Summer is here, the sun is shining… and you’re stuck in the city. Sounds like a sign to swap busy streets and crowded tubes for sea views, salty air, and a proper coastal adventure. If you’re craving fresh air and a change of scenery, these are the best coastal walks near London — all easy to reach from the capital. Think dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, hidden coves, and hiking trails where the sea breeze might just leave you needing a towel by the end. Ready to escape London for a seaside hike?
Last updated: 25.05.2026
At a Glance
In a hurry? I’ve got you covered. The table below summarises the best coastal walks near London at a glance, and you’ll find more details on each one further down the article.
| Distance | Total Ascent | Duration | Difficulty | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Margate to Ramsgate | 9.3 mi (15 km) | 144 ft (44 m) | 3 hours 45 min | Easy |
| The Seven Sisters | 12.3 mi (19.8 km) | 1539 ft (469 m) | 4 hours 30 min | Intermediate |
| Hastings to Rye | 13.2 mi (21.24 km) | 1260 ft (384 m) | 5 hours 15 min | Intermediate |
| Camber Sands to Rye | 5.2 miles (8.4 km) | 16.4 ft (5 m) | 2 hours 5 min | Easy |
| Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door | 2.8 mi (4.5 km) | 764 ft (233 m) | 1 hour 45 min | Intermediate |
| Newhaven to Brighton | 10.4 mi (16.7 km) | 991 ft (302 m) | 3 hours 30 min | Intermediate |
| Sandwich to Deal | 7.3 mi (11.7km) | 23 ft (7 m) | 2 hours 50 min | Easy |
| Purbeck Ridgeway | 12 miles (19.3 km) | 1640 ft (500 m) | 5 hours 30 min | Intermediate |
Coastal Walks Near London Maps
Download the GPS maps of the walks for free. Downloading the map might sound like a piece of cake, but if uploading it on your navigation app turns into a brain teaser, simply follow my step-by-step guide here.
Best Coastal Walks Near London
Time to hit the shoreline and discover the best coastal walks near London. Pack your hiking shoes and a swimsuit too.
1 – Margate to Ramsgate
Set your compass for Kent’s east coast and enjoy a scenic seaside walk from Margate to Ramsgate via the charming town of Broadstairs. Following part of the Viking Coastal Trail, this mostly paved route hugs dramatic chalk cliffs, sandy bays, and sweeping sea views. Along the way, you’ll pass a string of beautiful beaches and hidden coves perfect for a refreshing dip on a warm day.
You can walk the route in either direction, but I recommend starting in Margate and finishing in the picturesque seaside town of Ramsgate. Expect coastal views, beach hopping, and the perfect mix of walking and swimming.
Access the full hiking guide here
Logistics for the Margate to Ramsgate Walk
- Distance: 9.30 miles (15km)
- Ascent: 144 ft (44m)
- Walking estimate: 3 hours and 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- Trains from London St Pancras International to Margate
- The journey time ranges between 1 hour 29 min to 1 hour 42 minutes depending on the train
For the return:
- Train form Ramsgate to St Pancras International
- The journey can take between 1 hour 16 to 2 hours 12, so be careful which train you chose
- I would recommend you buy a day -return to Margate and get off at Ramsgate if you are doing the walk starting from Ramsgate
Additional Information:
- Toilets are available at Margate and Ramsgate stations
- Public toilets are available in Broadstairs at the Victoria Gardens
- This is a stile-free walk
- This walk is dog-friendly
Where to eat:
- Ice cream at Morelli’s, Broadstairs
- Bus Cafe, Margate
- Mariners Bar, Ramsgate
2 – Seven Sisters
The Seven Sisters Walk is one of England’s most iconic coastal hikes. Starting in the seaside town of Seaford, the trail follows dramatic chalk cliffs and rolling headlands all the way to Eastbourne.
The best views come after the hardest climbs
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That saying couldn’t be more true here. Each climb rewards you with sweeping views over the English Channel, the South Downs, and the famous white cliffs stretching along the coastline. Expect plenty of ups and downs, strong sea breezes, and scenery that makes every bit of effort worthwhile.
Logistics for the Seven Sisters Walk
- Distance: 12.3 miles (19.8 km)
- Total Ascent: 1539 feet (469 m)
- Highest Point: 531.5 ft (162 m)
- Lowest Point: -9.8 ft (-3 m)
- Walking Estimate: 4 hours and 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- Train from London Victoria to Lewes and change at Lewes for a train to Seaford.
- The journey to London Victoria takes around 1 hour and a half depending on how long you need to wait when changing trains at Lewes
For the Return:
- Train from Eastbourne to London Bridge
- The journey takes 1 hour and 40 minutes
- You won’t be able to book a day return ticket on this walk as the train back from Eastbourne is not on the same line as Seaford.
Additional Information:
- Public toilets are available at Seaford Beach and Birling Gap
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- This walk is not suitable for wheelchair and pushchair users
Where to Eat
- Cuckmere Inn, Seaford
- Birling Gap Cafe
- The Tiger’s Inn, East Dean
- The Hiker’s Rest Cafe, East Dean
- Beachy Head Inn, Eastbourne
3 – Hastings to Rye
Starting in the historic seaside town of Hastings, this walk combines some of the best landscapes on the Sussex coast. The route climbs into Hastings Country Park before weaving through peaceful woodland, skirting dramatic cliffs, and finishing along a tranquil canal path into the beautiful town of Rye.
It’s a walk best saved for a sunny day, when the coastal views really shine. Expect a varied mix of sea views, woodland trails, and picturesque villages, a perfect blend of coastal drama and countryside calm.
Logistics for the Hastings to Rye Walk
- Distance: 13.2 miles (21.24 km)
- Total Ascent: 1260 feet (384 m)
- Highest Point: 466 ft (142 m)
- Lowest Point: 3.3 ft (1 m)
- Walking Estimate: 5 hours and 15 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- Train from London St Pancras to Ashford and change at Ashford for a train to Hastings. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes depending on the waiting time when changing trains
- Train from London Bridge to Hastings. This train may be direct but it is a slow train. The journey takes around 2 hours
For the Return:
- Train from Rye to Ashford and change at Ashford for a train to London St Pancras. The journey takes 1 hour and 10 minutes.
- Train to Hastings and change at Hastings for a train to London Charing Cross. The journey takes 2 hours and 15 minutes.
- Rye and Hastings are on the same train line so you can book a day return ticket
Additional Information:
- There are no public toilets on this walk however there is a coffee shop stop with customer toilets at Pett Level
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
- This walk is not suitable for wheelchair and pushchair users
Where to Eat
- The Globe Inn Marsh, Rye
4 – Camber Sand to Rye
Swap the crunch of pebbles for soft sand on this scenic walk from Camber Sands to Rye. The route begins on one of the UK’s few sandy beaches, where you can enjoy a paddle, a beach stroll, or an ice cream before heading inland.
Leaving the coast behind, you’ll follow peaceful paths towards Rye, ending among its cobbled streets, medieval buildings, and independent cafés. It’s a walk that combines beach time with historic charm, perfect for a relaxed afternoon escape.
Access the full walking guide here
Logistics of the Camber Sands to Rye Walk
- Distance: 5.22 miles (8.4 km)
- Total Ascent: 16.4 ft (5 m)
- Highest Point: 42.6 ft (13 m)
- Lowest Point: -6.5 ft (-2 m)
- Walking Estimate: 2 hours and 5 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- Train from London St Pancras to Ashford International. Change at Ashford International for a train to Rye. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes, depending on the waiting at Ashford International
- At Rye, take bus 102 to Dover and get off at Coastguard Cottages’ stop. The journey takes 12 minutes
For the Return
- For the way back, take a train from Rye to Ashford International and change at Ashford International for a train to London St Pancras.
- This walk may be a linear walk but you start and come back to the same train station so you can book a day return ticket
Additional Information:
- There are public toilets at Camber Sands and customer toilets at the Beach cafe
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is not a dog-friendly walk as the beach does not allow dogs during some parts of the year. Please check their website for more information
Where to Eat
- Ice Cream at the Kit Kat Cafe, Camber, East Sussex
- Lunch at the Globe Inn Marsh, Rye, East Sussex
5 – Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
Short on distance, big on views, this iconic coastal walk links Lulworth Cove with the famous limestone arch of Durdle Door. Starting by the sheltered waters of Lulworth Cove, the route climbs along the dramatic Jurassic Coast before rewarding you with jaw-dropping views of one of England’s most recognisable natural landmarks.
Bring your camera, expect a few steep sections, and don’t be surprised if you stop every five minutes to admire the view.
Access the full walking guide here
Logistics of the Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Walk
- Distance: 2.8 miles (4.5 km)
- Ascent: 764 ft (233 m)
- Highest Point: 410 ft (125 m)
- Lowest Point: – 7ft (- 2 m)
- Walking Estimate: 1 hour and 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate due to the ascent
How to get there:
- By car only. There is a car park at West Lulworth and another one at Durdle Door, depending on where you want to start the walk
- Find out more information about the car park fares in the article below
Additional Information
- There are public toilets in West Lulworth on the Main Road between the Cove Fish and the Lulworth Lodge
- Public toilets are also available at Lulworth Visitor Centre
- Public toilets are available at the Durdle Door car park
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to eat and drink:
- Lulworth Cove Inn, West Lulworth, Dorset
- Finley’s Cafe, West Lulworth, Dorset
6 – Newhaven to Brighton Walk
Starting from the working harbour town of Newhaven, this coastal walk follows the cliffs of the South Downs with sea views almost the entire way. The route soon joins the Brighton Undercliff Walk, a striking path running between towering chalk cliffs and the shoreline below.
From quiet cliffside scenery to the lively atmosphere of Brighton seafront, this walk offers a brilliant mix of dramatic coastal landscapes and classic seaside energy.
Access the full walking guide here
Logistics of the Newhaven to Brighton Walk
- Distance:10.4 miles (16.7 km)
- Total Ascent: 991 ft (302 m)
- Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- Train from London Victoria to Lewes and then change at Lewes for a train to Newhaven town. The journey takes 1 hour and 30 minutes
For the Return:
- It is a linear walk so for the return take a direct train from Brighton to London Victoria. The journey takes 1 hour and 15 minutes
Additional Information
- There are public toilets in Newhaven and along the Undercliff Walk
- This is a stile-free walk
- Dog-friendly walk
Pub stop
- The Coach House, Rottingdean, East Sussex
7 – Sandwich to Deal
Starting in the beautifully preserved medieval town of Sandwich, this coastal walk follows quiet stretches of the Kent coastline towards the charming seaside town of Deal. Along the way, expect a mix of marshland, sea views, shingle beaches, and big skies, with plenty of opportunities to spot birds around Sandwich Bay. The route finishes in Deal, where colourful seafront houses and a long pebble beach set the scene for the ultimate post-hike reward: a fresh crab sandwich at Deal Pier Kitchen.
Access the complete walking guide here
Logistics for Sandwich to Deal Walk
- Distance: 7.3 mi (11.7km)
- Ascent: 23 ft (7 m)
- Highest Point: 23 ft (7 m)
- Walking Estimate: 2h50 min
- Difficulty: Beginner
How to get there:
- Train from London St Pancras International to Sandwich
- The journey takes 1 hr 30 min
For the return:
- Train from Deal to London St Pancras International
- The journey takes 1 hr 25 min
- Sandwich and Deal are on the same train line, so you can book a day return to Sandwich ticket
What to Pack
- Essentials: Snacks, water, and a backpack.
- Weather Prep: This walk is quite exposed, as much of it follows the beach, so be sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing. The promenade is paved, making it suitable for trainers.
Additional Information
- Toilets are available at Sandwich and Deal train stations
- There are no public toilets on this walk
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to eat
- Deal Pier Kitchen, Deal, Kent
8 – Purbeck Ridgeway From Corfe Castle
Starting beneath the ruins of Corfe Castle, this spectacular walk along the Purbeck Ridgeway combines history, heathland, and coastal scenery. The ridge-top route delivers sweeping views across Dorset’s countryside before leading you to the famous chalk stacks of Old Harry Rocks.
From medieval landmarks to dramatic cliff-top views, this walk showcases some of the best scenery on the Jurassic Coast. And if you’re not ready to stop at Old Harry Rocks, you can continue down to Knoll Beach in Studland for a well-earned paddle, beach break, or ice cream by the sea.
Logistics for the Purbeck Ridgeway Walk
- Distance: 12 miles (19.3 km)
- Total Ascent: 1640 ft (500 m)
- Highest Point: 636 ft (194 m)
- Lowest Point: 43 ft (13 m)
- Walking Estimate: 5 hours and 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Intermediate
How to get there:
- Train from London Waterloo to Wareham, Dorset. There are no direct trains so you would need to change in Bournemouth.
- From Wareham Station, take bus 40 towards Swanage and alight at Corfe Castle
- By car from London, it takes approximately 3 hours to Corfe Castle. The Castle has a car park and it is a National Trust site, so the car park is free for members.
For the return:
- If you walk to Swanage, you can take the Steam Train to Corfe Castle. It runs only during the summer months, 5 times per day. Check their website for more information
- Alternatively, you can take bus 30 from Swanage to Weymouth and alight at Corfe Castle
- You can also walk back to Corfe Castle via the same route – which is what we are doing in this walk. From Corfe Castle, take bus 40 to Wareham and train back to London Waterloo
Additional Information:
- There are toilets available at the Corfe Castle Visitor Centre and Tea Room
- This is not a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk, however, the stile at the start of the trail does not have a dog gate. All the other stiles on this walk are suitable for dogs
- This walk is not suitable for pushchair and wheelchair users
Where to Eat
- Corfe Castle Tea Room, Corfe Castle, Dorset
- The Greyhound Inn, Corfe Castle, Dorset
Final Thoughts On the Coastal Walks Near London
Still craving sea views and salty air? For even more inspiration, check out Kate Humble’s Coastal Walks, a great source of ideas for your next seaside adventure.
And now over to you: what’s your favourite coastal walk near London? Let me know in the comments below
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