Terpe
21st March 2012, 19:55
The UK may have some of the world's most beautiful beaches.
Britain is an island with around 7,800 miles of coast. It's said that where ever you live you're no more than 2 two hours from a beach.
Whilst it's true that the UK beaches may not always be best for sunbathing, and despite being warmed by the Gulf Stream the seas still remain pretty chilly,
at least they can make up for that by providing British beauty and dramatic seascapes.
Anyone interested in exploring, rambling, photography, surfing, natural beauty and wildlife can find some of the most stunning and remote beaches anywhere
in the world.
Here's just a few:-
St Bees, Cumbria
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/StBees_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
A truly beautiful stretch of shingle and sand backed by a series of low cliffs, St Bees is an excellent place to go for a quiet day of contemplation.
There are a fascinating array of shells and stones to pick through here, many of them caused by the continual erosion of the cliff face. It also marks the start of Wainwright's Coast-to-Coast route, which stretches from here to Robin Hood's Bay, in North Yorkshire.
Pedn Vounder Beach, West Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/pedn-vounder_cnt_20feb12_rex_b.jpg
On one of Cornwall's most remote and stunning shorelines, the north coast of the Penwith Peninsula, Pedn Vounder is a quiet, sandy little cove that can only be reached by boat or after a 15-minute walk from the village of Treen. Its seclusion and privacy - especially when high tide completely cuts it off from neighbouring beaches - means that it is popular with naturists. The pretty Treryn Dinas cliffs, which stretch out along the east of the beach, overlook the blue Atlantic; among them is The Logan Rock, a 70 ton block of granite which can be rocked by human force
Durdle Door, Dorset
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/d_f/durdle_door_cnt_7mar12_rex_b.jpg
On the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is the name of the limestone arch between two lovely beaches, St Oswald's Bay and Man O'War Cove. Even on the hottest days in the height of summer they won't get overcrowded; to get here you need to climb down several hundred steps in the cliff (and it's a long walk back up to the loo or to get your sandwiches).
But it's worth the climb. It is a beautiful spot, sheltered from the wind and so striking that it has been chosen as a location for Far From the Madding Crowd and Wilde, for Pink Floyd artwork, and Cliff Richard, Bruce Dickinson and Tears for Fears videos. The sea is unexpectedly blue and crystal-clear - though breathtakingly cold, drawing gasps from even the bravest bathers.
Lulworth Cove, less than a mile away, is more popular with families, being easier to get to with facilities nearby, plus a couple of inns overlooking the cove.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Barafundle_Beach_2_b.jpg
This corner of Wales has a wonderful stretch of coast and sandy beaches. Try beautiful Barafundle Bay, reached after an invigorating half-hour romp across the clifftops, which ensures it stays relatively quiet (too far to push buggies over those hillocks) even in summer, and out of season you can often have the place to yourself, save a few surfers who brave the brisk Irish Sea all year round. Take a picnic, as there's nowhere to buy food and drink (oh, and no loos either)
Achmelvich Beach, Highlands
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Achmelvich_cnt_21feb12_grahammuir_b.jpg
Among the little islands and coves of the west coast of Scotland can be found countless beautiful beaches. Some are wild stretches of sand, some sheltered bays with turquoise sea when the sun shines, and almost all are free from crowds, pollution and noise.
In the far north-west of the Highlands, Achmelvich has a series of lovely, intimate beaches backed by a picturesque, flowering landscape. It offers clean white sands (no dogs in summer holidays), clear, safe waters where porpoises swim in summer, an annual sandcastle-building competition and Europe's tiniest castle, Hermit's Castle.
Oddicome, Torquay
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/OddicombeBeach_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
Sheltered by a rugged group of red sandstone cliffs, this serene shingle beach near Torquay is the perfect place to rent a boat and set sail in the sunshine. There's plenty to do and plenty to spot here, but if you want to see it all with a panoramic view to boot, take the cliff railway down from the peak to the shore. If you're feeling energetic, try climbing the steep cliff steps cut into the rockface too.
Woolacombe Sands, Devon
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/w_z/woolacombe_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
With two and a half miles of golden beach backed by voluminous dunes and fronted by rolling Atlantic breaks, Woolacombe Sands is a surfer's paradise. It is one of the most popular beaches in Britain, and with such fantastic water conditions, is a great place to take the family. The nearest town is Ilfracombe.
South Bay, Scarborough
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/SouthBay_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
Legend has it that Scarborough, in North Yorkshire, was one of the world's original spas: pilgrims from as early as 1611 would come from miles around to bathe in the sea, the waters of which were thought to have peculiar healing properties. Today, the beach is just as picturesque as ever, with plenty of attractions to keep you occupied. Be sure to explore the 11th-century ruins of Scarborough Castle, which separates South Bay from its equally stunning sibling, North Bay.
Cromer Beach, North Norfolk
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Cromer_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
If you're looking for a traditional seaside experience, Norfolk has them in abundance. From promenading along the pier to watching a puppet show in the theatre pavilion, or taking a ride at the fun fare, Cromer Beach is the place to go for a truly British beach holiday. Look out for the famous Cromer crabs that lurk in the pools left behind by the tide - they're world-renowned for their quality and flavour.
Ventnor, Isle of Wight
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Ventnor_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
This beautiful stretch on the south coast of the Isle of Wight is the perfect place for a lazy day in the sun. Navigate the winding roads down through the cliffs and the Victorian town they protect, through the cascading gardens and onto the golden beach front. This is not a swimmable beach: there are too many rocks, and the tide is quite strong. But it's worth a visit just for the walk down.
Filey Brigg, North Yorkshire
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/d_f/Filey_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
The best part of this sandy beach is the wildlife. Trek out to the north and find Filey Brigg: a stretch of stony land that protrudes out into the ocean, and is teeming with rock pools to explore. There's also the sculpture trail along the beach, and a series of colourful chalets dotted along the coastline that are available to rent - the ideal place to stay for a peaceful summer holiday by the sea
Sheringham, North Norfolk
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Sheringham_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
From the fantastic local produce, to the luxury accommodation, and the outstanding coastal walks, Sheringham is a truly romantic retreat by the sea. At low-tide, there are long stretches interspersed by stones and plenty of rock pools to inspect for wildlife. It retains the feel of an old-fashioned seaside village too, and you can buy fresh fish anywhere - even in the pubs.
Sandbanks Beach, Dorset
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Sandbanks_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
A huge, sloping stretch of fine, golden sand marks the shoreline of this popular beach front, with perfectly clean, swimmers-only bathing areas, and designated barbecue sites for feasts with family and friends. The beach has held its European Blue Flag award for more than 22 years, making it one of the safest and most scenic beaches in Britain.
Sennen Cove, Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/SennenCove_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This scenic little cove, just a mile north-east of Land's End, still maintains the atmosphere of an old fishing village. Years ago, it was thought that mermaids frequented the shores. Years later, the mermaids actually turned out to be dolphins, which can still be seen frolicking in the deep blue waters at certain times of year
Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/w_z/WhitleyBay_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This stunning beach front was originally a famous Victorian holiday resort, complete with a traditional funfair and bathing area. Now, it is still a popular holiday destination for locals, who come here to swim in the clean, safe waters.
Polzeath, Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/Polzeath_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This haven for surfers and water sports enthusiasts was the favourite place of the late poet laureate Sir John Betjeman, and it's not hard to see why. Scattered with sand and shingles, studded with rock pools, and backed by a stunning wall of rock, Polzeath is an incredibly picturesque location. The only downside is the rip tide: great for water sports, but not suitable for children to swim in.
Source based on:-
http://www.cntraveller.com/recommended/uk/britains-best-beaches
Britain is an island with around 7,800 miles of coast. It's said that where ever you live you're no more than 2 two hours from a beach.
Whilst it's true that the UK beaches may not always be best for sunbathing, and despite being warmed by the Gulf Stream the seas still remain pretty chilly,
at least they can make up for that by providing British beauty and dramatic seascapes.
Anyone interested in exploring, rambling, photography, surfing, natural beauty and wildlife can find some of the most stunning and remote beaches anywhere
in the world.
Here's just a few:-
St Bees, Cumbria
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/StBees_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
A truly beautiful stretch of shingle and sand backed by a series of low cliffs, St Bees is an excellent place to go for a quiet day of contemplation.
There are a fascinating array of shells and stones to pick through here, many of them caused by the continual erosion of the cliff face. It also marks the start of Wainwright's Coast-to-Coast route, which stretches from here to Robin Hood's Bay, in North Yorkshire.
Pedn Vounder Beach, West Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/pedn-vounder_cnt_20feb12_rex_b.jpg
On one of Cornwall's most remote and stunning shorelines, the north coast of the Penwith Peninsula, Pedn Vounder is a quiet, sandy little cove that can only be reached by boat or after a 15-minute walk from the village of Treen. Its seclusion and privacy - especially when high tide completely cuts it off from neighbouring beaches - means that it is popular with naturists. The pretty Treryn Dinas cliffs, which stretch out along the east of the beach, overlook the blue Atlantic; among them is The Logan Rock, a 70 ton block of granite which can be rocked by human force
Durdle Door, Dorset
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/d_f/durdle_door_cnt_7mar12_rex_b.jpg
On the Jurassic Coast, Durdle Door is the name of the limestone arch between two lovely beaches, St Oswald's Bay and Man O'War Cove. Even on the hottest days in the height of summer they won't get overcrowded; to get here you need to climb down several hundred steps in the cliff (and it's a long walk back up to the loo or to get your sandwiches).
But it's worth the climb. It is a beautiful spot, sheltered from the wind and so striking that it has been chosen as a location for Far From the Madding Crowd and Wilde, for Pink Floyd artwork, and Cliff Richard, Bruce Dickinson and Tears for Fears videos. The sea is unexpectedly blue and crystal-clear - though breathtakingly cold, drawing gasps from even the bravest bathers.
Lulworth Cove, less than a mile away, is more popular with families, being easier to get to with facilities nearby, plus a couple of inns overlooking the cove.
Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Barafundle_Beach_2_b.jpg
This corner of Wales has a wonderful stretch of coast and sandy beaches. Try beautiful Barafundle Bay, reached after an invigorating half-hour romp across the clifftops, which ensures it stays relatively quiet (too far to push buggies over those hillocks) even in summer, and out of season you can often have the place to yourself, save a few surfers who brave the brisk Irish Sea all year round. Take a picnic, as there's nowhere to buy food and drink (oh, and no loos either)
Achmelvich Beach, Highlands
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Achmelvich_cnt_21feb12_grahammuir_b.jpg
Among the little islands and coves of the west coast of Scotland can be found countless beautiful beaches. Some are wild stretches of sand, some sheltered bays with turquoise sea when the sun shines, and almost all are free from crowds, pollution and noise.
In the far north-west of the Highlands, Achmelvich has a series of lovely, intimate beaches backed by a picturesque, flowering landscape. It offers clean white sands (no dogs in summer holidays), clear, safe waters where porpoises swim in summer, an annual sandcastle-building competition and Europe's tiniest castle, Hermit's Castle.
Oddicome, Torquay
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/OddicombeBeach_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
Sheltered by a rugged group of red sandstone cliffs, this serene shingle beach near Torquay is the perfect place to rent a boat and set sail in the sunshine. There's plenty to do and plenty to spot here, but if you want to see it all with a panoramic view to boot, take the cliff railway down from the peak to the shore. If you're feeling energetic, try climbing the steep cliff steps cut into the rockface too.
Woolacombe Sands, Devon
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/w_z/woolacombe_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
With two and a half miles of golden beach backed by voluminous dunes and fronted by rolling Atlantic breaks, Woolacombe Sands is a surfer's paradise. It is one of the most popular beaches in Britain, and with such fantastic water conditions, is a great place to take the family. The nearest town is Ilfracombe.
South Bay, Scarborough
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/SouthBay_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
Legend has it that Scarborough, in North Yorkshire, was one of the world's original spas: pilgrims from as early as 1611 would come from miles around to bathe in the sea, the waters of which were thought to have peculiar healing properties. Today, the beach is just as picturesque as ever, with plenty of attractions to keep you occupied. Be sure to explore the 11th-century ruins of Scarborough Castle, which separates South Bay from its equally stunning sibling, North Bay.
Cromer Beach, North Norfolk
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/a_c/Cromer_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
If you're looking for a traditional seaside experience, Norfolk has them in abundance. From promenading along the pier to watching a puppet show in the theatre pavilion, or taking a ride at the fun fare, Cromer Beach is the place to go for a truly British beach holiday. Look out for the famous Cromer crabs that lurk in the pools left behind by the tide - they're world-renowned for their quality and flavour.
Ventnor, Isle of Wight
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Ventnor_CNT_13may10_rex_b.jpg
This beautiful stretch on the south coast of the Isle of Wight is the perfect place for a lazy day in the sun. Navigate the winding roads down through the cliffs and the Victorian town they protect, through the cascading gardens and onto the golden beach front. This is not a swimmable beach: there are too many rocks, and the tide is quite strong. But it's worth a visit just for the walk down.
Filey Brigg, North Yorkshire
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/d_f/Filey_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
The best part of this sandy beach is the wildlife. Trek out to the north and find Filey Brigg: a stretch of stony land that protrudes out into the ocean, and is teeming with rock pools to explore. There's also the sculpture trail along the beach, and a series of colourful chalets dotted along the coastline that are available to rent - the ideal place to stay for a peaceful summer holiday by the sea
Sheringham, North Norfolk
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Sheringham_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
From the fantastic local produce, to the luxury accommodation, and the outstanding coastal walks, Sheringham is a truly romantic retreat by the sea. At low-tide, there are long stretches interspersed by stones and plenty of rock pools to inspect for wildlife. It retains the feel of an old-fashioned seaside village too, and you can buy fresh fish anywhere - even in the pubs.
Sandbanks Beach, Dorset
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/Sandbanks_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
A huge, sloping stretch of fine, golden sand marks the shoreline of this popular beach front, with perfectly clean, swimmers-only bathing areas, and designated barbecue sites for feasts with family and friends. The beach has held its European Blue Flag award for more than 22 years, making it one of the safest and most scenic beaches in Britain.
Sennen Cove, Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/s_v/SennenCove_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This scenic little cove, just a mile north-east of Land's End, still maintains the atmosphere of an old fishing village. Years ago, it was thought that mermaids frequented the shores. Years later, the mermaids actually turned out to be dolphins, which can still be seen frolicking in the deep blue waters at certain times of year
Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/w_z/WhitleyBay_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This stunning beach front was originally a famous Victorian holiday resort, complete with a traditional funfair and bathing area. Now, it is still a popular holiday destination for locals, who come here to swim in the clean, safe waters.
Polzeath, Cornwall
http://cdni.condenast.co.uk/646x430/o_r/Polzeath_CNT_13may10_is_b.jpg
This haven for surfers and water sports enthusiasts was the favourite place of the late poet laureate Sir John Betjeman, and it's not hard to see why. Scattered with sand and shingles, studded with rock pools, and backed by a stunning wall of rock, Polzeath is an incredibly picturesque location. The only downside is the rip tide: great for water sports, but not suitable for children to swim in.
Source based on:-
http://www.cntraveller.com/recommended/uk/britains-best-beaches