Greater London, England, United Kingdom

Bromley Beaches

Overview

Bromley, located in South East London, isn't a coastal town itself, so you won't find beaches within the borough. However, it serves as an excellent starting point for exploring the diverse coastlines of Kent and Sussex. Reaching the seaside is straightforward, with many popular beach destinations just a train ride or drive away, making day trips easy for residents and visitors.

The nearby coasts offer a fantastic variety of beach experiences. For vast sandy shores and impressive dunes, head to Camber Sands Beach. If you prefer a classic seaside town atmosphere with traditional fun, Margate Main Sands is a great choice. Experience Britain's iconic seaside resort vibe at Brighton Beach, famous for its lively pier. Or, for dramatic scenery, the stunning chalk cliffs and stacks at Botany Bay Beach are unforgettable. You'll find both sandy stretches and classic pebble beaches within easy reach.

Beyond these highlights, many other beaches await discovery. Destinations like Broadstairs offer charming sandy bays often popular with families. Whether you seek bustling resorts or quieter spots, our full guide details many more options along the Kent and Sussex coasts accessible from Bromley.

FAQ

People Also Ask

Is Bromley itself a beach holiday destination?

No, Bromley is an inland borough in South East London and does not have its own coastline or beaches. People living in or visiting Bromley typically travel to the coasts of Kent or Sussex for beach trips.

What are the closest beaches to Bromley?

The nearest beaches are along the Kent and Sussex coasts. Popular options easily reachable from Bromley include Brighton, Whitstable, Camber Sands, Margate, Broadstairs, and Hastings. Travel times vary depending on the specific beach and mode of transport.

How long does it take to get to the coast from Bromley?

Travel time varies. By train, you can reach destinations like Brighton or Whitstable in approximately 1 to 1.5 hours from Bromley South. Driving times can be similar but are more dependent on traffic conditions, especially during peak season.

Can you get to beaches near Bromley by train?

Yes, many popular coastal towns in Kent and Sussex are accessible by train from Bromley South, often with direct services or one change. Brighton, Whitstable, Margate, and Hastings are examples of beaches reachable by rail.

Are there any sandy beaches near Bromley?

Yes, while many beaches on the nearest coastlines (like Brighton and Whitstable) are predominantly pebble, there are sandy options. Camber Sands in East Sussex is famous for its extensive sand dunes, and beaches like Margate and Broadstairs in Kent also offer large sandy areas.

Where can I swim outdoors in or very near Bromley?

While Bromley doesn't have coastal beaches, Beckenham Place Park, located nearby, features a purpose-built wild swimming lake. There are also several lidos and leisure centres with outdoor pools in South East London and surrounding areas accessible from Bromley.

Which beach near Bromley is best for families?

Several nearby beaches are family-friendly. Broadstairs in Kent is often recommended for its sandy bay, traditional seaside feel, and children's activities. Margate also offers sandy beaches and family attractions like Dreamland. Camber Sands is great for space and sandcastles, but check tide times.

Is Brighton a good day trip from Bromley?

Yes, Brighton is a very popular day trip destination from Bromley. It's relatively easy to reach by train (around an hour from Bromley South) and offers a famous pier, pebble beach, vibrant atmosphere, shops, and restaurants.

What's Whitstable like compared to Brighton for a day trip?

Whitstable offers a different vibe compared to Brighton. It's smaller, known for its oysters, charming harbour, pebble beach, and independent shops, offering a more relaxed, traditional seaside town feel. Brighton is larger, busier, and has more nightlife and entertainment options.

Are the beaches near Bromley good for swimming?

Swimming suitability varies. Many beaches along the Kent and Sussex coasts have designated bathing areas, but water temperatures in the UK are cool, even in summer. Check local information for water quality (many beaches have Blue Flag awards) and safety advice, including tide times and lifeguard patrols.

Do I need a car to visit beaches near Bromley?

A car isn't essential, as many popular beaches like Brighton, Whitstable, and Margate are well-connected by train from Bromley. However, a car can offer more flexibility, especially for visiting more remote beaches like Camber Sands or exploring multiple spots along the coast.

Are there any quieter, less crowded beaches near Bromley?

Yes, while popular spots get busy, you can find quieter stretches. Consider exploring beaches further along the Kent coast beyond the main towns, such as Botany Bay near Broadstairs for its chalk stacks, or parts of the Sussex coast away from Brighton's main pier area. Smaller towns like Deal or Sandwich in Kent might also offer a more relaxed experience.

Are dogs allowed on beaches near Bromley?

Dog restrictions vary significantly by beach and time of year. Many beaches have restrictions, especially during the peak summer months (typically May to September), where dogs might be banned from main sections or required to be on a lead. Always check the local council website for the specific beach you plan to visit before travelling with your dog.

Our selection of beaches to do the things you love

Beaches for Every Taste

Local gems for everyone

Explore More Local Beaches

The fastest way to find the best Bromley Beaches

Bromley Beaches Map

Plan your day with the latest beach weather conditions

Bromley: Weather Today

📅 Monday, June 9, 2025
It's an average beach day in Bromley. The maximum air temperature will be 18.9 °C. Expect a fair amount of cloud cover. There's a small chance of rain, but it should be dry for the most part. The wind might be a bit strong at times. The UV index will reach 5.3.
🌬️

Air

Low / High9.8°C/18.9°C
Feels Like (High)16.9°C
🌧️

Rain

Rain Chance8%
Rainfall0 mm
Rain Duration0 h
🌞

Sun

Sunrise / Sunset04:44/21:14
Sunshine Hours13.5 hrs
UV Index5.3
Cloud Cover57%
💨

Wind

Speed17.3 km/h
Gusts36.7 km/h
DirectionSW

Find your perfect beach with our expertly crafted lists

Lists

More Beaches Nearby

Explore More

United Kingdom
United Kingdom Beaches
England
England Beaches
Greater London
Greater London Beaches