While summer may not be summer-ing quite the way we’d like, it’s still nice to be outside in relatively warm weather and sunshine. Come what may, a beach trip is always a good idea. Can’t afford the flight abroad? Fear not – there are plenty of stunning beaches near London, perfect for a day trip.
This beach, believe it or not, is only three hours away from the city, stretches for 18-miles, and some even deem it the ‘eighth wonder of the world.’ With water on either side, it is a thin long peninsula that stretches out from the mainland, running along the southern coast of England. Deemed as one of Britain’s most gorgeous natural features and officially the longest beach in the UK, this is Chesil Beach in Dorset.
The beach is part of the Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and is known for its rich history; including its use during World War II for training exercises. This little seaside haven is also home to Fleet Lagoon, one of the few undisturbed natural lagoons in the world, which is a lovely spot for a picnic if you’re seeking some peace and quiet. Full of fish and marine life, this is also a great spot for those like to dabble in a bit of fishing, too. The beach is surrounded by a number of quaint seaside villages with pubs and cafes that offer fabulous locally sourced menus – and seafood, of course!
Adding to the list of reasons why this is a great beach to visit is the fact that you can even bring your dog. Pet-friendly beaches are sadly far and few between, so you can spend a few hours soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the water with your furry pal.
There’s fantastic panoramic views of the coastline from the historic lighthouse located on the south-side of Portland Island – and a castle for those who enjoy a bit of history on the east-side.
Whether it’s a solo trip, a date idea, a day with your kids or furry friends, Chesil Beach is a lovely getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city with plenty to offer for the day – or even a weekend trip.
How do I get to Chesil Beach?
You can drive from London by car which takes around three hours. Alternatively, take the National Express coach which offers services from London Victoria to Weymouth (from which Chesil Beach is a short bus ride away).