Explore the Most Beautiful Beaches in UK – From Cornwall to Scotland

The United Kingdom, with its extensive and diverse coastline, offers a range of stunning beaches that cater to all types of visitors. From the rugged cliffs of Cornwall to the peaceful shores of Scotland, each beach presents its unique charm and attractions.

Whether you’re seeking a family-friendly day out, an adventurous surfing experience, or a tranquil retreat into nature, the beaches in the UK provide a variety of options to explore and enjoy.

1. Weymouth Beach

Weymouth Beach is a classic seaside destination known for its golden sands and traditional charm.

The beach offers a gentle slope into the sea, making it ideal for swimming and paddling. The esplanade is lined with cafés and shops, providing a quintessential British seaside experience.

• Location: Weymouth, Dorset, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours, ideal for early morning walks and late afternoon strolls.

• Things to do: Donkey rides, sand sculptures, beach volleyball

• How to Reach: Easily accessible via train from London Waterloo to Weymouth Station, a short walk from the beach.

• Best Time to Visit: June to early September offers the best weather and traditional seaside events.

• Places to Eat:The Dorset Burger Company, Al Molo

• Places to Stay:The Cumberland Hotel,Alexandra Hotel

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2. Fistral Beach

Fistral Beach is renowned as the UK’s premier surfing destination, attracting enthusiasts from around the world. The expansive sandy beach is backed by dunes and cliffs, offering stunning views and a vibrant atmosphere.

• Location: Newquay, Cornwall, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Surfing, bodyboarding, beach yoga

• How to Reach: Reachable via train to Newquay Station, then a 10-minute taxi or bus ride.

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring through autumn is prime surfing season, especially August.

• Nearby Places to Eat: The Fish House, Rick Stein Fistral

• Places to Stay:Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, The Headland Hotel

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3. Camber Sands

Camber Sands boasts a vast expanse of sandy beach backed by picturesque dunes, offering a unique landscape in the UK. It’s a popular spot for beachcombing and enjoying coastal walks.

• Location: Camber, East Sussex, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours, but beach patrols and amenities are available during the day.

• Things to do: Kite surfing, horse riding, picnicking

• How to Reach: Drive or take a train to Rye Station, then a short bus or taxi ride.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September is ideal for warm days and enjoying the expansive dunes.

• Nearby Places to Eat:The Gallivant, Rye Bay Café

• Places to Stay:The Gallivant, Camber Sands Holiday Park

4. Sandbanks Beach

Sandbanks Beach is famed for its fine golden sands and clear waters, often regarded as one of the UK’s best beaches. The area is also known for its luxury properties and vibrant waterfront.

• Location: Poole, Dorset, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours, with lifeguards and facilities operating during daylight.

• Things to do: Swimming, paddleboarding, beach polo

• How to Reach: Accessible by car via Bournemouth or ferry from Studland; parking available.

• Best Time to Visit: July and August are peak times for beachgoers and water sports.

• Nearby Places to Eat:Rick Stein Sandbanks, The Jazz Café

• Places to Stay:Haven Hotel,Sandbanks Hotel

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5. Botany Bay

Botany Bay is one of Kent’s most picturesque coastal spots, featuring dramatic white chalk cliffs, natural sea stacks, and a secluded sandy beach.

It’s a favorite among photographers and those seeking peace away from busy tourist hubs. The beach is also known for fossil hunting during low tide.

• Location: Marine Dr, Broadstairs, Kent CT10 3LG, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Fossil hunting, beachcombing, photography, walking

• How to Reach: Take a train to Broadstairs or Margate, followed by a short bus or taxi ride.

• Best Time to Visit: Late spring and summer for fossil hunting and dramatic cliff views.

• Nearby Places to Eat:Botany Bay Hotel, Captain Digby

• Places to Stay:Botany Bay Hotel, Yarrow Hotel

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6. Rhossili Bay

Rhossili Bay in Wales is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in Europe. Its sweeping 3-mile stretch of sand is backed by lush green cliffs and is perfect for long walks, surfing, and enjoying jaw-dropping sunsets.

• Location: Rhossili, Swansea SA3 1PR, Wales

• Timings: Open 24 hours; best enjoyed during low tide for longer walks.

• Things to do: Walking, kite flying, surfing

• How to Reach: Drive from Swansea (approx. 1 hour); local buses also serve the area.

• Best Time to Visit: June to September for clear skies and full access to Worm’s Head.

• Nearby Places to Eat:The Worm’s Head Hotel Restaurant, Bay Bistro

• Places to Stay:The Worm’s Head Hotel, Blas Gŵyr

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7. Luskentyre Beach

Located on the Isle of Harris in Scotland, Luskentyre Beach looks more like the Caribbean with its turquoise waters and soft white sands. It’s an untouched, tranquil haven for those who appreciate raw natural beauty.

• Location: Isle of Harris, Outer Hebrides, Scotland

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Walking, photography, bird watching

• How to Reach: Accessible by car or bus from Tarbert, Isle of Harris; no direct train service.

• Best Time to Visit: May to August offers long days and the clearest turquoise waters.

• Nearby Places to Eat: North Harbour Bistro, Croft 36

• Places to Stay:Hotel Hebrides, Harris Hotel

8. Bournemouth Beach

This award-winning beach stretches for over 7 miles along the south coast and is famous for its clean sands, family-friendly environment, and vibrant pier.

• Location: Bournemouth, Dorset BH2 5AA, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours; pier attractions open between 10 AM and 6 PM.

• Things to do: Sunbathing, swimming, pier amusements

• How to Reach: Direct train links from London Waterloo to Bournemouth Station; 20-minute walk to the beach.

• Best Time to Visit: June through August for the full range of beachside activities.

• Nearby Places to Eat: Aruba, Harry Ramsden’s

• Places to Stay:Royal Bath Hotel, Bournemouth Highcliff Marriott

9. Blackpool Sands

Not in Blackpool, but in South Devon, this crescent-shaped, Blue Flag beach is known for its cleanliness and Mediterranean vibes. Surrounded by pine trees, it’s ideal for families and water sports.

• Location: Stoke Fleming, Dartmouth TQ6 0RG, England

• Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM (seasonal facilities)

• Things to do: Kayaking, paddleboarding, swimming

• How to Reach: Best accessed by car from Dartmouth; limited public transport options.

• Best Time to Visit: Summer months provide safe swimming and water sports opportunities.

• Nearby Places to Eat: Venus Café, The Green Dragon

• Places to Stay:Stoke Lodge Hotel, Bayards Cove Inn

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10. Whitby Beach

Whitby Beach offers a mixture of traditional seaside fun and rich history, with dramatic views of Whitby Abbey overlooking the bay. It’s ideal for those who love a blend of coastal charm and heritage.

• Location: Whitby, North Yorkshire YO21 3EN, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours, with the promenade lit in the evening for walks.

• Things to do: Sunbathing, fossil hunting, pier walks

• How to Reach: Train or drive to Whitby; the beach is a short walk from the town centre.

• Best Time to Visit: July to early September for warmer weather and coastal events.

• Nearby Places to Eat:The Magpie Café, Trenchers

• Places to Stay:Raithwaite Sandsend, The Angel Hotel

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11. Porthcurno Beach

Nestled beneath granite cliffs in Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach is stunningly beautiful and close to the famous Minack Theatre. The turquoise waters are crystal clear and ideal for a serene beach day.

• Location: Porthcurno, Cornwall TR19 6JX, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Swimming, walking, sightseeing

• How to Reach: Accessible by car or bus from Penzance; narrow roads lead down to the beach.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September for calm seas and a visit to the Minack Theatre.

• Nearby Places to Eat: Logan Rock Inn

• Places to Stay: Trereife House, The Land’s End Hotel

12. Brighton Beach

Brighton Beach is a vibrant and iconic pebble beach on the south coast of England, known for its eclectic atmosphere, historic pier, and artistic culture. It’s perfect for a lively day out filled with entertainment, street food, and seafront shopping.

• Location: Brighton, East Sussex BN2 1EN, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours

• Things to do: Swimming, shopping, amusement arcades, nightlife

• How to Reach: Accessible by car or bus from Penzance; narrow roads lead down to the beach.

• Best Time to Visit: May to September for calm seas and a visit to the Minack Theatre.

• Nearby Places to Eat:Riddle & Finns, The Coal Shed, Shelter Hall

• Places to Stay:The Grand Brighton, Artist Residence Brighton

13. Holkham National Nature Reserve and Beach

Holkham Beach is a vast, unspoiled stretch of golden sand backed by dunes and pine forests, forming part of the Holkham National Nature Reserve in Norfolk.

It’s one of the most tranquil and scenic beaches in UK, popular with walkers, birdwatchers, and photographers.

• Location: Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk NR23 1AB, England

• Timings: Open 24 hours (Car park: 6 AM – 9 PM approx.)

• Things to do: Hiking, birdwatching, photography, horse riding

• How to Reach: Best reached by car; parking available at Lady Anne’s Drive near Wells-next-the-Sea.

• Best Time to Visit: April to October for mild weather, bird migrations, and scenic walks.

• Nearby Places to Eat: The Victoria Inn, Wells Crab House

• Places to Stay:The Victoria Inn, The Globe Inn

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FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit beaches in UK?

The best time to visit UK beaches is between late May and early September, when the weather is generally warm and dry. July and August are peak tourist months, offering the most beach Things to do.

2. Are UK beaches safe for swimming?

Yes, many UK beaches are safe for swimming and are monitored by lifeguards during the summer. Always check local signage for tide and safety information.

3. Do beaches in UK allow dogs?

Some beaches allow dogs year-round, while others have seasonal restrictions, usually from May to September. Always check local rules before visiting with pets.

4. Are there Blue Flag beaches in UK?

Yes, the UK has over 70 Blue Flag beaches that meet high standards of water quality, safety, and cleanliness. Sandbanks, Blackpool Sands, and Bournemouth are a few examples.

5. Can you camp or BBQ on UK beaches?

Rules vary by beach. Some allow BBQs in designated areas, but open fires and overnight camping are generally restricted. Check local council regulations.

6. What should I pack for a UK beach trip?

Pack layers, sunscreen, swimwear, a windbreaker, snacks, and water before visiting beaches in UK. The UK weather can change quickly, so being prepared for both sun and rain is wise.