As spring unfolds, Londoners crave coastal getaways beyond typical spots like Brighton or Bournemouth. Folkestone in Kent delivers with five distinct beaches and a swift 58-minute train ride from the capital.

Five Beaches to Discover

Folkestone boasts four beaches within and near the town—Folkestone Beach (also known as Outer Harbour Beach), Sunny Sands, Mermaid Beach, and The Warren—plus Sandgate Beach in the adjacent village.

Visitors on review sites praise the area as a ‘true gem,’ ‘enchanting,’ ‘the best,’ ‘peaceful,’ and ‘picturesque.’

Sunny Sands: The Sandy Haven

Sunny Sands stands out as the town’s sole sandy beach, drawing crowds especially in peak summer. Plan accordingly for busier times.

Mermaid Beach: Quirky Swimming Spot

Mermaid Beach earns its name from rock formations resembling a mermaid’s tail, which serve as sea defenses. Local resident Katie Boyden favors it for swimming, noting, ‘The shape of the rocks means it’s a bit sheltered and you don’t get affected by the tide/current as much.’

Folkestone Beach: Less Crowded Option

Adjacent to the south pier of Folkestone Harbour, this beach offers a quieter vibe amid an industrial setting. A boardwalk of recycled railway sleepers eases shingle walks.

The Warren: Natural Beauty

Nestled by The Warren Country Park, this beach features dramatic cliffs ideal for fossil hunting and rock pooling.

Sandgate Beach: Village Charm

Sandgate provides scenic views near the village high street, perfect for relaxation or swims. Note that in May 2025, officials warned of sewage pollution, so check updates before visiting.

Activities Beyond the Beaches

Explore Sandgate’s main road for pubs, tap rooms, wine bars, cafes, and indie shops. In Folkestone, Steep Street shines with exceptional cakes and coffee.

Stroll the Harbour Arm and Old High Street, lined with independent businesses, bars, and eateries. Kingsnorth Gardens suits picnics. A 10-mile coastal path to Dover reveals Channel views, White Cliffs, and the White Horse hill carving.

Travel from London

High-speed trains from St Pancras reach Folkestone West in 56 minutes or Central in 58 minutes. Slower services from Charing Cross, St Pancras, or Cannon Street take about 90 minutes and cost less.

Opt for Folkestone Central for tourists. Katie Boyden advises, ‘Central is the best for visitors, as Folkestone West is mainly for commuters.’ Expect a 5-10 minute walk to the high street and 25 minutes to beaches via a zig-zag cliff path.