Summer has arrived in full bloom, the sun is shining brightly above … yet, you find yourself amidst the urban sprawl of the city. It’s time to lace up your hiking shoes and set your sights on an invigorating seaside adventure with our carefully curated list of the best coastal walks near London. Conveniently accessible from the heart of the capital, you can gladly bid farewell to the cramped confines of the tube. Instead, immerse yourself in the refreshing great outdoors, where the invigorating sea breeze and the soothing aroma of the ocean await. Are you ready to embark on an exhilarating hike that might just get your feet wet?”
At a Glance
In a hurry? No problem. Take a look at the table below summarising the best coastal walks near London. I go into more detail about these walks in this 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 m (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 |
| Horsey Beach Walk | 8.9 mi (14.3 km) | 13 ft (4 m) | 3 hours 30 min | Easy |
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
Let’s get down to the shoreline and the list of the best coastal walks near London. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit!
1 – Margate to Ramsgate
Set your compass towards the enchanting East Coast of Kent for a scenic and leisurely stroll from Margate to Ramsgate, meandering through the charming town of Broadstairs. This path, also known as the Viking Trail, is a beautifully paved route that traces the dramatic chalk cliffs along the coastline. As you wander, you’ll encounter not one, but eleven beaches and bays. Far less crowded than the bustling Brighton shores, these hidden gems invite you to indulge in a refreshing dip as you journey between Margate and Ramsgate – the direction is yours to choose, though I recommend starting in Margate and concluding your walk in the picturesque seaside town of Ramsgate. Embrace the tranquillity, soak in the coastal views, and experience the perfect blend of walking and swimming on this unforgettable coastal adventure.
Access the full hiking guide here
Logistics for the Margate to Ramsgate Walk
- Distance: 9.30 miles (15km)
- Total Ascent: 144ft (44 m)
- Highest Point: 141 ft (43 m)
- Lowest Point: 3.3 ft (1 m)
- Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy as flat terrain but intermediate for the distance
How to get there:
- Train from London St Pancras. I would recommend you buy a day’s return to Margate and get off at Ramsgate.
- The journey takes 1 hour and 20 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes depending on the train you take
For the Return:
- Train from Margate to London Victoria or London St Pancras.
- The journey to London Victoria takes 1 hour and 45 minutes
- The journey to London St Pancras takes 1 hour and 30 minutes
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing,
- Pairs of trainers as the trail is on concrete,
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and head cover as the trail is exposed
- Rain gear for the same reason as above if rain is forecasted
- Backpack with snacks, packed lunch and water (2litres recommended)
Additional Information:
- There are public toilets available at Dumpton Gap Beach, Broadstairs Victoria Garden, Broadstairs Harbour, Stone Bay Beach, Joss Bay Beach, Botany Bay Beach and Margate Beach
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk
Where to Eat
- Morelli’s Gelato in Broadstairs
- The Mariners Bar in Ramsgate
- The Bus Cafe in Margate
Highlights of the Margate to Ramsgate Walk
- The Viking trail
- Margate
- Broadstairs
- Ramsgate
- 11 beaches and bays
- Kingsgate Castle
2 – Seven Sisters
The Seven Sisters Walk stands as a crowning jewel among England’s coastal treks. Your journey begins in the charming seaside town of Seaford, where you’ll embark on a path that hugs the dramatic edges of the iconic chalk cliffs, stretching all the way to Eastbourne.
The best views come after the hardest climbs
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A sentiment that resonates profoundly with the Seven Sisters’ experience. With each step, you’ll be rewarded with invigorating sea breezes and awe-inspiring panoramas encompassing the vast expanse of the English Channel, the rolling landscapes of the South Downs National Park, and the picturesque coastline. The physical effort demanded by this walk is a small price to pay for the feast of natural beauty that awaits.
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.
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Hiking shoes or boots are recommended due to the ascent and descent.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and head cover as the trail is exposed.
- Rain gear for the same reason as above if rain is forecasted however, it is recommended to do this walk on a sunny day
- Backpack with snacks, packed lunch and water (2litres recommended)
- Hiking poles are advisable.
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
Highlights of the Seven Sisters Walk
- Seaford
- Seaford Beach
- Martello Tower
- Cuckmere Haven
- The Seven Sisters
- William Charles Campell Monument
- National Trust Birling Gap
- Belle Tout Lighthouse
- Beachy Head Lighthouse
- Eastbourne
3 – Hastings to Rye
Embark on a captivating journey starting from the picturesque coastal town of Hastings, renowned for its rich history and scenic beauty. This walk guides you through a diverse tapestry of landscapes, beginning with the ascent to the verdant expanses of Hastings County Park. As you delve deeper, you’ll find yourself enveloped by the tranquillity of forested areas. The path then leads you alongside the striking chalk cliffs, offering breathtaking views that stretch across the English Channel and along the rugged coastline. The final stretch of this walk unfolds along a charming canal towpath, adding a quaint, rustic charm to your adventure. Ideal for a sun-kissed day by the sea, this walk presents a delightful blend of landscapes, each unfolding its unique beauty.
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
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear.
- Sunscreen, sunglasses and head cover as the trail is exposed.
- Rain gear for the same reason as above if rain is forecasted however, this walk is better done on a sunny day.
- Backpack with snacks, a packed lunch and water (2 litres recommended)
- Hiking poles are advisable.
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
Highlights of the Hastings to Rye Walk
- Hastings
- Hastings Country Park
- Ecclesbourne Reservoir
- High Weald
- Fairlight Village
- Pett Level
- Royal Military Canal
- Wickham Manor
- Winchelsea
- Landgate
- Rye
4 – Camber Sand to Rye
We continue our selection of the coastal walks near London with this stroll from Camber Sands to Rye. Forget the Sussex shingle and pebble beaches and swap them for a sandy beach. Take off your walking shoes and dip your feet in the water, stop by the beach restaurant for ice cream, and shake off the sand off your foot before heading to an inland footpath leading to picturesque Rye, where a delicious dinner awaits.
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
What to Pack
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. Aside from the beach part of the walk, the rest is on concrete footpaths so opt for a pair of trainers with cushioning to a pair of hiking shoes which may be hard on the sole of the foot
- Backpack with water and snacks
- Bathing suit and towel if you want to get a dip in the water of the
- Sandals to walk in the sand or the shallow waters on the edge of the beach
- Sunscreen, headcover and sunglasses as this walk is better done on a sunny day
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
Highlights of the Camber Sands to Rye Walk
- Camber Sands beach
- English Channel
- Rye Harbour
- Sheep
- The Landgate Monument, Rye
- Rye
5 – Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door
Embark on a scenic journey from Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door along the Jurassic Coast. This walk offers a glimpse into England’s natural history with stunning rock formations and the iconic Durdle Door arch. Wander through the charming village of West Lulworth and along rugged paths, where the clear water of Lulworth Cove is calling you for a swim. Let’s dive in!
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
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear. You will be going up and down cliffs
- Backpack
- Snacks
- Headcover because it can get windy to the top of the cliffs
- Rain gear if you are going on a rainy day as the path is exposed
- Sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a sunny day for the same reason as above
- Swimwear if you are planning to take a dip
- Hiking poles are advisable
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
Highlights of the Lulworth Cove to Durdle Door Walk
- West Lulworth
- Lulworth Cove
- West Point
- Stair Hole
- Durdle Door
- Lulworth Visitor Centre
6 – Newhaven to Brighton Walk
Let’s stay on the South Coast east for this walk from Newhaven to Brighton via the Brighton Undercliff walk. This route offers a unique blend of serene coastal views and vibrant urban landscapes. As you stroll along the undercliff path, you’ll not cease to be amazed by the tall chalk cliffs protecting the coastline. The journey highlights the diverse appeal of England’s southern shores and vibrant urban scenery.
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
What to pack:
- Rain gear if you are going during stormy weather to enjoy the waves crashing on the Undercliff Walk
- Headcover, sunscreen and sunglasses if you are going on a bright day
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- Backpack
- Snacks
- Packed lunch if you are not planning to stop in a pub for a roast
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
Highlights of the Newhaven to Brighton Walk
- Newhaven
- Peacehaven
- Meridian Monument
- Brighton Undercliff Walk
- Brighton Marina
- Madeira Walk
- Volk Electric Railway
- Brighton Pier
7 – Horsey Beach Walk
We conclude our showcase of the best coastal walks near London with a serene stroll along the unique shores of Horsey Beach, celebrated for its thriving seal colony. Every year, as the calendar turns to November, these majestic seals grace the beach, making it their nurturing ground to give birth. During this special time, the beach transforms into a sanctuary, closed to visitors to protect this delicate natural event, until January. With the arrival of the new year, Horsey Beach reopens to visitors. Here, you can venture down to the shoreline for an up-close encounter with these fascinating marine mammals and their adorable pups, all while respectfully maintaining a safe distance. Horsey Beach offers an unparalleled walk, blending the beauty of the coast with a unique opportunity to connect with nature.
Access the complete walking guide here
Logistics for the Horsey Beach walk
- Distance: 8.9 miles (14.32 km)
- Ascent: 13 ft (4 m)
- Highest Point: 36 ft (11 m)
- Lowest Point: – 3ft (- 1 m)
- Walking Estimate: 3 hours and 30 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
How to get there:
- By car only. There is a car park at Horsey Gap and an overflow car park behind it open during the busy season.
What to pack:
- Comfortable clothing and footwear
- Headcover and scarf/snood because if the wind
- Rain gear if you are going during a downpour
- Sunglasses and headcover if you are going on a bright day
- Water & snacks
- Binoculars to see the seals from afar
Additional Information:
- This is a stile-free walk
- This is a dog-friendly walk but dogs must be kept on a lead
- Public toilets are available at the Horsey Windpump carpark
Where to eat and drink:
- Horsey Windpump, Horsey, Norfolk
Highlights of the Horsey Beach Walk
- Seals and their puppies
- Horsey Windpump
- All Saints Church
- Horsey Methodist Church
Final Thoughts On the Coastal Walks Near London
Do you want more walks by the coast? You can check Kate Humble’s Coastal Walk show to get some more inspiration for your next adventure.
And you, what is your favourite coastal walk? Please let me know in the comments below.
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