Best Day Trip from London: Broadstairs

Escape the clamor of the city and immerse yourself in the splendor of the English coast with a jaunt to Broadstairs–a quintessential seaside town mere hours away from the urban bustle of London. With its timeless coastal features and laid-back atmosphere, Broadstairs calls to the weary Londoner in pursuit of a day's rest. Whether you're a tourist (like me!) or a native, Broadstairs is a must-visit destination for those seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.

How to Get to Broadstairs from London

By Train

The most convenient and arguably the most scenic route to Broadstairs from London is via train. I opted for this mode of transportation for my outbound trip, enjoying the views of the English countryside as we sped towards the coast. Departing from London's Victoria Station, the train ride took approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, a perfect amount of time to soak in the vistas or catch up on some reading.

By Bus

For the return journey, I decided to take the bus back to London, driven by curiosity and a desire to save some money. The bus ride was just slightly longer than the train, taking around 2 to 2.5 hours, but the difference in cost was significant enough to make it preferable.

Despite the extra time, the comfort and affordability of the bus ride made it the clear winner in my book. Not to mention, it offered a different perspective of the English landscape, winding through towns and countryside not seen from the train tracks.

I book both my train and bus tickets via Omio. This isn't sponsored – I just have genuinely always had good experiences with Omio throughout my European travels.

What to Do in Broadstairs

Explore the Dickens House Museum

As a bit of a literature nerd, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to visit the Dickens House Museum. Housed in the cottage that inspired Betsey Trotwood's home in David Copperfield, it's a fascinating glimpse into Charles Dickens's life and his connection to Broadstairs. The museum is filled with memorabilia and information about the author's life and works. It was a highlight of my trip, providing a tangible link to England's literary heritage.

Visit Viking Bay

Viking Bay is the crown jewel of Broadstairs' beaches. With its horseshoe-shaped bay, golden sand, and striking chalk cliffs, it’s the perfect spot for a day under the sun.

You can spend hours lounging on the beach, dipping your toes in the brisk English Channel, and marveling at the picturesque scenery. My favorite part was seeing all the stunning personal sheds against the cliffs that locals decorated into almost beachside tiny homes.

Stroll Through the Town

Broadstairs may be small, but it's bursting with character. I loved wandering through the narrow streets, admiring the quaint shops and historic buildings. There's a palpable sense of community here, with friendly locals always ready with a smile or a recommendation. Be sure to stop by the local artists' market if you’re there on a Wednesday; I picked up some adorable wooden earrings that I wear all of the time!

Enjoy the Local Cuisine

No visit to Broadstairs would be complete without indulging in the local cuisine. From fresh seafood to traditional English fare, the restaurants here cater to all tastes. I'm not a seafood girlie, but my pal had some excellent fish and chips at a little hole-in-the-wall place near the beach.

How Long Do You Need in Broadstairs?

If you're a history buff, literature lover, or simply looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, I highly recommend spending at least 2-3 days in Broadstairs. It's the perfect amount of time to soak up the relaxed atmosphere and explore all that this charming town has to offer.

But even if you only have a day to spare, it's worth making the trip to Broadstairs. You can easily spend a full day strolling along the beach, visiting the historic sites and enjoying a delicious meal before heading back to your base.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely fell in love with Broadstairs and highly recommend adding it to your itinerary when planning a trip to London. Its unique blend of history, literature, and seaside charm make it a must-visit destination.

From the bustling summer months to the quieter winter season, there's never a bad time to visit this gem on the Kent coast. Though small in size, this town packs a big punch when it comes to charm and character.