Lumley Beach

Top choice in Sierra Leone

This wide sweep of beach has lost some of its atmosphere since the 2015 demolition of dozens of bamboo and thatch food shacks, and the numerous, ugly construction projects lining the beach road don't add to its appeal. During the week it feels deserted, save for a few joggers pounding the paved beach walkway, but it comes into its own on weekends and public holidays, when Freetown's residents come out to relax and party on the golden sands.

If it's a clean swimming beach you're after, however, better to head out of town to River No 2 or one of the islands.

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Nearby Sierra Leone attractions

1. Lighthouse

0.97 MILES

This 19th-century lighthouse was refurbished in 2010.

2. Indian Temple

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A functioning temple serving the city's Hindu population.

3. King's Yard Gate

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4. St John's Maroon Church

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5. Sierra Leone National Museum

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6. St George's Cathedral

3.63 MILES

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7. Cotton Tree

3.64 MILES

Freetown's most famous landmark is the fat Cotton Tree, which looms large over the buildings of central Freetown. Rumoured to be hundreds of years old, it…

8. Law Courts

3.66 MILES

The ornate Law Courts have been beautifully restored following considerable war damage. Located immediately east of the Cotton Tree.

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