St. Mildred's Bay Beach

The shingle beach at St. Mildred's Bay spreads out wide and surprisingly sheltered, backed by low cliffs that catch the afternoon sun. It's the sort of place where you can actually find space to yourself even in summer, which is rare along this stretch of Kent coast. The beach itself is proper stony - bring water shoes or resign yourself to sore feet - but the reward is clear water and rock pools to root through when the tide's out.

Walkers get the most from this spot. The coastal path runs alongside, connecting St. Mildred's to neighbouring beaches with minimal faffing about. It's accessible enough for families with young kids, though there's not a great deal in the way of facilities - no beach huts, no cafes, just the sea and the shingle. That's either the point or a problem depending on your stance. Bring a packed lunch from Birchington and you're sorted.

The cliffs aren't dramatic, but they're pleasant enough, and the whole bay has that quiet, slightly overlooked quality that makes it feel like a proper find. Perfect for a morning walk or an afternoon when the wind's off the land. If you're based at Dog & Duck Leisure Park nearby, this is genuinely worth the short drive - far quieter than the busier Thanet beaches. Allow a couple of hours for a decent browse and paddle, or simply pass through as part of a longer coastal walk.