9 of the UK’s best beaches for summer adventures
Summer vibes down at the beach
August 30, 2024
You don’t need to jump on a plane to walk bare foot through scorching white sand and swim in crystal blue waters. The UK is home to some of the most picturesque beaches for relaxing or exploring along the coastline.
Blackpool Sands, Devon
Clear waters and the smoothest tiny pebbles make for one of the cleanest beaches in the country. Reminiscent of a tropical paradise, take a swim out to the floating pontoon, brilliant for diving into to the beautiful blue waters. Enjoy a refreshing drink at the beach shack as well as local sweet treats.
Seven Sisters, Sussex
Looking up at the sheer and bright chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters in Sussex is a completely awe-inspiring experience. Take on the hike across the seven peaks and keep an eye out for the lone Beachy Head Lighthouse followed by a trip to the beach, a great way to cool down after all that walking!
Walberswick Beach, Suffolk
Rewild with a trip to Walberswick Beach found on the south side of the River Blyth. Climb the grassy dunes towards the back of the beach and enjoy a quiet contemplation looking out over the water. Head back across the river with a short boat trip to try some of the fab fish restaurants on the Southwold bank or head back in land to the local village for a pint in one of the local pubs.
Crantock Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
Crantock Beach sits at the mouth if the Ganneal estuary which is perfect for paddling in. Only 12 miles from the heart of Newquay, this intimate beach is nestled between an expanse of grassland and large dunes enclosing it into a sandy cove.
Mwnt Beach, Cardigan, Wales
Walking shoes required. Wander through single-track lanes flanked with bushes and hedgerows to reach this huge open expanse of sand and sea. Visit the whitewashed Church of the Holy Cross, a stopover for many pilgrims on their way to Bardsey Island and look out over the tall, grassy cliff edge.
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Boasting four miles of wild beach to explore, Holkham Beach is one for the explorers and hikers. Wander the dunes and grassland filled with wildflowers and explore the half-moon lagoon formed at high tide. This protected nature reserve is great for beachcombing and is a completely unspoilt, wild stretch of coastline.
Achmelvich Beach, North-west Scotland
Nestled between coves and islands on the west coast of Scotland you’ll find a series of small beaches backed by grassy dunes and flower meadows. Dive into clear waters and keep an eye out for porpoises in the lovely summer sun, up in the Scottish Highlands or join in on the annual sandcastle-building competition.
Barafundle Bay, Wales
You’ve got to work for this one! Only accessible from a half hour walk along the cliffs keeping this beach secluded from the public eye. This stunning remote beach on the Irish sea has been compared to a Caribbean paradise during the height of summer. Keep in mind there are no shops, cafes, or even toilets here, so make sure to bring your own picnic.
Whiterocks, Portrush, Northern Island
Popular with water sports enthusiasts and home to Northern Islands own ‘Durdle Door’. The Wishing Arch can be found at the end of this long, sandy stretch near Portrush in the North of the island. Huge limestone cliffs line the coastline filled with secret sea-caves and faces hidden in the stone, great for those who like to relax and those who like to explore.
