As the weather warms up, spending a weekend at the beach becomes an appealing prospect. However, with international travel uncertainty due to the war on Iran and the resulting jet fuel crisis, many Britons are opting to stay closer to home. This means that UK beaches could see record crowds this summer. But fear not: a new study has identified the nation's best-kept secret beach spots, offering tranquility away from the masses.
Study Reveals Least-Visited Beaches
Researchers analyzed online searches for 928 beaches across the UK and found some that are Googled as few as 10 times per month. Among them is Abermawr Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales. This beach combines sand and pebbles and features a ruined cottage ripe for exploration, bluebell fields, a wildlife marsh, and a loop trail winding through woods and meadows.
Another hidden gem is Da Lang Ayre in Northmavine, Scotland, located in one of the most remote areas of Shetland. With a population of just 741 in 2011, it's little wonder this beach remains under the radar. Accessible only by sea swim or a long hike over Shetland's highest peak, Ronas Hill, the effort rewards visitors with a mile-and-a-half stretch of red shingle. However, the steep and craggy terrain is not for the faint-hearted.
Gansey Bay on the Isle of Man also receives just 10 searches per month. Popular among surfers, it welcomes dogs year-round. Notably, the list excludes any English beaches, likely due to England's higher population density attracting more visitors. Other entries include locations in Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Guernsey, and Northern Ireland.
With 20 monthly searches, Browns Bay in County Antrim, Northern Ireland, offers a horseshoe-shaped 300-metre bay that is sheltered and peaceful.
Avoid These 'No-Go' Beaches
Conversely, a separate study has flagged the UK's 20 'no-go' beaches due to poor water quality from sewage and waste pollution. These beaches received the lowest rating from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs. Topping the list is Littlehaven Beach in South Shields, Tyne and Wear, followed by high-profile spots like Lyme Regis, Ilfracombe, Weston-super-Mare, and Blackpool.
Top 14 Secret UK Beaches
- Abermawr Bay, Pembrokeshire, Wales (10 searches/month)
- Da Lang Ayre, Northmavine, Scotland (10)
- Gansey Bay, Isle of Man (10)
- L'Eree, St. Peter's, Guernsey (10)
- Maidens Turnberry, Ayrshire, Scotland (10)
- Marros Sands Beach, Carmarthenshire, Wales (10)
- Port Soif Bay, Vale, Guernsey (10)
- Saint's Bay, St Martin's, Guernsey (10)
- Traeth Soden Beach, Ceredigion, Wales (10)
- Browns Bay, County Antrim, Northern Ireland (20)
- Havelet Bay, St Peter Port, Guernsey (20)
- Port Grenaugh, Santon, Isle of Man (20)
- Porthsychan Beach, Pembrokeshire, Wales (20)
- Roome Bay, Fife, Scotland (20)
These secluded spots offer a peaceful alternative to crowded beaches. Whether you're seeking solitude, wildlife, or unique landscapes, these hidden gems provide an escape from the summer rush.
