The UK may not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think of beach holidays, but it has some of the most stunning and diverse coastlines in the world. From sandy shores to rocky cliffs, from tranquil bays to lively resorts, there is a beach for every kind of visitor. And the best part is, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy them. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a romantic escape, you can find it in one of these five UK holiday spots for beach lovers.
Each of these places offers not only beautiful beaches, but also unique attractions and activities that will make your holiday unforgettable. So, if you are a fan of beach holidays and you’re looking for something a little different, pack your sunscreen, swimsuit, and sunglasses, and get ready to explore these amazing destinations. Here are our top five UK holiday spots for beach lovers with an added twist.
Ladram Bay, Devon
Ladram Bay is set along the spectacular world heritage Jurassic coast that runs from Devon to the Isle of Wight. The West Country is a region that is certainly spoilt for amazing beaches but what makes Ladram Bay truly unique is that it is privately owned and is one of the foremost holiday parks in Devon. The only way to witness the beauty of Ladram Bay is to stay in the holiday park or take a boat trip. The sumptuous setting of the lush East Devon countryside in in marked contrast to the rugged coastline, and yet the beach at Ladram Bay is second to none – with soft, fine sand and sparkling waters.
At Ladram Bay there is no shortage of activities. You can join in Zorbing, kayaking, swimming or fishing, or you can hire a boat and take a trip out into the bay. If you prefer rambling there are endless paths through the soft Devon countryside with views that will knock your socks off. If you just want to chill out there are plenty of options to do that too.
Regardless of whether you buy a day pass, or bring your tent or touring caravan or hire one of the static holiday homes or lodges on the site – the choice is yours – you will have spectacular coastal views of Ladram Bay. Some of the lodges now come with hot tubs for those looking for a completely pampered time away from reality.
Thorpeness, Suffolk
During the early 1900s, Glencairn Stuart Ogilvie, a barrister-cum-playwright decided to create a seaside resort that would be “a paradise for children” and those who held “no desire for promenades and cinemas”. He bought up the land surrounding this small fishing hamlet and Thorpeness was born. More than a hundred years later his vision is still more or less intact and a stay at this delightful holiday village offers you the opportunity to take a trip back in time.
A man-made boating lake known as “the Meare”, comes complete with its own treasure island, magic pavilion and a hideout for Peter Pan. There are mock-Jacobean and Tudor style cottages, a country club, tennis courts and a golf course. The Dolphin Inn offers a place to stay and looks out over the sumptuous Suffolk beach.
Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland
Looking for something a little more mean and moody? Perhaps you are a fan of Game of Thrones? Coastlines don’t come any more dramatic than those along the Northumberland coast and Bamburgh beach offers a theatrically craggy backdrop for your adventures. If you have a sense of history you will be mesmerised by Bamburgh.
It is completely dominated by the spectacular castle and you can’t help but feel the shadows of the past around you. The gorgeous little village offers some great shopping opportunities for unusual gifts, and fabulous tea rooms and restaurants for when you are feeling hungry. Plan a visit to St. Aidan’s church and the newly renovated Grace Darling museum too, you won’t regret it. There are plenty of places to stay in Bamburgh village or for a seafront stay, checkout Beadness – its just a few miles south.
Lundy Island Beach
We have all heard of Lundy but how many of us have ever actually ventured there? Situated on a three-mile-long chunk of granite in the middle of the Bristol Channel, Lundy is owned by The Landmark Trust. This is a place that will not appeal to pleasure beach seekers because there is no seaside tat to be found here; there are no donkey rides, amusement arcades or fish and chips.
Instead Lundy is comprised of a pub, a shop and miles and miles of coastal walks. If you are a climber you will love the wild cliffs and there is plenty of wildlife to be seen including: a marine reserve for diving fans; deer, ponies and sheep inland; and dolphins, seals and basking sharks offshore. The Landmark Trust offers numerous self-catering options on the island which are full of character. Choose from a lighthouse, a castle or even a converted pigsty that sleeps just one person (at just £52 per night).
St Ives Beach, Cornwall
For those that really appreciate the gentle and quiet things in life, a visit to St Ives has to be high on your list. St Ives has a feeling of timelessness about it, ancient hills rise steeply from the little town and your soul is lifted simply by wandering around this friendly little place. Thanks to the £100 million ‘Clean Sweep’ scheme – for Mount’s Bay, St Ives and Hayle – the West Cornwall area can claim to have some of the cleanest bathing waters in Western Europe. St Ives itself has an award winning beach with golden sand and water as clear as crystal.
This beach has long been renowned for its art and culture so take time out from paddling to browse the art galleries and boutique style shops along the picturesque cobbled streets. Don’t forget to sample the scrumpy that is served in the local pubs but remember scrumpy is strong and just one pint can finish you off! There are plenty of places to stay with Primrose Valley Hotel possibly the pick of the bunch. All of the rooms contain modern furniture, good art and sea views.
Conclusion
So, you read about five UK holiday spots for beach lovers who want something more than just sun and sand. These places offer you the opportunity to experience the beauty, history, culture, and nature of the UK in different and exciting ways. You can choose from a private bay in Devon, a nostalgic village in Suffolk, a dramatic castle in Northumberland, a remote island in the Bristol Channel, or a charming town in Cornwall.
Each of these places has its own charm and appeal, and will make your holiday unforgettable. So, if you are looking for a beach holiday with an added twist, why not try one of these five UK holiday spots? You will be amazed by what you will discover.
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