Confused.com’s Guide to the UK’s Top 10 Best Beaches

• Guides
• Published: 30 May 2009 in Travel and Travel Insurance

The top 10 locations for sun, surf and sand on your doorstep

This summer, why not pack your beachwear and head somewhere a little closer to home? The temperatures may not reach Mediterranean heights, but there are some amazing beaches in the UK just waiting to be explored.

So slip on a hat, slap on some sunscreen and go in search of sun, surf and sand. Before you leave, however, make sure you have adequate travel insurance. Many people don’t realise it’s still a good idea to have travel insurance at home as well as abroad. It’s not needed for medical emergencies, but cancellations or curtailments could leave British holidaymakers out of pocket.

1.   Sennen Cove, West Cornwall

This surfers’ paradise is tucked into the corner of Whitesand Bay, a stone’s throw from Land’s End. Facing north-west, the beach stretches in an arc from beginners’ waves to serious surf. On a sun-kissed day, walk the surrounding coastal paths and catch a glimpse of the Scilly Isles and local wildlife including seals, dolphins, and puffins. The Cove also boasts one of Cornwall’s best-placed restaurants - The Beach.

www.visitcornwall.com

2.   Thurlestone Sands, Devon

This tranquil beach lies in a sleepy corner of south Devon and stretches out to Thurlestone Rock - a dramatic sea arch made of red sandstone. Its clear waters and rock pools make it a perfect playground for children to discover marine life. With safe swimming and more than 30 shipwrecks in the area, it’s also a favourite spot for watersports and diving. www.thurlestonebeach.co.uk

3.   Studland, Dorset

Studland’s picture postcard good looks make it one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. Situated on the southern end of Poole Bay, its three miles of white-gold sands and warm waters make it perfect for swimming, building sandcastles and sailing. The beach is divided into Shell Bay, South Beach, Middle Beach and Knoll Beach - the National Trust’s only nudist beach. www.worldheritagecoast.net

4.   Botany Bay, Kent

White cliffs, astonishing rock formations and extensive chalk reefs make this beach stand out from the crowd. It’s the prettiest of the seven bays dotted around Broadstairs. Take a net, bucket and spade and even amateur rockpoolers can turn up starfish, crabs, piddocks and cuttlefish. Or take part in a ‘Rock Doc’ walk organised by the Thanet Coast Project. www.visitthanet.co.uk

5.   Camber Sands, Sussex

The towering dunes and golden beach of Camber Sands are often used for film and fashion shoots. Low tide stretches out half a mile, leaving a vast expanse for horse riding, dog walking and atmospheric photographs. Camber Sands is also a destination for kiteboarders and windsurfers, who set up camp at the eastern end of the beach. www.visitrye.co.uk

6.   Southwold, Suffolk

An area of outstanding natural beauty, Southwold is a tale of two beaches. The Denes is a secluded rural beach, popular with walkers, while Pier Beach, of Blue Flag standard, is lined with brightly painted beach huts and great for a family day out. It’s also enjoying a renaissance following extensive renovation - Southwold Pier was voted Best Tourism Experience in 2008. www.visit-southwold.co.uk

7.   Barafundle Bay, Wales

Not only has Country Life magazine named Barafundle Britain’s best beach, it ranks among the 12 best in the world! Nestled between two limestone headlands, its turquoise waters and tree-lined shore continue to cast their spell over hearty beachcombers. Climb down steep, stone steps to arrive on the beach. And pack a picnic if you’re planning to spend the day - there aren’t any ice-cream vans in these parts! www.pembrokeshirecoast.org.uk

8.   Runswick Bay, Yorkshire

When you’ve tired of hiking the Yorkshire Moors, the quaint village of Runswick Bay offers one of the safest swimming areas for miles around. Sheltered by the majestic crag of Lingrow Knowle, moor a boat and take a dip in the sea, or pitch a deckchair close to the water’s edge and feel the tide lapping at your feet. Originally a fishing village, Runswick now has its own sailing club with boat races every Sunday and plenty of water-skiing. www.visitwhitby.com

9.   Bamburgh, Northumberland

You’ll get more than just sandcastles in Bamburgh. Dominating the skyline, Bamburgh Castle overlooks mile upon mile of magnificent sand. With a little bit of history (the Anglo-Saxon castle was restored in Victorian times), it’s a great destination for families. There are rocks to climb, trails to explore or you can always go fly a kite. www.visitnorthumberland.com

10.       Calgary Bay, Scotland

If you fancy a wee Scottish splash, Calgary Bay on the Isle of Mull won’t disappoint. It’s one of the finest beaches in Scotland with sweeping silver sand backed by woodland and colourful machair. The turquoise waters are clean and calm and off the rocks you can angle for mackerel and sea trout. Thanks to the Hebridean climate, you may even have the beach to yourself! www.undiscoveredscotland.co.uk

Tempted by a beach holiday? Check out Confused.com’s Top Travel Tips for 2009.