Want to escape the madding crowd and find a quieter, relaxing and more photogenic UK beach experience this year?
Then pay close attention.
Travel experts in holidayhomes.com We’ve been scouring the terrain for lesser-known beach gems and have highlighted four stunning stretches of sand that may make you feel like you’re in an exotic location in a foreign land.
From hidden coves in Wales to the expansive white sands of Northumberland, scroll down to discover the places you simply must put on your bucket (and shovel) list for 2024…
Church Gate Cove, Pembrokeshire
The two images above show Church Door Cove in Pembrokeshire, one of the best hidden beaches in the UK, according to Holidaycottages.co.uk.
This “amphitheatre-shaped cove” is located near the village of Manorbier in Pembrokeshire, hidden beneath steep cliffs, and can only be accessed by a coastal path.
Wondering about the name?
The experts at Holiday Cottages explain: ‘The cove is home to a colossal gate-shaped arch, which has taken shape thanks to the force of the ocean, giving the beach a feeling very similar to that of a Jurassic Park. Make sure you bring a camera to capture the spectacle.’
Unsurprisingly, visitors have left glowing reviews online. One critic, ‘Amirah’, wrote in tripadvisor: ‘Oh, what a beautiful and fascinating hidden gem in Pembrokeshire. The sea, the cove, lots of rocks, nature, an amazing way to relax!’
Embleton Bay, Northumberland
Embleton Bay in Northumberland is known for its “magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle”.
This lesser-known spot is situated near the town of Embleton and features a “white sand beach” that “stretches for miles.” At low tide, the beach produces “a series of rock pools that are perfect for children to explore.” The bay is also famous for its bird and wildlife watching opportunities.
Experts note: “Families are almost always guaranteed a peaceful visit and can enjoy the vast expanse of sand and coastline alone, with the magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and a row of romantic wooden beach huts in the distance.” .
The beach has been called the “jewel of North East Northumberland” by one Tripadvisor review. And locals love visiting, with Newcastle-based TikToker @geordie_ice_woman declaring it the “most stunning beach in Northumberland”.
Kingsgate Bay, Kent
Kingsgate Bay in Kent is “much quieter than its neighboring beaches” and is “full of history”, according to experts
Located next to Broadstairs in Kent, Kingsgate Bay features “stunning white chalk cliffs” and is best known for its sea caves. “Much quieter than neighboring beaches, the secluded sandy cove attracts the attention of artists year-round to capture the stunning seascape, which meets the striking cliffs,” the experts note.
The bay is “full of history”, and a section of the beach forms part of the Viking Coastal Trail. Visitors will find Kingsgate Castle at the southern end of the beach and a 1760s tavern at the other end.
Those who have visited have compared it to being abroad. For example, @venus.onthego posted on TikTok: ‘It really feels like a girls’ beach holiday in the Algarve, but we’re in England!’
Porth Iago, North Wales
Porth Iago in North Wales (two images above) is an “incredibly beautiful beach”, according to the experts at Holidaycottages.co.uk
Located on the Llŷn peninsula in North Wales, this “incredibly beautiful beach” features “golden sand and turquoise sea” and is “protected by rocky cliffs.”
The west-facing cove, situated at the end of narrow country lanes, is the “perfect place to visit in the evening and enjoy a romantic sunset picnic by the shore,” says Holidaycottages.co.uk, adding that it is also “A fantastic place for families, with locals known to visit with their paddle boards, kayaks, snorkelling and inflatables.
To Tripadvisor users Nigel and Vicky for the last word: “The beach is to die for.”