When summer comes round, we’re all looking for the most secret beaches in London at one point or another.
Almost every season is difficult to handle in London, which means that as soon as the sun can be trusted, fleeing to some hidden beaches near London seems like an amazing idea.
Especially if it’s really hot as it tends to be, so much so that even visiting shops on Oxford Street doesn’t seem appealing at all anymore!
The Secret Beaches in London Where You Can Relax & Reset
Later on, I’ll write about the best hidden lakes in London, but for now, we want sun, sand, and water!
London is not the most famous city when it comes to beaches – there are more beautiful beaches near Rome than London.
However, there are still some spots where you can swim outdoors or just enjoy the quietness of a water point.
Discover them all now!
Secret Beaches in London: Folly House Beach
Folly House Beach is not that much of a secret beach, being that it’s located on Southbank close to London Bridge.
However, if you’re looking for free views in London, one of my favorite things to do is to sit by the water. You can find plenty of peaceful spots along the Thames or tucked away near charming canals to relax and soak in the scenery. While exploring, don’t miss out on discovering Spitalfields East London attractions, where you can enjoy a mix of history, culture, and bustling markets. Whether you’re admiring the skyline or indulging in people-watching, these hidden gems offer a wonderful way to experience London without spending a penny.
The water could be clearer, but after shopping and eating in cafes in London Bridge, Folly House Beach is a great spot to relax.
Read: The Most Colorful Streets in Notting Hill
Secret Beaches in London: Neverland London
Neverland London and Fulham Beach aren’t located too far from each other, and Neverland is one of the places you’ll want to visit in London this summer.
No water or pool to swim there, but Neverland makes up for with with liters of sand to feel under your feet.
Great spot to visit if you’re looking to hang out with friends in London and relax at weekends!
Read: The Most Colorful Streets in Camden Town
Secret Beaches in London: Ratcliff Beach
Ratcliff Beach is another one of the hidden beaches in London you’ll find in Limehouse.
I’ll actually mention another spot to see the water in London later in this guide, and while you can’t swim at Ratcliff Beach, it’s amazing to see the sunset in London.
Closeby, you have all the rooftop restaurants in Canary Wharf and the Crossrail Place Roof Garden.
It’s one of the most secret gardens in London and definitely deserves a visit too!
Read: The Best Halal Restaurants in Soho
Secret Beaches in London: Ruislip Lido Beach
Ruislip Lido Beach is one of the best secret beaches in London in that you actually have the feeling you’re at the beach.
Swimming is not permitted because of the danger of the changes in temperature and depth, but if you’re looking to hang out with nature around you, it’s a great spot.
Especially since it’s located at the end of a Tube line, making it easy to access!
Read: The Most Colorful Places in London
Hidden Beaches in London: Bermondsey Beach
Bermondsey is one of my favorite neighborhoods in London; trendy, with lots of cute coffee shops and beautiful Italian restaurants.
Bermondsey Beach is another one of the secret beaches in London that tickle the Thames, which means it’s very central.
Perfect to enjoy the sunset here before heading off to do more exciting things at night!
Read: The Prettiest Mews in London
Secret Beaches in London: Wapping Beach
Wapping Beach is another one of the secret beaches in London located close to the center, since it’s located in East London.
Very much of a hidden gem, Wapping Beach is accessed by tiny secret stairs.
Again, if you’re looking for places to swim outdoors in London, Wapping Beach won’t be the one, but a perfect romantic date idea when it’s sunny.
Read: The Prettiest Neighborhoods in London
Secret Beaches in London: Rotherhithe Beach
Rotherhithe in South East London also offers a cute secret beach, with rocks and sand mixed.
You have a beautiful view of the Shard and one of the most relaxing beaches in London.
Swimming is not permitted, but late night conversations on Rotherhithe Beach still seems like a cool thing to do in London at night.
Read: The Prettiest Streets in London
Secret Beaches in London: Serpentine Lido
The Serpentine Lido is one of the most central places to swim outdoors in London since it’s located right in the heart of Hyde Park!
Come rain or shine, it’s completely possible to swim at the Serpentine Lido – the perfect way to wake up and spend glamorous summer days!
The price is pretty affordable too; £7 for a full day only and you can book directly online.
Also, it might not be a free rooftop but it just might be one of the best places to see views of London!
Read: The Best Hidden Gems in London
Secret Beaches in London: Love Open Water at London Royal Docks
There are a couple of Love Open Water in London, including at the Royal Docks and Canary Wharf.
Outdoors swimming is the perfect way to relax, and if you’re looking for cheap things to do in London during the summer, the entry fee is only £9.
Make sure you come with your swimsuit already on as there aren’t many spots to change.
Also, if you’re already a seasoned swimmer, there are often free events at Love Open Water to swim with other people and who knows, make new friends in London!
Read: The Best Breakfast in Notting Hill
Hidden Beaches in London: Limehouse Basin
Limehouse Basin is one of my favorite places to see the water in London – it’s basically a mini port with lots of tiny boats.
It’s located between Mile End and Canary Wharf, and definitely one of the most romantic places in London if you know your other half loves water and secret places.
Read: The Best Brunch in King’s Cross
Hidden Beaches near London
Hidden Beaches near London: Bothany Bay
Bothany Bay, close to Margate in Kent, is another one of the most secret beaches near London – and a beautiful one at that!
Where London offers beaches with rocks, Bothany Bay offers us beautiful, smooth sand to sit on.
There are also lots of cute things to do in Margate if you’re tired of swimming!
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Secret Beaches in London: Bell Wharf Beach Southend on Sea
Southend on Sea is one of the best day trips from London you could embark on; it was one of my first when I moved to London.
Close to Southend on Sea, you’ll find Leigh on Sea, which also offers some astonishing views at sunset.
You can reach it in less than an hour from London, like Brighton – take the train at Fenchurch Street station, and you’ll be able to reach this secret beach.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in Brick Lane
Secret Beaches in London: Amity Beach Thorpe Park Resort
Amity Beach is not a beach per se; rather, it’s one of the closest water parks near London.
It’s perfect if you’re looking for things to do in London with kids, with your partner or just solo.
The ticket costs £32 online, half of what you would pay on the day when arriving at Thorpe Park.
Read: The Best Cafes to Work in Shoreditch
The Secret Beaches in London Where You Can Relax & Reset
There you have them, all the most secret beaches in London to observe nature, hidden places to swim outdoors in London and a couple of beaches not too far!
Hopefully, you’ll have found here all you need to fix your cravings for beautiful sunsets in London and places to swim for free!
Until next time!
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