Being an island nation certainly comes with its perks, the first being the endless coastline that encircles the whole country. So, with summer faintly on the horizon, it’s time to start thinking about what we want to see and do during the warmer months. And the beach feels like the perfect place to start.
If you think the British coastline is limited to Scarborough, Blackpool and Brighton, think again. As well as popular tourist destinations, there are plenty of hidden pockets that are worth exploring this summer too.
Scarborough and Whitby
Two of the most famous spots on the North Yorkshire coastline, Scarborough and Whitby are hives of activity during the summer months. With beaches as well as game arcades, glittering piers, historic town centres and proper British food, it’s no wonder they’re still so popular today.
What’s more, they’re so accessible! Just hop on a train in York and you’ll be on the beach with an ice cream in hand in just 2 hours.
Portmeirion, Wales
Like something out a Mediterranean travel book, Portmeirion could easily be located in Italy. With its colourful houses, cobbled streets, grand churches and stone cliffs, it’s directly influenced by Italian architecture, making for a rather exotic holiday right here in the UK.
It is nicely situated away from the crowds too. With lots of secluded beaches out west, you’ll stumble across some of the most untouched beaches in the whole of Wales.
Watergate Bay
No seaside list is complete without a stop in Cornwall. Just a few minutes away from Newquay, Watergate Bay dispenses immediately of the big crowds, treating visitors to relaxed solitude away from all the tourists.
Take a stroll along the beach or brave the waves with a surfboard; it’s one of the best surfing spots in the area!
Durdle Moor
Another stop on the South coast and we’re heading to Durdle Moor, just next to Weymouth. A historic walking trail, this stretch of coastline is appropriately named Jurassic Coast, thanks to its pre-historic feel and incredible landmarks.
The Man O’War Beach promises a calm and secluded day on the beach whilst the South West Coast Path grants views over Lulworth Cove on the way to Bat’s Head.
Neist Point, Scotland
Probably the most far-flung of all the destinations on this list, Neist Point on the Isle of Skye is one for the adventurists. It’s one of the remotest spots in the whole of the Scottish Highlands, meaning that you’ll probably have its pristine beaches all to yourself.
It’s also teeming with coastal walks too. From Neist Point itself to Walrus Rock and Varkasaig beach, the rugged coastline is simply unlike anything you’ve experienced before.