The islands that make up Great Britain are framed by 9,000 miles of some of the most unique coastline in the world. Travellers and holidaymakers can therefore take their pick of stunning isolated beaches, seaside playgrounds like Blackpool, or more cosmopolitan beach areas such as Brighton. Alternatively they can search out the perfect cove or cliff setting for a fabulous family getaway.
Ladram Bay, Otterton
Great for: camping, hot tub lodges, water sports and family friendly
Interesting Fact: Ladram was used by smugglers to land contraband such as brandy – this stopped in the 1800’s.
The pebbled beach of Ladram Bay is accessible all year around, with the holiday park is open from March – November. Throughout the season there are a range of family activities on offer, from kayaking, boat-hire, sea scooters and fishing. Others may prefer to have a more relaxing visit and simply choose to explore the footpaths along this part of the Jurassic coast or take shelter in a hot tub and soothe their cares away.
Ladram Bay is unique in that it is a private beach that can only be accessed via the Holiday Park (day passes are available) or by boat. This beautiful bay sits along the Jurassic coast (a World Heritage site) an honour it shares with the neighbouring county of Dorset.
Ladram Bay offers one of the most superlative holiday parks in Devon. Yes, it is one of the largest parks in the region, offering a mix of visitors who are camping under canvas, or in their own caravan, or those who have hired a static van, or the owners of the vans and lodges themselves, and yet the ethos is the same for all – ‘peace and quiet, a place to relax, have some fun and just enjoy.’
Sanday Island, Orkney
Great for: tranquillity, blue water and wildlife
Interesting Fact: Of the 70 Orkney Island just 20 are inhabited.
For those who really want to get away from it all, head to Orkney off the Northern tip of Scotland. Orkney is made up of a group of 70 islands with the majority of these being uninhabited. With a history that starts with the Neolithic people more than 4,500 years ago coupled with the annual Orkney invasion of birds and wildlife – you’ll find plenty to do and see at the UNESCO World Heritage Site and various reservation areas.
You’ll also find an abundance of fresh quality cuisine – don’t forget to try the Orkney Herring and Orkney cheese – and warm, welcoming hospitality.
Sanday has long natural stretches of sandy beaches with sparkling seas and plenty of wildlife to spot including seals. The roads are very quiet and the locals very friendly – so give them a wave as you meander through the lanes.
Botany Bay, Broadstairs, Kent
Great for: safe swimming, photography and fossil hunting
Interesting fact: the white cliffs were formed during the Upper Cretaceous period around 100-65 million years ago.
The name Botany Bay is synonymous with the infamous bay in Australia, but while this hidden gem took its name at the same time, it is located in Broadstairs, Kent.
Families are attracted to Botany Bay thanks to the opportunities for safe swimming that it offers, along with its five star water quality and its truly spectacular setting, indeed the chalk cliffs and stacks are magnificent. In spite of this, Botany Bay is quiet and secluded enough to allow for proper relaxation if that’s what you desire.
When the tide goes out you have the chance to explore the rock pools and hunt for fossils. During the season there are a variety of facilities available including deckchair hire and lifeguards who keep a careful eye on swimmers.
Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk
Great for: novelty, family fun and bird watching
Interesting fact: The ports name was changed to distinguish its name locations in the early 19th century.
For something a little different why not head out to Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk? This wide sandy beach is backed by pine woods, but because it is a fair distance from the town you can use the little narrow gauge railway to get there. During the season the lifeguards keep a careful eye out so that you can chill out among the little whimsical beach huts while watching kids (big and little) splashing around in the pools.
Wells-next-the-Sea is part of the largest coastal nature reserve in England and Wales, and like the rest of the Norfolk Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – is a haven for twitchers. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot terns, oystercatchers, avocets, bitterns and marsh harriers.
Rhossili Bay, Swansea
Great for: facilities, dog friendly, water sports
Interesting fact: In 2011 Rhossili was the stage for 400 people who attempted to break the world record for largest collective skinny dip.
No list of unique beaches would be complete without a mention of Rhossili Bay, which has been voted the third best beach in Europe and ninth best in the world. The Times nominated Rhossili as ‘The UK’s No.1 dog-friendly beach’ which among canine fans is an accolade indeed.
Rhossili Bay offers you three miles of fine golden sand and – thanks to the Atlantic swell – a range of watersports – particularly surfing. The walks along the cliffs are magnificent and you may be able to spot seals or dolphins playing in the surf, or even the shipwrecks that lie just below the surface. Rhossili Bay is part of the Gower Coast Path and the views are breath-taking.
