From breathtaking beaches to stunning waterfalls, allow us to tell you about some of the most idyllic spots right here on our British doorstep.
When the weather seems miserable or our work seems tiresome we often find ourselves dreaming of faraway places. However, we don’t even have to leave the UK to indulge in palm trees, stunning sandy beaches and even breathtaking water.
Below you will find a list of spots that you may be surprised to find out are right here in the UK.
From gorgeous blue waters to lowing waterfalls, let’s discover some of the best places in the UK to feel like you are enjoying an exotic breakaway.
Table of Contents
A Scottish Surprise – Langamull Beach, Isle of Mull
Known as one of the Mull’s best-kept secrets, this idyllic spot deserves its nickname as the Mull Caribbean thanks to that lush white sand. It will take you 20 minutes to walk to the beach along the secluded route that offers fabulous views along the way. If the weather is clear you may even get a glimpse of the small islands and Skye.
An English Extravaganza – Tinside Lido, Plymouth
The Art Deco first opened its doors in 1935 and this spot is part of it. Tinside Lido closed in 1992 but after a local campaign it reopened and in 1998 and achieved a Grade II listed status.
You could easily mistake the poolside views here to those at Sydney’s Bondi Beach, during the summer, the saltwater swimming pool provides the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sunshine.
A Welsh Wonder – Three Cliffs Bay, Swansea
Taking half an hour to drive here from Swansea, Three Cliffs Bay has a wonderful shoreline of salt marshes and sand dunes, as well as the three stunning limestone cliffs.
Ideal for picnics, Gower Coast Path is popular for a spot of camping, glamping or caravanning.
Wales Again – Portmeirion Village, Gwynedd
Sir Clough William-Ellis designed this in the style of an Italian village somewhere between 1925 and 1975, and the location certainly is a unique place.
It is found in Wales and not in the Mediterranean, however, it still appeals to many visitors thanks to the stunning scenery, excellent hotels and top-quality restaurants.
As well as the location, Festival N°6, an annual art and music event, has called this place home from 2012 and welcomes performers like James Blake and Hot Chip.
Wales Has Plenty to Offer – Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire
Close to Stackpole in Pembrokeshire, Barafundle Bay is set right in the heart of cliffs and is almost like a secluded bay on one of the Greek islands.
The Cawdor family once owned Stackpole Court, however, the beach is now open for public use and has once graced the list of the top 12 beaches in the world, in fact, the Good Holiday Guide also names it as Britain’s best beach.
Blessed with pine trees and sand dunes, this beach can be accessed by a half-mile walk if parked in the closest car park and provides a scenic escape from the craziness of everyday life.
English Excellence – West Bay, Dorset
Magnificent orange cliffs and stunning clear water make West Bay in Dorset a lot like the Algarve.
Offering beautiful scenery it provides a wonderful spot for a family holiday or coastal walk and Bridport, a market town close by, has a great reputation when it comes to food and culture.
Back to Wales – Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Tenby has a Balinese feel to it with the golden sands, the palm trees, stunning water and buildings full of colour.
For over 200 years this has been a seaside town and is full of history, in fact, it is even surrounded by a medieval wall.
There are also three beaches here; North, South and Castle. For water sports, head to North, for amazing views, you will love Castle and if you are looking for close to two miles of golden sands, you will love South Beach.
There are accommodations scattered around the area, including St Davids holiday cottages which offer cosy family cottages with great amenities.
