101 places to go – 5 of the best British beaches

Since it’s British Beach Week, and so far the weather hasn’t disappointed: offering scorching sands all over the country, we thought we’d take our latest installment of ‘101 places to go in the UK, Ireland and France’ to celebrate the UK’s shoreline. Not being ones to shy away from a lightly warmed debate, we couldn’t decide on just one, so we’ve selected a few of our favourite beaches, with a few additional suggestions from our Facebook fans.

If you disagree with any of the suggestions then let your voice be heard, and leave a comment below!

• What are your demands from the ultimate beach location? White sands and clear waters, perhaps? How about stunning natural scenery and a great walks on the headland? If you answered ‘yes’ whilst adding an open-air theatre and shelter from the elements then Portcurno is undoubtedly the beach you’re looking for. Not only is this stunning Cornish beach widely regarded as one of the UK’s most stunning coastal locations, but its charms are such that it can also hold its own against the World’s finest. We’d also recommend taking in a show at the Minack during summer season – there isn’t a venue like it!

• Lulworth Cove in Dorset was undoubtedly the most popular suggestion from our Facebook question, which is hardly surprising as it’s also undoubtedly one of the UK’s most popular coastal locations. A concordant coastline, comprised of different rock types that have eroded at different levels over the ages, Lulworth’s origins may be slightly beyond our comprehension, but its status as one of the UK’s most popular tourist attractions is beyond reproach. It’s surprising then that a brief stroll along the beach, past the iconic Durdle Door, can often lead to you enjoying your stunning surroundings in complete peace.

• Despite the amount of naturally stunning locations around the country, it’s easy to forget that much of Britain’s seaside heritage is built upon more man-made attractions. Take Blackpool, for example. While its sands are undoubtedly attractive, it’s the additional seaside trappings that make it a must-visit. Donkey rides, fish and chips, ice-creams, arcades amusement parks and, of course, that great big tower are just a few of the reasons so many visitors return year after year.

• Bamburgh Beach is a direct contrast to Blackpool’s seaside heritage. This wild and often windswept location offers miles of unspoilt heritage coastline to explore, all under the fantastically atmospheric shadow of Bamburgh Castle. Part of the North Northumberland Dunes Special Area of Conservation, Bamburgh’s dunes are one of the region’s many highlights, so much so that they were designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest in 1995, thanks to a rich and diverse array of flora and fauna. If you’re after seeing the wilder side of Britain’s Beaches then we can’t recommend this one highly enough!

• Last but by no means least are the wonderful beaches at Tenby. If this gorgeous little Welsh town didn’t have enough to celebrate, through its medieval heritage and enviable location on the Pembrokeshire Coastal Path, it can add four gorgeous beaches to its long tally of attractions. North Beach is the most popular with visitors, offering a promenade and a welcome array of beach facilities to accompany its rock pools and clean waters. The golden sands of South Beach may be less populated but they’re no less beautiful. Smaller still are Castle Beach and Harbour Beach. Both offer stunning views, clean sands, clear waters and plenty of opportunities to create fantastic holiday memories.

Find a fantastic British seaside holiday cottage on cottages4you.

Read more British Beach Week articles.

Pic of Durdle Door by Caroline McCabe from our ‘Britain’s Best Seaside Snaps‘ competition. Click here to enter and be in with a chance of winning a £500 cottages4you voucher!