Beautiful Beaches in England, UK
The UK coastline is packed full of beautiful sandy beaches perfect for paddling in the sea, going surfing, sunbathing, discovering rockpools, or building sandcastles.
We’ve all heard of the most popular beaches in England: Bournemouth beach, Skegness beach, and Weston-super-Mare, but where are the beach beaches in the UK?
Where Is The Best Sandy Beach In UK?
Britain’s coastline is packed full of beautiful beaches from large well-known beaches which are packed full as soon as the sun comes out, to smaller, hidden coves that are harder to access. But, whatever you’re looking for, there’s a perfect beach for everyone somewhere in the UK.
Spending a day at the beach is a must during the long summer months, but finding the best beaches in England is the tricky part. Building sandcastles, accepting that seagulls will steal your food, melted ice creams, and bad sunburn. It’s all part of British culture when you’re at the beach.
Whether you’re looking for the best beaches near me, the best beach near Wales, the best beaches in Dorset, the best beaches near London, the best Suffolk beaches, or the top five beaches in England, we’ve got you covered.
Read on to find out which are the best sandy beaches in the UK.
Top Five Best Beaches in England, UK
The UK is known for its picturesque coastline and beautiful beaches. While opinions may vary on which beach is the “best,” there are several popular choices that are frequently mentioned for their natural beauty and charm.
Here are a few of the most highly regarded beaches in the UK:
1. Camber Sands, Camber Sussex
Located along the East Sussex coastline, in the village of Camber near Rye, Camber Sands is a well-known beach famous for its golden sand and dunes. Make sure you head to the western end of the beach, where River Rother meets the sea and the sand is the finest.
With over two miles of golden sands and only two hours from London, Camber Sands makes the perfect getaway if you’re looking for an unspoiled beach.
2. Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth, Dorset
If you’re looking for a city beach packed full of attractions, activities, and beach huts, then Bournemouth Beach is for you.
Nestled beneath a magnificent cliff line, you won’t get bored with the many water sports, things to do along the pier, and long walks along the seven miles of golden sand.
A wonderful beach to take the entire family, or visit for a few days and make the most of all that Bournemouth has to offer.
3. Breakwater Beach, Brixham, Devon
The Breakwater beach in Brixham, on the south coast of Devon, is one of the best award-winning beaches for beauty along the English Riviera.
The popular shingle beach is a Blue Flag beach, has a Quality Coast Award, and in addition has been recommended by the Good Beach Guide.
Facilities at the Breakwater include a car park, toilets, a shop, and a cafe so it’s a great beach to spend the day. Breakwater beach is dog friendly during the winter but dogs are banned from May to September.
4. Torre Abbey Sands Beach, Torquay, Devon
Torre Abbey Sands beach is a long red sandy beach perfect for those sunny beach days. Close by is Torquay town centre to explore the harbour, bars, shops, and Torquay restaurants.
The beach has won the ‘Seaside Award’ and is a Blue Flag winner.
The hugely popular beach features Victorian splendor at one end and The Grand Hotel at the other. Being so close to the town centre makes it extremely accessible to holidaymakers staying in Torquay and numerous car parks are located close to the beach.
The gently sloping beach is perfect for families and young children wanting to swim in the shallow and gentle waters. The beach sits in front of Torre Abbey Meadows, a popular grassy area in Torquay.
It’s worth noting that Torre Abbey Sands beach does not allow dogs between 1st May and 30th September.
5. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Barafundle Bay is an award-winning sandy beach in Pembrokeshire. The beach is backed by dunes and pine trees and is accessible by the coastal footpath 0.5 miles away.
Regularly listed as one of the best beaches in the world, Barafundle Bay features spectacular views and turquoise waters.
Remote and sheltered, this bay makes the perfect swimming spot for families. However, there are no facilities or toilets on the beach so make sure you take everything you need with you and check tidal times so you don’t get stranded.
Summary of Best Sandy Beaches UK
If you fancy a day at the beach, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the stunning beaches across the UK. We hope our guide to the best beaches in England, UK has given you some inspiration for your next day trip away or holiday staycation.
If you’re looking for a hotel by the beach, take a look at the Quayside Hotel in Brixham. Perfectly located on the harbourside for your South Devon seaside getaway.
Related Articles About Best UK Beaches:
- 13 of the Best Beautiful Beaches in Devon You Have to Visit
- The Best Beaches in Paignton, South Devon
- The Top 5 Best Beaches in Torquay, South Devon
- The Top 5 Best Beaches in Brixham
- 5 Best Beaches In Teignmouth
- 6 Best Waterfalls in Devon to Visit