If the end of the year finds you feeling burnt out and in need of a refreshing change of scene, the solution might be closer than you think. The vibrant seaside town of Margate, less than two hours from the capital, has been highlighted as one of the best winter day trips from London right now by Time Out.
A Bracing Coastal Escape
Forget the idea that beaches are solely a summer destination. A windswept, invigorating walk along a near-deserted bay in the colder months can be the perfect remedy for seasonal fatigue. Margate offers exactly this opportunity, with its expansive beach blissfully quiet outside the summer season. The journey is straightforward: just under two hours by train from London Victoria or St Pancras stations, or roughly two hours and 40 minutes by car. This makes it perfectly feasible to depart in the morning and return to London by evening feeling thoroughly rejuvenated.
How to Spend a Perfect Winter's Day in Margate
To make the most of a festive season visit, wrap up warmly and begin with a steaming hot drink in hand for a bracing stroll along the shore. Once you've filled your lungs with fresh sea air, the next recommended stop is the Turner Contemporary gallery on the seafront. This acclaimed modern art gallery is free to enter and enjoys a peaceful atmosphere during the winter, allowing visitors to appreciate the art at their own pace. Current exhibitions feature significant work from artists Bridget Riley and Simone Leigh.
Cosy Refuelling with a View
After immersing yourself in art, it's time to refuel. For a classic British seaside meal, Buoy & Oyster offers the chance to feast on fish and chips or a hearty Sunday roast while gazing out at the starkly beautiful winter seascape. Alternatively, for a cosy pub atmosphere, head to The Two Halves, a CAMRA-lauded micropub perfect for a warming pint of real ale.
This combination of elemental coastal walking, world-class art, and comforting food and drink creates the blueprint for an ideal winter day by the sea. If Margate isn't to your taste, other notable winter day trips from the capital include visiting a blockbuster film studio or indulging in a luxurious spa day. Furthermore, Margate's Northdown Road was recently named one of the world's coolest streets for 2025, adding another reason to explore this dynamic Kentish town.
