London isn’t somewhere you typically think of being close to the seaside, but it’s not as far as you may think. Just 90 minutes from the hustle and bustle of the busy city is the stunning seaside town of Broadstairs, home to not just a couple of sandy beaches and bays, but seven different ones to choose from.

From the rural Botany Bay to the family-friendly attraction at Viking Bay and the surfer’s paradise of Joss Bay, there’s truly a beach for everyone. And it’s not just modern Londoners who love heading out to this stretch of the coast when the heat arrives; author Charles Dickens was also particularly fond of this area. Often renting property named Bleak House, Dickens is believed to have even written a number of his novels in this seaside town.

Located just next to the ever-popular Margate, Broadstairs offers much of the same charm, but without the same heaving crowds.

One recent visitor, who enjoyed some time at Botany Bay, took to TripAdvisor, writing: “What an amazing beach. Beautiful sand. Lovely cliff side walks along the beach, also a cave the kids enjoyed. The perfect place for a family picture or two.

“Well worth a visit. The signal is not good so I’d advise taking some cash if you want to use the cafe for a coffee or ice cream as the card reader kept losing signal. 100% recommended.”

Those looking for something other than beaches can make their way to the Dickens House Museum, The Little Art Gallery, or opt for visiting the Revolution Skatepark or enjoy some mini golfing at Lillyputt Mini Golf.

Perfect for fans of literature, the Dickens House Museum overlooks Viking Bay and tells the story of the iconic author. Visitors should be warned that it’s only open six months of the year, so check opening hours to avoid disappointment.

One recent museum visitor wrote: “Sweet little house in Broadstairs. Strongly recommend listening to one of the (free) guides offering insight.

“There’s not LOADS to see – but for a very small sum (£4) you get a real feel for Dickens in Kent. A nice additional view – similar feel to the Dickens museum in London, but so lucky to hear our informative guide. Lovely little shop too!”

Art fans can enjoy the Little Art Gallery, which houses over 300 original paintings, prints, and handmade crafts by local artists in its small space.

One resident of Broadstairs sung the praises of this gallery, writing: “This is a really interesting small art gallery where we have bought a few pictures for our new home in Broadstairs. The prices are acceptable, and the standard good. Would recommend.”