The Prettiest, Lesser-Known Beaches in England

Tired of overcrowded beaches and hectic tourist hotspots? This guide to some of the more obscure coastal gems is sure to provide you with some fantastic alternatives. Enjoy your holiday break away from any of the potential stresses and struggles of the typical seaside experience, as we break down the best retreats across the country that have remained unspoiled by commercialisation and overpopulation.

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From the stunning Blue Flag Beaches in Norfolk, to the picturesque Embleton Bay in Northumberland, these hidden gems offer tranquillity and natural beauty as well as excitement and fun for the whole family. So, grab your sunscreen, pull out your bucket and spade, and prepare to discover the many hidden treasures of England's spectacular coastline!

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1. Botany Bay, Kent

Botany Bay is a stunning coastal retreat known for its golden sands, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views of the English Channel. It’s a great destination for beachgoers and nature lovers, offering various opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and more. You could enjoy a peaceful coastal walk, taking in the dramatic scenery and unique rock formations, or plan an exciting afternoon full of adventure with some fossil hunting! If you have kids, keep them occupied by searching for lost pieces of history. Or, get stuck in yourself and see what you can uncover.

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The beach has amenities such as a café and kiosk with lifeguards on duty and has been featured in numerous television ads and music videos. Despite this however, Botany Bay still remains a fairly well-kept secret as it rarely pulls in an overwhelming number of crowds. If you choose to visit, just be aware of your surroundings as there is a high tide which can cut off both ends of the beach. There is also a dog ban in effect from the months of May to September, so it’s better to leave any pets at home.

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Where to Stay

Budget - CloudZen

Units in this bed and breakfast are equipped with a microwave, toaster, coffee machine, wardrobe and walk-in shower. Some have sea views. There are also a variety of wellness options including a hot tub, wellness packages and yoga classes.

Mid Range - Botany Bay Hotel

Botany Bay Hotel provides picturesque views from its elevated position on the cliff tops of Kingsgate. There’s a comfortable lounge bar which hosts live music, a sea view restaurant and function facilities. Some rooms allow pets.

Luxury - Driftwood Apartments Broadstairs

Offering quiet street views, units at this apartment complex are equipped with a seating area, flat-screen TV with streaming services, a kitchen, a dining area and a private bathroom with a hair dryer, bath and free toiletries. It’s 100 yards from the beach and 300 yards from the town centre.

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2. Studland Bay, Dorset

With its golden sand dunes and clear blue waters, Studland Bay beach is part of the Studland Nature Reserve and home to a diverse range of wildlife and plant species. You can relax, swim and picnic along the shore- or walk, jog and run to your heart’s content, with several trails to follow in the nearby heathland and woodland areas. You can even opt for some thrilling water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding. Studland Bay is a particularly great choice for nature lovers, photographers, or for visitors travelling in a group where having lots of options available is key.

If you’d like to take in the beauty of Studland Bay in a special way, this relaxing evening dinner cruise around Poole Harbour is a unique route to enjoying the incredible scenery whilst feasting on the great British tradition of a delicious fish and chips dinner! Catch a glimpse of the luxury beachfront properties of Sandbanks Golden Mile, explore Europe's largest natural harbour and witness the Jurassic Coast’s famous chalk formations of Old Harry Rocks.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Pines Hotel

This cliff-top hotel overlooking Swanage Bay and with private steps down to the beach, provides free parking and full English breakfasts. Light and traditionally furnished, every room at The Pines Hotel has a flat-screen TV and free tea/ coffee. A private bathroom is featured in each room, while some have balconies overlooking the sea. All upper rooms are accessible by lift.

Mid Range - Knoll House

With a breakfast area, restaurant, seasonal outdoor swimming pool and tennis court, Knoll House features a 24-hour front desk, a shared lounge and luggage storage for guests. Some rooms include a sea view and access to a hot tub.

Luxury - Sandy Shores

This spacious holiday home is fitted with 5 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen that provides guests with a dishwasher, an oven, a washing machine, a microwave and a fridge. There’s a coffee shop and a lounge and it’s just a 3 minute walk to the beach. The home also includes a barbecue, outdoor fireplace and sun terrace.

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3. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

Bamburgh Beach is known for its pristine, sandy shores and picturesque views of Bamburgh Castle, which sits atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the beach. It’s a spot of true natural beauty, with plentiful opportunities for sunbathing, swimming and beachcombing. It’s also a top choice for keen birdwatchers, as the shore is home to a variety of sea birds and wading birds. Surrounded by dunes and grassy areas, Bamburgh Beach provides a peaceful and scenic backdrop for visitors to peacefully enjoy at their own leisure.

If you’re looking for a fantastic day out, the castle itself guarantees hours of fun for the whole family. Follow in the footsteps of Uhtred and take a tour of the nine acres of castle grounds, marvel at live archaeology demonstrations, and experience thrilling open air theatre performances and cinema nights. Even during the winter months, there’s plenty to do. Children will love the Christmas Kingdom and Meet Santa events, as well as the interactive Hope the Dragon’s Trail. The castle was featured in films such as the Harry Potter saga and Robin Hood and sits right over the shoreline, so prepare for beautiful views from dawn until dusk! Book your ticket for a guided tour here.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Victoria Hotel

In the heart of Bamburgh, The Victoria Hotel features a brasserie restaurant and free Wi-Fi. The elegant en-suite rooms include LCD TVs and tea/ coffee facilities, and some rooms have views of Bamburgh Castle. A full English breakfast is provided and high-quality contemporary meals are also served for lunch and dinner.

Mid Range - The Bamburgh Castle Inn

This 3-star inn features a garden, terrace, restaurant and bar and is located 400 metres away from Seahouses North Beach. Each room is fitted with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels and a kettle. Selected rooms are equipped with a balcony and others offer sea views.

Luxury - Chandlers BnB

Situated in Seahouses and only 600 metres from Seahouses North Beach, Chandlers BnB features accommodation with sea views, free WiFi and free private parking. At the bed and breakfast, every unit comes with a wardrobe, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels. A fridge and kettle are also available.

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4. Blue Flag Beaches, Norfolk

There are three Blue Flag beaches in Norfolk: Cromer, Sheringham and West Runton. This prestigious title is distributed only to those which meet a certain set of criteria set out by the Keep Britain Tidy scheme. If a beach has Blue Flag status, it’s guaranteed to provide safety services- such as first aid and lifeguards, environmental information- such as details about local ecosystems, excellent water quality and proper environmental management. To put it simply, the beach has to be super safe, clean and well looked after!

West Runton is best known for the extraordinary discovery of mammoth bones back in 1990. Since then, many visitors have visited the beach to try their own hand at fossil hunting. Sheringham beach is full of life, with many attractions, cafes and museums, and a lovely promenade to stroll along. Lastly, Cromer beach can be easily distinguished by its magnificent pier and Pavilion Theatre. It’s also famous for its delicious Cromer crabs.

Whichever beach you choose to visit, it may interest you to know that just off the coast of Norfolk lies the world’s longest chalk reef. With its clear waters which are great for snorkelling and its plethora of underwater sea life, it has been described by marine experts as ‘Britain’s Great Barrier Reef.’

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Where to Stay

Budget - Cromer Country Club

With views of the picturesque Norfolk coastline and many health and leisure facilities, Cromer Country Club is ideally placed for a delightful break in a pleasant Victorian seaside town. There’s a swimming pool and pool-side whirlpool, a restaurant and a bar.

Mid Range - The Dormy House Hotel

Featuring a bar and sea views, The Dormy House Hotel is located in Cromer, 3.7 km from the Pier. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, room service and a shared lounge, along with free WiFi. Each room comes with a wardrobe and a private bathroom. Continental and full Irish/ English breakfast is offered.

Luxury - The Red Lion Hotel

The Red Lion Hotel is over 200 years old and has many original period features. Most rooms have great views of the sea and the Blue Flag beaches. Each is en-suite and has a TV, tea/ coffee and mineral water. The hotel has a spacious lounge with views of Cromer Pier.

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5. Seaford Bay, East Sussex

Seaford is situated on the south coast of England and showcases beautiful views of the English Channel. The beach is known for its promenade, pebbles and shingle shore and stretches for about two miles. It’s a popular spot for swimming and sailing, with volunteer lifeguards on duty during summer weekends and ample parking along the seafront. The town itself has a charming atmosphere, with quaint shops, cafés and restaurants. Dog owners will also be pleased to find out that dogs are allowed on most of the beach throughout the year! However, there is a seasonal ban on the central section (between Salts recreation field and the Martello Tower), so just be aware of the signs around you. Overall, Seaford Bay is a welcoming, easily accessible place to relax whilst avoiding some of the summer crowds that flock to other beaches on the southern coast.

There are plenty of ways to enjoy the beach, but if you’d like to experience it riding leisurely along the designated bike path, fresh sea breeze blowing gently through your hair, this e-Bike hire is a wonderful way to explore the scenic trails and sights.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Quay

Located in nearby Newhaven, in this holiday home all units are equipped with a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen and towels. Some units also have sea views. There is a shared kitchen and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi throughout the property.

Mid Range - New Cosy Homes

New Cosy Homes features a garden, comfortable soundproof rooms and free WiFi. There is a private entrance and the apartment has family rooms and facilities for disabled guests. You can also play tennis at the property.

Luxury - Alma House

This holiday home in Seaford has 3 bedrooms, a sauna, cinema room, fully equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and oven and 3 bathrooms with a bath. Towels and bed linen are offered as well as free WiFi. For added privacy, the accommodation has its own private entrance.

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6. Shanklin, Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight has been a beloved holiday destination since Victorian times and is home to annual festivals (such as Bestival), well-conserved wildlife and some of the richest cliffs and quarries for dinosaur fossils in Europe. Experience what England was like in days gone by with a trip to the seaside village of Shanklin, which boasts two golden, sandy beaches and the wooded coastal ravine of the Shanklin Chine. It’s also highly regarded for its safe bathing waters, clean beaches and plentiful facilities. You could rent a sun lounger or deck chair, enjoy a game of crazy golf or clear out your coppers in the amusement arcade. There are also a variety of cafés, restaurants and pubs so refreshments are easily available. If you’re very lucky, a look out at sea may even include spotting dolphins swimming by.

Travel to Shanklin requires taking a ferry over to the Isle of Wight, so why not make this trip easier with travel from London by luxury coach? This day trip includes a visit to the beach as well as an excursion to Godshill. Here, attractions include lovely thatched cottages and a scale model village.

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Where to Stay

Budget - Channel View Hotel

Set 300 metres from Shanklin Beach, Channel View Hotel offers accommodation with a shared lounge, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. With free WiFi, this 3-star hotel also offers room service, a 24-hour front desk, indoor pool, evening entertainment and family rooms.

Mid Range - Luccombe Manor Country House Hotel

In 4 acres of landscaped cliff-top gardens, Luccombe Manor Hotel offers en suite rooms and panoramic views across Shanklin Beach. Guests can enjoy a number of on-site leisure facilities, including an outdoor hot tub and heated spa pool. Breakfast is served in the Victorian dining room, which has French windows overlooking the gardens.

Luxury - Penthouse

The 3-bedroom holiday home features a living room with a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, and 2 bathrooms with a hair dryer. Guests can enjoy an ambient stay in their soundproof room with parquet floors and a fireplace. The property also has an outdoor dining area.

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7. Whitby, Borough of Scarborough

Whitby is a charming seaside town located in North Yorkshire, England. It’s known for its rich history, coastal views and iconic abbey ruins. It’s also famous for being the inspiration for Bram Stoker's iconic novel, Dracula, as well as its connection to Captain Cook, who began his seafaring career in the town. The town has a vibrant fishing industry and is home to a bustling harbour where you can see countless boats coming and going throughout the day. A trip to Whitby is also incomplete without sampling delicious traditional treats such as fish and chips, ice cream cones and sticks of candy rock. My personal favourite activity in Whitby is to go ‘crabbing.’ Every year in the summer months, people line the harbour walls with locally bought buckets and lines, hoping to pull up the biggest catch! It’s great fun for the whole family and success is almost guaranteed due to the abundance of creatures in the waters below. Other highlights in Whitby include the amusement arcade, vintage shops and the annual Whitby goth weekend. You can even enjoy a thrilling speedboat ride in the harbour, or join a pirating adventure which travels out onto the high seas!

If you’d like to book something ahead to make the most of your day out at Whitby, this audio guide with lifetime app access is bound to teach you many interesting and helpful tidbits about the town whilst also allowing you to discover it at your own pace. Alternatively, this guided distillery tour with gin tasting is a sure way to tantalise your tastebuds and leave you with lasting memories of your time along the coast.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Angel Hotel

Situated a 10 minute walk from the main beach, this hotel has a terrace and views of the sea. Guests can enjoy a meal at the on-site restaurant, which serves a wide variety of dishes including an all-day English breakfast, traditional British pub classics and a children's menu. A flat-screen TV, en-suite bathroom and tea/ coffee making facilities are featured in each room.

Mid Range - Lobster Hall

Set in a detached Georgian house with limited private parking, Lobster Hall is located next to Whitby Railway Station and is a 10 minute walk from the seafront. Rooms feature stylish wallpaper and traditional wooden furniture. A TV, a kettle and a private bathroom with a shower are also included.

Luxury - Endeavour Cottage

Endeavour Cottage Whitby provides accommodation for up to 6 guests and is situated just 600 metres from the beach. The property features 2 bedrooms, a kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, a flat-screen TV, a seating area and 1 bathroom. A minimarket is also available at the holiday home.

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8. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

This picturesque fishing village surrounded by moorlands, fields and ocean, features cobbled streets, historic buildings, and has a compelling past as a secret spot for smuggling. Built on the steep cliff edges dropping from the moor tops into the North Sea, it’s famed for its narrow winding streets which were once used by smugglers to evade the customs and excise offices. Today, it’s a popular tourist destination which offers visitors a chance to explore its quaint shops, beautiful beach and spectacular scenery. There are also many paths to take for walking, cycling and horse-riding. Due to its rather hidden location and lack of commercialisation, Robin Hood’s Bay has remained unchanged and unspoiled over time. Top tip: With its proximity to Whitby, I’d recommend hitting up both of these places in the same trip for a varied seaside experience.

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Where to Stay

Budget - Grosvenor Hotel

Rooms at the Grosvenor Hotel contain a flat-screen TV and tea/ coffee making facilities. The family-friendly bar features a log-burning stove and a pool table, and is often host to live music in the evenings. It serves traditional meals and offers a wide selection of wine and beer. Dishes are prepared using locally sourced produce where possible.

Mid Range - Fernleigh

Guest rooms in this bed and breakfast include free WiFi access, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and toiletries. A cooked Yorkshire breakfast using local produce is available every morning.

Luxury - Sea Holly Cottage

This spacious and stylish holiday home features 2 bedrooms, a living room and a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge. A TV is also provided.

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9. Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire

Saltburn is a small seaside town known for its beautiful sandy beach, Victorian architecture and vibrant arts scene, with various galleries and studios showcasing local talent. There’s also the impressive Saltburn Cliff Lift, which is one of the world's oldest water-powered funiculars. It’s a thrilling experience for children and adults alike, provides a great scenic view and is very beneficial for anybody who might struggle to make their own way up and down the cliffside on foot. It’s very affordable, with a one-way ticket costing just £1.60 for adults and £1.00 for children aged 4-16. Under 4s go free and guide dogs and hearing dogs are welcome on board too!

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The town additionally has some lovely gardens with a lively bandstand and is home to the only remaining pleasure pier on the whole North East and Yorkshire coast. Here, visitors can enjoy stunning views of the coastline, as well as enter the fun-filled amusement arcade to try to win some cool prizes. There are also a few shops to hire surfboards (as this is a very popular activity in the water here), purchase food and drink, and grab some various beach items such as buckets and spades. So there’s no need to go back up to the top of the cliff if you realise that you’re missing something! You can probably buy whatever you need right along the beachfront.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Ship Inn

The Ship Inn is located in Redcar, a small, pleasant town approximately 2 miles away from Saltburn. At the hotel, rooms come with a wardrobe and flat-screen TV, bed linen and towels. Guests can also enjoy a Full English/Irish breakfast.

Mid Range - The Jack and Jill Coaching Inn

The Jack and Jill Coaching Inn offers accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking and a bar. There are family rooms available as well as a children's playground and table tennis. All rooms are fitted with a desk and a flat-screen TV and the private bathroom is fitted with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer.

Luxury - The Spa Hotel

Located just a few minutes’ walk from Saltburn Pier, The Spa Hotel boasts stunning sea views, a restaurant, a dog-friendly bar, and a 24-hour front desk. Free WiFi is available and free private parking is possible on site. Individually decorated, each room comes with a flat-screen TV and tea/ coffee making facilities. All bedrooms are en suite and many have side sea views. Afternoon Tea is also available on site and packed lunches can be arranged.

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10. Seaham, County Durham

This lively harbour town is best-known known for its rugged coastline and abundance of sea glass, which is often found on its shores due to the history of glass manufacturing in the area. The town has a rich industrial heritage and is home to the historic Seaham Hall, a Georgian country house which has been converted into a luxury hotel and spa. A must-see landmark in Seaham, and a good meeting place for groups due to its central position, is the Tommy World War One Soldier sculpture. It’s a remarkable, 9 feet-tall piece of work placed next to the equally poignant War Memorial Cross. Both fixtures together serve as an emotional reminder of history and a moving tribute to those lost to its tragedies.

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For those looking for some upbeat, family-friendly activities, Seaham has a paintball centre, a quads and dune buggies track, a golf club, a paint and pottery studio and a Fun Shack (children’s indoor adventure playground). Alternatively, a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores can be a great way to relax and spend the day moving at your own pace. There are many inviting rock pools to explore, as well as stunning views all along the coastal footpath. I would specifically recommend checking out Seaham Harbour Marina in the evening, as the sunset is particularly beautiful to watch as it sinks behind the boats and beneath the horizon.

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Where to Stay

Budget - No.16

Within 500 metres of Seaham Beach, No.16 has a garden, comfortable allergy-free rooms and free WiFi. The property features garden views, family rooms and a sun terrace. Units come with a desk,wardrobe, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen and towels. Certain rooms also offer a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, toaster and fridge.

Mid Range - The Seaton Lane Inn

Free Wi-Fi is featured in all rooms at Seaton Lane, as well as a private shower room, plasma TV and king-size or super king-size beds. Hairdryers and tea/ coffee making facilities are also provided and there is ground floor accommodation for disabled guests. Fresh market vegetables or homemade chunky chips are served with all meals in the hotel’s restaurant, with fresh produce sourced from local farm butchers and fish suppliers used to create the dishes on offer.

Luxury - Safire Home

Safire Home provides spacious accommodation with free WiFi and free private parking. The apartment is composed of 2 bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom. A flat-screen TV is also provided. It’s located a little further out in the village of Murton however it’s still close to many Northern attractions such as the Sage and Beamish Museum.

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11. Hartlepool, County Durham

Situated on the North Sea coast and boasting a rich maritime history, Hartlepool is a fishing town known primarily for its historic quay, which features a Navy Museum and an 18th century British warship called the HMS Trincomalee. On the sands of The Headland beach, visitors can walk along the short pier to the lighthouse, opposite colourful houses and numerous locally-owned pubs, eateries and shops. You can grab a drink and see the famous Andy Capp statue, or go searching for wildlife such as crabs, starfishes and seaweed in the rock pools along the shore. Alternatively, you can go to the other side of the town to the sandy shoreline of Seaton Carew and try to spot some seals (or even, sometimes, dolphins!) out at sea.

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If you fancy a long walk full of interesting facts and historical legend, there’s a peculiar, unique walking path that you can take called the ‘Headland Story Trail’. The road is marked by 18 different information boards, each one telling a story of the area’s heritage and history from tales of shipwreck to the eye-brow raising monkey legend. The trail can conveniently be picked up from any point and followed in either direction as it's a circular route.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Marine Hotel

Located right on the seafront, this comfortable hotel has its own restaurant and bar and is situated right next to a bowling alley, arcades, yummy fish & chip shops and dessert parlours.

Mid Range - Crimdon Dene Holiday Park

This 2-bedroom lodge offers spectacular views with access to a balcony, private pool, free private parking and free WiFi. The property is set 60 metres from Crimdon Beach.

Luxury - Stratford House Hartlepool Horizon Stays

This 840 feet², 3-bedroom holiday home with free WiFi features a TV, washing machine and a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and a fridge.

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12. Newbiggin-by-the-sea, Northumberland

Newbiggin is a peaceful fishing port and former trade route. It’s home to a former coal mine which has now been converted into a bustling museum and heritage centre. With its sandy beach and an impressive church, it’s a popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy the sun, sea and local activities.

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One of the main attractions in Newbiggin is the ‘Couple’ statue. Standing over the rocks at 20 metres long and 12 metres high, this quirky and unusual landmark represents the town's mining heritage and is visible from the Maritime centre and anywhere along the promenade. Best viewed with a pair of binoculars, when the water rises it looks as if the couple walk upon the waves towards the horizon. I would recommend checking it out in the evening, as Newbiggin’s spellbinding sunsets create a blissful atmosphere of magic and romance.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Queen’s Head

This hotel features a terrace, restaurant, bar and free WiFi throughout the property. Situated 100 metres from Newbiggin Beach, all rooms come with a desk, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. The units will also provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle.

Mid Range - The Old Ship

With free Wi-Fi throughout and free parking on site, The Old Ship overlooks the sea in Newbiggin Bay. There is a large outdoor decking area leading onto the promenade where guests can enjoy food and drink outside with views of the bay. Guests can also relax in the traditional bar, which has regular theme nights. Rooms at The Old Ship have simple décor and traditional wooden furnishings.

Luxury - The Carriage House

This spacious holiday home has 2 bedrooms, a flat-screen TV and a fully equipped kitchen with an oven, microwave, washing machine and fridge. For added privacy, the accommodation features a private entrance. There is also a children’s playground and picnic area on the property.

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13. Ocean Beach, South Shields

If you’re looking for all the adventure of Blackpool minus the crowds, high prices and hour-long queues for rides, this pleasure park in the North of England is the perfect seaside destination for you! The beach itself is named Littlehaven, however with the Ocean Beach pleasure park dominating its sandy shores, this is the title to which it’s most commonly referred. Views here are very different to the tranquil waters or quiet shores of most coastal stops around the country but are still pretty nonetheless- especially from the top of a thrilling roller coaster ride, just before the drop!

Ocean Beach can even be a fantastic day out in the colder months as well as in the summer, with seasonal events such as its winter wonderland (complete with an ice skating rink) and firework displays in the month of November. Even during typical bouts of unpleasant English weather, there’s a quasar and an arcade on-site throughout the year, so lots of fun can be had indoors until the weather brightens up.

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Where to Stay

Budget - Kingsmere Guest House

Set in a residential street, this large Victorian house is only a 2 minute walk to South Shields town centre, parks and beaches. It has nicely decorated bedrooms and free parking. All rooms are tastefully decorated with traditional features and modern touches, such as flat-screen TVs. Guests also have access to tea/ coffee making facilities and free WiFi.

Mid Range - The Clifton

The Clifton offers accommodation in South Shields and has a terrace, a bar and a shared lounge. This 4-star bed and breakfast offers full-day security, luggage storage space, free WiFi, a concierge service and room service. Units come complete with a private bathroom fitted with a shower and a hair dryer, with some also having their own seating area.

Luxury - The Bunkhouse

The Bunkhouse provides accommodation with quiet street views, free WiFi and free private parking. The 1-bedroom apartment is equipped with a living room with a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave and toaster, and 1 bathroom with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are provided in the apartment. There is also a seating area and a fireplace.

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14. Embleton Bay, Northumberland

Views at Embleton Bay are truly a marvel, with 3 miles of golden sands, clear blue waters and the ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle sitting atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea. The bay is part of the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, and offers a peaceful and scenic escape for visitors. You can take a walk through the grassy areas full of vibrant flora, or birdwatch high up on the cliffside peaks. The sand dunes are also popular for walking, picnicking, and photography, and the waters are a great location for sports such as surfing and kayaking.

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A few minutes’ walk inland from the shore lies Dunstanburgh Castle Golf Club, where you can enjoy a game right in the open, fresh sea air. Dogs are also allowed on this beach however swimmers be aware that there is no lifeguard service in operation. Overall, Embleton Bay is a highly recommendable choice for those who prefer a more remote beach experience. The glimmering shores paired with the haunting backdrop of the Dunstanburgh Castle ruins is a striking juxtaposition that is sure to make for some great pictures and special memories.

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Where to Stay

Budget - Black Swan

Featuring a restaurant and a bar, the Black Swan is a charming little inn located in Alnwick, 4.5 miles from Dunstanburgh Castle. Bikes can be stored and pets are welcome however charges may be applicable.

Mid Range - The Garden Rooms

The Garden Rooms in nearby Chathill has lovely garden views, a terrace, a restaurant and a bar. The lodge features both WiFi and private parking free of charge. Fitted with a patio, units contain a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower and slippers. Continental and Full English/Irish breakfast options are available each morning.

Luxury - Farneholm Annex Cottage

Located in Beadnell, 7 miles from Dunstanburgh, this 269 ft², pet-friendly holiday home spoils guests with its spectacular sea views, free WiFi and private parking available on site. A dishwasher, oven and microwave can be found in the kitchen and towels and bed linen are also available.

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15. Shingle Street, Suffolk

Shingle Street is a tiny coastal settlement located in Suffolk, the easternmost county in Britain. The beach here is made up of smooth pebbles, stretches for about a mile along the coast, and is the perfect choice for those looking for a quieter seaside experience due to its rather secluded location. The hamlet itself is small, with just a few houses for its sixty-something residents and a local pub where you can grab some refreshments during your stay. Located southwest of the town of Woodbridge (90 minutes East of Stansted), the bay offers languid waters and an abundance of wildlife. Current records boast 379 species of moth, 314 flowering plants, 222 birds and 59 spiders.

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There is also a popular piece of land art on the beach in the form of a long line of white shells laid by a local stonecutter and her friend. The two women arranged the line on the beach as a way of coping with their shared experience of cancer treatment and, after regular visits from 2005 to add to their work, by 2018 it had stretched for more than 275 metres, made up of 20,000 individual whelk shells. It has since been the subject of a short documentary film, a song and a book.

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Where to Stay

Budget - The Cartlodge

The Cartlodge provides accommodation with a garden and a balcony. The apartment has 1 bedroom, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a seating area with a flat-screen TV and 1 bathroom featuring a walk-in shower.

Mid Range - Bawdsey Hall

Bawdsey Hall is a bed and breakfast featuring garden views, free WiFi and free private parking. Each unit comes with a desk, a flat-screen TV, a private bathroom, bed linen and towels, a wardrobe and a kettle.

Luxury - 6 Coastguard Cottages

This bright and charming two-bedroom holiday house sits right along the coastline and is fitted with a living room and fully equipped kitchen. Pets are welcome however charges may be applicable.

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16. Blackpool Sands, Dartmouth

Ignore the misnomer! Far away from the seemingly never-ending hordes of crowds found at the famous Pleasure Beach in the northwest of the country, Blackpool Sands is a beautiful Blue Flag beach located in the much quieter town of Dartmouth, southwest Devon. In this tree-lined, sheltered bay, the beach is stony with thick, coarse pebbles, and is surrounded by lush green hills. It’s a popular destination for families and tourists, offering various amenities such as a beach shop, café, and toilets. There are also lifeguards on duty during the summer months, which provides some additional peace of mind for less confident swimmers or families with children. Sport-seekers have plenty of opportunities here too, with hiring facilities for activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding available along the shoreline.

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For visitors spending a little longer in Dartmouth, there are also numerous exciting options further inland (towards the Torquay area) such as Paignton Zoo, Babbacombe Model Village and Tessier Botanical Gardens. So if there’s time to spare in your itinerary, or if you’re waiting for a sunnier day to visit the beach, an excursion to these attractions may serve as some extra highlights during your stay.

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Where to Stay

Budget - Townstal Farmhouse

A 3 minute drive from Dartmouth town centre, Townstal Farmhouse offers cosy accommodation and full English breakfasts. The bed and breakfast provides free WiFi and on-site parking, with each room featuring a flat-screen TV, alarm clock, seating area and tea/ coffee facilities. There are also en-suite showers/ baths with hairdryers and toiletries provided.

Mid Range - Bayards Cove Inn

Located in the centre of Dartmouth, this historic hotel with free WiFi has refurbished, luxury bedrooms with a flat-screen TV and views over the river and sea. The Inn is a short walk to the shopping areas of the town and has its own café, bar and restaurant on the ground floor offering a multitude of drinks and snacks.

Luxury - Oak Tree Lodge

Offering a lovely garden view, outdoor fireplace, free WiFi and private parking, this holiday home is composed of 3 separate bedrooms, 1 bathroom and a fully equipped kitchen with an oven and microwave. The accommodation has a private entrance and towels and bed linen are included.

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