On rare, hot summer days, where better to laze the day away than on one of the UK’s many beautiful beaches? Little or no cost, not too far from home and endless opportunities to explore wonderful nature. What’s not to love about the UK’s beaches?
Crowds of people, that’s what!
Don’t you just wish you could enjoy some peace and quiet?
I’ll let you into a secret… not all beautiful coastlines are over-crowded. Some are tucked away off the beaten track.
Below is a list of the UK’s best most hidden beaches. Just don’t tell anyone…
1. Porth Wen, Bull Bay, Anglesey
This fascinating, hidden little bay has rockpools galore – perfect for nature-watching. Unusually for a beach, it has many rounded brickworks dotted around the quartz white shingle beach. You’ll see a perfect rock arch to swim through when you take a dip in the inviting sea, before having a wonderfully quiet and peaceful picnic on the shore.
Re-awaken the inquisitive child in you by exploring the brickwork’s beehive kilns and peering into every doorway and chute you come across.
2. Coves Haven, Holy Island, Northumberland
Located on the far northern side of Holy Island, this secluded and secret sandy beach is sheltered by impressive sand dunes and sheer cliffs.
The beach sits on the edge of the birthplace of Christianity, with most people crossing the tidal causeway to get to the ancient monastery, completely unaware of this hidden beach on the north side of the island.
View the magnificent birds of prey that live by the sandstone caves and keep the costs down by taking in the natural beauty on offer.
http://www.searchnorthumberland.co.uk/listing/coves-haven-northumberland/
3. Ballymacormick and Orlock, County Down
From the east end of the busy sandy beach of Ballyholme Bay, you’ll find the narrow track to the picturesque Ballymacormick Point. Here lies an abundance of gorse scrub, stunning shingle beaches, various rocky islets and mysterious coves, offering a retreat from the crowds.
Take a leisurely stroll on the North Down Coastal Path which runs from Holywood in the west to Orlock in the east. You’ll pass through peaceful coastline and wild parkland and experience the vast flora and fauna. If you’re lucky enough, you’ll get to see grey seals basking on the rocks in the sea.
http://www.visitardsandnorthdown.com/things-to-do/north-down-coastal-path
4. The Strangles, Cornwall
Located on a peaceful stretch of the North Cornwall coast, this intriguingly-named Strangles beach sits beneath imposing cliffs. Have a paddle in the sea, but due to the sharp rocks and precarious currents, it’s not advisable to swim in it.
Nevertheless, the wide, sandy beach is superb to laze around on and read a good book. Discover the incredible rock formations – particularly the huge and impressive rock at the northern end – which is also popular with naturists.
https://www.cornwall-beaches.co.uk/north-cornwall/the-strangles.htm
5. Fidden, Fionnphort, Ross of Mull, Scotland
Pink granite rock formations and a huge white sandy bay are just two of the attractions of this stunning beach. It’s highly regarded as one of Mull’s best hidden beaches and it’s not hard to see why.
See seals sunbathing on the rocks and explore the contents of rockpools, giving you and any children hours of entertainment engaging with nature at its best.
Stay overnight at the nearby Campsite, Fidden Farm, and enjoy the spectacular sunset.
http://www.isle-of-mull.net/attractions/beaches/fidden-beach/
6. Drigg and Eskdale, Lake District
It’s easy to think that The Lake District is all about, well, lakes. Not so. There’s a spectacular coastline in the National Park, some of which is relatively undiscovered. Drigg beach has 1,000 acres of sand dunes and nature reserve. The beach spans miles along the Irish Sea and is a significant breeding site for the unusual natterjack toad.
Kick back and relax on the beach and be prepared not to see another sole for a while. Bliss!
If you fancy being a little adventurous, walk to neighboring Ravenglass and get the mountain train up to Eskdale for to enjoy some fantastic views.
7. Eype Beach, Dorset
With its neighbours, Lyme Regis and West Bay, taking centre stage, most tourists won’t notice this little gem of a beach – which is good news for those who prefer a little peace and tranquility.
Start out at the picturesque village of Eype and meander down the quaint lanes to arrive at this small, pebbled beach – akin to a little slice of heaven out of the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Get out your barbeque or picnic blanket and enjoy the serene atmosphere and magnificent views out to the sea.
https://www.visit-dorset.com/things-to-do/eype-beach-p1135253
I hope these suggestions for glorious hidden beaches will help you find the perfect place to relax on a hot summers day – away from all those pesky crowds!
