Living in Leicester, a city famous for its rich history and cultural diversity, often means having limited access to the calming embrace of the sea. However, the good news is that there are several beautiful beaches within a short drive from the city. If you’re craving the refreshing breeze, golden sands, and the sound of crashing waves, you can make a quick day trip to the coast. The UK’s eastern coastline boasts some of the most charming beaches that cater to families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Day trips to the beach are an excellent way to unwind, especially when you don’t need to travel too far. Whether you’re seeking fun-filled activities or simply want to bask in the natural beauty of the coastline, a beach trip offers something for everyone. From seaside amusements to tranquil spots perfect for relaxation, these beaches near Leicester provide a perfect escape.
In this article, we’ll explore the four closest beaches to Leicester, offering an overview of the distance, major attractions, and tips to make your trip enjoyable.
List of Closest Beaches
Skegness Beach
Distance: Approximately 80 miles (2 hours drive)
Skegness Beach, often considered the quintessential British seaside resort, is a fantastic family-friendly destination. Known for its golden sands and charming seaside atmosphere, Skegness offers a wide range of activities that make it a popular choice for day-trippers from Leicester. Whether you’re looking for amusement arcades or wildlife experiences, Skegness has it all.
Hunstanton Beach
Distance: Approximately 78 miles (1 hour 45 minutes drive)
Located on the beautiful Norfolk coastline, Hunstanton Beach is famous for its unique striped cliffs and sandy beaches. This quaint seaside town is known for its relaxed atmosphere and is a wonderful place to enjoy a peaceful day at the beach. Hunstanton also offers several attractions that make it an ideal destination for families and nature lovers.
Mablethorpe Beach
Distance: Approximately 86 miles (2 hours drive)
Mablethorpe is a hidden gem on the Lincolnshire coast, offering miles of sandy shores, a charming promenade, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Perfect for a day trip, Mablethorpe features arcades, donkey rides, and picturesque sand dunes that will provide a memorable day at the beach for visitors of all ages.
Cleethorpes Beach
Distance: Approximately 90 miles (2 hours drive)
Cleethorpes Beach is one of the most popular seaside destinations on the East Coast of England. With its long sandy beach and scenic views, Cleethorpes provides a wide variety of attractions for beachgoers. Visitors can enjoy a traditional pier, take a ride on the light railway, or explore the nearby parks and gardens.
Highlights and Attractions
Skegness Beach
Skegness is one of the UK’s most iconic seaside destinations, attracting tourists for its fun and family-friendly atmosphere. The beach is lined with traditional amusement arcades, where you can try your luck on classic machines or win some prizes.
Skegness Pier: A must-see in the area, the pier features classic arcade games, fairground rides, and food stalls. It’s the perfect place for a family outing or a stroll by the sea.
Natureland Seal Sanctuary: Located near the beach, this sanctuary focuses on rehabilitating injured seals. It’s an educational and heartwarming experience for animal lovers of all ages.
Skegness Amusement Arcades: For a truly traditional British beach experience, the arcades offer a range of games that will bring out your inner child. Classic penny pushers and 2p machines are a hit with visitors.
Hunstanton Beach
Hunstanton Beach is not only known for its beautiful sandy beaches, but it is also famous for its unique natural features and family-oriented attractions.
Hunstanton Sea Life Sanctuary: A great stop for families, this sanctuary offers an opportunity to learn about marine life through various exhibits, including seals, penguins, and sea turtles.
Hunstanton Seafront Gardens: These beautiful gardens, located right by the beach, provide a perfect spot for a peaceful walk. The colorful flower beds, water features, and green spaces make it a relaxing destination for beachgoers.
Sunset Views: One of the unique features of Hunstanton is its west-facing orientation, providing stunning sunset views over The Wash, making it an ideal spot for photography or simply taking in the natural beauty of the coast.
Mablethorpe Beach
Mablethorpe Beach is a wonderful blend of old-fashioned seaside fun and natural beauty. This beach is quieter than some of the larger resorts, making it a perfect place for those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Donkey Rides: A beloved tradition at Mablethorpe, donkey rides along the beach are a fun and nostalgic activity for children and adults alike.
Arcades: For those looking for some entertainment, the local arcades offer plenty of fun with traditional seaside games.
Sand Dunes: Mablethorpe is home to one of the best sand dune systems along the East Coast, perfect for a scenic walk and a great spot for picnics.
Cleethorpes Beach
Cleethorpes Beach offers a range of activities for those seeking both relaxation and adventure by the sea.
Cleethorpes Pier: The pier is a focal point of the resort, providing spectacular views of the beach and a range of entertainment, including cafes and amusements.
Coastal Light Railway: For a unique experience, visitors can take a ride on the Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway, which provides scenic views along the coast and is a great way to explore the area without walking too far.
Jungle Zoo: A family favorite, the zoo is located near the beach and features a variety of exotic animals, including reptiles, birds, and mammals. It’s a great attraction for young children.
Travel Tips
When planning a beach day trip from Leicester, it’s important to be prepared and make the most of your time. Here are a few tips to help you have a smooth and enjoyable trip:
Best Time to Visit
The summer months (June to August) are the best time to visit for warm weather and beach activities. However, spring and early autumn can also offer milder weather and fewer crowds.
What to Bring
Pack essential beach gear, including sunscreen, a beach towel, swimwear, snacks, and plenty of water. If you plan on staying for the day, consider bringing a picnic or checking out local eateries along the seafront.
Dining Options
Most of these beaches offer a variety of cafes and restaurants serving traditional seaside fare like fish and chips. Skegness, Cleethorpes, and Hunstanton have several excellent dining options along the promenade.
Parking
All four beaches have accessible parking options, but during peak times, it may be best to arrive early to secure a spot.
Personal Experiences and Testimonials
Here’s what some visitors had to say about their trips to these beaches:
Samantha from Leicester says, “I’ve been to Skegness several times, and it never gets old! The pier is so much fun, and my kids love the seal sanctuary. It’s the perfect spot for a family day out.”
James from Loughborough shares, “Hunstanton is just beautiful. The sunset over the water is something you have to see for yourself. Plus, the Sea Life Sanctuary was a highlight for my little ones!”
Emily from Leicester adds, “We decided to visit Mablethorpe for a quieter experience, and we weren’t disappointed. The beach was pristine, and the donkey rides were a lovely touch. We will definitely go back.”
David from Market Harborough says, “Cleethorpes is my favorite for a fun day out. The pier, the zoo, and the light railway make it feel like a proper seaside holiday, even if it’s just for a day.”
Conclusion
Leicester may not be directly on the coast, but a day trip to one of these stunning beaches is easily within reach. Whether you’re seeking a classic British beach experience with arcades and piers, or a more relaxed day by the dunes, there’s something for everyone just a couple of hours away. Pack your bags, hit the road, and enjoy a day by the sea—your perfect coastal escape is just around the corner.
