From rugged coastlines to sandy shores with turquoise waters, the UK is home to many stunning beaches
This charming town has the warmest ocean temperatures(Image: russellbinns via Getty Images)
Discovering a beach in the UK where the water isn’t freezing cold is a genuine bonus, particularly given the abundance of breathtaking beaches on offer. From dramatic coastlines to sandy stretches boasting turquoise waters, these stunning locations are typically synonymous with icy seas, especially during winter when UK sea temperatures hover around 10C on average.
Research has identified the warmest coastal waters throughout the country, helping Brits plan their next seaside escape for the sunnier months to come. The study, carried out by SIXT, measured sea temperatures around the UK, with a Cornish “hidden gem” claiming the number one position.
Portloe, tucked away on the Roseland Peninsula in Cornwall, holds the crown for the UK’s warmest sea, with an average annual temperature of 15.9C, providing a far more pleasant experience for those fancying a paddle, reports Cornwall Live.
Situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty in Cornwall, the picturesque fishing village overlooks dazzling turquoise waters and is surrounded by verdant rolling hills.
The village’s beach features a small sandy shoreline at low tide, ideal for a gentler swim.
With a pleasant average maximum sea temperature of 15.2C, Rye in East Sussex secures second place on the list.
This delightful town attracts numerous visitors each year with its charming cobblestone streets and Georgian architecture.
TripAdvisor reviewer Ruth M described Rye’s beach, known as Camber Sands, as: “In my view, possibly the best beach in the UK.”
The breathtaking sand dunes of Camber Sands have frequently served as a filming location for major blockbusters, including the 2014 hit The Theory of Everything, which charts the life of physicist Stephen Hawking.
Taking third spot is another East Sussex treasure – Hastings. The coastal town has steadily climbed the rankings of late, attracting visitors with its impressive selection of new hotels and restaurants.
Boasting a mix of pebbles and golden sand, the beach offers sweeping views across the English Channel, where sea temperatures can reach as high as 15.1C.
The iconic Dorset beach featured in one of the most emotional scenes in Ryan Gosling’s new film, and fans are now visiting the picturesque Jurassic Coast location for spring walks
Alice Sjoberg Social News Reporter
14:31, 05 Apr 2026
The beach was used to film an important scene in Project Hail Mary, starring Ryan Gosling (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
There’s always a thrill when you recognise a familiar location in a film or TV programme, whether it’s a documentary or the backdrop for a fictional tale. While the UK serves as a popular setting for numerous blockbuster films and television series, one of this year’s biggest cinema releases actually filmed one of its most memorable scenes in the UK – and it’s accessible to visit right now as a stunning walking destination.
That’s precisely what one London-based couple decided to do, bringing their dog, Presto, along to the Jurassic Coast near Lulworth in Dorset to see the Project Hail Mary filming location after recently watching the film at the cinema.
“Cried at the cinema at this beach so we went in real life,” they captioned their video, before sharing footage from their day trip adventure.
Content cannot be displayed without consent
Without giving away any spoilers, the beach serves as a significant location for one of the film’s characters, with several of the more poignant scenes captured here, making it particularly meaningful for fans to experience. That said, the breathtaking views alone make the journey worthwhile.
Durdle Door stands as one of Dorset’s most photographed and iconic landmarks. Situated on the Lulworth Estate in south Dorset, it forms part of the stunning Jurassic Coast.
The coastline holds such exceptional geological significance on the world stage that UNESCO designated it as England’s first natural World Heritage Site in 2001, placing it alongside iconic natural treasures such as America’s Grand Canyon and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef.
The stunning natural limestone arch was created when powerful waves eroded the rock and carved a hole through its centre. The name Durdle comes from the old English word ‘thirl’, meaning to pierce, bore or drill.
The film also features the neighbouring Man O’ War Beach, which visitors can normally reach via a footpath. However, the pair revealed that during their late March visit, storm damage had swept away the steps leading down to this beach, rendering it currently inaccessible.
Still, they weren’t bothered, as they were able to take in the spectacular views from the clifftops overlooking the beach.
How do you get to the Jurassic Coast? If you’re travelling by car, you can park at the sizeable car park reached through Durdle Door Holiday Park. From there, it’s a 15-minute walk down a steep path to the steps above the beach.
For those without a car, the iconic landmark is also reachable by bus, with a brief journey from Wool in Dorset taking you straight to the beaches.
The London pair weren’t alone in their admiration for the landmark, as numerous others quickly flooded the comment section to share their own visits.
“Went back in 2022 and loved it, need to go back again now that I saw it in the film,” one person wrote. Someone else added: “I wish I hadn’t seen that this was in the movie before we saw it but it was special seeing it with my boys who I took there in 2022.”
This seaside hotel is arguably one of the most famous in the UK, and it overlooks the city’s long shingle beach and lively promenade, as well as being just steps from the easily-recognised pier
The hotel overlooks a famous beach with classic seaside vibes(Image: Adam Gerrard / Daily Mirror)
A weekend at a seaside hotel is a classic British staycation. From windswept walks on the promenade to fish and chips on the beach, it’s fun no matter what the weather.
Seaside accommodation can vary massively from independent B&Bs to chains, and a recent article by Which? uncovered some of its inspectors’ favorite seaside hotels from across the UK, with properties from Fife to Kent making the list.
However, clinching the number one spot is a five-star property that overlooks the famous Brighton Beach. The Grand is over 155-years old, and has had a complete refurb in recent years, restoring much of the former glory to this long-running hotel.
Even among Brighton’s long promenade which hosts many huge hotels, the Grand stands out as a landmark of the city. Its marble columns and iron balconies harking back to when Brighton was a stylish seaside destination for Victorians.
The hotel has over 200 rooms, from simple doubles with comfy beds to grand sea-view suites, and each room has suitably nautical colors and touches that will get you in the mood for seaside fun.
Downstairs, guests can relax in the thermal suite with a hydrotherapy pool, jacuzzi, and steam room, or can book a spa treatment such as a facial or massage, the perfect end to a long day exploring the city. It also has a stylish restaurant overlooking the seafront, where you can enjoy a classic afternoon tea or a dinner menu featuring freshly caught seafood.
Staying at the Grand means you’re just a short stroll from many of Brighton’s attractions. Brighton Palace Pier is a must-see. Dating back to 1899, it’s another example of Brighton’s ornate Victorian architecture, and you can enjoy amusements, fairground rides, bars, and colourful end-of-the-pier shows.
Explore the Royal Pavilion and gardens, a unique Regency-era palace inspired by Indian architecture. This ornate building is often compared to the Taj Mahal on the outside thanks to its dramatic domes and minarets. A newer addition to the skyline is the Brighton i360, an observation tower that gently lifts visitors 138-metres into the sky. Walk around the glass viewing pod and you can enjoy sea views on one side and the city and the South Downs on the other.
Holidaymakers bringing kids along, or just those who love seeing colourful creatures, will enjoy SEA LIFE Brighton. It’s the world’s oldest continuously-running aquarium, having been open since 1872, and includes the classic glass tunnel for spotting sea animals up close.
The Lanes and North Laine are also must-visit areas when you spend a weekend in Brighton. North Laine is full of colourful independent shops offering vintage clothes, unique household items, and artworks, while The Lanes include boutique shops, stylish cafés and upmarket restaurants. As the name implies, these are found down narrow, pedestrianised streets where you can wander for hours and find the city’s hidden gems.
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
A UK seaside town is brimming with charm, with vibrant beach huts lining the golden beach and a high street packed with independent businesses that serves up its famed oysters
This picturesque seaside town is just a short train journey from London (Image: Getty Images)
A charming coastal town, just a short train ride from London, offers an idyllic day out, adorned with colourful beach huts and an independent high street.
The seaside town of Whitstable in Kent is perhaps one of the best ways to make the most of the warmer weather, with its sprawling beach, thriving harbour and high street brimming with independent businesses. Nestled between Herne Bay and Seasalter, the Kentish town is just over an hour’s train journey from London, making it a favourite among those who want to escape the smoke for a break by the picturesque coast.
The shingle beach is at the heart of this town, with its picturesque pastel-hued beach huts lining the promenade for a quintessential British seaside. While it may lack the pier or rides you might find at other seaside towns, its stretches of golden beach have previously earned it the recognition of the ‘best of the traditional British seaside’ by Beach Guide, thanks to its ‘quirkiness and charm’.
It’s a place where families can spend hours playing along the shore, taking a refreshing dip in the seawaters, or simply walking along its stretching promenade, admiring the colourful beach huts. If you fancy a pint in the sun, there’s the famed Old Neptune pub, with outdoor seating offering views across the coast, and where fishermen take in their daily catch.
Whitstable also has a bustling harbour and is renowned for its oysters. Its heritage of seafood dates back to around 80AD, when the Romans reportedly sent oysters back to Rome because they loved them so much, and the town built a thriving industry based on mollusc business that remains in place today.
A trip to Whitstable wouldn’t be complete without sampling its famed oysters with the acclaimed Whitstable Oyster Company and Wheelers Oyster Bar, providing the perfect spot. But with an array of restaurants nestled around the town, you’ll never be far from fresh seafood, and the town even holds its very own Whitstable Rocks Oyster Festival to celebrate its historic connection.
Away from oysters, the town, which has been dubbed the ‘jewel of the Kent coast’, is also known for its thriving high street. Whitstable has hundreds of independent businesses, from vintage shops and art galleries to cafés, bakeries, hardware stores, and family-run eateries, with just a few chain stores surviving.
A stroll along Harbour Street and the High Street will reveal shopfronts bursting with character, including George’s Whitstable, an authentic Aladdin’s cave that has been a fixture for around 50 years. Some of its other notable highlights include the elegant jewellery shop Pearl Shop, the independent toy shop Buttercup, and Harbour Books.
Whether you’re looking to spend time on the beach, browse around the extensive selection of independent shops or simply stroll around the charming town, a day trip to this ‘oyster paradise’ is well worth it. And with a direct train from London Victoria to Whitstable taking just over an hour, it couldn’t be easier to experience the seaside charm along the Kent coast.
Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com
One beach has been named third best in the world with its stunning backdrop, and it’s not in Cornwall, Devon or Yorkshire
Mia O’Hare Senior Spare Time Reporter and Grace Piercy
09:19, 30 Mar 2026
The stunning UK beach has been named among the best in the world(Image: Michael_Conrad via Getty Images)
Residents in a picturesque seaside town may need to prepare for an influx of tourists this year, after their stunning beach secured a spot on TripAdvisor’s ‘best of the best’ global list for 2026. It nearly claimed the top position, landing in an extremely impressive third place, thanks largely to its absolutely breathtaking backdrop.
When discussing beaches in the UK, Roker and Seaburn beaches have drawn comparisons to LA and Tynemouth has been likened to Australia’s Bondi Beach. Yet, for countless people – both residents and tourists alike – there’s one that will forever reign supreme in the North East, and that’s Bamburgh.
It boasts spectacular scenery, a brilliant day out, fresh sea air, and a chance to clear your head, regardless of the conditions.
Even during the recent bitter cold snap, visitors have continued strolling along its renowned sands and admiring the ‘unparalleled’ and utterly magnificent views of Bamburgh Castle in the distance.
It is the very location where Hollywood star Harrison shot an Indiana Jones film in 2021.
Interestingly, in last year’s rankings, Bamburgh actually trailed behind Roker and Seaburn amongst the UK’s finest beaches.
The beach is now proudly representing the UK as the sole entry from British shores on TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards best-of-the-best list for one-of-a-kind beaches.
Bamburgh comes in third place, behind only Boulders Beach in South Africa and Isola Bella in Sicily – a prestigious list that celebrates beaches boasting the most extraordinary settings.
Bamburgh has been rightly recognised for its breathtaking Medieval backdrop, which sets it apart from the crowd.
Highlighting its position on the One of a Kind list, TripAdvisor writes: “Framed by the iconic silhouette of Bamburgh Castle, this beach boasts miles of soft white sand, and a dramatic coastal backdrop.
“The dog-friendly stretch is close to the charming Bamburgh village, making it a standout choice for unforgettable family escapes and romantic coastal breaks.”
Planning your summer holiday but want to avoid crowded tourist hotspots? These three stunning European destinations offer beautiful beaches and coastal charm without the crowds.
La Gomera has some gorgeous beaches(Image: Getty)
Spring has finally sprung, meaning summer is just round the corner. Britain is fortunate to have countless stunning countries within easy reach, and if you’re pondering where to head this year, you’re in for a treat.
One of the most frustrating aspects of arranging a holiday is deciding on a destination – and with hordes of tourists flocking to all the popular spots, finding somewhere peaceful and relaxing can prove even more challenging.
If you’re after coastal beauty without thousands of holidaymakers crowding the beaches with towels and parasols, these are the three European locations you need to consider, reports the Express.
In contrast to Tenerife or Lanzarote, this stunning island remains relatively undiscovered and experiences fewer crowds during peak season than the British favourites.
Laura Evans-Fisk from eurochange commented: “It’s the perfect tranquil, peaceful alternative to the more popular islands. You could stay here for a restful few days or make a day trip from Tenerife by hopping on the ferry.
“La Gomera is also a great spot for hikers and nature lovers, home to the lush UNESCO-listed Garajonay National Park.
“Its beaches are much more secluded than the ones you’ll find on the other islands, and you’ll encounter no large-scale resorts or nightlife.”
“Like other islands in the region, La Gomera benefits from pleasant temperatures throughout the year too. And, its low light pollution means it’s an excellent spot for stargazing.”
Renowned for its breathtaking turquoise waters and pristine sand beaches, this stretch of Albania is known as the “Albanian Riviera”. It’s becoming increasingly popular with holidaymakers, yet sections of it remain largely undiscovered.
Laura explained: “Ksamil, an area often coined the ‘Maldives of Europe’, is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches, with white sands and strikingly clear waters.
“For a more relaxed vibe, visit Porto Palermo – this stunning bay has a small peninsula connecting it to the mainland, and an impressive 19th-century castle, Ali Pasha.”
The Algarve is frequently packed with tourists, but further north in Alentejo there’s a far more laid-back atmosphere. With its picturesque coastal landscapes and gorgeous beaches it provides the ideal summer getaway.
Laura commented: “Further North than the Algarve, this coastline surrounds the city of Lisbon, making charming towns like Cascais, Estoril and Azenhas do Mar perfect day excursions from the capital.”
The most affordable place for a week-long holiday has been revealed – and it’s a stunning beach resort town that’s perfect for a summer escape
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
This beautiful resort town so famous for its beaches(Image: Julia Lavrinenko via Getty Images)
With the arrival of warmer weather, it’s time to start planning your summer getaways. If you’re pondering where to jet off to this year, there’s one destination that should be on your list.
This breathtaking beach resort town has been crowned as the most budget-friendly spot for a week-long holiday. A seven-day stay in this picturesque town will set you back £230 all-inclusive.
This research is courtesy of online travel agent loveholidays who have identified the cheapest locations for a break.
Taking the top spot is Agadir in Morocco. Renowned for its laid-back coastal atmosphere, this stunning resort town is the ideal summer retreat.
It’s situated on the western coast of Morocco, five hours from the capital city of Casablanca.
The town nestles near the base of the Atlas Mountains and boasts a population of over half a million people.
It’s celebrated for its gorgeous beaches – Plage d’Agadir in the city centre and the equally enchanting Plage Aourir to the north, both offering wonderfully soft sands and warm temperatures.
The climate is mild throughout the year, with winter temperatures averaging 20.5°C, but in the summer months, it climbs into the mid to high 20s – perfect for a sun-soaked getaway, reports the Express.
If you book a package hotel between the June 1 and August 31, you can secure an all-inclusive stay for as low as £33 per person per night.
If Morocco doesn’t tickle your fancy, there are plenty of other destinations to choose from. Coming in second place for the most affordable are the Costa Dorada at £381 and Murcia at £399.
Lanzarote and Goza in Malta also present extremely cost-effective choices if you’re seeking some sunshine.
Al Murray, chief marketing officer at loveholidays, stated: “Our ranking shows that a week of summer sun doesn’t have to carry a premium price tag.
“Whether it’s the beaches of Agadir or firm favourites like Costa Dorada and Lanzarote, all offer incredible value for money; a top priority for British holidaymakers.
“By highlighting these affordable hotspots, we’re helping travellers plan ahead and secure a summer getaway regardless of their budget.”
Have fun with the family or unwind your mind with TUI deals for March and April
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Feel the sand beneath your toes with a last-minute holiday(Image: TUI)
Getting away for a beach break in March or April is a great way to enjoy sunny skies and mild temperatures before the summer crowds arrive, as well as ditch the British rain. It’s the perfect time to relax on golden sands, explore charming coastal towns and soak up the early-season Mediterranean vibes.
As one of the UK’s best-known holiday companies, TUI uses Gatwick to offer direct flights to some of Europe’s best resorts, making it ideal for a spring break. Right now, TUI is offering couples the chance to save up to £250 on selected holidays, departing from Gatwick Airport in March and April.
This offer applies to 7-, 10-, 11- and 14-night stays in 2026, making it the perfect time for an early-season getaway. Even before the first flourish of summer, beach breaks in Lanzarote, Turkey and Portugal offer the perfect mix of sun, sand, and family-friendly fun.
READ MORE:
From stunning coastal locations with pools and entertainment to panoramic Portuguese views and spa treatments, we’ve picked just three of our favourites from TUI that can be booked today.
TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach, Lanzarote
Perched on the sun-drenched coastline of Playa Blanca, Lanzarote, TUI BLUE Flamingo Beach sits just steps from soft sands and calm, turquoise waters, ideal for safe swimming. Designed to look like a charming whitewashed Canarian village, a scenic seafront promenade connects the resort to Rubicon Marina and the town centre with stunning Atlantic views.
The resort is perfect for families, offering multiple pools, a splash park and professional childcare and teen hangouts. Dining is varied, from international buffets to local specialities, while fitness classes and evening entertainment ensure a lively mix of relaxation and fun under the Lanzarote sun.
For the best value break at Flamingo Beach, sunseekers looking to getaway after Easter can enjoy a 7-night break for £642.42* per person. Departing on April 13, this price is based on two people sharing on an all-inclusive basis and includes a whopping £1082.16* discount. Alternatively, a 14-night stay departing on April 14 is also available for the higher price of £1619*.
One visitor left a five-star review on TripAdvisor that said: “This hotel is excellent for families with children 0-10. The location is perfect, right next to Flamingo Beach. The children enjoyed the main pool, where activities took place, and the quiet pool, which was heated. The apartments were clean and spacious with a bedroom and lounge/kitchen”
Another added: “Great Location. Our room was very quiet. Our rate included an excellent breakfast so good value for money.”
A different guest, however, agreed that the location is “brilliant”, but they also felt “let down by amenities not being open. Pool snack bar, pool bar in another area closed. And only one evening bar with no other areas to sit.”
A returning guest highly recommends the Flamingo Beach resort, saying: “Best Place. The location is fantastic, near lovely beach, rooms are fine and clean and the staff are so friendly, the area is very clean and not too much noise. We been coming here nearly every year, the last 25 years. This is where we feel like home.”
Lanzarote is always popular with holidaymakers and there are plenty of deals to choose from. One the Beach is offering a 7-night stay at the five-star Iberostar Selection Lanzarote Park with prices from £1605*, a saving of £425. An upscale all-inclusive resort, guests love the location just a little further along the bay.
For sunseekers on a budget, a last-minute break at the Blue Sea Costa Bastian in Costa Teguise is available for £519* per person through Love Holidays. With flights from Gatwick, accommodation and breakfast included, the hotel is surrounded by beautiful Canary gardens and offers magnificent views over the Atlantic Ocean.
Blue Bay Platinum, Marmaris, Turkey
Blue Bay Platinum in Marmaris blends modern style with central convenience, just 70 meters from the beach with its own private sandy stretch and clear waters. The lively local area, including shops, bars, the marina and old town, is all within easy walking distance.
The resort offers four outdoor pools, including waterslides and a dedicated adult “chill pool,” plus a full-service spa for ultimate indulgence. Guests can enjoy international and local dining, sunset cocktails and stylish ocean-themed rooms with live music and shows, creating the perfect vibrant Mediterranean getaway.
Offering excellent value for money, a seven-night stay at this contemporary hotel in a central location could cost as little as £418* per person. Departing on Wednesday, April 18, the deal includes flights and accommodation on an all-inclusive basis.
With hundreds of five-star reviews on TripAdvisor, one visitor called it a “Stunning, luxury stay”, adding: “Blue Bay Platinum Hotel in Marmaris was absolutely exceptional from start to finish. The hotel itself is beautiful – modern, stylish, and perfectly maintained with a luxurious atmosphere throughout. Room was very comfortable and always clean. Will definitely stay here again.”
Another added: “Booked again for April this year. This will be our 10th visit to Marmaris. We have stayed at the supposedly other top hotels nearby. None of them beat the Blue Bay for overall experience.”
While one visitor did note that they felt uncomfortable at the resort due to the “expectation that tips should be given,” another loved it, saying: “It’s a very nice place to stay. I like this hotel and especially the relaxing swimming pool. There is a great bar.”
Turkey appeals to Brits with its mix of sunny beaches, rich history, delicious cuisine and excellent value for money. Another favourite Marmaris resort for upscale holidaymakers is the five-star Green Nature Diamond Hotel that sits within easy striking distance of the beach.
With a wide range of facilities and comfortable accommodation, this luxurious hotel can be booked through Love Holidays for a seven-night stay in April from £429* per person. Elsewhere, the nearby Prime Beach Hotel has pools with waterslides and a private stretch of beach with prices starting from £490* per person on April 2.
Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel, Portugal
Perched on a hillside with panoramic views over Alvor Bay and the Atlantic, the Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel is a state-of-the-art retreat in the charming village of Alvor. Guests are perfectly placed to enjoy golden beaches, scenic boardwalks and nearby world-class golf courses, all while staying in a serene, high-tech sanctuary.
The hotel is a pioneer in wellness, featuring a rooftop infinity pool and a world-class spa and wellness centre. With sunrise yoga, detox treatments, and healthy Mediterranean cuisine at the rooftop Pure Cafe, every detail is designed for ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
While the thought of complete rest and relaxation may be priceless, a stay at the Longevity Resort is worth every penny. For a 10-night stay, departing on March 23, prices start from £891.12* per person, on a bed and breakfast basis. Shorter stays are also available with a seven-night break costing £663* departing on the same day.
Guests who have already found their zen with a stay at the Longevity Health & Wellness Hotel have shared their experiences online. One said: “Absolutely superb place for relaxing stay, very modern, clean, quiet location with 5 mins drive to local beaches and town of Alvor… Fantastic breakfast with great choice. Access to spa facilities included. Would definitely recommend.”
Another added: “A lovely, relaxing stay in a beautiful hotel. We came back feeling revitalised. The cleanliness and the staff at the hotel were everything.”
While one less impressed visitor said: “The restaurant is very expensive for portions,” another was far more impressed exclaiming: “This hotel is truly exceptional, I cannot say enough about this wonderful place only that we cannot wait to return.”
Alternatively, the Falesia Hotel is a sophisticated adults-only retreat in Albufeira, offering elegant rooms, a full-service spa, and both indoor and outdoor pools. Perfectly positioned for relaxation, it sits just a short walk from pristine beaches and the Pine Cliffs Golf Course, and prices for a seven-night stay start from £439 with Love Holidays.
For those who want a family holiday, Portugal is a perfect location for this too. Offering waterslides, a kids club, a water park and plenty of entertainment, theJupiter Albufeira Hotel has something for everyone. Located in the popular resort of Albufeira, prices start from £630* per person, departing on April 21.
Find out more about deals on spring holidays with TUI as well as the full T&Cs here.
Many European destinations and warming up, and spring is definitely on the way. But which short-haul spot is most likely to give you sunshine and dry days over Easter? Here’s the destination with the best odds.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
This is the destination to book for the best possible chance of Easter sunshine(Image: Ferdi Uzun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
It feels like winter has dragged on forever this year, and many parts of the country are only just emerging from months of endless rain and grey skies to see a little bit of sunshine. With Easter on the way, which can be an unpredictable time for UK weather, many people will be looking to get away to the sunniest spot they can find for a few days.
Luckily, TUI has put together a list of the Easter getaways that are most likely to give you the ideal weather conditions, analysing historic data on the average rainfall, wind speed, and temperature in early-April to work out a Good Weather Score. Brits will be pleased to hear that topping the rankings is a destination just over four hours away from the UK that’s expected to see highs of 19C over the next couple of weeks.
According to TUI’s rankings, Turkey historically has the “most ideal weather conditions” during the Easter holidays, usually offering holidaymakers average temperatures of 18C. It’s also the destination where you’re least likely to be caught in an April shower. In the Easter holiday months, the amount of rainfall is just 0.01mm on average.
When the data was broken down into individual destinations, Marmaris in Turkey was the place most likely to give holidaymakers the best Easter weather conditions. It often reaches highs of 19C around Easter, and is usually dry with only light winds. Marmaris is in southwest Turkey in an area dubbed the Turkish Riviera. This lively port town has a marina, bustling grand bazaar, and historic sites such as the 16th-century Marmaris Castle.
Marmaris also has an amazing selection of sandy beaches that sit alongside its turquoise seas. Marmaris Long Beach (Uzunyali), is around six miles long, starting at the city centre, and has a lively promenade full of hotels, restaurants, and bars. A quieter alternative can be found at İçmeler Beach, just south of the city, where you’ll find sandy coves and incredible mountain views.
Second on the list for good weather was Greece, and this time of year brings mean temperatures of around 16C and long sunny days. Meanwhile, Bulgaria ranked third for its “pleasant and balanced climate”. Like Turkey it offers light winds and low rainfall, and Easter can be a good time to explore as tourist don’t have to contend with the intense summer heat. Bulgaria is becoming a major hiking destination, especially around the Rila and Pirin mountain ranges which combine gentle trails with more intense, steep climbs.
Bulgaria is also known for its stunning beaches. The Black Sea coast has 200 beaches to choose from and resorts to suit all sorts of holidaymakers. Sunny Beach is known for its lively nightlife and cheap drink deals, while Varna is a historic and cultural hub that has soft golden sand beaches and clear blue seas.
Anyone planning an Easter break can also check TUI’s holiday weather guide, which gives a breakdown of weather by month for popular tourist spots.
Europe’s top 10 destinations for good Easter weather
Turkey
Greece
Bulgaria
Spain
Croatia
Italy
Hungary
Portugal
Montenegro
Gibraltar
Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect spring getaway, this beach needs to be on your radar.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
This spot has some of the best views in the country(Image: Getty)
As the UK welcomes warmer weather and springtime approaches, the allure of the beach becomes irresistible. With an abundance of stunning coastlines to choose from in the UK, deciding on the perfect spot can be a challenge.
Thankfully, the experts at Go Outdoors have done the hard work for you, compiling a list of the crème de la crème by analysing data from across the country. The research considered spring temperatures, rainfall records, sunshine hours and Google reviews of UK beaches, culminating in a definitive list of the nation’s top springtime beaches.
Taking the top spot is a breathtaking beach boasting 7.8 hours of daily sunshine during spring and minimal rainfall.
This idyllic location is none other than Cuckmere Haven in East Sussex, which achieved an impressive score of 9.60 out of ten in the Go Outdoors study. Visitors can enjoy picturesque river walks, a vast coastline and views of some of the country’s most renowned cliffs.
The beach itself is a sight to behold, but there’s also plenty to discover in the surrounding area. It offers one of the best vantage points of the Seven Sisters – England’s iconic white cliffs – and you can meander along the Cuckmere River towards the sea, reports the Express.
Praise for the beach abounds on TripAdvisor, with one gentleman enthusing: “Absolutely stunning scenery. Long walks and perfect for the family I loved every second of walking these beautiful cliffs. You can also see the Seven Sisters the whole time for those are into history.”
Another commented: “Wow – this iconic sight takes your breath away! The cliffs are blindingly white and the beach and surrounding countryside is so pretty. Everyone should see this once in their lifetime.”
Numerous visitors caution that some of the pathways around the beach can become muddy and slippery, so proper footwear is essential – though there are ample spots to pause and rest along your journey.
Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at GO Outdoors, advised: “When planning your spring beach trip, keep in mind that British weather can still be unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry in case of sudden showers, choose supportive, waterproof footwear for any slippery sand or rocks, and layer your clothing so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.
“Sun protection is also important, even in spring. Apply a generous layer of suncream before you head out, and don’t forget a cap and sunglasses to shield yourself from harmful UV rays.”
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
This is the best beach for spring(Image: Patricia Hamilton via Getty Images)
As temperatures begin to climb, thoughts naturally turn towards seaside escapes. There’s nothing quite like the sound of crashing waves and the sensation of sand between your toes – but with countless stunning locations dotted around the UK, how do you decide where to visit?
For an ideal spring beach getaway, you’ll want maximum sunshine, pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall – and that’s precisely where the specialists at Go Outdoors come in. They’ve put together a ranking of Britain’s finest beaches based on average spring temperatures, precipitation levels, hours of sunshine and Googlereviews to identify the absolute cream of the crop.
Every beach featured received a rating out of 10 according to its weather conditions, rainfall and visitor feedback.
Taking the top spot is Cuckmere Haven with an impressive score of 9.60. This breathtaking beach sits in East Sussex and boasts a remarkable 7.8 hours of daily spring sunshine alongside just 52mm of monthly rainfall.
Those visiting the beach can first take in spectacular views of the Seven Sisters — England’s famous white cliffs overlooking the channel — before embarking on a picturesque stroll along the Cuckmere River as it winds its way towards the coast. Hear the cries of seagulls circling above, and feel the fresh sea breeze against your skin, reports the Express.
Claiming second position is Southwold Beach with a rating of 8.68 out of 10. This expanse of sand extends from the River Blyth’s mouth, passing Southwold Pier which offers plenty to discover.
There are arcade games and numerous cafés and restaurants where you can pop in for refreshments or a bite to eat. Securing the third spot, and boasting the highest Google review rating amongst all the beaches, is Druridge Bay Beach.
Google reviews rate this beach at a stellar 4.9 out of five, and the Go Outdoors research awarded it an impressive overall score of 8.53 out of 10.
The beach itself extends for seven miles, and the adjacent woodlands are teeming with wildlife such as roe deer and red squirrels.