With many jobs now offering hybrid working, households are no longer tied to a five-day commute. This has opened up new possibilities to live further from the office, taking advantage of lower house prices and an enhanced way of life. Making the switch from living in the city to by the coast is an aspiration for many. The good news is there are plenty of seaside towns commutable to London, giving you the best of both worlds – fresh coastal air and easy access to the capital when you need it.
Why commuting from a seaside town makes sense for hybrid workers
Studies have shown that being near the sea makes you significantly happier; environmental factors such as lower pollution, a higher degree of physical activity, and the restorative impact of being near water combine to produce positive health and mental wellbeing.
With such benefits on offer, no wonder commuters are looking to the coast for their London escape. So let’s take a look at some of the most convenient or affordable seaside commuter towns near London, with details on train journey times, average costs, and the lifestyle you can expect. Whether you’re after a romantic coastal escape that still works for commuting, a family-friendly seaside town within reach of London, or a creative hub with a growing community of remote workers, there’s a coastal spot that could suit your needs.
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Factors to consider when choosing a seaside town near London
When choosing between the best seaside towns near London for commuters, several factors can make a big difference to your new lifestyle. Housing costs and rental prices vary widely between towns, so it’s worth comparing options before deciding. Commute times and train frequency are crucial, especially if you’ll be travelling to London several times a week. Lifestyle and local amenities will also influence your day-to-day, so check out restaurants, schools, gyms and other amenities. Don’t forget to consider the town’s culture and community vibe, whether you prefer a lively arts scene, a quiet village feel, or a mix of both.
Worthing, West Sussex
Worthing is fast becoming the top choice for commuters seeking a less crowded and cheaper alternative to Brighton. Worthing boasts all the trappings of a classic seaside destination, including an Art Deco pier, seven-mile beach and one of the country’s oldest operating cinemas.
What about house prices in Worthing?
The average house price in Worthing is around £400,000, with a mix of Victorian terraces, seaside apartments, and family homes. The average monthly rent in Worthing is £1,250 per month, about £1,000 cheaper than London. However, rent in Worthing is on the rise, increasing about 6% from 2023 to 2024, so don’t leave it too long to make the move!
What’s the commute like from Worthing?
Regular trains into London Victoria in 1 hour 20 minutes.
Best for?
Couples or small families who prefer a quieter, traditional seaside town with wide beaches and a relaxed pace of life.
Leigh-on-Sea, Essex
Leigh-on-Sea, located west of the seaside icon Southend-on-Sea, was recently named among the top ten happiest places to live in Great Britain in a survey by Rightmove. With a picturesque cobbled harbour, a vibrant arts scene and a bustling high street, Leigh’s residents certainly have plenty to smile about.
What about house prices in Leigh-on-Sea?
The average house price in Leigh-on-Sea is approximately £450,000, with a variety of options, from quaint fisherman’s cottages to contemporary family homes. Properties with estuary views are particularly sought after, often commanding a premium. The average rent in Leigh-on-Sea is around £1,500 per month.
What’s the commute like from Leigh-on-Sea?
Direct trains to London Fenchurch Street take just 45 minutes, making Leigh-on-Sea one of the quickest seaside commutes to the capital.
Best for?
Couples and families who love a charming, village-like seaside town with independent shops, seafood restaurants, and a quick, convenient train commute to London.
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Deal, Kent
Deal is an historic town once a hotspot for smugglers! It boasts a wide pebbly beach, a landmark pier with a restaurant at the end, and an award-winning high street. The town has a vibrant cultural scene, hosting an annual arts festival, and a burgeoning array of top eateries.
What about house prices in Deal?
The average house price is approximately £350,000, with Georgian townhouses, cosy cottages, and modern developments available. The cost to rent in Deal is much lower than in London, sitting around an average of £900 per month.
What’s the commute like from Deal?
Direct trains run to London St Pancras is about 1 hour 25 minutes.
Best for?
Couples or those nearing retirement looking for a quieter, historic seaside town with a strong sense of community and scenic coastal walks.
Hastings, East Sussex
Hastings has seen significant investment in recent years and is now attracting a growing band of commuters seeking the coastal lifestyle. The redeveloped pier stands as a symbol of the town’s regeneration, while the narrow passageways, known as twittens, of the Old Town hark back to Hastings’ rich past.
What about house prices in Hastings?
The average house prices in Hastings for the year 2023/24 stood around £300,000, making it one of the most affordable options on this list. You’ll pay a premium however to secure desirable Regency and Victorian properties in popular St Leonards.
What’s the commute like from Hastings?
Trains from Hastings into London Charing Cross take around 1 hour 45 minutes.
Best for?
Couples and families who want a mix of seaside charm, vibrant arts festivals, and a manageable train commute to London.
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Seaford, East Sussex
Quaint Seaford offers a quieter alternative to its neighbours Brighton and Eastbourne, without compromising on amenities. Like many seaside towns, Seaford’s history is awash with smuggling and wrecking. Today it’s a popular coastal escape and a gateway to the stunning Seven Sisters Country Park.
What about house prices in Seaford?
Average house prices in Seaford hover around £400,000. As the smallest destination on this list, property options in Seaford won’t be as plentiful but it’s worth holding out for a property with easy access to the beach!
What’s the commute like from Seaford?
With a change at Lewes, you’ll be in London Victoria in 1 hour 45 minutes.
Best for?
Couples and small families seeking a peaceful, scenic seaside town with cliff-top walks, a relaxed atmosphere, and easy rail access to London.
These are just a few of the options for those seeking to blend the coastal lifestyle with a London commute. Other destinations to consider might include: Folkestone, recently named the best place to live in the south-east; or retro comeback kid Margate. If you’re only commuting once a week or a few times a month then you might even venture further afield and consider towns such as Weymouth in Dorset, or the many attractive towns on the Suffolk coast.
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