One of the most overlooked facts is that the United Kingdom is chock full of beautiful hidden beaches. When we think of great beaches with fun activities, we think of the sparkling white sands and clear blue water in Bali or Greece.
But did you know that there is no inhabited place in the UK that is more than 113 kilometres from the coastline? That’s under 2 hours of driving to end up at a coastal paradise. And right in your backyard.
So, in the spirit of encouraging you to explore some of the more underrated gems, here’s a list of 5 hidden beaches in the UK for your next weekend trip.
Lyme Regis Beach
Lyme Regis Beach is located in one of the UK’s most charming little towns and retains a quaint charm unspoiled by tourist crowds. The beach is dog-friendly. It also has nice cafes right on the shore and the water is good to swim in when the weather is warm.
You will want to make your visit here an extended one as the surrounding area is just as beautiful. There’s an antique store you can visit, landscaped gardens all over and historic thatched buildings facing the sea.
Canford Cliffs Beach, Dorset: Soft sands and no crowds
In walking distance to Canford Cliffs village, Canford Cliffs Beach is the area’s best-kept secret. If you love beaches with no crowds, this is the perfect place for you. Located in Poole, off the more popular Sandbanks Beach, this is one of Britain’s best sandy beaches, with its soft sand, clean clear waters, and contemporary waterside bars and restaurants.
We recommend that you take a picnic there, although the beach offers options for small restaurants and ice cream. Also, for more excitement, you can catch a direct ferry across to the nature-filled Brownsea Island.
The beach at Folkestone is a lesser known hidden beaches in the UK along the southeastern coast. It promises beautiful walks and great views. It has has a bank filled with sand and pebbles, and a harboured area you can swim in safely. This beach is just an hour out from London and one of the best places to go swimming and enjoy a weekend picnic.
Folkestone is one of the most family and especially, kid-friendly beaches you can visit. It boasts a large playground, food court, beach shops spaces and outdoor activity area.
Camber Sands Beach, East Sussex: Best family-friendly beach
Just under an hour from London, Camber Sands is hidden in East Sussex, England, in the village of Camber, near Rye. You can occupy yourself while there with some fascinating history and wildlife. Camber Sands promises miles of golden sand dunes which are fun for children to climb. Another great thing is that during low tide, shallow channels that are perfect for building sand castles. Visit there in the off-season and enjoy the wonderful weather, peaceful ambience and family and pet-friendly space.
Dungeness Beach, Kent
Dungeness Beach is the ultimate hidden beach location. Sat on the edge of Romney Marsh in Kent, and 10 minutes away from Dungeness train station, this shingle beach is something different. With its stark atmosphere, courtesy of the decommissioned nuclear power station, and its relaxed vibe, Dungeness Beach is the quintessential British location.
Stepping foot out there feels like being on an indie movie set – it screams nature unchained. While you’re there, you can explore the old lighthouse. And, make sure you enjoy the sight of old fishing boats, rustic fishing huts and cottages. There’s even the chance of sighting seals and porpoises.
Get a quick lunch at the Brittania Pub you can grab a bite to go at the cafe attached to the railway terminal.
When is the best time to visit?
If you’re aiming for some time in the sun, then you’ll love these beaches during the UK summer period. Just a short ride down, and you can live out your best tourist fantasies. But we know that sometimes you just want a break from the crowds. If that’s you, plan a visit during the off-season. Just be sure to check the forecast before you leave.
