With the recent warm and sunny weather here in the UK, and places such as London breaking the February record by reaching 21 degrees, many have flocked to seaside towns and beaches to enjoy basking in the sun. To help you make the most of the early heat wave, Impact rounds up some of the best beaches in the UK.
Watergate Bay, Newquay
Stretching for 2 miles, Watergate Bay is a popular destination amongst surfers due to the huge Atlantic waves. Just a 15 minute drive from Newquay, it’s extremely accessible and is enjoyed by both locals and holidaymakers. There are plenty of restaurants to dine at and marvel at the stunning views, such as Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen – which donates all of the profits to the Cornwall Food Foundation – as well as The Beach Hut and Wax Watergate. Dogs are welcome all year round and there are plenty of walks both on the beach or cliffs.
“With waters as clear as Greece’s Ionian Sea”
Porthcurno, Penzance
After visiting Porthcurno beach for the first time last summer, it quickly became one of my favourite beaches I’ve visited. With waters as clear as Greece’s Ionian Sea, it really is a picture-postcard beach. In low tide you can actually walk along the beach to the neighbouring bays. It is also home to the Minack Theatre, where you can enjoy stunning sea views while watching one of the many plays they put on throughout the year (we watched Sense & Sensibility which was an unforgettable experience). If you find the beach slightly too busy for your liking, Porthchapel Beach, just on the other side of the Minack Theatre is a great, quiet spot, free from crowds.
West Wittering
Stretching between East Wittering and Chichester Harbour, West Wittering beach is one of the most popular seaside getaways on the south coast. A popular destination for windsurfers, the beach is a great place to people watch and soak up some rays. Make sure to arrive early though so you can bag a spot for your towel as it gets very busy in the summer months.
“The derelict West Pier is the perfect place for a fun day out”
Brighton
Home to a pier that’s packed full of arcades, rides and food counters, it’s no wonder Brighton beach attracts countless people. The pebbled beach that stretches from the marina to the derelict West Pier is the perfect place for a fun day out. Whether you want to admire the surrounding views on the i360 or eat fish and chips on the beach, there is something to do for everyone. Make sure to try out the freshly made doughnuts available at the entrance to the pier as they are divine!
Sandwood Bay, Sutherland
A perfect place for a dog walk, this mile-long beach is one of Scotland’s hidden secrets. While it’s not the most accessible of beaches, it is worth the four and a half mile hike from Blairmore. As its pretty remote, there are no cafes or restaurants nearby, so be sure to bring along a picnic.
“This beach won’t disappoint the animal lovers”
Marloes Sands, Wales
Marloes Sands, owned by the National Trust, offers magnificent views and is a magnet for a variety of wildlife. With seal pups, puffins, porpoises and sometimes even dolphins, this beach won’t disappoint the animal lovers. If you find yourself a bit peckish after hours spent marvelling at the breathtaking views, the beach is home to Runwayskiln café, which offers fresh and local fish as well as vegetarian and vegan options.
Anna Scott
Featured image courtesy of Anna Scott.
For more content follow Impact Magazine on Facebook and Twitter.
