sea Sports operates from Sunny Sands. Single and double kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, clothing and safety kit are available for hire.

One of the main attractions is what lies immediately adjacent. The neighbouring Folkestone Harbour Arm has undergone transformation in recent years with independent food vendors, art installations, live performances, and even pop-up screenings.

It’s definitely worth exploring.

Dog owners should be aware – dogs are prohibited from May through October. There’s no dedicated car park directly at the beach, though on-street parking can be found on Wear Bay Road, and it’s within easy walking distance from Folkestone Central station.

It’s a compact beach rather than an extensive stretch, so during sunny weather it does become crowded. However, its blend of golden sand, excellent food and drink options close by, and a genuinely vibrant harbour vibe make it thoroughly worthwhile – particularly for families or a day out from London.

“Sunny Sands Beach is one of the prettiest watering places on the south coast. The situation is delightful, the air is delicious, and the breezy hills and downs, carpeted with wild thyme and decorated with millions of wildflowers are, on the faith of a pedestrian, perfect. And don’t take it from them, that was by Dickens!” raves Day Out with the Kids.

After you’ve finished at the beach, a walk along the zigzag pathway of the Lower Leas Coastal Parks will lead you to an excellent children’s adventure playground featuring a pirate ship and rope slide.

Top ten UK beaches

1. Traeth Llanddwyn, Anglesey: A vast sweep of golden sand backed by dunes, pine forest and mountain views, Traeth Llanddwyn feels blissfully remote, while its tidal island, lighthouse and romantic Welsh history add extra charm.
2. Cuckmere Haven, Sussex: Framed by the dramatic Seven Sisters cliffs, Cuckmere Haven offers some of England’s most cinematic coastal scenery, with unspoilt surroundings, winding river views and remarkably peaceful walking trails.
3. Blackpool Sands, Devon: Sheltered by evergreens and pine trees, this immaculate pebble beach combines crystal-clear waters, excellent facilities and a relaxed atmosphere, making it one of Devon’s most appealing seaside escapes.
4. Camusdarach Beach, Scotland: With dazzling white sand, turquoise water and rugged rocky outcrops, Camusdarach delivers a wild Highland beach experience that feels wonderfully secluded despite its breathtaking natural beauty.
5. Weymouth Beach, Dorset: Golden sands, a bustling promenade and traditional seaside attractions give Weymouth timeless appeal, blending family-friendly fun with historic harbour views and the nostalgic atmosphere of holidays past.
6. Watergate Bay, Cornwall: Famous for its powerful surf and energetic atmosphere, Watergate Bay attracts watersports enthusiasts year-round, while its expansive shoreline and dog-friendly policy ensure broad appeal beyond surfers.
7. Kynance Cove, Cornwall: Turquoise seas, white sand and striking rock formations make Kynance Cove one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, with hidden caves and smugglers’ legends adding adventure and intrigue.
8. Alnmouth Beach, Northumberland: Stretching beside a colourful village, Alnmouth offers dog-friendly sands, outstanding coastal scenery and excellent birdwatching, complemented by welcoming cafés, pubs and restaurants just moments from the shore.
9. Mwnt, Ceredigion: A sheltered bay overlooked by a historic church, Mwnt combines peaceful coastal scenery with exceptional wildlife watching, including opportunities to spot dolphins in Cardigan Bay’s resident population.
10. Camber Sands, Sussex: Vast dunes and miles of golden sand have made Camber Sands an iconic British beach, offering atmospheric coastal walks, plenty of space and easy access to historic Rye.