Best beaches in the UK

You don’t have to travel to the tropics to find that sand and sea paradise. In fact, you might be surprised at some of the beautiful beaches which are available right here in the UK.

There may be fewer palms and you’ll probably want to pack a pullover (just in case), but for some chilled relaxation by the waves, you won’t find better than these. Scroll down and check out our top 10!

Scarborough Beach, Yorkshire

Scarborough Beach is divided into two bays, the North Bay and the South Bay.

The North Bay is this somewhat wilder of the two, with rugged rocks which provide pools at low tide. It is also an excellent beach for surfing and those seeking a quieter respite.

By contrast, the South Bay is the more popular, boasting fine soft sand and a view of Scarborough Castle. Pleasure steamers can take visitors on excursions up and down the coast, while the beach itself is filled with entertainments and attractions.

If Scarborough sounds like the ideal break for you, click here to check out our best hotel deals!

Brighton, East Sussex

This popular resort town was built around its beach culture, making it a recommended spot for international visitors and staycationers alike. At Brighton Pier, first opened in 1899, you can find many of the traditional British Seaside attractions, including fairground rides, food kiosks and slot machines. During the high summer, brave swimmers can also be spotted taking a bracing dip in the English Channel.

At night, clubbers and revellers take over, giving the beach a more continental feel. The beach is also just a short walk from Brighton town centre, famed for its colourful streets and Regency era buildings.

Check out our hotels in Brighton for the best savings on your next stay at this vibrant British town.

Ramsgate Main Sands Beach, Kent

This popular bay is a real family treat. Children’s amusements and arcades line the beach along with a wide selection of restaurants which offer al fresco dining. White chalk cliffs offer a pleasant backdrop – whether you’d prefer to relax on the sand or take advantage of the watersports on offer.

Aspiring marine biologists can search for wildlife in the rock pools, kelp beds and chalk caves. The beach also sits adjacent to the picture perfect Royal Harbour and marina.

If Ramsgate sounds like your idea of a perfect beach getaway without the hefty price tag, check out our selection of hotels today.

Man O’ War Beach, Dorset

Situated on the Jurassic Coast, the shallow waters of Man O’ War Cove make it ideal for bathers. A short walk will take you to the famous Durdle Door rock formation, while coastal walks, fossil-hunting and boating are also popular pursuits.

The Jurassic Coast may be an idyllic spot to indulge the past, but if you see it in your future then check out our hotel deals in Dorset!

Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

You may be forgiven for thinking that you’ve landed in the Caribbean when you see the turquoise waters and white sand of Porthcurno in Cornwall. This award-winning beach is guarded by high cliffs, with a stream flowing down one side which is perfect for kids to paddle in. Overlooking the beach from the cliffs is the internationally renowned Minack Theatre, an open-air venue which plays host to a variety of theatre companies during the summer months.

For a closer alternative to the Caribbean, have a look at these hotel deals in Cornwall.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

Barafundle Bay is an isolated oasis which sits half a mile from the nearest car park. The beach, therefore, contains no facilities or food stops. But it does present a beautifully tranquil retreat nestled on the Welsh coast. For those who like their beach retreat away from the crowds, this is the spot for you. Even during high season, you can be guaranteed to have a good stretch of sand to yourself; out of season, you may find yourself entirely alone with just the rushing noise of the waves to keep you company. Bliss!

For days at the beach and much more besides, stick the Welsh county of Pembrokeshire on your bucket list and see our selection of hotels here.

Knockvologan, Isle of Mull

Another option, if your idea of the perfect break is some time away from your fellow humans, is Kockvologan Beach on the most Westerly point of the Isle of Mull in Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. Accessed only by a rocky farm track, Knockvologan boasts picturesque panoramic views and clear cyan lagoons. The only company you’ll likely encounter on the island is the local wildlife, which includes seals, ravens, heron and oystercatchers. At low tide, you can walk to the neighbouring island of Erraid, made famous in Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel Kidnapped.

For an escape to the Scottish coast, check out our best hotel deals for the Isle of Mull now!

Druridge Bay, Northumberland

Enjoy 7 miles of sand which stretch from Amble to Cresswell, with some fascinating local history. Due to the nearby coal mines, Druridge Bay was flagged as a possible invasion point for German soldiers during World War II. Anti-tank blocks and pill boxes, constructed to defend British shores, can still be seen today.

The beach also backs onto Druridge Bay Country Park, which boasts a lake for sailing, woods and meadows for walking or cycling and lots of local wildlife to spot.

Visit this beautiful slice of nature for less when you check out our hotel deals in Northumberland.

Blackpool Sands, Devon

Despite the name, this beach actually sits in the south of Devon. Its clean waters and golden sand, backed by pine forests, mean it is a family friendly favourite and a great Mediterranean alternative. Sandpits allow children to create castles while being safely supervised, while adults can get the adrenaline pumping with kayaking, paddle boarding or snorkelling – with equipment for hire on the beach.

For a bite to eat, check out the local Venus Café. For a beach break a little closer to home, a great selection of B&Bs and guest houses are all within walking distance.

Whatever type of accommodation you’d prefer for your stay, be sure to compare the best deals for Devon on our website!

Pease Bay Beach, Scotland

 

The must-do for surfers and watersports enthusiasts, Pease Bay is one of the top spots in Scotland’s emerging surfer scene. The waves here make for a good introductory spot for beginners (lessons are available from local surf schools) along with a more challenging reef for advanced students. A short drive along the coast will take you to the resorts of Dunbar and North Berwick, while the Pease Bay Leisure Park offers woodland walks and other leisure pursuits, along with a restaurant and bar.

Whether you crave a beach holiday or culture break, Scotland has you covered. Check out our best hotels in Caledonia today!