The Best Seaside Destinations in the UK

It can be difficult to know where in the UK you can find gorgeous views, sandy beaches, and other historical and cultural activities. We have compiled a list of some of the best spots for an exciting family trip or a peaceful getaway with friends or a partner. Whether you choose to go in the summer or earlier in the fall, these seaside destinations and nearby amenities are sure to be part of a memorable trip.

Beach in Southwold

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Weymouth

This seaside destination has been repeatedly recognised as a top destination within the country. It is located in Dorset, southern England. The waters are safe for swimmers of all ages and the lovely golden sand will delight sunbathers. There are also countless activities available in the town such as horseback riding, bicycles for rent, and more. Besides enjoying sunrises and sunsets on the beach, we recommend touring Nothe Fort which is an ex-military base.

Weymouth

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Whitby

Whitby is located in Yorkshire, northern England which is home to the Gothic Whitby Abbey that inspired Stoker’s “Dracula.” It is loved by all travelers because of its wide variety of activities, delicious local delicacies, and amazing history and traditions. Besides spending time at the beach, we also recommend visiting Whitby Abbey and Captain Cook Memorial Museum which are beautiful as well as great ways to learn about the history of the area.

Whitby

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Dungeness

This headland located on the coast of Kent, England is revered for its pink and orange sunsets. Visitors enjoy adventuring out on a bike as the terrain is relatively flat to take in the views of the landscape. Dungeness is also home to the RSPB Dungeness Nature Reserve which is a great place to find meadows of wildflowers and for rare bird-watching. If you want to go to the beach, you can find spots on either side of the River Esk. Make sure to take a picture of the colorful beach huts on the West Pier.

Dungeness

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Benone Strand

This beach is found in Northern Ireland and has been awarded the European Blue Flag Award. Benone Strand is also called Downhill Beach. There are seven miles of golden, sandy beaches surrounded by mountains and cliffs. Visitors enjoy picnicking, walking, fishing, and doing other watersports at the beach. You are certain to find accommodation in some of the other towns like Belfast and Derry-Londonderry however there are also a variety of locally owned cottages and B&Bs that are worth the venture such as Old Shop Cottage.

Benone Strand

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Rhossili Bay

Rhossili Bay is a top 10 beach in Wales and is arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in the UK. The beach itself is about 5 km long with unbeatable views of soft, golden sand and deep blue sea. Many visitors enjoy learning about the interesting history of piracy and smuggling in the area. We recommend visiting Culver Hole near Port Eynon so you can see where smugglers used to store their contraband. While you walk along the beach, be sure to keep an eye out for sunken shipwrecks from the 19th century that are poking out of the beach. You can visit Rhossili Bay even when temperatures are cooler as there are numerous hiking and walking trails.

Rhossili Bay, Swansea

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Tresness, Isle of Sanday

Tressness is a one-of-a-kind beach located in Orkney, Scotland that is perfect for a romantic getaway or peaceful trip among friends. While Sanday is known for the lovely beaches, Tresness is unique in its own ways. It is likely that you will be one of the only people on the beach which ensures a calm and peaceful visit. It is an excellent destination for history lovers as there are Neolithic and Bronze Age settlements located near the beach.

White sand beach in the Orkney Isles

- © Jule_Berlin / Shutterstock
by Editorial Team
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