Britain is not often synonymous with beautiful beaches, as it is better known for its rainy, gloomy weather.
However, there are many beaches dotted up and down the country that are great to visit throughout the seasons, and especially during the summertime.
Summer is finally here and the hot weather has got us all beach keen!
The UK is a perfect place for a staycation and if you’ve only got a few days to spare, it’s the perfect place for a mini-break.
With over 7,000 miles of gorgeous UK coastline to choose from, I’ve rounded up a list of some of the most picture perfect locations to choose from.
Ranging from the depths of Cornwall to the breath-taking Outer Hebrides, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to see what the UK really has to offer.
Check out my guide to most beautiful beaches in Great Britain.
1. Porth Beach, Cornwall
Families looking for a sunny escape in Britain should book a trip to Cornwall, which is world-renowned for its beautiful beaches.
One of the best family-friendly beaches is Porthpean Beach, which is a short walk away from the historic village of Charlestown. It’s also a great place to relax, build sandcastles, enjoy a swim and soak up the summer sun.
Sand between your toes, crashing waves and barbeques is what to expect of Porth Beach. Only a stone’s throw from Newquay town, this bewitching beach has everything you could want!
If you fancy kayaking to Fistral, hanging out with you best buddies, or spending time captivated by local events whilst sipping local brews at the Mermaid pub (conveniently set on the beach), this cosy hideaway will undoubtedly dish out some life-long memories.
If you get the urge to explore, don’t forget to take a stroll over to Porth Island, the views will take your breath away!
Find out more about luxurious hotels in Cornwall today to plan your trip.
2. Botany Bay, Kent
With astonishing views of the cliffs, this location is a summer must see! Located near Broadstairs in Kent, the inviting sunsets will set the mood for your romantic break. With not only beauty to offer, Botany Bay has some compelling stories.
According to ancient folk tales, its name originates from the gorgeous Botany Bay in Australia where smugglers would be deported when captured. So if you do find your inquisitive mind wandering, you can always hunt for buried treasure!
And if you forgot to pack your metal detector, there is always fossil hunting and rock pools to be explored if you’re bringing the little ones!
3. Barafundle Bay, Wales
Picturesque beauty, white sands and clear waters, Barafundle Bay will soon make you forget you’re in the UK. Tumbling dunes and towering trees, Barafundle Bay has often been voted the UK’s best beach.
With Stackpole Village a short walk away, you can discover some delicious hearty food, kick back and watch the sun go down. There aren’t many views as endless and picturesque like this one!
4. Broadsands, Exmoor
Be sure not to miss this gem! Hidden away in Exmoor, Devon you won’t quite believe what you’ve stumbled across.
With not only tranquillity and peace, you will find there is also lots to do. It is a wild, natural area but safe from the elements. Wild swimming, caves to explore and much, much more you’ll be surprised that a place so small can offer so much. Just be sure to check the tide times!
For when your fun filled day is coming to an end and you don’t want to go home (because honestly, you won’t), there is accommodation aplenty, including camping. Watermouth Valley Camping Park has views to die for and at an absolute steal!
5. Losgaintir Sands (Luskentyre), Outer Hebrides
Sky high mountains, crystal clear water, the long sandy beach, anyone could forgive you for thinking you were at the Whitsundays in Oz.
Nothing quite comes close in the UK to the tantalising Losgaintir Sands. The perfect place for hiking and exploring, this beach offers everything. It even hosted the BBC’s Castaway!
It’s impossible to twiddle your thumbs here, with wild otters, seals, hills, mountains, there is always something to see and do and the list is endless. Although, if exploring isn’t you thing, you can relax and unwind on the white sands and enjoy the ever changing view.
A hidden secret so enjoy while you can because it won’t stay a secret forever.
6. Luskentyre Sands, Isle of Harris
Luskentyre Sands is a little slice of heaven located on the west coast of South Harris within the Outer Hebrides.
It was voted one of the best beaches in the UK in the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, which is largely thanks to its many miles of white sand and green-blue water.
You’ll be in awe of the stunning scenery, and you can even enjoy various attractions nearby, such as hiking and cycling.
7. Fistral Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
Another entry for Cornwall on our list.
People across the world visit Fistral Beach in Newquay to enjoy a spot of surfing, as it offers great waves and views to create a surfer’s paradise. The exquisite beach is also ideal for all ages, as it offers brilliant seafront facilities and picture-perfect scenery.
8. Haverrig Beach, Cumbria
When people think of Cumbria, they often think of rolling green hills and coastline, but there is so much more to this stunning region. In addition to the lakes and mountains, you will find Haverrig Beach, which lies of the Duddon Estuary in a small seaside fishing village. It’s a beautiful, clean, safe and quiet beach that’s ideal for families and has gained the sought-after Blue Flag award.
9. Holkham, Norfolk
After one visit to Holkham Beach, you wouldn’t be surprised to learn it has earned many awards throughout the years. You can walk many miles across the beach’s beautiful golden sand and can view a unique lagoon during high tide. It’s, therefore, the ideal location for families and couples hoping to relax and unwind.
10. West Wittering, West Sussex
Those looking for crystal clear blue seas and white sandy beaches should pay a visit to West Wittering Beach in West Sussex. It can provide the ultimate family day out, as children can build sandcastles on the beach, take a dip in the water and can enjoy a picnic. It’s also a great place to take a scenic walk on a winter’s day.
11. Coppey Hall, Pembrokeshire
Coppey Hall can provide a unique adventure, as you will have to walk through tunnels, which were once used for trams, to arrive at the beach area. Once you have arrived, you can enjoy hours of fun in the water and on the sand, before treating yourself to some fresh and tasty dishes at the local seafood restaurant, which offers spectacular views of the coastline.
12. Bournemouth
Bournemouth is one of the most popular summer destinations in England and the main draw in the beautiful severn mile beach. There are lots of activities in Bournemouth especially during the warmer months, from surfing, beach bars, sightseeing boat trips and more.
13. Durdle Door
Durdle Door is one of the most spectacular places to visit in Europe, located on the beautiful southern coast of English close to Bournemouth and Weymouth.
The scenery is dramatic with stunning cliffs, hidden coves and spectacular beaches. It is easy to see why this is one of the most popular places to visit in the UK and why its such a popular day trip from London.
What is Your Favourite UK Beach?
Have you ever been to any of the beaches on this list? Or do you have a recommendation for a beach which should be added? Let me know in the comments section below.
