By Lauren Harmes
When choosing a short break destination, you usually have to pick between city trips or chilling on the beach - but it’s not always the case!
Here we outline our favourite beaches either in or a short journey from some top city break destinations.
LONDON
1. Neverland @ Fulham Beach Club
This summer beach club concept opens every Summer on the banks on the Thames and offers guests the chance to forget they’re in the middle of London. With day beds, beach huts, street food and cocktails, it’s the perfect place to spend those summer days. Also check out their variety of games including mini golf, shuffleboard, ping pong and the ever-famous beer pong!
2. Ruislip Lido
Don’t fancy waiting till the weather picks up before heading to those sandy shores? Ruislip Lido in Hillingdon has a year-round natural beach set on the edge of a 60-acre lake on the edge of Ruislip Woods. Perfect for adults and children alike, the Lido offers a huge children’s pirate ship, water splash pad and even a mini railway – just watch out for the swans!
3. London Royal Docks Beach
East London’s very own sandy beach magically appeared in Royal Docks last summer, and is set to make another appearance this year. Visitors can laze in deckchairs, build a sandcastle or just relax with a tasty ice cream while escaping from the hustle and bustle of city life.
AMSTERDAM
4. Pllek
When those sunrays are calling there’s no better way to relax than getting some Vitamin D on a sandy beach. Luckily in Amsterdam this is easy to find! Just jump on a ferry from Amsterdam Centraal station to Pllek – a super-cool bar with its own beach, DJs and beanbags you can flop down on while enjoying cocktails and great food.
5. Dok
Just an eight-minute drive from central Amsterdam you will find family-friendly urban beach Dok. A cultural haven and foodie’s heaven (they host regular food festivals as well as having their own café on the beach), there’s also a playground and children’s yoga classes – perfect for all the family.
6. Sloterplas Beach
More of a lido than a beach, Sloterplas is a very popular summer spot. The soft sands and swimming-friendly waters make for a great day out, and you can enjoy lunch on the many picnic tables or pick up some games equipment at the beach shop to really make the most of those rays.
BERLIN
7. Freibad Müggelsee
The most popular outdoor space in the East of Berlin is Freidbad Müggelsee. There are plenty of activities on this lido at the largest lake in Berlin, including beach volleyball, a playground and a shallow zone for children to swim safely in, as well as an abundance of wildlife to share the summer days with.
8. Krumme Lanke
Another lakeside beach, Krumme Lanke is a lovely spot to laze about on the lawn and sand on warmer days. Like to be at one with nature? Well you’re in luck here – the southern end of Krumme Lanke is a nudist beach if that’s what you’re into!
9. Strandbad Wannsee
This has been the ultimate summer spot for Berliners for over a century, and it’s clear to see why. Offering almost a mile of uninterrupted beachy goodness, the lido is also home to comfy beach chairs, a water slide and a beautiful park. There are trampoline stations for children, snack stands for the adults and everything in between. What are you waiting for? Get to the Wannsee now!