If you're dreaming of a coastal escape, the UK offers some truly stunning beaches for every type of traveler. From Cornwall’s golden sands to Brighton’s lively shores, the UK’s beaches have something for everyone. If you're a sun-seeker, a history lover, or someone looking for a peaceful retreat, these beaches offer something special.
In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best beaches in the UK, showcasing the best seaside destinations and how you can make the most of your visit. If you're wondering about sandy escapes close to London or scenic beaches beyond, we've got you covered. Let’s explore the UK’s top coastal gems!
Brighton
Brighton is famous for its fun pier, colorful shops, and lively beach. You can walk along the pebble beach, ride the ferris wheel on the pier, or explore the Royal Pavilion, a palace full of history.
1. Brighton Beach
Brighton Beach and Palace Pier on sunny day | Photo Credit: Ben Guerin on Unsplash
Brighton Beach, often called "London's beach," is a lively pebble beach on England's south coast, just an hour by train from London. Famous for its iconic Victorian pier and lively atmosphere, the beach has amusements, a 4-mile promenade, and plenty of watersports. It’s a lively spot with cafes, bars, and shops, perfect for relaxation and fun.
Klook Tip: Brighton Beach has pebbles, so wear comfy shoes for walking. A light jacket is also useful as the seaside breeze can be chilly.
📍Address: Brighton Beach, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 2FL, UK
🛤️How to get there: Take a direct train from London Victoria Station to Brighton (around 1 hour). Alternatively, drive via the A23, taking about 1.5 hours.
Dorset
Dorset has amazing beaches like Durdle Door and a coastline called the Jurassic Coast. It’s great for fossil hunting, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach. You can also visit the cute town of Bournemouth for shopping and dining.
2. Bournemouth Beach
Colorful beach huts at Bournemouth Beach | Photo Credit: Belinda Fewings on Unsplash
If you're looking for the best sandy beach in England, look no further than Bournemouth Beach. With miles of golden sand, clear waters, and all kinds of family-friendly attractions, it’s easy to see why it’s one of the best beaches in the UK.
Plus, it’s also home to several Blue Flag beaches, meaning they're clean, safe, and perfect for swimming. Beyond the beach, Bournemouth has a rich cultural scene, with great restaurants, shopping, and a bustling pier.
The beach is lined with charming beach huts, and you can spend your day paddling in the shallow waters, building sandcastles, or taking a walk along the seafront. If you’re a history lover, visit the nearby Bournemouth Pavilion Theatre for some classic British entertainment.
Klook Tip: Bournemouth Beach can get crowded, especially in summer, so arrive early to grab a good spot. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat to stay cool while enjoying the sun!
📍Address: Bournemouth Beach, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH1 2BU, UK
🛤️How to get there: Bournemouth is a 2-hour train ride from London Waterloo or a 2-hour drive via the M3 and A31.
Lancashire
In Lancashire, Blackpool Beach is the main attraction. It’s known for its big pier, amusement park, and sandy shores. You can ride roller coasters at Blackpool Pleasure Beach or explore the local museums and arcades.
3. Blackpool Beach
Blackpool Beach with tower at sunset | Photo Credit: Michael D Beckwith on Pexels
For a lively, nostalgic beach experience, Blackpool Beach is one of the best seaside destinations in the UK. Known for its famous Blackpool Tower, this beach has a traditional British seaside vibe with lots of things to do. From amusement arcades to the famous Blackpool Pleasure Beach amusement park, you’ll never be short of entertainment.
The sandy beach is perfect for a family day out, and the shallow waters are great for a splash. In addition, the stunning sunsets and piers give you a magical view in the evenings.
Klook Tip: While at Blackpool Beach, make sure to book tickets for Blackpool Pleasure Beach in advance to skip the lines and enjoy the rides without the wait!
📍Address: Blackpool Beach, Blackpool, Lancashire, FY1 5AA, UK
🛤️How to get there: Blackpool is about a 3-hour drive from London or a 2.5 hour train ride from London Euston Station to Blackpool North.
Cornwall
Cornwall is famous for its beautiful beaches and great surfing spots. You can visit St Ives for art galleries and amazing views, or go to Newquay for fun on the beach and the chance to try surfing. If you want to see more of Cornwall’s stunning landscapes, try joining the beyond paradise walking tour to explore hidden gems and coastal scenery with an expert guide!
4. Newquay Beach
Newquay Beach cliffs and coastal view | Photo Credit: Emily K on Unplash
If you crave adventure, Newquay Beach in Cornwall is the perfect destination. Known for its excellent surf, stunning cliffs, and crystal-clear waters, Newquay is the ideal location for water sports enthusiasts. If you're into surfing, paddleboarding, or simply want to relax by the beach, Newquay caters to all kinds of beach lovers.
Beyond the surf, Newquay is known as a vibrant town with lots of restaurants, pubs, and shops to explore after a day at the beach. You can also visit the nearby Fistral Beach for more surfing opportunities.
Klook Tip: Newquay Beach is great for surfing, so if you're a beginner, try booking a surf lesson. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and plenty of water to stay hydrated while enjoying the sun!
📍Address: Newquay Beach, Newquay, Cornwall, TR7 1EL, UK
🛤️How to get there: From London, take a train to Newquay (around 5 hours). By car, it takes approximately 4.5 hours via the A30.
5. Porthmeor Beach
Porthmeor Beach in St Ives Cornwall | Photo Credit: David Pickup | Advertising & Marketing 🇬🇧 on Pexels
Porthmeor Beach, right in the center of St Ives, Cornwall, is one of the best beaches in the UK if you’re looking for a picturesque coastal town with stunning beaches. The beach has soft golden sand, clear water, and great views of the hills. If you’re into surfing, sunbathing, or beachcombing, Porthmeor has it all.
It’s also known for its vibrant atmosphere, as it’s popular among surfers and locals! The town also has a rich artistic heritage where you can enjoy art galleries, like the Tate St Ives, which is just a 5-minute walk from the beach. The nearby coastline is perfect for exploring, and if you're looking for more adventure, boat trips around the area offer breathtaking views.
Klook Tip: Porthmeor Beach can get busy in summer, so arrive early to secure a good spot. Bring water shoes for walking on the pebbles and a hat to protect yourself from the sun!
📍Address: Porthmeor Beach, St Ives, Cornwall, TR26 1JZ, UK
🛤️How to get there: It's about a 5-hour drive from London, or you can take a train to St Ives with a transfer to the town center.
North Yorkshire
North Yorkshire has beaches like Scarborough and Whitby, perfect for swimming, walking, and exploring. Scarborough also has a castle and fun arcades, while Whitby is famous for its beautiful harbor and historic sites.
If you want to explore the county more, consider joining the York, Whitby & North York Moors day tour, which takes you through the stunning moors, stops at Goathland Station (known as "Hogwarts Express" from Harry Potter 🪄), and lets you explore these iconic spots with a local guide.
6. Scarborough Beach
Coastal town and aerial view of Scarborough Beach | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Scarborough Beach is one of the best beaches in the UK for families looking for a relaxed seaside experience. Located on the North Yorkshire coast, Scarborough has golden sands, charming seafront gardens, and a family-friendly vibe. The beach is perfect for swimming, and the surrounding cliffs give you a stunning view over the coastline.
The town is home to traditional seaside arcades, ice cream stalls, and the famous Scarborough Castle. If you want a peaceful experience, head to the quieter South Bay Beach or take a walk along the cliffs to enjoy the views.
Klook Tip: Scarborough Beach is ideal for a family day, but remember to pack snacks and water, as facilities can be spread out. If you plan to visit the castle, be ready for a short uphill walk!
📍Address: Scarborough Beach, Scarborough, North Yorkshire, YO11 1HY, UK
🛤️How to get there: Take a train from London to Scarborough, which takes about 3.5 hours. By car, it’s a 4-hour drive via the A1(M).
Wales
Wales is known for its beautiful landscapes, with tall mountains, green valleys, and a stunning coastline. You can explore the Snowdonia National Park from this North Wales day tour, or visit historic castles like Caernarfon Castle, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and scenic walks along the Pembrokeshire Coast.
7. Tenby North Beach
Tenby North Beach with rocky island | Photo Credit: Miguel Arcanjo Saddi on Pexels
Tenby North Beach is one of Wales’ most beautiful beaches, offering beautiful views, clean sands, and a charming town. The beach is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea and swimming or paddling. It’s quieter than its neighboring beaches, making it a fantastic spot if you’re looking for a peaceful space while still being close to the town.
The town is a charming place with cobblestone streets, old buildings, and lots of spots to enjoy a tasty meal. You can also take a boat trip to Caldey Island, just off the coast, which offers its own unique beauty and a chance to explore nature at its best.
Klook Tip: Tenby North Beach can get busy in the summer, so try to visit early for a quieter experience. Bring comfortable shoes if you plan to explore the town or nearby cliffs.
📍Address: Tenby North Beach, Tenby, Pembrokeshire, SA70 7LU, UK
🛤️How to get there: It’s a 4-hour drive from London, or you can take a train to Tenby (around 5 hours).
Scotland
Scotland has some of the most breathtaking scenery in the UK, from the rugged Scottish Highlands to the serene Loch Ness (perfect to explore in this Scotland day tour!). Famous for its ancient castles, rich culture, and vibrant cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow, it’s a perfect destination if you love history, outdoor adventures, or if you’re a fan of whiskey!
8. West Sands Beach
West Sands Beach's wide shoreline in Scotland | Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons
West Sands Beach in St Andrews is one of the best beaches in the UK, with long stretches of golden sand and amazing views. It's great for long walks, flying kites, and enjoying the beautiful scenery. It’s also famous for being featured in the opening scene of the movie Chariots of Fire, making it a popular spot for both history buffs and beach lovers.
The beach is just a 10-minute walk from the historic town of St Andrews, known for its ancient university and its connection to golf. After spending time at the beach, you can take a walk through the town, visit St Andrews Castle, or relax at one of the cozy cafés.
Klook Tip: West Sands Beach can get windy, so bring a jacket or windbreaker. It’s great for long walks, but make sure to wear comfortable shoes for exploring the area.
📍Address: West Sands Beach, St Andrews, Fife, KY16 8LP, Scotland
🛤️How to get there: Take a 6-hour train from London to St Andrews with a change at Dundee, or drive for about 5.5 hours.
FAQs about UK beaches
1. Where is the nicest beach in the UK?
The nicest beach in the UK depends on what you like, but many people love the golden sands of Bournemouth Beach, the clear waters of Newquay, or the charming coastal vibes of St Ives. And with a BritRail Pass, you can easily travel between these top beach destinations and explore the UK’s stunning coastline by train!
2. What is the nicest seaside town in the UK?
Some of the nicest seaside towns in the UK include St Ives, with its stunning beaches and art scene, and Tenby, which is known for its relaxing atmosphere and historic charm.
3. Where is the clearest water in the UK?
Newquay, Cornwall, is home to some of the clearest water in the UK, particularly at beaches like Fistral Beach. It's ideal for swimming, surfing, and simply taking in the natural beauty.
4. Are there any warm beaches in England?
While England is not known for warm beaches, the south coast, especially in places like Bournemouth and Brighton, tends to enjoy warmer weather during summer, making them perfect for a sunny beach escape.
5. Can you swim at Bamburgh Beach?
Yes, you can swim at Bamburgh Beach. The water is safe for swimming, but make sure to check the weather conditions and tides before heading out, as it can get chilly!
Discover your dream UK beach destination
Now that you know where to find the best beaches in the UK, it’s time to pack your bags and hit the coast! If you're planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or an adventure-filled trip, the UK’s beaches have something for everyone. Book your next seaside adventure with Klook and enjoy an unforgettable trip to the UK’s best beach destinations!
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