You don’t have to jump on a plane and travel abroad to experience beautiful beaches – there are plenty of them right on our doorstep! Sparkling white sand, rock pools, sand dunes, wildlife and spectacular views can all be found around the coastlines of Britain and Ireland. We’ve listed some of the very best spots below:
Penmon Point, Anglesey
On a clear day, you can see Snowdon along with the famous Puffin Island. The beach itself is mostly pebbles, perfect for going for a long walk. You’re also a short walk from St Seiriol’s monastery, one of the oldest religious buildings in Wales.
Brownsea Island, Dorset
Brownsea is a small island tucked away in Poole Harbour and accessible by ferry. It’s home to woodland, ponds, lagoons and a notable red squirrel population, as well as a beautiful beach on its south shore.
Formby Beach, Merseyside
Formby offers large, flat beaches lined by miles of sand dunes and woodland – which is managed by the National Trust and teeming with wildlife.
Murlough Nature Reserve, Dundrum, County Down
Four miles of elevated dunes offer breathtaking views over Murlough’s expansive beaches and the distant Mourne Mountains. If you’re lucky you can spot common and grey seals frequenting the beach.
Runswick Bay, North Yorkshire
A picture-perfect beach surrounded by traditional cottages. The beach is on the popular Cleveland Way walking route and is popular with hikers, rock poolers and fossil hunters.
Blakeney Point, Morston, Norfolk
Blakeney Point offers four miles of sandy and shingle beaches. You can book a seal-spotting trip with one of the local ferry companies, and eagle-eyed visitors can spot other rare forms of wildlife including sandwich terns, otters and yellow horned poppies.
Bembridge, Isle of Wight
The village of Bembridge on the Isle of Wight is surrounded by three beaches, each different and with their own character. Pack your bags and spend the day exploring!
