When most of us think of the best beaches, our minds likely wander to the sunny shores of Spain or the impressive coves of Australia.
But closer to home lies a whole range of beaches filled with immaculate sands, clear waters and, of course, classic fish and chips.
As the summer months approach, the search for a sunshine-filled holiday commences, and there’s good news for Brits seeking a destination in the UK.
Now, the best beaches in the UK have been revealed by Conde Nast Traveller.
Here’s a rundown of the top spots to explore – with a mix of well-known beach havens and hidden gems that have managed to slip under the radar…
1. Botany Bay, Kent
The beautiful beach of Botany Bay, located on the coast of Kent, England
Taking the number one spot is Botany Bay in Kent, an award-winning sandy beach that’s well known for its impressive white chalk cliffs.
Fossil hunting is a popular activity at the summer hotspot, as well as photography and filming – indeed, it even has cinematic credentials, with films such as Carry on Jatta 3 (2023), The Great (2020-2023) and The Electrical Life of Louis Wain (2021) being filmed there.
Rock pools are also available to explore when the tide is low, while high tide lends itself well there for swimming.
2. Trevone Bay, Cornwall
Trevone Bay beach, on the north coast of Cornwall, has a rocky landscape
In second place is Trevone Bay in Cornwall, which boasts high cliffs, a tidal pool and exceptional views.
It received a Blue Flag Award and Seaside Award in 2024, demonstrating the safety, water quality and commitment to environmental causes of the beach.
According to Visit Cornwall, it’s located close to the bustling harbour town of Padstow in North Cornwall, and ‘is a hive of activity’ – with plenty to do, from coastal walks to a visit to the 80 ft blow-hole known as ‘Round Hole’, that was formed by a collapsed sea cave.
3. Sennen Cove, Cornwall
Sennen Cove beach and Cape Cornwall offers crystal-clear turquoise water
Sennen Cove beach in Cornwall joins the list in third place, a popular holiday spot with beautiful views.
Reviews of the beach on Tripadvisor rave about the destination, and it has an impressive 4.5 star rating.
One visitor described the beach as ‘lovely’, while another said it is a ‘great beach to go to with family’.
Another wrote: ‘I hadn’t visited Sennan Cove for about 50 years. I was apprehensive that it would have become commercialised or changed out of all recognition, but no. It was just as beautiful as I remembered.’
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4. Walberswick Beach, Suffolk
Grasses blowing in the wind on Walberswick beach, Suffolk, England
Quiet Walberswick Beach in Suffolk, close to a nature reserve, maintains a natural atmosphere with its combination of sand and shingle dunes.
In fourth place on the list, the dog-friendly beach is popular among walkers and hikers, as well as those interested in crabbing.
While relatively unknown and calm, those who have paid the beach a visit have raved about it, with one saying: ‘There something about this area I just love. It’s peaceful, uncomplicated and clean. Very very British traditional. I love the place.’
5. Pentle Bay, Scilly Isles
Pentle Bay, on the Isles of Scilly, England, offers a serene landscape
Pentle Bay on the Scilly Isles rounds out the top five on the list, with a rugged landscape and few tourists in sight.
It has white sands, turquoise waters and many of the hallmarks of more glamorous beaches around the world.
Often dubbed the ‘English Seychelles’, last year it was dubbed the UK’s prettiest beach.
6. Crantock Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
Crantock Beach and Pentire head, in Newquay, Cornwall, draw in plenty of tourists
Located at the mouth of the River Gannel estuary, Crantock Beach is ideal for sandcastles and surfing – and comes in sixth place on the list.
Praised for its golden sands, beautiful dunes, dog-friendly shores and activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding, it’s great for a family holiday or adventure lovers.
Five-star reviews focus on the positive attributes, with one saying: ‘Wow what a great beach… plenty of space on the beach but it was well worth it, we set up and hit the waves on the bodyboards.
‘The waves were quite high to propel you forward. And the beach was dog friendly, which was brilliant – the dogs were running round living their best life. A great day.’
7. Mothecombe, Plymouth, Devon
The beach and dramatic landscape at Mothecombe, Devon, England
Mothecombe beach, located in Plymouth, Devon, is one of the less crowded beaches in the area.
Hailed for its quiet shores, unspoiled scenery and shallow waters, it’s also perfect for swimming.
Visit Plymouth says: ‘If you want a beach holiday without the crowds, Mothecombe beach is one of the quieter beaches in South Devon.
‘Large and unspoilt and at low tide Mothecombe comes into its own with fine sand and plenty of opportunity for shallow, sheltered bathing.’
8. Mwnt Beach, Cardigan, Wales
The sandy beach and headland at Mwnt in Wales offers dramatic scenery
Taking the eighth spot on the list is Mwnt Beach, situated in Cardigan, Wales.
The secluded cove is frequently described as a ‘haven’, with amazing sea views, walks to enjoy, a peaceful atmosphere and clear waters.
One visitor posted on Tripadvisor: ‘We have been here many times and we never get tired with the Beaty of Mwnt. The Church is lovely and quaint but the beach is just wonderful. We have been paddle boarding in the past only to be joined by Seals which is so pleasurable. Mwnt is so beautiful any time of the year.’
9. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
Colourful beach huts line Holkham Beach near Wells-next-the-Sea on the Norfolk coastline
Holkham Beach in Norfolk is next up, an award-winning beach with golden sand, dunes, and pine forests to explore.
The unspoilt, natural paradise also has a grazing marsh, a breeding ground for birds, and it’s a haven for animal lovers.
With seemingly endless miles of coastline, it’s often ranked among the best in the UK.
10. Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast, Dorset
The famous recognisable Durdle Door rock formation and turquoise sea
Located along Dorset’s iconic Jurassic Coast is Durdle Door beach, which rounds out the top 10 on the list.
The dramatic landscape attracts hordes of visitors, and is one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks.
The beach recently made headlines when storms destroyed part of the steps leading to the beach – and the pathway was subsequently closed.
11. Dunwich Beach, Suffolk
Dunwich Beach, Suffolk, provides a pretty backdrop and pebble beach
Dunwich Beach, located on the Suffolk coast, is popular among dog walkers living in the area.
The pebble beach and nearby town are great to explore, with many visitors remarking the interesting history and range of tea rooms, restaurants and cafes on offer.
One Tripadvisor review read: ‘What a find. Great beach and heath to walk on. Great views. Dunwich has an amazing history, the museum is fascinating.
‘Lovely lunch in the restaurant, fish and chips all freshly cooked. Plenty of outside seating. Public loos which were clean. Best of all – FREE TO PARK!’
12. Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall
Pedn Vounder beach near Porthcurno in Cornwall is popular in the summer months
Pedn Vounder Beach in Cornwall is up next, famed for being a filming location for TV series Poldark.
With 4.9 stars on Google reviews, an almost perfect score, it’s easy to see why visitors sing its praises – with one writing: ‘Pedn Vounder Beach is a hidden gem, but be prepared for a challenging trek to get there! The steep descent over a rocky path isn’t for the faint-hearted, so wear sturdy shoes.
‘Once you arrive, it’s absolutely worth it – stunning views, sheltered from the wind, and plenty of space to spread out. Make sure to check tide times before going to avoid being caught out. A truly amazing spot!’
13. Hunstanton, Norfolk
Sunsets over Hunstanton beach on the North Norfolk Coast are truly spectacular
In 13th place is Hunstanton, Norfolk, the only west-facing resort on the east coast of England.
Visit North Norfolk desribes the town as having two sides – the Victorian town, and the lively buzzing family centre with a large sandy beach, pony rides, amusements and theatre.
It adds: ‘Old Hunstanton has more of a village feel, with its beach (including rock pools) backed by famous red and white striped cliffs.’
14. Shell Bay, Studland, Dorset
A beautiful walk along Studland beach, Shell Bay is a popular pastime
Shell Bay in Studland, Dorset joins the list in spot 14, known for its golden sands.
The beach is Ideal for water sports, and Studland includes the most popular naturist beach in Britain.
Nearby, other beaches at Studland are called Knoll Beach, Middle Beach and South Beach, and all are owned by the National Trust.
15. Southwold, Suffolk
The Southwold Lighthouse and coast are popular among Brits
In spot 15 is Southwold beach, located in Suffolk – and it’s a popular spot among tourists.
With a world-class pier and lots of pretty houses, streets and shops to explore, it has everything you might want from a British beach town.
One Google review said: ‘I took an early morning stroll and took time to read all the history of the place along the sea front and loved it. The beach is really nice and the shops are too.’
Another chimed in: ‘What an outstanding place Southwold is to visit and when the sun is shining, it’s top our list, every time. The lovely sandy beaches, the light house, the pier and lots of shops to spend a few pennies.
‘And not forgetting the excellent pubs and restaurants for a drink or a nibble. There is lots of free parking available, if you get there early. So much to explore, you will not be disappointed.’
16. Mudeford Sandbank, Dorset
Mudeford Sandspit Lagoon with its beach huts on Mudeford Sandbank
Next up in popular Dorset is Mudeford Sandbank, taking the 16th spot on the list.
Described by Visit Dorset as a ‘unique and beautiful sand spit which adjoins the ancient headland of Hengistbury Head and forms a natural barrier between Christchurch Harbour and the open sea’, the beach is surrounded by pretty cliffs.
It’s also home to many of the UK’s rare species of reptiles, birds and insects.
17. Cuckmere Haven, Seaford, East Sussex
Cuckmere Haven near Seaford, in East Sussex also joins the list
Cuckmere Haven in Seaford, East Sussex is up next, a calm pebble beach near the iconic Seven Sisters cliffs.
Cuckmere Haven has been used in many films and TV shows, including Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves, Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Atonement.
Aside from its cinematic credentials, Cuckmere Haven is a great place to explore on foot, by bicycle or by canoe – if you’re feeling adventurous.
18. Whitstable beach, Kent
Whitstable, Kent is home to a popular shingle beach and promenade
Whitstable beach in Kent, a coastal town known for its brightly painted beach huts, takes spot 18.
Located on the north coast of Kent, to the west of Margate, it’s popular among cyclists and walkers and has excellent seafood for any foodies.
The pebble beach is often hailed for its beauty – and the bohemian town is the real crown jewel.
19. Aldeburgh, Suffolk
An artistic sculpture rising from the shingle at Aldeburgh Beach, Suffolk
Aldeburgh, Suffolk is next up on the list, a charming coastal town with pretty independent shops to explore.
The beach itself, with its pebbles and fisherman’s huts, makes it a typical UK coastal spot.
The beach is highly rated, with one visitor saying: ‘Where the air smells of smoke and salt, tradition still lives. Fresh fish caught the same day, smoked the old way, sold from wooden huts by people who know the sea – not as a trend, but as a way of life.
‘No rush. No noise. No branding tricks. Just waves on the shore, pebbles underfoot, cold wind on your face, and food made with patience and respect for generations before us. Some places don’t need reinventing. They remind us why simplicity, heritage, and authenticity still matter.’
20. Brancaster Beach, Norfolk
The sandy beach at Brancaster in North Norfolk rounds out the top 20 on the list
The UK’s best beaches
1. Botany Bay, Kent
2. Trevone Bay, Cornwall
3. Sennen Cove, Cornwall
4. Walberswick Beach, Suffolk
5. Pentle Bay, Scilly Isles
6. Crantock Beach, Newquay, Cornwall
7. Mothecombe, Plymouth, Devon
8. Mwnt Beach, Cardigan, Wales
9. Holkham Beach, Norfolk
10. Durdle Door, Jurassic Coast, Dorset
11. Dunwich Beach, Suffolk
12. Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall
13. Hunstanton, Norfolk
14. Shell Bay, Studland, Dorset
15. Southwold, Suffolk
16. Mudeford Sandbank, Dorset
17. Cuckmere Haven, Seaford, East Sussex
18. Whitstable beach, Kent
19. Aldeburgh, Suffolk
20. Brancaster Beach, Norfolk
21. Dungeness, Romney Marsh, Kent
22. Polzeath, Cornwall
23. Bantham Beach, South Devon
24. Filey Brigg, North Yorkshire
25. West Wittering Beach, Chichester
26. Sandbanks, Dorset
27. St. Bees, Cumbria
28. Woolacombe Sands, Devon
29. Cromer Beach, North Norfolk
30. Whitley Bay, Tyneside
31. South Bay, Scarborough, Yorkshire
32. Sheringham beach, North Norfolk
33. Ventnor, Isle of Wight
34. Viking Bay, Broadstairs
35. Lantic Bay, Cornwall
36. Scarista Beach, Lewis & Harris, Scotland
37. Achmelvich Beach, North-west Scotland
38. Machir Bay, Islay, Scotland
39. Uig beach, Isle of Lewis, Scotland
40. St Cyrus, Aberdeenshire, Scotland
41. Luskentyre, Outer Hebrides, Scotland
42. Three Cliffs Bay, Wales
43. Aberfforest Beach, Wales
44. Llanddwyn, Anglesey, Wales
45. Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales
46. Rhossili Bay, Gower Coast, Wales
47. Harlech, Gwynedd, Wales
48. Penbryn, Ceredigion, Wales
49. Whitesands Beach, Pembrokeshire, Wales
50. Benone, Ulster, Northern Ireland
51. Mill Bay, Rathlin Island, Northern Ireland
52. Magilligan Point, Ulster, Northern Ireland
53. Whiterocks, Portrush, Northern Ireland
54. Whitepark Bay, Antrim, Northern Ireland
55. Blackpool Sands, Devon
56. Seven Sisters, Sussex
57. Camber Sands, Essex
58. Cley next the Sea, Norfolk
59. Hastings Beach, Sussex
60. Hengistbury Head
Source: Conde Nast Traveller
The final spot on the list is Brancaster Beach, Norfolk, known for its sandy shores.
Praised for its ‘lovely’ sand, ‘scenic’ views and walks in the area and ‘relaxing’ ambience, visitors rave about the spot.
One wrote on Tripadvisor: ‘Lovely dog-friendly beach. Golden sand, beach kiosk, ice creams, coffee and toilets but no amusements which was great. Big car park too.’
Brancaster is a vibrant village – and, good news for foodies, it’s known for its mussels and excellent seafood.
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