Toddler holiday in South East - recommendations?

[MsJupiter]

Thinking of taking a short break in June with DH and DS but don't know where to start as we've never been away before. Three nights, mid-week. Ideally by the sea but within 2-3 hrs drive of London.

DS is 18mo and into usual toddler stuff - dogs, buses, squealing at same.

Thinking of a self catering cottage or similar - maybe a holiday park? Not the type with loads of activities like centre Parcs but just something low key with a playground & shop. Maybe a caravan or chalet? We are on a tight budget so cheap and cheerful is good.

Ideally we just want to potter about for a few days, have a couple of afternoons out at a castle or something and a nice lunch/ice cream.

Does that sound like a holiday you've been on or somewhere you know of? Either an area you'd recommend or a specific place to stay if you know of anything.

Thanks for any suggestions!

Camber sands?

I was also going to suggest Camber Sands. I've only been pre-children but it has lovely beaches and is not a long way from London.

Sandy balls in the new forest is ace

Not in SE but Polloughan Farm in Cornwall is lovely

Southwold fits your criteria. It's a postcard perfect type beach village with a pier and little touristy shops. It's gorgeous. The beach is lined with colourful beach huts, ice cream parlours and there are regular donkey rides too.

Getting all nostalgic!

Oh these all sound lovely! Thanks for the ideas.

We stayed here when DD was 16 months. The lodge is lovely - far nicer than some of the chalets on the park. The owners were really helpful. Swanage and Weymouth are in easy striking distance, and we spent a fantastic day at Monkey World.

www.holidaylettings.co.uk/rentals/weymouth/132283

Osea island. Have a look online, amazing place.

Isle of Wight - perfect for small people and very easy from London.

Sofiamum - I would like to go to Osea Island for the day but there is very limited information available online. Is it possible to have a day trip there or do you have to stay on the Island?

Contact them and ask. I'm sure they can put together a bespoke package for you. However, I don't think they do day visits just short or long breaks.