The UK is filled with stunning sandy beaches, little coves, and gorgeous coastline views. Beaches can be found in every part of the UK, meaning that no matter where you go, you’re close to a beach. These are perfect for relaxing and having some fun. The weather may let you down at times when planning a beach British getaway, but there’s always so much to explore around the beautiful coastlines that it doesn’t matter (although a sunny and warm day in summer is ideal).
From Wales toSussex, discover the best beaches in the UK for a British getaway you won’t forget. Get packing and head to some incredible coastal views for a fun and memorable vacation.
Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Kynance Cove in Cornwall is an iconic beach that you must visit. Not only is it stunning and very Instagrammable, but it offers a cozy and tranquil escape for the day. It boasts fine white sand, crystal turquoise waters, and interesting rock formations poking out of the sea. It is serene and gives panoramic, picturesque views wherever you look, with gorgeous greenery, rocky islands, and tempting clear sea.
It is very out of the way which adds to its peacefulness and on a bright, sunny day, is perfect for a hike or a dip in the water. You can spend your time exploring rock pools and the mysterious caves when the tide is low, having an adventure of a lifetime. This beach only gets better as it has been featured on TV and movies over the years. The TV adaptation of Poldark was filmed here for some of the clifftop riding scenes and it even features in the Game of Thrones spin-off, House of the Dragon!
Freshwater West, Pembrokeshire, Wales
Freshwater West in Pembrokeshire, Wales is a must-see beach destination, especially for Harry Potter fans. This is because this beach was used as the backdrop for the final Harry Potter movie, the Deathly Hallows Part 2. It was used for the Shell Cottage which was located in the dunes behind the beach.This beach was also the site of Dobby’s death in part one which has turned it into a shrine for fans with a memorial constructed out of rocks.
It is also great for those who love to surf as it has epic waves where you can catch a thrill and have some surfing fun. It is a truly beautiful beach to visit, especially when the sun is shining!
Camber Sands, Sussex
This beach in Sussex has gorgeous sand that stretches forever and ever. Camber Sands is one of Britain’s most famous beaches, alongside Blackpool, as it has been used in movies and even mentioned in hit songs. It is hugely popular on a sunny day and is an immense size (almost three miles long)! The views of the water and tufty grassy dunes create a typical British seaside atmosphere, filled with family fun and exploration.
You can explore around the beach and combine it with an epic day trip to the cobbled streets and quaint, medieval pubs of Rye.
Tankerton Beach, Kent
Unlike many other beaches in the UK, Tankerton Beach in Kent is a smaller yet colorful beach that is lesser known and much more peaceful. This cute and cozy beach is only 15 minutes from the nearest train station, but the seaside vibes are off the charts. Enjoy tucking into some fish and chips on the beach or try some seafood as this beach offers all sorts of food experiences to enjoy. You can even go for a beach walk and a drink at a pub to soak up the stunning beach views.
As well as this, Tankerton Beach is one of the best places to watch the sunset. This area creates a spectacular sunset that is clear, romantic, and wonderful to see!
Seven Sisters, East Sussex
At the Seven Sisters in East Sussex, you can find the iconic and famous chalk cliffs that tower over the English Channel. Boasting a dramatic landscape and luscious sand, contrasting with the striking blue of the ocean and white cliffs. You can walk along the top of the cliffs and see stunning views of the Cliffs of Dover or head to the beach to enjoy some sandy family fun.
This iconic landmark has been used as the backdrop in Harry Potter and the Robin Hood movie too!
Clarach Bay, North Wales
If you’re looking for a quieter and enclosed beach to visit, or even stay at, then Clarach Bay in North Wales is a wonderful option. It is a sheltered and rockier beach about one mile from Aberystwyth. This natural cove is serene and picturesque, surrounded by steep cliffs and caravan parks to stay in, such as Aber Bay!
It’s a cozy beach that’s perfect for swimming, water sports, or sunbathing (when the weather allows). There are coastal paths to hike, with one leading to Aberystwyth. These paths offer unmatched nature and stunning coastal views at every turn, giving a peaceful and inspiring hike. You can also explore caves and rock pools on the beach, gaining a sense of adventure and family fun.
Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove, Dorset
Experience a historic, geological wonder that will leave you amazed at Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove in Dorset. This is truly the most beautiful corner of the Southwest Coastal Path to hike and will be an unforgettable trip that you will adore.
Around 10000 years ago, water broke through a stack of rocks on the Jurassic Coast and began to make a stunning formation that is unparalleled compared to anything else in the UK. Durdle Door is a fantastic archway made from Jurassic rocks that frame the crystal blue waters and beyond, giving you a beautiful pic for social media.
Seeing this incredible rock formation is best combined with a visit to the nearby Lulworth Cove. This is a sheltered, serene white pebble beach that is almost perfectly circular. It is a beautiful haven for relaxation and sunbathing. You can watch the boats bobbing in the stunning emerald water and take a breather.
Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland
Bamburgh Beach in Northumberland is a spectacular destination to visit while on vacation, with picturesque coastal landscapes that transport you back in time and into a romance novel. However, it can get quite chilly which is why this beach is often overlooked.
With pristine white sands and turquoise calming waters, this beach is the best place to make everlasting memories, especially with a partner. The romantic atmosphere is heightened by the beautiful eleventh-century castle that overlooks the beach and was used to film the latest Indiana Jones movie! You can go on a tranquil boat trip to spot seals, puffins, and maybe even dolphins or head to the stunning medieval village.
These best beaches in the UK for a British getaway provide you with lots of fun, picturesque views, and stunning nature that is sure to make the trip of a lifetime. Enjoy relaxation at these stunning beach destinations and find something to do no matter the weather!