Beaches and Bays of Kent

When the sun shines in the UK, you absolutely must 'make hay while the sun shines'.

I jumped on an early train from St Pancras and 1.5 hours later, I arrived in Broadstairs to be greeted with azure skies, sandy beaches and breathtaking vistas all around.

I decided to make the 3 mile/5km journey from Broadstairs to Botany Bay on foot, which took me over an hour as I kept getting distracted by the beautiful scenery.

Beautiful coastal walk especially on a hot summer day like this.

This part of the Kent coast boasts the longest stretch of chalk cliffs in Britain, with Botany Bay Beach the most northerly of the 7 Broadstairs bays in Kent. 200m stretch of golden sand with white cliffs and rocks dominating the beach. 

Great spot for fossil hunting when the tide is out. Family friendly beach with kiosks, food and ice cream bars and a lifeguard during summer season.

Heaving with people, I knew it wasn't for me so decided to move on to the next bay.

5 minutes away was Kingsgate Bay, a great beach for those who like to get away from it all as it is much quieter than the neighbouring Botany Bay or Joss Bay beach.

Its sea caves are reputedly some of the best in the country. 

Perfect place to kick back beside the sea beneath the towering white cliffs, breath in the sea air and doze off.

Just above the beach at the cliff top is a family friendly pub with great views over the bay, great (and the only) place for lunch.

I managed only half of this monster.

Lovely dog friendly beach. 

Tip: Go early when tide is out to walk around to Botany Bay and back, just remember the tide so you don't get stuck!

The Kingsgate Castle dominating the cliff is actually a private residence.

After couple of hours of pure relaxation, I set off to make my way back to Broadstairs.

North Foreland Lighthouse lies high above the town of Broadstairs. A light was first exhibited at North Foreland in 1499, but the first real lighthouse was built in 1636. Lodesman Cottage is one of two holiday cottages available at the lighthouse.

I reached Broadstairs, a picturesque seaside town to check out its most popular beach, Viking Bay. 

This horse shoe shaped bay is one of the busiest in Broadstairs offering endless choice of restaurants, beachside cafes, shops and entertainment. 

Overlooking the harbour is Bleak House where Charles Dickens wrote David Copperfield.

Wonderful mini summer 'holiday' just a short train ride from London that felt like a thousand miles away from home.