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Writer's pictureUK Hidden Gems

Best Hidden Beaches in the UK

Updated: Mar 7

Your Ultimate Guide to exploring off-the-beaten track beaches scattered across the UK.


Locations such as Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove are often people's first thought when it comes to collecting some Vitamin D on a summer days, and it's no surprise why!


However, if you fancy escaping all those crowds and having the beaches all to yourself, you might want to head to some of these beaches listed below!


Rewarding visitors with some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK, these beaches should be up there for all those who love a bit of peace and quiet!


Here are 10 of the best hidden beaches in the UK, in which you might even be lucky to have it all to yourself! We hope you enjoy!





This gorgeous beach is absolutely stunning, with its white sandy setting and turquoise sea colour, it's no wonder it's regarded as one of the best beaches in Scotland. If you're a lover of golden sandy beaches with crystal clear water, then you should definitely be heading to Achmelvich Bay.


If you're lucky, you might even see a seal! It can get a bit busy during the summer, but it'll be a lot quieter than the majority of Scottish beaches.


On a clear day, Achmelvich Bay is often described as a beach that looks like it's from the Mediterranean Sea. Even though the water is clear and coloured light blue, please take caution as there may be some jellyfish lurking around.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Achmelvich Bay


1) How do I get to Achmelvich Bay?

Achmelvich Bay is located on the northwest coast of Scotland, near the village of Lochinver. Visitors can access the bay by car via the A837 road, which runs along the coast. There are also public transportation options available, including buses and taxis.


2) Is Achmelvich Bay suitable for swimming?

Yes, Achmelvich Bay is known for its clear turquoise waters and sandy beach, making it ideal for swimming during the warmer months. However, visitors should be aware that the water can be cold, even in summer, so it's advisable to come prepared with appropriate swimwear.


3) Are there facilities available at Achmelvich Bay?

Yes, Achmelvich Bay has facilities to enhance visitors' experience. These include public toilets, a campsite, and a small seasonal café serving refreshments. The bay is also popular for water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding, with rental equipment available nearby.


Places to stay near Achmelvich Bay




Basset's Cove is a lovely picturesque cove that captures what the North Coast of Cornwall is all about. However, the only downside is it isn't the easiest to access due to the path down being eroded. If you do attempt to scramble down to the beach, please be cautious!


Basset's Cove is perfect for those looking for a secluded beach to escape the crowds. Access to the beach is a little bit difficult especially if you're not an avid scrambler, however once down there it's definitely worth the views.


For those that don't want to brave going down to Basset's Cove, there's another one further along the path towards Portreath. It's a bit of a scramble up and down but there are some ropes which people have left to help!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Basset's Cove


1) Where is Basset's Cove located?

Basset's Cove is situated on the north coast of Cornwall, England, near the town of Portreath. It is nestled between cliffs and can be accessed via a coastal path from nearby areas.


2) Is Basset's Cove suitable for swimming?

Basset's Cove is known for its rugged beauty and picturesque setting; however, it is not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and potentially hazardous conditions. Visitors should exercise caution and adhere to any warning signs posted in the area.


3) What activities can I do at Basset's Cove?

While swimming may not be advisable, there are still plenty of activities to enjoy at Basset's Cove. These include coastal walks along the South West Coast Path, exploring the tidal pools and rock formations, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the stunning coastal scenery.


Places to stay near Basset's Cove




Elberry Cove (sometimes known as Elbury Cove) is only a 10 minute walk from the car park at Broadsands Beach. It's definitely the beach to visit to escape the crowds at Broadsands, whilst surrounded by lovely views.


Elberry Cove is a beautiful sheltered cove with it's scenic views and swimming opportunities, but be careful of the rocks! There are rockpools to choose from to the left and a cool abandoned building to look at on the right.


It's only a 10 minute walk from Broadsands Beach, so if you want to escape that busy beach then we would recommend coming to this more secluded beach. It's mostly a pebbly beach and there isn't an amenities.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Elberry Cove


1) Where is Elberry Cove located?

Elberry Cove is located on the English Riviera, near the town of Paignton in Devon, England. It is situated along the South West Coast Path and can be accessed by foot or boat.


2) Is Elberry Cove suitable for swimming?

Elberry Cove is known for its tranquil waters and sheltered bay, making it a popular spot for swimming during calm weather conditions. However, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, so they should exercise caution and be aware of any potential hazards.


3) Are there facilities available at Elberry Cove?

Elberry Cove is a secluded beach with limited facilities. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks. There are no public toilets or refreshment stands on-site, so it's advisable to plan accordingly.


Places to stay near Elberry Cove






Dinas Dinlle Beach is a wild, beautiful, ancient shoreline facing West into the Irish sea. The sunsets are absolutely amazing, as are the views back over Snowdonia. It's a dog friendly beach so please remember to pick your litter up after you.


You won't find many tourists or crowds when you visit Dinas Dinlle Beach, and it's a surprise why! It offers great views of Snowdon mountains, as well as amazing sunsets on a clear day. If you have an interest in history, then there is a really cool WW2 Bunker you can check out whilst you're here.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Dinas Dinlle Beach


1) Where is Dinas Dinlle Beach located?

Dinas Dinlle Beach is located on the north coast of Wales, near the village of Dinas Dinlle in Gwynedd. It is situated between Caernarfon and Llandwrog and is easily accessible by car via the A499 road.


2) Is Dinas Dinlle Beach suitable for swimming?

Dinas Dinlle Beach is a popular destination for swimming during the summer months, particularly when the tide is in. However, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, so they should exercise caution and be mindful of any warning signs regarding water quality or currents.


3) What facilities are available at Dinas Dinlle Beach?

Dinas Dinlle Beach offers a range of facilities to enhance visitors' experience. These include car parking areas, public toilets, and a beachside café serving refreshments. There are also opportunities for water sports such as windsurfing and kite flying, with equipment available for hire locally.


Places to stay near Dinas Dinlle Beach





Words cannot describe this unique place which is Nanjizal Beach; you really have to experience it for yourself! It's a beautiful hidden gem which cannot be accessed by car, so you'll need to walk around 20 minutes from the nearest car park. There's a great little cave which is perfect for the brave to go and swim out to.


Nanjizal Beach is a real gem located in Cornwall, which is only a 15 minute walk from the nearest car park. The water is incredible clear and the sea caves are really fun to explore! We recommend checking out the tide times before visiting as it's less picturesque at high tide.


This beach is simply stunning. So if you want a bit of paradise without having to get on a plane, then you need to go to Nanjizal Beach and it's definitely worth the walk.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Nanjizal Beach


1) How do I access Nanjizal Beach?

Nanjizal Beach is accessible via a coastal footpath from the nearby village of St. Levan. Visitors can park in designated parking areas in St. Levan and then follow the footpath, which offers stunning views of the coastline. The walk takes approximately 15-20 minutes.


2) Is Nanjizal Beach suitable for swimming?

Nanjizal Beach is known for its rugged beauty and seclusion but is not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and potentially hazardous conditions, including hidden rocks and rip currents. Visitors should exercise caution and be mindful of any warning signs.


3) Are there facilities available at Nanjizal Beach?

Nanjizal Beach is a secluded spot with limited facilities. There are no lifeguards on duty, and there are no public toilets or refreshment stands at the beach. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and be prepared to carry out any rubbish to maintain the beach's pristine condition.


Places to stay near Nanjizal Beach





If you go to Scotland, you definitely have to take a visit to this breath-taking island which is the Outer Hebrides. It is described as heaven on Earth; filled with stunning scenery and beaches with the most spectacular colours and clarity. There are plenty of things to do, matched with the friendliest of locals.


If you didn't already know, the Outer Hebrides is a chain of remote islands located in Scotland. The more popular islands in the Outer Hebrides which you've probably heard of/seen on our page are the Isle of Lewis and Isle of Harris. Despite the increase in popularity over the years, it's definitely not as touristy as you'd think!


It's no surprise why each year more and more people are visiting the Outer Hebrides. It's mysterious stone monuments and picturesque white sandy beaches are enough to make anyone go! If you fancy a road trip around the UK this year, then take our advice and definitely head to the Outer Hebrides - you won't be disappointed!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Outer Hebrides


1) Where are the Outer Hebrides located?

The Outer Hebrides are a group of islands located off the northwest coast of Scotland. They form part of the Hebrides archipelago and stretch for approximately 130 miles from north to south.


2) How do I get to the Outer Hebrides?

The Outer Hebrides are accessible by ferry, plane, or a combination of both. Ferries operate from various ports on the Scottish mainland, including Ullapool, Oban, and Mallaig, to ports such as Stornoway on the Isle of Lewis and Lochboisdale on South Uist.


There are also flights available from Glasgow, Inverness, and other Scottish airports to airports in Stornoway, Benbecula, and Barra.


3) What are the main attractions in the Outer Hebrides?

Some of the main attractions include ancient sites such as the Callanish Standing Stones and the Gearrannan Blackhouse Village, beautiful beaches like Luskentyre and Traigh Mhor, and opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife watching, and water sports.


Places to stay near Outer Hebrides






Portheras Cove is a beautiful little bay which is great for those looking to get away from the tourists. You'll more than likely have the whole beach to yourself whenever you visit, however you might be greeted by a few friendly seals! It is quite a steep walk down to the cove, then up again so if that's not an issue for you then definitely check out this beach.


Portheras Cove is an amazing secluded bay perfect for those wanting to escape the mass crowds which visit Cornwall every summer. It's worth noting that you'll need to walk for about 15-20 minutes from the nearest car park but it is definitely worth the trek!


To get to the bay itself you'll be required to walk down a steep incline so please wear appropriate footwear. The beach is on a steep shelf which drops into the sea quickly, so unless your a strong swimmer we would recommend staying on the beach.


It's obvious to see why Portheras Cove is regarded as one of the best but still hidden beaches in Cornwall. It's a beautiful beach with amazing views, and the water is so clear and the sand is lovely! However, it's worth checking tide times before you visit.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Portheras Cove


1) Where is Portheras Cove located?

Portheras Cove is situated on the north coast of Cornwall, England, near the village of Pendeen. It is nestled between rugged cliffs and is accessible via a footpath from the nearby village or by parking at the Pendeen Lighthouse and walking along the coastal path.

2) Is Portheras Cove suitable for swimming?

Portheras Cove is known for its remote and unspoiled beauty, but it is not typically recommended for swimming due to strong currents and potentially hazardous conditions. Visitors should exercise caution and be aware of any warning signs posted in the area.


3) What facilities are available at Portheras Cove?

Portheras Cove is a secluded spot with limited facilities. There are no lifeguards on duty, and there are no public toilets or refreshment stands at the beach. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and be prepared to carry out any rubbish to maintain the beach's pristine condition.


Places to stay near Portheras Cove





Three Cliffs Bay is a stunning place with lots of great paths to explore and spectacular rugged cliffs . You do have to walk a little bit in order to get to the beach as there isn't a car park near, but it's definitely worth the effort! One you're at Three Cliffs Bay, you won't want to leave.


Three Cliffs Bay really is a stunning location and a must-visit when in Wales. It's regarded by locals as one of the best beaches in Gower, and it's no surprise why with it's stunning scenery with spectacular rugged cliffs. The only downside is there's no parking nearby, so we don't recommend Three Cliffs Bay to those with walking difficulties


Three Cliffs Bay is a great place to swim, hike and even sunbathe (the main bit of course!). Be careful of the tide though as it does come in very fast. There are several different places to park which ultimately have different routes to get to the beach, so do your research and happy exploring!


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Three Cliffs Bay


1) Where is Three Cliffs Bay located?

Three Cliffs Bay is located on the Gower Peninsula in South Wales, near the village of Parkmill. It is situated within the Gower Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and can be accessed via footpaths from nearby villages or by parking at designated parking areas.


2) Is Three Cliffs Bay suitable for swimming?

Three Cliffs Bay is known for its stunning scenery and sandy beaches, making it a popular destination for visitors. While the bay is suitable for swimming during calm weather conditions, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, and the water conditions can vary.


It's important to be cautious and be aware of any warning signs posted in the area.


3) What facilities are available at Three Cliffs Bay?

Three Cliffs Bay is a beautiful and natural spot with limited facilities. There are no lifeguards on duty, and there are no public toilets or refreshment stands at the beach. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and be prepared to carry out any rubbish to maintain the beach's cleanliness.


Places to stay near Three Cliffs Bay





Wild Pear Beach is a lovely secluded bay which is protected from the wind and does include a tough walk to get too. To prove how secluded it really is, there is a rope near the end which helps you get down to the bay and back up if you need to! Heads up though, this is a Naturist beach!


It's no wonder Wild Pear Beach is so secluded due to the amount of scrambling involved to get to it! Getting onto the beach isn't the easiest, and you'll need a good pair of walking boots plus not afraid of heights ideally! But once you're done there, you won't want to leave!


Overall, it's a lovely coastal walk and once you get over the hurdle of scrambling down to the beach, it is very peaceful and usually you'll be the only one there.


FAQs/Things to know before visiting Wild Pear Beach


1) Where is Wild Pear Beach located?

Wild Pear Beach is located on the south coast of Cornwall, England, near the village of Gorran Haven. It is situated within the Cornish Riviera and can be accessed via a footpath from nearby areas or by parking in designated parking areas.


2) Is Wild Pear Beach suitable for swimming?

Wild Pear Beach is known for its secluded and picturesque setting, making it a popular destination for visitors seeking tranquility. While the beach is suitable for swimming during calm weather conditions, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, and the water conditions can vary.


It's important to be cautious and be aware of any warning signs posted in the area.


3) What facilities are available at Wild Pear Beach?

Wild Pear Beach is a secluded spot with limited facilities. There are no lifeguards on duty, and there are no public toilets or refreshment stands at the beach. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and be prepared to carry out any rubbish to maintain the beach's cleanliness.


Places to stay near Wild Pear Beach






Another lovely secluded beach which is Trevellas Cove is definitely up there with one of our favourite hidden beaches. You'll have the pleasure of very scenic views with ruins of Blue Hill Tin mine nearby and a stream. The beach has crystal clear water and is also great for rock pooling


Trevellas Cove is a truly stunning beach which gives visitors the clearest water as well as some cool spots for rock pooling! The beach itself is a mixture of sand, pebbles and stones, so if you're after a golden sandy beach you may want to try another beach.


It may not be a sand-castle building type beach, but it's perfect to watch the sunset. For you adventurous explorers out there, there is a long dark cave which can be found on the right hand side about 20ft up on the rock face.


FAQs/Things to know before visit Trevellas Cove


1) Where is Trevellas Cove located?

Trevellas Cove is situated on the north coast of Cornwall, England, near the village of St. Agnes. It is nestled between rugged cliffs and can be accessed via footpaths from nearby areas or by parking at designated parking areas.


2) Is Trevellas Cove suitable for swimming?

Trevellas Cove is known for its picturesque setting and crystal-clear waters, making it an appealing spot for visitors.


While the cove is suitable for swimming during calm weather conditions, visitors should be aware that there are no lifeguards on duty, and the water conditions can vary. It's important to be cautious and be aware of any warning signs posted in the area.


3) What facilities are available at Trevellas Cove?

Trevellas Cove is a secluded spot with limited facilities. There are no lifeguards on duty, and there are no public toilets or refreshment stands at the beach. Visitors should come prepared with any necessary provisions, including water and snacks, and be prepared to carry out any rubbish to maintain the beach's cleanliness.


Places to stay near Trevellas Cove



There you have it! These are 10 of our favourite hidden beaches located across the UK, perfect for your next adventure! Whether you plan to do a road trip around UK or are visiting for the summer, you should definitely check out some of these hidden beaches.


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