Charming Seaside Town Just 90 Minutes from London Boasts ‘Best Beach in the UK’ as House Prices Surge by £130K

Recent statistics indicate a notable decline in London’s population, with over 400,000 residents relocating to pursue a different lifestyle across various regions of the UK. This trend is mirrored by a significant surge in property values in coastal towns that are easily accessible from the capital. The South East has emerged as the most expensive area for properties boasting sea views, with average asking prices now reaching £416,375, as reported by Rightmove.

Broadstairs: A Growing Seaside Favourite

Among the most sought-after locales is Broadstairs, located on the picturesque Kent coast. This charming town ranks third in the UK for the highest sea view premium, with buyers typically paying an additional £128,943 for the privilege of ocean vistas. The average asking price for properties in Broadstairs has skyrocketed from £399,337 in 2019 to an impressive £528,280 in 2026. Just 90 minutes from South East London, Broadstairs is renowned for having “one of the best beaches in the UK,” making it a desirable destination for both residents and tourists.

The seaside town is experiencing a renaissance, with a vibrant array of independent bars, cafes, and restaurants flourishing amid the stunning backdrop of the Thanet coastline. Its pristine beaches are ideal for surfing, leisurely dog walks, or romantic strolls along the shore. Social media has played a significant role in promoting Broadstairs, with many users extolling the beauty of its beaches. One TikTok video recently highlighted the town, declaring it home to “one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK,” which quickly garnered numerous likes and shares.

Attractions and Activities Along the Coast

Broadstairs offers an abundance of attractions, appealing to families and visitors alike. From relaxing at Viking Bay to indulging in Morelli’s Gelato or exploring the Dickens House Museum, there is something for everyone. The town features seven sandy beaches and bays, stretching roughly 4.5 miles along the coastline. Viking Bay stands out as Broadstairs’ premier attraction, described by one Tripadvisor reviewer as “a crescent of golden sand lined with colourful beach huts and rock pools,” making it a perfect spot for surfing, with lifeguards on duty and ample amenities available.

Viking Bay’s horseshoe-shaped sandy shore is characterised by its vibrant beach huts, donkey rides, and a surf school. Enthusiasts can take surfing lessons or rent paddleboards from Kent Surf School, available from March to October. Families will also appreciate the Kiddie’s Corner, featuring a charming vintage roundabout, swing boats, and a bouncy castle. For those interested in marine life, the tidal pool offers a perfect setting for exploration. Meanwhile, Botany Bay provides a quieter experience, known for fossil hunting, rock pooling, and various water sports opportunities.

Convenient Access and Travel Options

For those wishing to explore the area, coastal walks are highly recommended, as they allow visitors to stroll along the sandy shores towards the neighbouring Joss Bay, a dramatic cove framed by the impressive Kingsgate Castle, which has since been converted into flats. Dumpton Gap, with its towering chalk cliffs, is also a favourite for dog owners, while the nearby Louisa Bay offers a picturesque setting for serene sunlit walks. Alternatively, an enchanting clifftop path forms part of the Viking Coastal Trail, inviting walkers to take in breathtaking views.

For those looking for more active pursuits, the Revolution Skatepark and Climbing Centre provides a variety of high-octane sports facilities, while the Crampton Tower Museum is a treasure trove for model railway enthusiasts. Broadstairs is conveniently located 72 miles from South East London, with a driving time of approximately one hour and 30 minutes along clear routes such as the M20 and M2 or the A2 and M2. However, the train is often the preferred mode of transport, with services from London Victoria taking about one hour and 47 minutes, and one-way tickets available from £13.20.

Shifts in Property Demand and Values

In the year leading up to mid-2025, approximately 420,500 individuals left London in favour of other regions in Britain, as per the Office for National Statistics (ONS). Concurrently, Rightmove has reported a remarkable increase in the value of properties with sea views across Britain, which have risen by over 25 per cent since 2019. The average asking price for a sea view property in the UK has escalated to £298,810, a significant increase from £235,635 in 2019, thus exceeding the national average property price rise of 22 per cent during the same period.

West Mersea in Essex recorded the highest sea view premium, with an average asking price of £655,479, surpassing the area’s average coastal property value of £433,185. Another attractive location in Essex, Frinton-on-Sea, has seen a 36% increase in asking prices for sea view properties compared to the average coastal value. In Broadstairs, Kent, buyers are paying an average premium of £128,943 for sea views, while those in Littlehampton, West Sussex, pay £120,696 more on average.

Insights from Property Experts

Colleen Babcock, a property expert from Rightmove, commented on the growing desirability of sea views, stating that they have long been regarded as one of the most sought-after features in a home. Her analysis reveals that buyers are willing to pay a significant premium for such properties. While prestigious coastal locations maintain higher price points, the rise in more affordable seaside areas suggests that homes with sea views are becoming increasingly valuable across a broader segment of the market. Babcock emphasises the need for buyers to consider not just the property itself, but also the lifestyle and environment that accompany it.