(#ad) When you think about beach holidays you don’t always think about the UK. Why is that? Holiday companies tend to promote amazing beach holidays abroad, but why leave the country when there are plenty of stunning beaches here? It’s become more important than ever to help support our country by ploughing money into UK companies to help boost the economy.
Buying a Caravan or Motorhome from Chipping Sodbury Caravans
With the current situation, staying in a hotel isn’t necessarily the first choice. But, imagine having your own caravan or motorhome from somewhere like Chipping Sodbury Caravans to stay in as and when you wish. It can be a great alternative. The perfect way to go visit these beaches and also have somewhere to return to which is your own socially distanced space. They can also be far more luxurious than ever before. It’s simply a case of choosing one you can afford. The Bailey of Bristol website has a great Virtual Showroom offering 360º tours of all their caravans and motorhomes, so you can even start looking before you go to a retailer.
Owning a caravan or motorhome can be a good way to give yourself more freedom and enable you to travel around the country and see sights you’ve always dreamed of. It can be a cheaper option in terms of holidaying as many hotels cost a considerable amount for a stay at home and abroad. With their Alu-Tech construction helping to improve their durability, a Bailey caravan or motorhome should bring you many years of enjoyment. Once you have your caravan or motorhome, costs can be greatly reduced. Simply give the kids something to distract them on the journey and head off on a beach adventure.
What is a Blue Flag Beach?
There are hundreds of beaches along the coastline of the UK and Ireland. 195 of these have been awarded a Blue Flag in 2020. Blue Flag beaches are not necessarily better than others. Those that have been awarded a Blue Flag are typically resort beaches with plenty of facilities. Other awards are available to beaches in the UK and checking what awards the beach you have in mind holds may be of equal or greater use to you when choosing which location to visit.
A Blue Flag is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education. In order for a beach to reach Blue Flag status, it needs to reach certain standards in 4 categories – Environmental Education and Information, Water Quality, Environmental Management and Safety and Services.
Where Are the Best Beaches in the UK?
The best beach for you will depend on your needs and preferences. However, at the moment it’s always a good idea to practise social distancing and try to find beaches that are less likely to be packed with people.
Here I look at a selection of beaches I’ve found that are likely to be quieter than the packed coastal resorts that we have all got used to seeing on the news. However, it’s always a good idea to check beach websites where available before you leave to see if there is any current information about visiting, and also check if there is any requirement for pre-booking car parking / car park capacities to avoid disappointment.
Elie Woodhaven
This beach, also known as Ruby Bay, is located in Fife. This beach is a sandy, sheltered beach that doesn’t become too busy even during hot weather. Almost a mile of clean, golden sand to play on and rock pools during low tide to delve into. It’s ideal for children and those wanting a quiet beach day (aside from the noise the kids make). Within rock pools you’ll find periwinkles, anemones, welks, maybe even a small crab or fish.
Birdwatch (terns, oystercatchers, curlews and more), spot different types of wildlife in the dunes, frolic in the waters, sunbathe, bury Dad – the choices are varied. The water quality is five star, there are lifeguards on site and activities available include kayaking, canoeing, fishing, surfing, windsurfing, jet-skiing, sailing, paddling and swimming.
There is a car park located nearby and award-winning toilets – they won silver in the National Loo of the Year Awards 2019. There are restaurants located nearby.
Bamburgh Beach
You’ll find social distancing a breeze at this long, wider, clean beach. Simply walk along the soft sand as the sea laps against your feet and imagine you are in the Mediterranean. On warm days the cold sea is rather refreshing. The beach is an ideal family destination. Enjoy building sandcastles, sunbathing, splashing around in the waters and playing beach games. Don’t forget your beach ball. This beach has some great waves, great for surfing. Children will also love running around and playing in the dunes and discovering a wide range of plant and animal life. And, you’ll find plenty there with this being a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI).
Access is through the dunes so not easy for those with wheelchairs or pushchairs.
From the beach, you’ll see Bamburgh Castle. It’s been there since the 6th Century and was a Norman stronghold. It is currently open. It is advised that you buy tickets in advance. Here you’ll see military and aviation artifacts from 2 World Wars, artwork, priceless treasures and more.
There are numerous car parks nearby.
Winterton on Sea
Located on the Norfolk coast this gorgeous beach stretches for miles and isn’t as busy as the one in Great Yarmouth 8 miles away. The beach boasts beautiful golden sands backed by sand dunes. Nature lovers will love this Natural Nature Reserve. Here all manner of birds can be spotted including the UK’s largest colony of terns. You’ll spot seals on the beach and among the dunes between November and February. Other creatures to be discovered are natterjack toads and adders. When it’s low tide you can walk along the sandbanks.
The car park costs around £7 for the day. Here you will also find public toilets and a cafe called Dunes serving a range of foods, cakes and drinks.
Kingsgate Bay
Near Broadstairs, Kent, this secluded sandy beach is far quieter than nearby Joss Bay and Botany Bay. The long stretch of golden sand is perfect for long walks, enjoying a picnic, going for a swim in the shallow waters, rock pooling when the tide is low and some of the best sea caves you’ll find in the country. There isn’t a car park or toilets. The closest car park is at the local park or at Joss Bay.
There are steep steps leading down to the bay, the only other way to get there is to walk when the tide is low from Botany Bay through the chalk sea cliff arch. This is susceptible to rockfalls so it’s safer not to take the risk. Be careful though as when the sea rises both ends of the bay are cut off.
Barafundle Bay
This beautiful beach in Pembrokeshire backed by dunes and pine trees is a National Trust site. With golden beaches likened to those from the Caribbean and calm crystal clear waters, it is definitely one to consider. It isn’t wheelchair or pushchair accessible and there are no facilities. The nearest car park is half a mile away and you’ll need to tackle a rocky path to reach the beach.
The views from here to the beach are amazing and the beach is impressive. It’s a great place for relaxing in the sun and also enjoying a peaceful picnic. Lie on a towel and you can easily fool yourself into believing you’re holidaying abroad, especially when the weather is good. Occasionally, visitors have been lucky enough to spot dolphins here. The beach is becoming more popular so expect it to be busier than some of the other beaches mentioned in this post.
Llanddwyn Beach
Located on Llanddwyn Island in Anglesey, this is one of the UK’s prettiest Blue Flag beaches. This is not just backed by sand dunes but also a spectacular 2,000 acre conifer forest known as Newborough Warren Nature Reserve. This nature reserve has a number of walking routes with splendid views, ideal for a relaxing day out in and amongst nature. Follow these and you might even come across the first Llanddwyn Island lighthouse and old pilot cottages.
The beach itself is sandy, and you’ll be able to partake in a range of activities from sunbathing, swimming, wind and kite surfing, fishing, jet-skis etc. This is ideal for families as it is pushchair friendly. From here you will look on in awe at the phenomenal views of Snowdonia and the Llŷn Peninsula. There are toilets on the beach but no other facilities. A large car park and picnic area can be found in the trees just behind the beach. You might even be lucky enough to see some wild ponies walking across the sand.
White Park Bay
Consists of a 3 mile clean sandy beach, this National Trust site is located on the north coast of Northern Ireland. It is pretty secluded even on hot days and is perfect for a relaxing day out at the beach. Loads of space for distancing, this Site of Special Scientific Interest hides a wealth of plant and animal life amongst the dunes. Kids will want to take their nets and chase butterflies and moths. You’ll also spot plenty of birds and also a large number of rabbits. From the seashore, you watch seabirds diving into the waters to catch fish. Make sure you keep your eye peeled as you may even see dolphins and porpoises! Sheep are sometimes found grazing in the dunes.
The site is ripe with fossils waiting to be discovered. This historical site was of the first settlements in Northern Ireland. If you’re lucky you may find evidence of the Neolithic settlers within the beach sand and sand dunes.
The water is freezing so beach activities are advised. Also, look out for the Elephant Rock. Stories suggest it is a woolly mammoth that tried to escape a volcanic eruption.
Access is along an uneven path that does have some steps. Not wheelchair or pushchair friendly. The walk is about 12 minutes to the beach. There are no toilets on the beach.
Fidden, Isle of Mull
Blessed with a white sandy bay, crystal clear turquoise waters this could easily be mistaken for a tropical island beach until you take a dip that is. The waters may be cold but on a hot day like the 30+ degrees ones we’ve had recently, it’s the ideal way to cool off. The beach is found within a sheltered bay and is ideal for wildlife spotting. Here you’ll discover seals sunning themselves on the rocks, a range of waders and geese and possibly even a hare or two. This idyllically peaceful beach is also dotted with pink granite outcrops which appear red when the sun sets.
Build sandcastles, have a splash, snorkel, go kayaking, cool your feet, or go in search of the quietest of the numerous sandy bays.
Sandwood Bay
One of the most remote unspoiled and incredible beaches in the UK. This extraordinary beach, almost 1.5 miles long has fine pink sand backed by dunes and Sandwood Loch full of brown trout. The beach isn’t the easiest to get to (a 4 mile walk) and as a result, distancing isn’t going to be an issue. Be sure to use the toilet before you go as there are none at the beach. As you stroll along the path beware of Sandwood Bay Cottage on your way to the beach. Legend has it the ghost of an old shipwrecked sailor can be spotted knocking on the windows on story nights.
The beach and cliffs are ideal for bird spotting. Look out for razorbills, puffins, shags, guillemots etc. There are over 200 species of plant species including 8 different orchids. Perfect for a relaxing day sunbathing and splashing about in the water. Be sure to take a picnic.
On your return to the car park, look out for the bay owners donation box, the John Muir Trust. Donations help with vital maintenance.
Be Careful
It’s important to check the times for tides and safety for each beach before your visit. Not all beaches have lifeguards so be extra careful when visiting beaches with children. Check online to see if pre-booking is required for car parking and if there is a limit to parking capacity.
Summary
As you can see there are plenty of beaches in the UK that will give those in the Mediterranean and even tropical countries a run for their money. Holidaying in the UK can be far more economical, create less pollution and be just as much fun.
For up to date information on caravanning within the UK, be sure to check out the Bailey of Bristol website News section. Here you’ll find loads of information, resources and guides about travelling in Covid times.
Which of these beaches do you most fancy visiting?
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Ok, this is mindblowing for me because honestly, I have never thought of UK and beaches in the same space ever and this post really opened my eyes. Who knew there were such interesting beaches? Well you did lol. I would love to see how these beaches look and feel!
It’s crazy to think some beaches are very quiet but then it’s more those harder to reach places.
You are right I have never thought of the UK as a place to go in summer with nice beaches. You have proved me wrong and there are so many options to choose from.
Honestly, I don’t blame you thinking of other places first. It’s perfect for those that can’t fly or are concerned with the current issues about going abroad.
These all sound like fabulous beaches. I love being by the water–and I love quiet spots!
Being at the beach is really good fun for the kiddies and can be nice and relaxing for us adults.
I would like to visit Llanddwyn Beach. It looks so pretty! Of course, I’d like to visit all of them if I had a chance!
I don’t blame you. The beaches all have their own beauty and reasons to visit.
I have not been to a beach in quite some time. I can imagine that they do get crowded
Some more than others. It’s the perfect location for a day out when the weather is warm.
I love your list, but I can tell you as a local, Winterton is actually one of the most popular beaches round here! To be honest they’ve all been crammed!
It’s harder to find quieter beaches when the weather is good. Some of the ones mentioned are harder to get to so have less visitors.
We love the beach. We haven’t been in months but we look forward to visiting one once this pandemic is over.
Have a great time Heather.
Campers are a life saver for those who travel often! And we would rather choose a quieter beach.
I don’t blame you. I hate it when they are packed normally. Adding current issues makes it far worse.
I love the beach and it’s great that there are some like tropical destinations. I’ll be glad to visit one soon.
Me too. Have a lovely time!!!
This is such a great idea! I never thought of it! You may have even sold me on beaches in the UK! But how warm is the water?
The water isn’t that warm I’m afraid but some have the most amazing dunes and wildlife that this more than makes up for it. It’s ideal on hot days.
I am loving Blue flag Beach the best!!!
We love the beach and tend to go nice and early before they get too busy. Great post and these beaches look lovely.
Thanks Natalie. Going early works well as you’ll find a good spot to spend the day.
Wow, these are good and beautiful beaches to go to and to be honest, I don’t mind if the beaches that I’m going to visit is quiet or not because for me as long as I am in the beach I am happy.
For the moment, the quietest beaches are more advisable. I know what you mean though.
I’ve not explored many beaches in the UK, but you’ve listed some lovely ones here. I also like that they’re quiet.
Some of these beaches will be quieter than others. There are some amazing beaches in the UK.
This reminds me of all those trips I did a few years ago with the kids and seeing all those caravans with registration plates from all over Europe. You are right, it does make more sense to use a caravan as opposed to a hotel room seeing that we are in a pandemic.
It is a much safer option that’s for sure plus it gives you much more freedom.
Great list! I dislike busy beaches. Good to hear there are quieter ones.
There sure are. It helps to know which ones they are.
There are some really good ideas here for sure. We have just been to Llanddwyn Island in Anglesey and it is a beautiful place x
I think people don’t realise how many great beaches are in this country which is a shame.
Places like the beaches and park at this time of Covid must be taken with extra precaution. I just wish that everything will be safe in the coming days so people can enjoy the outdoors again.
That’s very true. That’s why I have selected quieter beaches so that people can still enjoy having a beach day or holiday. That way there are far less people about to come in contact with. Those that are further afield and harder to get to are virtually deserted.
I don’t know any of these beaches. I just moved to West Sussex though and I am so looking forward to explore more of the secluded beaches. So far I’ve been to Littlehampton, which is very cute and not overcrowded.
Thanks for the tip Joanna. Sounds like another one that would be great to visit!!! Have fun at the beach. I hope you get to explore a few different ones.
All of these UK beaches sound wonderful. I’d love to see them all. Thanks for sharing these great ideas!
No problem Jennifer. Have a great time.
I’d love to visit them all. 🙂 Visiting the beach is always relaxing. The last time I visited one was two years ago, when we had our vacation in the Philippines.
I bet that feels like a long time ago now. I really could do with a week at the beach at the moment.
Love going to the beach especially when the weather is warm.. It clears My mind and soul.. Thanks for sharing!
It can make for a very relaxing day out.
These all look like such fun beaches to visit especially in a motorhome!
They sure are. It’s a great way to get around and also to avoid too much contact with others.
I don’t always think of beaches when I think of England, but I’m surprised to learn there are many. The water temperature may be cool, but I’m sure it’s refreshing when the air temperature is 30C or more! Would love to check a few of them out!
It really is great to cool off when we have the hot days.
Seems a nice range we should keep in mind. I would love to visit some of these beaches soon!
There are loads of nice beaches that are still waiting to be discovered.
Finding a quiet beach is like finding a gem, especially these days when everyone is looking to get out of their houses to enjoy the sun and sea.
It’s true. It’s not always easy to know which are quieter.
Always nice to find new places to adventure to. Will definitely keep these in mind the next time I visit the beach!
Have a lovely time Kat. Don’t forget your sun protection.
The only beaches we visited this year have been very quiet. THanks for sharing this list. They all look like awesome destinations.
That’s great to hear. It’s almost like having your own private beach at some.
We have not been to a beach for a long time, and I don’t see any chance of us going to one this year because of the pandemic. We prefer beaches that are less crowded. I think it would be best to go to a beach during weekdays. That would mean less people.
Exactly, the best time is weekdays because they tend to be far quieter. These beaches are ones that are quieter than many of the better know beaches in the UK.
I love going to the beach. I can’t wait to check out these beaches.
Me too, it makes for a lovely day out.
Thank you for sharing this! This made me a little bit knowledgeable about what beaches I can find. Although we are under a pandemic, these places are now part of my bucketlist
There are so many amazing beaches. I hope you get to visit at least a few of them.
There is something so great about visiting a beach! We love spending time in my parent’s camper and beach camping is perfect, especially this summer!
It sure is the perfect summer for campervans and caravans. Have fun at the beach.
I knew the UK had beaches, but I never realized how pretty they were! I will need to look into them for my next trip!
There are some stunning beaches. The dunes are great too with a range of wildlife to be spotted.
Okay so I’ve never heard of these beautiful beaches in the UK! I might have to rearrange my future trips to include some of them.
The most popular ones have been left off this list as they are far too busy especially for the current situation.
Good article. I’m going to try and visit as many as possible this summer.
That sounds fun. Enjoy!!!
These all look like lovely beaches to visit. Sounds like there are a lot of great options in this area.
There sure are plenty to choose from.
I wasn’t aware there were so many great beaches to see. Thanks for sharing these amazing destinations!
There are loads, these are just a few to choose from.
Thanks for sharing these awesome tips. Visiting the nearby beach is always a good idea, but always practice cautions and if possible avoid crowded and touristic places.
These beaches should help to do that. The tourist hotspots are not ideal at the moment.
I was at the beach yesterday when it was raining and it was amazing! So quiet!
I must admit I’ve not really been to the beach when it has been raining. Glad you had a nice time.
In UK, I had only visited Buggiba Perched beach, Qawra Point Beach but they aren’t quiet, these beaches you have mentioned with pictures are great. I always prefer quiet places and I hope I get to visit them soon.
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I haven’t visited either of the two you mentioned. Hopefully, you’ll get to see more soon.
I remember growing up in the UK and going to the “seaside” in a caravan. Good to know there lots more beach options.
There are loads of beaches in the UK to visit. It’s fun to go out and explore and find the quiet ones.
I would love to travel around in one of these vans! These are some very pretty beaches.
They do make distancing a lot easier and it’s safer than hotels at the moment.
I know London and that’s it. I am so excited to uncover more about the UK. These beaches are making me very happy. I am really putting some of these into my bucket list.
There is so much more to discover!
Wow! Those beaches sound amazing. I’ll have to check them out someday
I hope you get a chance to soon Erika.
Yes visiting a quieter beaches with family is most fun thing. We also go to beach when there is not too much people.
That’s the best time to go. Hope you get to have a nice beach day soon.
I’m dying for a day or two away to the beach but sadly our weather is awful here. It’s been raining non-stop for a week!
It seems to have taken a turn for the worse last week but this week is looking better!!!
I’ve been o Barafundle Bay, it’s gorgeous. I live by the sea in South Wales, beaches are really busy at the moment so good to have some ideas for quieter places to go
It’s harder to find quiet ones when the weather is good.
my best childhood memories are from beach holidays.
Everyone loves to go to the beach!!!
Never thought of the UK being a place for beaches. Great find!
Looks like a really lovely beach
I love going to the beach. This is cool!
What a great selection of beaches. We have a tourer caravan but due to covid we’ve not been away much this year. We had a lovely weekend at the beginning of the holidays at Sutton on sea, not the most beautiful beach but pleasant enough and just a couple of minutes walk from the caravan site. Who doesn’t love sitting on the beach with a bucket & spade, ie cream and of course fish n chips 🙂
This is really interesting i have never heard of blue flag beaches
So many great ideas of different places to go in the UK. Thanks for sharing!
these all look beautiful, i miss the sea and the beach so much
I like going away in the UK and I don’t like places to be too busy at it makes me anxious, so these beaches sound lovely and perfect to visit.
It may be the end of the summer but the lovely photos in the post have me dreaming about a UK holiday. Thank you!
Looks lovely – hope you had a great time.
these all sound great.Somewhere I`d recommend is Gorleston beach -a mile or so from Great Yarmouth—a real hidden gem
I love beaches rather like bamburgh beach it’s nice there I love Robin Hoods Bay though great for exploring