With the next bank holiday just round the corner and we’re beginning to think about going further a field – thoughts of day trips spring to mind and if the weather starts to behave, the beach has to be one of our favourite destinations. So here’s around up of our favourite spots that are also not too far from Surrey…
Camber Sands beach in East Sussex, in the village of Camber, UK. The 3 miles stretch is the only sand dune beach in East Sussex.
Camber Sands, East Sussex
As recommended by Andrew Stanyard, Associate Director, Reigate
Camber Sands is a truly gorgeous stretch of golden beach and sand dunes. At nearly 5 miles long, there will always be somewhere to lay your beach towel. The best section of beach is the western end, near where the River Rother empties into the sea. Here it is wall to wall sand, whilst further along the beach it becomes more shingly.
It’s a popular windsurfing / kite-surfing spot which might suggest it is worth packing a windbreak! Despite its fantastic natural assets, Camber Sands remains largely unspoilt. For the larger part of the year, there is a good chance of finding some solitude here and even in the height of summer the crowds are bearable.
Dog friendly? – Dogs are allowed all year but between May and September they must be on a lead and restricted between beach Zones F & H.
Travel time – Approx 1hr 30mins from RH2
The sand dunes at West Wittering beach, West Sussex, UK
West Wittering, West Sussex
As recommended by Michelle Cheshire, Lettings Manager, Oxted
A firm favourite with most of the office is the beautiful beach at West Wittering. Unfortunately, it is also a firm favourite with most of the south-east so make sure you set off early to avoid the traffic.
Offering wonderful views of Chichester Harbour and the South Downs beyond, the natural and unspoilt sandy beach of West Wittering is the perfect spot for a day at the beach. The extensive acres of neatly mown grass close to the beach are perfect for parking and picnics. The sea is popular with wind and kite surfers, while shallow lagoons are left on extensive sandy flats at low tide. The whole area is internationally recognised for its wildlife, birds and unique beauty.
Dog friendly? Bins are provided and dog free zones are in place from May to September.
Travel time – Approx 1hr 30mins from RH2
Climbing Beach, West Sussex
As recommended by Emma West, Manager, Reigate
Climping beach is a lot quieter than its grander neighbour – The Witterings. It is also more rurally located about halfway between Littlehampton and Bognor. Like many of the beaches along this stretch of the Sussex coast, it is made up of shingle and pebbles held in place by a series of wooden groynes and as the tide goes out, a vast expanse of sand is exposed. The beach is backed by low sand dunes and fields. Much of this area is now protected, being designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). There are few facilities on the beach, so be prepared with a well stocked picnic, but just behind the beach is Bailiffs Court, the boutique hotel and spa, which would make a lovely overnight stay (when restrictions allow).
Dog friendly? Yep!
Travel time – About 1hr 10 from RH2
Viking Bay Broadstairs
Broadstairs, Kent
As recommended by Charlotte Simons, Marketing, Reigate
On the East Coast of Kent Broadstairs is a gem a town, full of seaside charm mixed with seaside chic and it boasts an impressive seven sand-filled beaches and bays. Head to Joss Bay to learn to surf, or rural Botany Bay to saunter amid towering chalk stacks. At the town’s main beach, Viking Bay, discover children’s rides, beach huts, Kent Surf School, a harbour and cliff-top promenade. Check out Morellis, the retro ice cream parlour along the promenade which has been open since 1932.
Dog friendly? During the summer months there are time restrictions on most of the beaches between 10am-6pm
Travel time – About 1hr 30 from RH2
Whitstable, Kent
As recommended by Andy Wilkins, Branch Manager, Oxted
The chic seaside town of Whitstable, on the North Kent Coast, has been a longtime favourite location for Londoners to get away from it all. The beach itself is a long stretch of shingle divided up by wooden groynes. It runs from just south of the town’s harbour to neighbouring Seasalter -a distance of around a mile, where you will find the The Sportsman, the well renowned and Michelin starred pub.
Despite the lack of sand Whitstable is still a fantastic spot. It represents the best of the traditional British seaside; not piers and donkey rides, but quirkiness and charm. There are beach huts, weatherboard cottages, fishing boats pulled up on the beach and the Neptune pub sits practically on the beach. There are a few other places to grab a bite to eat along the beach too, including the Whitstable Oyster Company restaurant if you fancy something a little upmarket.
Whitstable beach is popular for windsurfing and sailing, with the Whitstable Yacht Club located at the northern end.
To top this all off Whitstable beach faces west meaning it is a great place to catch a sunset.
Dog friendly? Yep!
Travel time – About 1hr 30 from RH2
Ferring, West Sussex
As recommended by Jordon Gladman, Assistant Manager, Lingfield
There is one very good reason to go to the pebbly beach at Ferring, just west of Worthing and that is the Bluebird Cafe which sits right on the beach and has built up quite a reputation for itself. It makes an ideal spot for an early morning stroll. Pooches are allowed on the beach, and then a slap up brunch at the cafe.
Dog friendly? Yes!
Travel time – Approx 1 hr from RH2