1. St Leonards-on-Sea
Famed for how many Londoners moved here during lockdown (it’s even been referred to as Dalston-on-Sea, which is cringe, we’ll admit), St Leonards-On-Sea is a cracking day out from the Big Smoke for beachside drinks and a tonne of great food spots. Head to food market Heist (basically a much nicer version of Boxpark) for orange wine and street food, then sink pints at Goat Ledge, a vibesy, colourful shack right on the beach. If you fancy splashing out a little, book dinner at the fabulously old-school St Clement’s for white tablecloths and delicious seafood. Plus you've got easy access to the rest of Hastings for its Old Town, pier and the Norman castle ruins.
How far? 58 miles
How to get there: A one hour 18 minute train from London Charing Cross