Kent is in for an absolutely scorcher of a weekend with highs of 24C on the horizon. While parts of the county are unfortunately due for some heavy rain and even the risk of thunderstorms, others are in for two days of blue skies and blissful sunshine.
Lots of us are sure to be making the most of the amazing weather with a trip to any one of Kent’s incredible beaches. While there are many popular go-tos that prove a hit year on year, such as Margate’s golden Main Sands, the acclaimed Viking Bay in Broadstairs and the charming beachfront of Whitstable, there are plenty of perhaps lesser known spots that are still well worth checking out.
One such beach found on the Isle of Sheppey is a fantastic spot to enjoy some sun and sand without having to fight tooth and nail for a spot to sit down. Minster Leas Beach sits on the north Kent coast and has recently received the prestigious Blue Flag Award.
Read more: Kent’s underrated sandy Blue Flag beach loved by families
Managed by Keep Britain Tidy on behalf of the Foundation for Environmental Education, the award is only presented to “well-managed beaches with excellent water quality and environmental education programmes”. A spot that has proven incredibly popular with dog walkers and families alike, Minster Leas Beach has an impressive rating of 4.5 stars out of five on TripAdvisor, and at the time of writing holds the number one spot for ‘things to do in Minster on Sea’.
One reviewer said: “Lovely place for a walk, ice cream and cup of tea. Whatever the weather, worth a visit. Lots of dog walkers and each Saturday is the park run.”
Another added: “It’s well worth going to this lovely beach which is never crowded and has lots of benches to sit and enjoy the view. Plus there’s a pub, The Playa and a sweets and hot drinks shop called The Sweet Hut, with a wide range of goodies.”
Minster Leas Beach is regarded as one of the quieter, more peaceful seaside attractions in Kent, offering some spectacular views of our coastline. Backed by a grassy area with benches which slopes down to a long, shingle beach, a good expanse of sand is found when the tide goes out.
Running alongside the beach is a promenade that has proven popular with dog walkers and families looking for somewhere that the kids can ride bikes and scooters. While this is a spot frequented by those with four-legged companions, it is worth nothing that unfortunately dogs are not allowed onto the beach itself between May 1 and September 30.
Beach-goers will also find an outside gym in the area with free exercise machines for those looking to keep on top of their summer bod while soaking up some sunshine. Between Little Oyster and Shingle Bank, there is a designated bathing area.
RNLI lifeguards are on duty from May on weekends and bank holidays and full time from the middle of July until September, 10am to 5pm. Nearby, you will find the historic village of Minster, which is bursting with history, featuring a striking Saxon Abbey and interesting museum situated within a 1000-year-old gatehouse.
The beach is easily accessible, with plenty of parking nearby, with car parks available at Little Oyster and Seathorpe Avenue. Public toilets are also on hand, and are signposted from the beach, with disabled toilets also present, accessible with a RADAR key.
Just half a mile away, you can also find Barton’s Point Coastal Park, featuring 40 acres of incredible natural beauty for a perfect summer walk. So if you’re looking for a way to make the most the sun this weekend, then Minster Leas might be the perfect spot for you – just make sure you check for any thunderstorms before you leave!
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