Grenham Bay

Visit Grenham Bay

Grenham Bay is a peaceful little beach tucked away on the edge of Birchington-on-Sea in Kent. It sits between Minnis Bay and Epple Bay, making it a lovely spot for anyone looking to escape the busier, more touristy beaches nearby. With its mix of shingle, chalky rocks and patches of sand that appear at low tide, it’s perfect for a calm stroll or a bit of seaside exploring.

The beach is backed by chalk cliffs and a wide promenade, which forms part of the Viking Coastal Trail. This makes it a popular route for walkers and cyclists, especially in the early morning or as the sun starts to set. When the tide goes out, you’ll find lots of little rock pools filled with sea life – ideal if you enjoy beachcombing or spotting crabs and other creatures.

Grenham Bay doesn’t have the usual seaside attractions like arcades or cafés on the seafront, but that’s part of its charm. It’s quieter, more natural, and great if you want to sit and listen to the waves or just enjoy some peace and quiet. Families often come here for a relaxing picnic or to explore the shore with kids, though it’s especially popular with locals and walkers.

One big bonus is that dogs are welcome all year round, so it’s a brilliant place for a coastal walk with your furry friend. Just be sure to clean up after them and keep an eye out for wildlife.

There isn’t a dedicated car park, but you can usually find free parking along Grenham Bay Avenue. From there, it’s just a short walk down to the promenade, which is mostly flat and suitable for pushchairs or bikes, though the beach itself is stony and can be tricky to access if you’ve got mobility issues.

You won’t find toilets right at the beach, but there are public loos about 10 to 15 minutes away at Minnis Bay. For snacks or ice cream, you’ll need to head into Birchington or over to Minnis Bay, where there are cafés and a few shops.

Although there are no lifeguards here, Grenham Bay is generally calm and safe if you’re sensible about the tide and don’t venture too far out. It’s also a surprisingly good place to look for fossils – especially old shells and sea creatures embedded in the chalk along the cliffs.

If you’re into photography or just love a good view, the sunsets at Grenham Bay can be stunning, with big open skies stretching out over the Thames Estuary. On clear days, you might even spot ships passing in the distance.

This little bay may not be flashy, but it has a quiet beauty and a slower pace that many beachgoers truly appreciate. Whether you’re in the mood for a peaceful walk, some rockpool fun, or a moment of seaside calm, Grenham Bay is a lovely spot to discover.

Great for a coastal walk this beach is dog friendly all year round.