Whitstable Beach

The pebble beach at Whitstable stretches for miles, grey-brown stones running down to a murky Channel that's far from Mediterranean blue. It's the real thing though - working fishing boats still operate from here, and the smell of salt and seaweed hangs thick in the air. You'll see locals actually using the water, not just posing for photos.

The seafront itself has evolved into something worth lingering for. There's a proper high street behind the beach with decent independent shops, fish and chip places (Wheelers is famous but can be rammed), and coffee spots where people actually sit around properly. Walk the length of the beach and you get views across to the Isle of Sheppey - on a clear day it's pleasant rather than spectacular, but it's that quiet, unglamorous Kent coast appeal that some travellers prefer to the South Coast circus.

Families won't struggle here. There's enough room on the beach even in summer, the water's cold but manageable, and the groynes create natural pools for exploring. Older kids might find it a touch dull after a couple of hours - it's not a theme park destination. The real draw is the pace: slow morning wandering, late lunch overlooking the water, leaving by late afternoon before the coaches arrive.

If you're based at Seasalter Holiday Park or Seaview Holiday Park just up the coast, Whitstable town is practically on your doorstep. Worth combining with a walk along the shingle towards Swalecliffe for the full experience rather than just an hour's beach visit.