THE UK is set to hit highs of 25C next week, according to the BBC – so you can expect the beaches to be busy at the weekend.
So we’ve rounded up some of the best alternative bays and coves that are quieter than their busy neighbours – and some local top tips.
Swap Margate for…. Kingsgate Bay
The golden sands of Margate’s Main Beach can be pretty crowded come summer – but just down the road is the much quieter Kingsgate Bay.
The tiny patch of sand is overlooked by Kingsgate Castle and the Captain Digby pub, and it known for it’s rocky arch formation which you can walk through when the tide is out.
“It’s on the King Charles III England Coast Path so you’ll likely only be joined by hikers and dogwalkers.
“But the steep steps down also keep it nice and secluded – I often take a book for some peace and quiet there.” Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor.
Swap Hunstanton for… Thornham Beach
Hunstanton in north west Norfolk gets pretty rammed with tourists in the summer – where the roads get clogged with holidaymakers rushing to its promenade, and it’s easy to waste half of your day sitting in traffic to get there,.
If you head just 10 minutes east along the coast, you’ll find Thornham Beach.
“Park up in a quiet spot on the side of the road and walk through the pretty pinewoods to reach a massive beach that is much less chaotic.
“You’ll find dog-walkers and the odd family with a picnic, but no flashy amusement lights and blaring music – just a gorgeous stretch of sand.” Jenna Stevens, Travel Reporter.
Swap Paignton for… Fairy Cove
Paignton is one of Devon‘s busiest seaside towns, especially in the summer.
But just behind the harbour is Fairy Cove, and is a much quieter alternative.
“With a mix of sand and pebbles, this beach is ideal for getting away from crowds of people for either a quiet swim or gently walk.
“The cove is only accessible via steps at the corner of the harbour, but it does mean there are range of facilities nearby as well as the town within walking distance.” Cyann Fielding, Travel Reporter
Swap Clacton-on-Sea for… Frinton-on-Sea
When heading to the Essex coast, you’re likely to be drawn in by the big names like Clacton-on-Sea – but it’s so busy, it’s usually hard to even find a spot to lay your towel on the beach.
But if you want a trip to Essex without the frills and thrills, try driving 20-minutes north to Frinton-on-Sea.
“It has a sweeping golden beach with multi-coloured beach huts and is generally much less busy than its neighbout to the south.
“And there’s usually much more breathing space to explore its independent shops, not to mention the town’s only pub, The Lock and Barrel.” Alice Penwill, Travel Reporter
Swap Folkestone for…. Sandgate
There is so much to do on the main Folkestone beach, so that means you can expect crowds too.
But walk along the promenade and you’ll find Sandgate, a similar pebble beach but filled with locals rather than tourists.
“It still has all the pubs, wine bars and cafes you want after a day at the beach, but has a much more peaceful vibe.
“I recommend getting an ice cream at the beach hut and watching the rowers and paddle boardings practising.” Kara Godfrey, Deputy Travel Editor
Swap Newquay for… Mawgan Porth
Newquay’s Fistral Beach is popular for a reason – it’s home to next level waves that surfers continuously rave about and it’s got everything from cute shops, board rental shops and cafes. So when the sun shines it tends to get extremely busy.
At the opposite end of Newquay, however, and less than seven miles away is Mawgan Porth.
“This beach is just as impressive visually – sparse softs sands backed by craggy cliffs – but tends to be far emptier thanks to its wide expanse of sand that stretches very far back, meaning you’ll always find a spot for your picnic blanket or lounger.
“It’s dog-friendly year round and my Frenchie Dora loves the vast space just as much as I do – chasing frothing waves along the shoreline.” Sophie Swietochowsi, Assistant Travel Editor
Swap Polzeath for… Hawkers Cove
Cornwall’s Polzeath is often referred to as the St Tropez of Britain because of the high-end crowd it attracts and the rather lavish dining spots on its doorstep. It is, however, crowded from dawn until dusk on a hot day, with some of its bars open ’til very late.
Almost opposite this beach, across the mouth of the Camel river, you’ll find Hawker’s Cove which is far enough away from the main bay that many visitors can’t be bothered to venture here.
“If you do manage to make the walk from the main car parks, however, you’ll be rewarded with a small(ish) patch of sand and pretty much complete isolation.
“There’s not much nearby, but that’s why I love it: just you, sweeping dunes and one teeny tea shop selling scones, light bites and smoothies.” Sophie Swietochowsi, Assistant Travel Editor
Swap Durdle Door for… Man O’ War Bay
The unique geological gem Durdle Door is a magnet for tourists heading to the Jurassic Coast in Dorset.
But for those who can make it, Man O’ War Bay, immediately to the east of Durdle Door, offers a quieter alternative and is less crowded.
“There are a set of steep steps to navigate to get to the semi-circular cove so getting to it isn’t for the faint-hearted.
“But make it, and you’ll be rewarded with the same views and less people.” Lisa Minot, Head of Travel.