Location
United Kingdom
Status
Unofficial / Tolerated
Suitable for
Adults only
Terrain
Shingle
Best season
June to September
About Shoreham Beach
The naturist beach known as Shoreham is actually in Portslade, on the seaward side of Shoreham Harbour just west of Hove. A tall concrete sea wall separates a narrow strip of steep shingle from the port's lorry park and warehouses, and naturists use the stretch below this wall. Because the site is enclosed and not on any through route, passers-by are few, which makes it a quieter alternative to Brighton's official nude beach a few miles east. Couples and families tend to gather near the gap in the wall, while single men and same-sex groups go to the far ends; some nude sunbathing also spills onto the mostly clothed beach east of a large boulder groyne. Sand appears only at low tide, and swimming is good in calm weather, though jet skis sometimes come close in. There is no shelter from east or west winds and no shade. Expect an industrial backdrop with lorry noise rather than a scenic setting.
Getting there
From Brighton follow the A259 west through Hove, turn left at the lights by Hove Lagoon onto Wharf Road, then left at the mini-roundabout toward the docks. About 50 marked spaces sit at the west end of the lorry park (BN41 1WF); the rest of the road has double yellow lines and nearby streets are residents-only, so arrive early. Enter the beach through gaps in the wall. By train, Portslade station is roughly a 15-minute walk; bus 6 from Brighton stops near Hove Lagoon. Steep shingle makes it unsuitable for wheelchairs.
What visitors say
Opinions are split. Regulars like the seclusion, the relaxed and mixed crowd on sunny days and the lack of onlookers, and some prefer it to Brighton's busier nude beach. Critics point to the industrial surroundings, lorry noise, graffiti, weedy water and, on some afternoons, sleazy behaviour, especially at the ends of the beach. Bank holidays can bring over a hundred people, many of them gay men. A mat, sturdy shoes and a windbreak are recommended.
Summarised in our own words from public reviews and guides listed under Sources.
Amenities
Legal context
Naturism is tolerated by Shoreham Port Authority but not made official because the beach lies within the port estate; users are asked not to obstruct port operations. Brighton and Hove's official nude beach is separate, further east. Some visitor reports (2023) mention inappropriate behaviour later in the day.
Naturism at Shoreham Beach sits under United Kingdom's rules for de facto tolerance — usually left alone if you keep it non-sexual and low-drama.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 50.8270, -0.2706
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
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Frequently asked questions
Is Shoreham an official nude beach?
No. The port authority tolerates naturists but has not designated it; Brighton's official nude beach is a separate site to the east.
Where exactly is it?
Below the high sea wall on the seaward side of Shoreham Harbour at Portslade, reached from Wharf Road off the A259.
Where can I park?
In about 50 marked bays at the west end of the lorry park; avoid commercial areas and the restricted zone behind the wall.
Are there toilets?
Not on the beach. There is a pub near the mini-roundabout, and toilets and a snack bar further along the harbour road.
Sources
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
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