Beaches in the South East
South East England is home to tens of millions of people, with activity centred around London, not only the biggest city in the UK but one of the world’s central hubs.
Amongst the hustle and bustle of the capital, it’s easy to forget that in many cases you’re just a couple of hours’ train or car ride away from some of the most charming coastline in Britain. Traditional towns are dotted along the seaside with beautiful beaches to match. And in the warmest part of the UK, you’re more likely to encounter a day where you can relax without having to wrap up! With several factors in mind, we’ve put together a shortlist of the South East’s best beaches. Stretching from Norfolk down to Sussex, you’re sure to find a sumptuous stretch of sand ideal for a day out or close to an overnight stay with us.
Essex
The area around our Essex holiday park at Orchards is one of the original places people flocked to for an escape from the hustle and bustle. Here are our favourite beaches to head to in Essex, all within easy reaching distance of our holiday parks:
1. Clacton Beach, Clacton-on-Sea
The golden sands of Clacton Beach are home to a magnificent pier filled amusements, attractions and some brilliant adventure golf. Top tip - grab some delicious seafood from Tubby Isaacs! Clacton Beach is a short 15 minute drive away from our holiday park at Orchards.
2. Frinton Beach, Frinton-on-Sea
Further up the illustrious Essex coast is Frinton-on-Sea, a much quieter and quaint offering than Clacton. The town’s beach is brilliant for a stroll whilst you take in the breath of fresh sea air, and the sand itself is spotless with a Blue Flag award recognising its unspoilt beauty. Classic and colourful beach huts add even more character to the surroundings, as does the sleepy promenade.
3. Walton Beach, Walton-on-the-Naze
Walton-on-the-Naze is undoubtedly home to one of the best beaches in the South East. It’s full of things to do, including an undercover amusement complex, a pier full of fun things to do and brilliant spots for fishing. When you’re done with exploring the delights of the coast, head into the town and try the delicious pie and mash from the brilliant Whites shop.
Kent
Kent is known as Garden of England, but we’re out to add the county’s coastal delights to its endless list of reasons to visit. Let’s run through our favourite beaches, that also tally up as some of the best beaches in the South East.
1. Allhallows Beach, Allhallows
Located mere steps away from our Kent Coast holiday park, visitors to this beautiful beach can enjoy magnificent views of the ever-wider Thames Estuary, and wonderful wildlife-filled walking routes.
2. Leysdown Beach, Leysdown, Isle of Sheppey
Jump in the car from Kent Coast holiday park and head for the unique Isle of Sheppey to find Leysdown. The island’s second largest town after Sheerness, Leysdown has attracted many a holidaymaker over the years. It’s easy to see why with the generously-sized sandy beach joined by some great places for fish and chips, all the classic amusements and a place or two for a drink.
3. Margate Main Sands, Margate
Margate may be an hour's drive away from our Kent Coast holiday park, but the effort to get there is more than rewarded by an array of things to do that include the brilliant Dreamland, one of the best traditional theme parks in the UK. The sand itself is wide and expansive, so a day out to Margate isn’t just about getting involved in loads of activities, there is ample opportunity to kick back and relax too. If you are in the mood to be a tourist, there’s adventure golf and Turner Contemporary Art Gallery amongst other places to visit.
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Norfolk
Norfolk has always been one of the UK’s tourism hotspots, and with over 90 miles of coastline to discover, it's easy to see why. Here’s our shortlist that are also some of the best beaches in the South East:
1. Caister Point, Caister-on-Sea
North of Great Yarmouth, this sandy Norfolk paradise, situated next to our Caister holiday park is a brilliant place to relax with all the family, dog included. This is one of Norfolk’s largest sandy stretches and is made all the more brilliant by places like The Centurion and The Smokehouse, which are both great places to eat in the vicinity.
2. Hopton Beach, Hopton
A hop, skip and jump is all it takes to get from our Hopton Holiday Park onto Hopton Beach, one of Norfolk’s best kept secrets and one of the best beaches in the South East. Located close to the county’s border with Suffolk, you can cross this historical boundary on a walk down to Hopton’s neighbour, Corton. A walk in the opposite direction takes you up to the underrated Gorleston-on-Sea, so there are two fantastic strolls from the sand here.
3. Great Yarmouth Beach, Great Yarmouth
There are few greater places for a getaway than Great Yarmouth, this flagship Norfolk seaside town is only a short distance along the coast from our Seashore holiday park. Amusements, attractions and entertainment combine magnificently with the north and south beaches to bring a family friendly day out like no other.
Sussex
Sussex is a coastal county of contrasts. Bustling Brighton lays a strong claim to being Britain’s most lively seaside city, whilst its neighbours are slightly sleepier and a great place to escape to on a holiday with us. Here are our favourite Sussex beaches:
1. St Leonards Beach, St Leonards-on-Sea
Opt to stay at our Combe Haven holiday park and you’ll be a 20-minute walk from St Leonards Beach. Quieter than its close neighbour down the road in Hastings, St Leonards is a shingle beach beautifully backed pretty Victorian houses on the town’s promenade. Stroll another 20-minutes and you’ll reach Hastings Pier, a hub of entertainment that marks the town’s coastal centre.
2. Pagham Beach, Pagham
Pagham is a peaceful town in the west of Sussex, ideal for an escape from the hustle and bustle and home to our Church Farm holiday park. Pagham’s shingle stretch affords magnificent views across the English Channel; keep your eyes peeled for a ship or two. Stroll eastwards or bring your bike for a quick journey to a slice of history. The Aldwick Bay Estate has stood on the south coast and housed the rich, famous and some royalty since 1929.
3. Bognor Regis Beach, Bognor Regis
When many people think of the best beaches in the South East, Bognor Regis often pops up as a suggestion. Its waves are gentle, perfect for swimming and when the tide is at its lowest level, the vast sandy beach is truly a sight to behold. Stroll along the esplanade to find Bognor Pier, host of several places to eat and a great spot for some quality fish and chips.
Start planning your Great British break
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10 of the Best Beaches in Essex
9 of the Best Beaches in Kent
9 of the Best Beaches in Norfolk
10 of the Best Beaches in Sussex
Important information
Brand new holiday homes from £34,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom ABI New Horizon holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 19 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Church Farm, Cala Gran, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seashore, Seaview and Thornwick Bay.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
New holiday homes from £33,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £33,995 and will remain at this price until all available stock is sold.
The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at Berwick, Burnham-on-Sea, Devon Cliffs, Doniford Bay, Hafan y Mor, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Presthaven, Primrose Valley, Reighton Sands, Seton Sands and Weymouth Bay.
Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £14,995 Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024, price is available at Blue Dolphin, Combe Haven, Caister, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Golden Sands, Greenacres, Haggerston Castle, Skegness, The Orchards, Quay West and Wild Duck only until the stock has been sold. Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
New holiday homes from £29,995 – reduced from £33,995
Holiday home price is for a new 3-bedroom Willerby Ellerton Extra holiday and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
From 12 July 2024 the holiday home price is reduced from £37,995 to £29,995 until 31 August 2024 at which point it will revert to £33,995. At Far Grange the holiday home price point is reduced from £33,995 and will revert to this price on 31 August 2024.
The holiday home price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024 this price is available at – Blue Dolphin, Caister-on-Sea, Cleethorpes Beach, Combe Haven, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Greenacres, Haggerston Castle, The Orchards, Quay West, and Wild Duck
Haven reserves the right to withdraw this offer at any time. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995
Holiday home price is based on a Bronze Grade pre-owned holiday home 6 years or older and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2024 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 12 July 2024, price is available at all parks, excluding Cala Gran, Church Farm, Cardigan View, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Kiln Park, Littlesea, Lydstep Beach, Orchards, Penally Court, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Riviere Sands, Seashore, Seaview, Skegness and Thornwick Bay.
Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence.
Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Free 2024 site fees when you buy a Haven holiday home
Offer is applicable to new customer purchases made through Haven from 19 April 2024, completing by 31 December 2024.
Offer excludes part-exchanges or private sales. Available on new & pre-owned holiday homes at the following selected parks only: Kent Coast, Burnham-on-Sea, Cleethorpes Beach, Craig Tara, Far Grange, Golden Sands, Haggerston Castle, Hopton, Orchards, Skegness and Wild Duck.
A credit equivalent to the value of your site fees due during the 2024 season will be applied to your account balance on completion of your purchase for use against your running costs e.g. utilities, after-sale add-ons e.g storage boxes or site fees. It cannot be applied to your purchase or refunded in cash.
Subject to availability and status. Deposit required. Access to your holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Offer cannot be combined with any other offer, discount, or promotion. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time without notice. Full site fees will be payable for subsequent years.
Images are shown for representational purposes.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2031
Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed or equivalent or superior grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. It is available across 40% of eligible Parks and applies when letting a new Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home (or equivalent or superior grade for 15 weeks.
An example of how “Make no site fee payments when using Let2offset until 2031” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of an Atlas Sahara 3 Bed holiday home at Primrose Valley with a monthly site fee of £585.00 (includes purchasing discount of £45) and monthly letting income of £803.67. The monthly difference equates to £218.67, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2024 figures.
Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Atlas Sahara 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.