During a recent UK heatwave when temperatures soared to 37°C, a golden sandy beach an hour from London remained surprisingly uncrowded. Sunny Sands in Folkestone offered calm waters, ample space, and a tranquil atmosphere even as the capital sweltered.
An impromptu escape from the heat
Like many Londoners without air conditioning, Shania King-Soyza and her mother sought relief from the intense heat. Instead of heading to popular spots like Brighton or Bournemouth, they chose Folkestone for a spontaneous weekday outing. The decision paid off: despite the heatwave, the beach was scarcely crowded, with some areas feeling virtually deserted.
King-Soyza noted that her visit took place on a Thursday evening around 5 pm, after school and work hours, yet the beach remained wonderfully spacious and tranquil. She described the experience as serene and spiritual, recalling a previous winter visit when she sat on a brick wall watching icy-blue waves lap the shore.
Sunny Sands: a rare golden stretch
Sunny Sands Beach is Folkestone's most celebrated coastline, prized for its rare expanse of golden sand along Kent's predominantly pebbled shoreline. Nestled beside the harbour, it offers a classic British seaside experience with safe bathing, family-friendly amenities, and easy access to the town centre.
During a winter visit, King-Soyza spotted well-behaved dogs roaming freely, but on her recent trip, no dogs were present. According to Cotswolds Outdoor, between May 1 and September 30, dogs are not permitted on Sunny Sands Beach between 10 am and 8 pm. However, they are welcome on other parts of Folkestone Beach year-round if kept under control.
A variety of beaches to explore
Folkestone boasts an impressive array of beaches. Immediately east of Sunny Sands lies the main beach, a lengthy pebble shoreline popular for coastal walks and wave watching. Adjacent is Lower Leas Coastal Park, the largest free adventure play area in the South East. Public art installations dot the area, offering sweeping views across the English Channel.
Further along the shoreline is Mermaid Beach, set against clifftops and known for its pristine waters, providing a more tranquil setting than central spots. Sandgate Beach, a laid-back pebble beach, is perfect for dog walks and enjoying sunsets over the Channel.
Getting there
Reaching Folkestone Beach is straightforward via road or rail. By car, the M20 provides direct access, with the journey from London taking approximately two hours. By train, Folkestone Central offers frequent high-speed services from London St Pancras in roughly one hour, followed by a 20-minute walk or a short bus or taxi ride to the seafront.
