1. St Leonards, East Sussex


What’s the vibe? St Leonards is the arty sister to Hastings’ Norman history nerd.
Why go? As well as its 2km stretch of sea and shingle, the town is on the up with a young, trendy crowd. It’s home to a number of cool galleries like Big Yin, Project 78 and Hastings Art Forum that are worth checking out.
Don’t miss Goat Ledge, a beachfront hole in the wall serving alfresco cocktails, hot drinks, and an elite fish finger sandwich.
Get there One hour and 20 minutes from London Bridge to St Leonards Warrior Square; two hours and 15 minutes by car.