This picturesque island off of the coast of Northern Ireland stands out for its unique charm and natural beauty, as it sits completely isolated from the rest of the UK
08:00, 05 Nov 2025Updated 08:13, 05 Nov 2025
Around 150 residents live on the island(Image: GAPS via Getty Images)
Tucked away and untouched by mass tourism, this remote island provides the perfect retreat for anyone wanting to reconnect with nature and breathe in the crisp coastal air.
Rathlin Island boasts an incredible array of wildlife, making it an idyllic destination in Northern Ireland for birdwatching and walking, with a tranquillity that only a community of just 150 residents could provide. And yet, they share their home with tens of thousands of seabirds.
The Rathlin Seabird Centre provides a magnificent vantage point to watch the delightful antics of puffins, razorbills and kittiwakes in their natural surroundings. Additionally, seals are frequently spotted basking on the rocks, whilst Irish hares and mink can be seen wandering across the terrain.
One visitor shared their experience on TripAdvisor, saying: “The beautiful and peaceful place. Very little tourism, but it’s not needed; everything is basic, normal everyday life. It’s so simple just to walk the island.
“We have done this on several occasions and walk to each lighthouse. I recommend getting the bus to the bird sanctuary, as it’s quite a walk and very hilly. The scenery is like you will never have seen before.”, reports Belfast Live.
Thanks to the distinctive shape of this small island, it features three stunning lighthouses, each with its own character. Next to the seabird centre stands the West Lighthouse, renowned for being Ireland’s only upside-down lighthouse and an essential stop on any visit.
The East Lighthouse, Rathlin’s oldest, stands tall on the edge of a cave that is steeped in history. It’s said that this very cave was the refuge of Robert the Bruce in 1306 after his defeat in Scotland.
Legend tells us that while hiding away, he found inspiration from a spider to continue his fight for Scottish independence. This tale has forever linked him with the island, and many visitors come to pay their respects at the cave, gazing out towards Scotland from Rathlin.
One satisfied visitor said: “The scenery is mind-blowing, and taking the bus up to the lighthouse and bird sanctuary was fantastic. So much to see, and not just puffins. Lots of other nesting birds, plus the old upside-down lighthouse. Just very cool.”
Another tourist wrote: “A perfect day on an idyllic and unspoilt island. From start to finish… from the scenic crossing to the cold drink at McCuaig’s bar overlooking the swimmers and paddle boarders in Church Bay (at the end of a long walk on a sunny day), Rathlin has everything you could desire.”
However, the only way to reach Rathlin Island is by ferry from Ballycastle Harbour. You have two options: a passenger-only ferry that takes about 25-30 minutes, or a larger ferry that accommodates both people and cars, which takes up to 45 minutes.
This town in North Wales has been a popular holiday destination for centuries, with its stunning beaches, historic pier and beautiful landscapes drawing in visitors
One of it’s beaches offers stunning views of Snowdonia (Image: Alexander Spatari via Getty Images)
This North Wales town boasts a lengthy history of attracting holidaymakers from all corners of Britain, having earned the prestigious nickname “Queen of the Welsh Watering Places”.
The Victorian coastal treasure of Llandudno, with its colourful past, is believed to trace its roots back to the Bronze Age. These distinctive features attract tourists eager to experience the breathtaking scenery of the Conwy Valley and discover the region’s fascinating heritage.
Two principal beaches extend along the coastline – North Shore Beach and West Shore Beach. The northern stretch features a lengthy promenade typical of any British coastal resort.
However, what distinguishes it from others is its palm tree-lined walkway – reminiscent of a Mediterranean haven. Nestled peacefully beyond North Shore Beach lies the Great Orme clifftop, providing an excursion on the Great Orme Tramway, transporting visitors to elevated vantage points via cable cars.
One delighted tourist commented: “The cable car ride was amazing; for the length of the journey, £14 per return (this was the price in 2024) is pretty reasonable. The views are stunning, and you can see for miles on a really clear day, which we had.”
On the West Shore, nestled on the other side of the town, one can enjoy panoramic views of the Snowdonian mountainside. A TripAdvisor review gushes: “One of my favourite beaches anywhere: unspoilt, dog-friendly, free of kiosks and vendors – just sea, rock and sand. Stunning views of the Great Orme. Lots of parking.”
The charming town of Llandudno boasts a rich history that stretches from the Stone Age through to the Iron Age, with numerous settlements over the years on the slopes of the limestone headland, better known as the Great Orme. The headland is a popular attraction for visitors from near and far, offering a four-hour trek filled with breathtaking views.
The Victorian promenade, affectionately known as The Parade, and the iconic pier are two of the town’s most beloved landmarks, both dating back to 1877. After extensive restorations, the pier has earned the title of one of the best in the whole of the UK.
One visitor shared their experience of the pier, saying: “Excellent pier experience. A Punch and Judy, plenty of arcades, hair braiding/colouring, a good walk, fun stalls and a cafe with a wonderful lady singer belting out Amy Winehouse numbers. There’s even a little display of historical photos to show when the pier was used for the ferries. Well worth a visit.”
The village was once a rival to London and an important medieval hub. But a series of unfortunate storms meant much of it was lost to the sea and now lies under the water
The village of Dunwich was once the capital of East Anglia but was lost to storms and floods(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
A tiny village that was once a medieval port and considered the capital of East Anglia is the perfect day out for history buffs or those who love quiet, windswept beaches.
In Anglo-Saxon times, Dunwich on the Suffolk coast was the heart of what was then called the Kingdom of the East Angles. Its international port was considered a rival to London, and the Domesday Book of 1086 revealed it had a population of over 3,000 people. This was a time when London’s population was just 18,000.
However, the town’s fortunes changed in 1286 when a storm surge hit the area, followed by two large weather fronts the next year. This caused major coastal erosion, which led to large parts of the town being submerged underwater. In 1347, it’s thought that 400 homes were swept into the sea, with most of the remains of the town destroyed in 1362 in Saint Marcellus’s flood. Around 25,000 people across Europe lost their lives in the tragic event.
Because of its unique past, Dunwich is often dubbed the ‘lost city of England’ and draws comparisons to the legendary island of Atlantis, which, according to myths, sank under the sea.
Dunwich Museum is a great way to learn about life before the floods. Researchers have mapped out where the old homes and buildings used to stand before they were lost to the sea, and you can see these maps at the museum. There are also many interesting displays about medieval life and artefacts from the time.
Only a few ruins remain from medieval times. One of the most complete buildings is the Greyfriars monastery. This was built around half a mile inland, after the original monastery closer to the coast was lost. The ruins include the grand entrance to the monastery and part of the refectory where the monks would eat.
National Trust’s Dunwich Heath and Beach is an unspoilt spot with some beautiful walking trails. The Heath is full of rare wildlife and birds, and you may be able to spot red deer and otters on your stroll. Dunwich’s wide shingle beach is a popular spot for fishing and paddling in the sea.
Not all ships en route to Dunwich made it safely, and researchers have worked to uncover a large number of shipwrecks off the coast. According to the East Anglian Daily Times, there could be as many as hundreds of ships in a shipwreck graveyard off the coast, many of which sank during World War I when shipping routes were attacked.
Once you’re finished exploring, visit Flora Tea Rooms, a traditional fish and chip restaurant on the beach that also serves British classics such as afternoon tea. The village has one pub, The Ship at Dunwich, a cosy spot with a beer garden and beautiful countryside views. It also has 16 rooms if you decide to stay and enjoy this peaceful village for longer.
Dunwich is also close to the RSPB Minsmere, a coastal nature reserve that includes areas of woodland, reedbeds, grassland, and heathland. Among the unspoilt landscape, you can spot wildlife, from a vast array of coastal birds to Water Voles.
Garry Beach, in the north of the Isle of Lewis, has been named the most underrated beach in the whole of the UK by Boat Booker. Milo Boyd went to see what everyone has been missing
Milo Boyd is a Digital Travel reporter who covers aviation news, the environment, the cruise industry and much else including travel tips, bargain holiday suggestions and inspirational global trips.
Far, far away – perhaps as far away as you can get from Greggs in the UK – is the country’s most underrated beach.
The Outer Hebrides may not be home to a single outlet of the beloved sausage roll franchise, but it does have Garry Beach. It sits high up on the largest of the Western Isles, Lewis.
Garry has just been named the most underrated beach in the UK by Boat Booker. Studying Google Maps beaches tagged as “secluded” and “secret,” and then ranking those with fewer than 100 reviews, the firm highlighted those coastal spots with pristine waters and dramatic scenery where relatively few have trodden.
Scotland dominates the rankings, with six locations in the top 10. Spots on islands such as Mull and Barra are high up. Porth Trwyn in Wales is the highest-ranked non-Scottish beach, coming in at four.
Milo Boyd
Milo Boyd
It is easy to understand why the Hebridean seaside might be underrated, given how remote and difficult most of it is to get. And this particularly goes for Garry Beach.
I spent two days, about eight hours of driving, a three-hour ferry, and a five-hour train, getting to the Isle of Lewis, before another hour on the road north of Stornoway to Garry Beach. I did so in a hefty Range Rover which I borrowed from the kind people at Turo rental car.
If the journey 668 miles from London to Stornoway doesn’t put you off, then the 15 miles from Stornoway to Garry Beach might. I’d argue it’s among the dullest, bleakest stretches of countryside in the UK.
Sitting in the back of the spacious Sport 2020, my Swedish in-laws kept muttering about just how bleak a destination it was. But, when we arrived, North Lewis’s less fetching roads were quickly forgotten. The beach itself is lovely.
A small car park holding around five vehicles was situated a short two-minute walk from the water’s edge. From there, we wandered over a grassy knoll onto the sandy bay, which stretches several hundred metres on either side.
Like many of the more remote Scottish beaches – and particularly the sandy ones that can be found in the Hebrides and Shetland – the water is a brilliant blue that feels like it’s been lifted by a fire-fighting plane straight out of a rum advert filmed in the Caribbean and dumped several thousand miles away for the benefit of a handful of dog walkers and a lone fisherman.
The beach sits on the eastern edge of Lewis, meaning it is not treated to the dramatic waves and salty spray of the island’s Atlantic coast. Things are a little more gentle here. Rather than smashing them in a froth, waves lap around the intriguing rock formations that stick up from the sand. Several have been eroded to create excellent climbing platforms and archways into the surf.
Beyond the fact that the Isle of Lewis is miles away from all but the 20,000 or so people who live there, Garry Beach has another major issue: the weather.
The hottest temperature ever recorded on Lewis was 26.3 °C, back in 1999. Unless you’re incredibly lucky, this beach requires a serious raincoat and the ability to withstand Hebridean gales.
During the high season of July, sunseekers can expect 12 days of rain and the mercury to hit average highs of 16C. That is roughly 7C colder than the southern coast of England.
Unless you are made of incredibly stern stuff, this is not a beach for lounging on the sand for hours on end or frolicking in the waves. It is a beach that combines the beautiful and the bleak of the British Isles’ coastline in a way that few other places anywhere can.
If you like the sound of what Garry is offering, but don’t think you can face the mammoth journey, then there are some slightly closer options. One of my personal favourites is Sandaig, a beach several miles from the beautiful Scottish village of Glenelg.
The peaceful spot was immortalised as Camusfearna in ‘Ring of Bright Water’, a book written by Gavin Maxwell about his life living alongside pet otters.
Not only is the water sparkling and very tempting for those who can handle the intense chill of a Scottish sea loch, winding paths lined by little bushes and tree run between craggy rock towers, creating the perfect arena for a game of Flags or 40:40. If the weather does close in a little, then there’s plenty of driftwood lying around that can be used to warm a chilled party huddled in one of Sandaig’s natural rock alcoves.
Ladram Bay, which is part of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and sits on the Jurassic Coast, is made up of dramatic red rocks. Sadly, not everyone can visit
Ladram Bay is known for its dramatic red rock formations (Image: Getty Images)
A secluded cove with dramatic red rocks sits in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty — but not everyone can visit.
Unlike in Mediterranean countries such as Italy, where the vast majority of beaches are privately run and dominated by expensive-to-hire sunloungers, most of the UK coast is open to the public and completely free.
There are, however, a few exceptions — one of which is Ladram Bay, which is part of the East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The South West Coast Path runs directly through the resort, along the Jurassic Coast.
Like the rest of the coastline — known for its dramatic rock formations and fossil-rich terrain — Ladram Bay is a striking spot. The beach itself is guarded at each end by massive red sandstone stacks, offering protection from the sea.
The red cliffs are formed of Otter Sandstone and Mudstone, dating back to the Triassic period, around 230 million years ago. They are part of the 95-mile-long stretch of Jurassic coastline running across Dorset and East Devon.
It’s a popular fishing spot too, either from the shore or from one of the hire boats. At the far end of the beach, there are teeming rock pools to investigate. As charming as this all sounds, a visit to the bay may not be as easy as you’d expect.
The beach is owned by Ladram Bay Holiday Park, and everyone who isn’t staying at the venue is banned from accessing its pebbles. How the beach came to be in the park’s hands is explained on Ladram’s website:
“Back in the 1940s, our park was tenanted farmland that was worked by Frank William Sydenham Carter, or FWS for short. During the summer, he would occasionally let campers pitch up in a field that overlooked the bay, providing fresh milk and eggs as well. Pretty soon, FWS realised that his land could provide extra income in the lean post-World War II years, and so he began to develop a proper campsite.
“With the help of his wife, FWS grew Ladram Bay to incorporate static caravans and a shop. Come the late 1950s, the park was becoming so popular that the workload was overwhelming. To make Ladram Bay a park to be proud of, a manager and extra staff were hired. FWS carried on leading the park until his retirement in 2006, by which time we had become one of the largest privately owned holiday parks in the country.
“With FWS’s son and daughter, Robin and Zoe, now guiding the park, we are more successful than ever, with hundreds of owners and thousands of guests visiting Ladram Bay each year.”
The Mirror’s Johnny Goldsmith visited the holiday park was his family earlier this year and enjoyed having access to the spectacular beach. “The beach was just a few minutes’ walk from our sea-view caravan. Each morning we woke to wonderful views, with our own private decked area – the perfect spot to sit, soak it all in and really unwind,” he wrote.
“On our final morning the weather was clear enough to venture down to the beach once again, and on the way we stopped at the shop and bought an ice cream. Within seconds, a marauding seagull swooped down and tried to snatch one of the kids’ cones. The shop staff advised us to stay under the covered seated area to eat them as the greedy gulls are notorious for trying to steal holidaymakers’ food.
“Ice creams finished, we strode back on to the beach still laughing about our seagull encounter and talking about all the fun we’d managed to fit in over our four days. What a Jurassic lark!”
A man and his partner decided to visit the best beach in the world, according to Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 list, and were left stunned by one thing about the sand
Alice Sjoberg Social News Reporter
15:16, 17 Sep 2025
The Australian beach has been named the best in the world (stock image)(Image: Getty Images)
Have you ever fancied a trip to a beach with pristine white sand and crystal-clear blue waters? One man decided to do just that, visiting one of the world’s top-rated beaches.
Despite being an island nation with plenty of coastlines, most UK beaches are pebbly rather than sandy, and our seas are often darker and murkier compared to the vibrant blue waters found in more tropical climates. Of course, there are exceptions like some of the beaches in Cornwall, but they often lack the tropical heat and sunshine for the full beach experience. So what makes a beach truly perfect?
Lonely Planet’s Best in Travel 2025 list shed some light on this, crowning a beach in Queensland, Australia, as the world’s best. Keen to see if it lived up to the hype, a couple named Dan and Janie jetted off to Whitehaven Beach to discover why it had earned the ‘world’s best’ title.
“Look at this,” Dan exclaimed in his TikTok video, moving the camera around to capture an overview of the idyllic beach. “Ranked in the top five in the world apparently.”
The beach was indeed picture-perfect, boasting a white sandy shore, bright blue waters, and glorious sunshine under a clear blue sky. But there was one aspect of the beach that truly left him gobsmacked.
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As he shifted the camera downwards to reveal the sand, he instructed his audience to listen carefully while he strolled across it. With each footstep he took on the sand, a distinctive squeaking noise could be heard.
Further into the clip, he was also captured playing about with the noisy sand, moving his hand backwards and forwards through it, producing squeaks with every motion.
Despite the video racking up more than 1.3 million views on TikTok, the majority of watchers expressed their fascination with the squeaky sand.
“Why does the sand squeak?!” questioned one viewer, with hundreds of others echoing the same bewilderment.
This curious occurrence goes by numerous names, though it’s most commonly referred to as ‘singing sand’ or whistling sand, and remains something of a scientific mystery.
The sound occurs due to friction between uniform, almost perfectly round, pristine, and dry quartz sand particles, which causes them to oscillate and scrape against one another at a particular frequency, producing the noise.
Given that the requirements for squeaking sand are so precise, it’s an uncommon spectacle found exclusively on select beaches with the correct sand type and environmental conditions.
Nevertheless, not all were charmed by this discovery, with one viewer remarking: “I’m sorry but I’m too sensory triggered to even stand on that sand. Beautiful yes! Squeakiness no chance!”
With temperatures of 25C in September and crystal-blue water, this underrated holiday hotspot is a must-visit for those looking to escape the crowds in September.
(Image: Paolo Graziosi via Getty Images)
Italy is a favourite destination for late-summer and early-autumn beach holidays, thanks to its warm weather and status as one of the world’s most visited countries. Even during the shoulder season, top spots like Florence, Rome, and the Amalfi Coast are teeming with tourists.
However, there’s an under-the-radar region in this southern European country that remains largely untouched by international crowds – but probably not for much longer. This stunning part of Italy boasts sandy beaches so pristine they’re likened to the Maldives and enjoys balmy weather with average highs of 25C in September.
While Italians are well-acquainted with Puglia, it’s not usually the first place that springs to mind when planning a beach holiday in Europe.
Nestled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas and shaped like the heel of Italy’s boot, Puglia has a vast coastline peppered with dreamy coves, limestone cliffs and picture-perfect bays.
Among them is Polignano a Mare, a delightful coastal town perched on cliffs. Its small cove beach, Lama Monachile, is famous for its crystal-clear water and white pebbles, all framed by dramatic, rugged cliffs, reports the Express.
Polignano a Mare is uniquely beautiful(Image: Getty)
Further down south, Santa Maria di Leuca is the southernmost point of the region where two seas converge.
It’s an ideal spot for a sunset cruise or paddleboarding into caves before enjoying dinner at a local trattoria serving fresh seafood, orecchiette pasta, and robust Salento wine.
Inland, you’ll find the enchanting town of Alberobello, renowned for its UNESCO-listed trulli – traditional whitewashed stone huts with conical roofs. Many have been transformed into luxurious holiday accommodations, offering a truly local experience.
Just a short drive away, the dazzling white town of Ostuni, also known as La Città Bianca, boasts cobbled lanes and panoramic terraces. Nearby Brindisi provides easy access to the region, often with cheaper flights than other Italian hubs.
Alberobello is famed for its UNESCO-listed trulli(Image: Getty)
Puglia also serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the incredibly popular Matera in the neighbouring Basilicata region.
It’s the third-oldest city in the world, after Aleppo and Jericho, boasting over 10,000 years of history, and is famous for its ancient cave homes and rupestrian churches with hand-painted walls.
Naturally, no visit to Puglia would be complete without delving into its food culture. This is the land of burrata, orecchiette, and full-bodied wines like Primitivo, Negroamaro, and Salice Salentino.
The Mediterranean island is a perfect holiday destination for many reasons – and we don’t just mean the beaches
Steffan Rhys Deputy Content Hub Director and Ellen Jenne U35 Spare Time Writer
15:06, 02 Sep 2025
The Mediterranean island is a perfect holiday destination for many reasons – and we don’t just mean the beaches(Image: 4FR via Getty Images)
The Mediterranean island of Sardinia, boasting a perfect mix of scorching weather, delectable cuisine, rich history, city life and stunning beaches, is surprisingly not even in the top ten islands most frequented by British holidaymakers. This list is dominated by Spanish destinations like Tenerife, Majorca and Lanzarote, as well as Greek islands such as Santorini, Corfu and Rhodes, reports the Express.
However, those in the know would argue that this Mediterranean gem outshines them all. One of its major attractions is the staggering number of gorgeous beaches dotted along the coast every few miles.
Sardinia, nestled halfway between the coasts of Italy and Spain in the Med, is far less popular and less well-known than the tourist hotspots of Spain and Greece. These locations are now so overrun with tourists each year that locals are pushing back against over-tourism.
Cala Mariolu, which ‘stands out for its striking beauty everywhere you turn and the sense of privacy and adventure it offers’(Image: Getty)
Sardinia is an ideal holiday destination for numerous reasons: it’s a vast island, offering plenty of space, meaning you’re not forced to cram into one or two overcrowded tourist spots.
It boasts a large city, Cagliari, on its southern tip, allowing you to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of city life, complete with a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. At the opposite end of the island lies Alghero, a reasonably large town also teeming with a lively dining scene.
The island is a haven of luxury, with its north-eastern shore attracting well-heeled European tourists to Porto Cervo. Here, you can spend your time admiring the heavily-guarded yachts and guessing their owners.
As expected from any Italian destination, the food scene is sensational with a plethora of dining options. Despite being less touristy than Majorca, many of Sardinia’s restaurants cater mainly for locals, ensuring high-quality cuisine.
La Pelosa beach in the north of Sardinia, near Alghero, has some of the whitest sands on the island(Image: Getty)
But perhaps the jewel in Sardinia’s crown is the extraordinary number of stunning beaches. Each one could be considered a national treasure if located in another European country.
In fact, two Sardinian beaches made it onto a recent list of the world’s 50 most beautiful beaches, with one securing second place.
The best beaches in Sardinia
Choosing the “best” beaches in Sardinia is almost impossible due to the sheer number of worthy contenders scattered around the island. Here are just a few suggestions, but you may discover your own favourites through personal exploration.
Besides the main island, the Maddalena archipelago, a group of islands off Sardinia’s north coast, also boasts a collection of beautiful beaches.
Cala Mariolu
Siaggia della Pelosa
Spiaggia del Pirata
Spiaggia Rena Bianca
Cala Corsara, La Maddalena
Spiaggia del Principe(Image: Getty)
Sardinia can, naturally, become crowded during the peak months of July and August, when numerous Italians take their own holidays there. Costa Smeralda ranks amongst the most sought-after destinations. It’s also rather a celebrity magnet and the part of the island where affluence is most apparent.
If you fancy some celebrity-spotting, this is certainly the spot to visit, with Spiagga del Principe being the top beach to potentially glimpse a Hollywood star, music mogul or business leader. Lonely Planet said: ” A number of beautiful coves necklace the fabulous swoop of coastline where Gallura’s wind-whipped granite mountains tumble down to fjordlike inlets in the emerald sea.
“One of the finest is the Spiaggia del Principe, a stunning crescent of pale sand snuggled among low cliffs named after Prince Karim Aga Khan, who has given it his seal of approval.”
Poetto, the wide city beach of Cagliari(Image: Getty)
Where to stay in Sardinia
Where you decide to base yourself in Sardinia hinges on the type of break you’re after. Cagliari stands as the island’s biggest population centre, a thriving city offering an ideal blend of historical and contemporary elements.
It isn’t particularly a tourist hub, so the eateries here serve primarily Italians, ensuring you can trust their standard.
Even Cagliari boasts a gorgeous beach of its own, the enormous Poetto, just a brief journey from the city centre, where locals escape whenever possible. At the other end of the island, you’ll find Alghero, a cosy town boasting several beaches and nearby attractions, including stunning country villages.
From here, you can hop on a boat to Neptune’s Cave, a breath-taking seafront cavern where stalactites dangle above the water.
On the east coast, you’ll discover the luxury hotspots of Porto Cervo and Costa Smeralda, a playground for the rich and famous. If rubbing shoulders with high society isn’t your cup of tea just yet, then Cannigione, a modest small town nearby, offers plenty of hotels, restaurants and bars.
Similarly, if you’re after a location that’s close to the city but also boasts a good selection of beaches, give Villasimius in the south a go. It’s just a short drive from Cagliari.
Yachts of the super-rich docked in Sardinia’s Porto Cervo(Image: Getty)
Where to eat in Sardinia
The choices are virtually limitless, with all the major towns and cities offering an array of authentic options that cater more to Italians than tourists.
But one dining experience you simply can’t miss is the agriturismo. This Italian concept sees traditional farms adapt to accommodate visitors looking to eat or stay (or both). The menus are extensive and fantastic, leaving you stuffed with the finest locally-produced food. There’s nothing quite like it.
How to get to Sardinia
Sardinia’s main airports are located at Cagliari on the south coast and Olbia on the north-eastern coast. Regular flights to either are available from UK airports.
The region on the southeast coast of Italy is renowned for its extensive coastline, picturesque whitewashed villages and exceptional food and wine – all enjoyable in 20C autumn temperatures
This region is a more tranquil alternative to Italy’s many overcrowded and hectic tourist spots(Image: Getty)
If you’re yearning for the warmth of the sun on your face even in autumn, there’s a hidden gem in Italy that offers sandy beaches, crystal clear seas and breathtaking beauty in abundance.
Puglia, located on Italy’s southeast coast, is famed for its sprawling coastline, charming whitewashed villages and exquisite food and wine. Beyond the bustling summer season, it becomes an idyllic spot to find uncrowded beaches where the azure waters of the Adriatic Sea meet the Ionian Sea.
With temperatures lingering in the mid-20s in September, and fewer tourists around, this romantic and authentically Italian destination is perfect for those seeking ‘la dolce vita’.
The Baroque city of Lecce is known as the “Florence of the South”(Image: Getty)
As a whole, Puglia is a lesser-known destination, offering a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere than some of Italy’s more tourist-heavy areas. Sprinkled with picturesque medieval towns, visitors flock here to wander down ancient streets and immerse themselves in the region’s rich history.
One standout attraction is the Roman city of Lecce, often dubbed the ‘Florence of the South’. This Baroque wonder is brimming with stunning architecture and traditional Italian piazzas.
Polignano a Mare, perched atop limestone cliffs overlooking the Valle d’Itria coast, is another magnet for tourists. Visitors are drawn to its winding old town streets, panoramic wine-sipping terraces and stunning beaches with crystal-clear blue waters.
Even after summer has faded, sun seekers can still enjoy an authentic Italian beach holiday along the region’s breathtaking coastline. Whether it’s the pristine white sands and turquoise waters of Torre dell’Orso and Punta Prosciutto or the untouched beauty of Porto Selvaggio, seaside adventures abound.
In fact, one beach in this tranquil corner of Italy is so revered it’s been christened the ‘Maldives of Puglia. ‘ Pecoluse, with its fine white sands and mesmerising blue sea, is a year-round paradise.
The region is one of the most important for wine production in Italy given the fertile soil(Image: Getty)
Autumn is also an ideal time for a boat trip on the serene seas around Italy’s ‘heel’. Away from the shore, sailors can marvel at the stunning views of ancient villages like Monopoli, Taranto, Otranto and Santa Maria di Leuca, reports the Express.
Puglia is also a key player in Italy’s wine scene, thanks to its Mediterranean climate and fertile soil. The region’s winemaking process blends tradition with innovation, producing some of Italy’s most acclaimed wines.
With the grape harvest taking place in September and October, there are ample opportunities for visitors to taste the delightful red and white wines that the region is renowned for.
The seaside town in Norfolk has an award-winning beach and a fresh sea breeze that will make it difficult to leave behind. Most holidaymakers quickly change their mind about it once visiting
10:17, 27 Aug 2025Updated 10:18, 27 Aug 2025
This seaside town in Norfolk combines old-time charm and breathtaking natural beauty(Image: Getty)
You don’t need to travel overseas to soak up gorgeous sandy shores and crystal-clear waters, as Britain boasts magnificent coastal destinations that offer everything you could wish for and more. One such destination is this unassuming town in Norfolk.
While it may appear unremarkable initially, with just 7,367 residents recorded in the 2011 census, visitors quickly discover its hidden magic. The charming town of Sheringham sits along the Norfolk coastline, merely an hour’s drive north from Norwich.
Most holidaymakers quickly change their mind about Sheringham after visiting. Countless tourists have claimed it feels like stepping into a bygone era when they arrive in this enchanting destination for a day out or getaway.
Colourful coastal huts are a staple of Sheringham and many other UK seaside destinations(Image: David Robinson via Getty Images)
The settlement brims with activities, boasting a prize-winning shoreline, stunning countryside and parks for exploration, plus fascinating local and military heritage centres. On TikTok, one visitor chose to document her trip to this quaint location, describing it as a place ‘where time slowed down’.
“Sheringham – a cosy seaside town where time slows down. Colourful cottages, fresh sea breeze, and the sound of waves – it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a little longer,” she penned in the caption of her video.
She proceeded to share footage beginning with a lady in a blue dress and sun hat strolling along the train station platform. The clip was captured from inside what appeared to be a vintage carriage, instantly creating the sensation of journeying through history.
The TikTok creator then proceeded to showcase brief clips from their trip to Sheringham, featuring the high street adorned with vibrant bunting strung across the sky, followed by scenes of a procession of elderly ladies dancing and parading through the town.
In 1975, Sheringham’s original train station was re-opened as the main station of the North Norfolk Railway(Image: chrisdorney via Getty Images)
They went on to showcase the stunning seafront, where visitors could be seen relishing the scenery and engaging in water activities despite the overcast conditions. And what seaside excursion would be complete without indulging in an ice cream?
They strolled past pastel-hued buildings before reaching their chosen ice cream parlour and purchasing a chocolate-dipped cone filled with ice cream. The quintessential coastal resort trip also calls for an encounter with some seagulls, which the creator captured with one perched on a town wall, watching the pedestrians as they wandered by.
Viewers were swift to comment with their reactions, with many expressing astonishment at how tranquil and charming the town appeared to be, reports the Express. “I love Britain one of my favourite countries,” one person wrote. Another viewer said: “This is not just a video. It’s like opening up to a brand new dimension of extraordinary power!”
Ibiza is already famous for its incredible beaches and parties but there’s one part of the island where you can enjoy the views without having to deal with the crowds
Ibiza has a quieter side that’s worth exploring(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Ibiza is a firm favourite with Brits who flock to the Balearic Islands to make the most of the hot weather, beautiful beaches and epic party scene.
However the island’s popularity does mean that during the summer months it can get crowded, as masses of tourists descend on its picture-perfect shores. The good news is that there are quieter parts to the island, and in some cases they can be a little bit trickier to reach, meaning you can easily escape the masses (or just get a day away from the constant hustle and bustle).
For example, intrepid explorers have been known to head to little-known Cala d’en Serra, a beautiful cove tucked away amongst dense greenery. Although it’s not a huge tourist destination, there are some facilities on offer such as sunbeds and a small snack bar if you want some refreshments, as well as an abandoned hotel that’s become a hub for graffiti and street art. Take note that it is a nudist-friendly beach though!
Cala d’en Serra needs to be on your radar(Image: Getty Images)
Meanwhile Playa Galera is renowned for offering up some of the island’s most beautiful sunset views, but because it doesn’t boast the likes of a bustling promenade and plenty of bars, it’s not necessarily a go-to for holidaymakers during the summer months. If you aren’t tied to school holiday dates, you may want to consider a trip in September and October when the island still boasts temperatures of around 23C-27C, and plenty of sunshine too.
For hikers, Cala Llentrisca has always been popular destination as it’s tucked away amidst some impressive cliffs, and you’ll need some sturdy shoes for the trail that leads to the thin strip of beach. Although it’s known to locals, it tends to be overlooked by holidaymakers as it’s the type of beach for adventurers rather than sun-seekers who also want a cocktail while they bask in the balmy weather.
One way to reach these hidden coves is by boat. In fact, boat rental platform SamBoat has recorded a 75% increase in bookings via its UK site in the last year, as an increasing number of Brits opt for day trips across Europe.
The insiders have flagged Ibiza as one of the destinations where you can find plenty of hidden gems away from the crowds too. They explained: “Beyond the party scene lies an Ibiza few tourists ever see, sailors are heading out to the island’s lesser-known spots such as Cala Llentrisca, Atlantis, and Cala d’en Serra, all best reached by water. Renting a small motorboat for the day lets you hop from one secret cove to another, anchoring up for beach picnics or snorkelling in gin-clear waters. No skipper needed, just a sense of adventure and some ice-cold drinks.”
Ibiza isn’t the only popular island where you can find quieter, lesser-known spots away from the hordes of visitors. Despite this summer seeing queues of tourists at the prettiest viewpoints, Santorini is another hotspot where you can actually find plenty of peaceful locations from which you can take in those postcard-worthy sunset views, or enjoy the spots where you’ll find locals rather than tourists.
Do you have a holiday story you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].
Footage shows cars parked in the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath as the tide rises around their tyres, with visitors rushing to rescue their vehicles before they are submerged.
A tourist who left their car at Polzeath beach got a nasty shock when they returned (Image: UCG, UCG/Universal Images Group via Getty Images)
Holidaymakers visiting the Cornish seaside town of Polzeath were left stunned to discover their cars slowly disappearing beneath the waves over the bank holiday weekend.
Video footage captures vehicles parked in the town on Cornwall’s north coast as the tide creeps up around their wheels, with panicked visitors scrambling to save their cars before they vanished underwater.
Dramatic scenes showing a 2010 Subaru Outback in danger were filmed by 34-year-old Sam Peters, who witnessed the mayhem as good Samaritans rallied to help the motorist retrieve their vehicle.
He said: “Everyone was panicking and it caused much distress. Many onlookers were surprised and concerned, and some tried to help.
“Several cars got caught in the rising tide and became stuck on the beach. The car finally got pushed out by many supporters on the beach.”
This marks yet another occasion that tourists and residents have witnessed cars stranded by the waves at Polzeath, reports Cornwall Live.
People attempting to rescue one of the cars(Image: Sam Peters / Jam Press)
Further footage, filmed in May, revealed a Mini falling foul of the tide on the same stretch of sand. The clip, recorded by the Polzeath Beach Ranger Service, depicted the vehicle parked and encircled by water.
In a Facebook post, they cautioned drivers about the perils of parking on sand. They said: “If you drive over seaweed to get to your parking space, consider how the seaweed might have been delivered.”
Despite the cheeky comment, the service confirmed that the owner managed to rescue their car before it was carried off during one of the May bank holidays.
People attempting to rescue a car(Image: Sam Peters / Jam Press)
A spokesperson for the service, speaking to Cornwall Live, offered some advice to drivers on how to avoid a similar situation.
They explained: “On this occasion, the tide was at its highest that day, but we do sometimes have higher spring tides. Many factors affect the height of the tide, including sun and moon phases, wind, waves and atmospheric pressure.
“It’s a beach car park – one of the last in the region – and it serves as a valuable resource for tourism and the community. It also helps to raise money to pay for necessary services like lifeguards, beach cleaning, road sweeping, bin emptying and toilets.
“As with all coastal destinations, there are risks associated with tides, weather and the landscape, and we encourage visitors to be aware of that. There are visible warning signs.”
Traditional towels can take ages to dry so even in the sunniest of spots they might not be ready in time for the next trip to the beach or pool, but one brand has a solution.
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Dock and Bay’s quick-drying towels are ideal for holidays and beach trips.
There’s nothing more frustrating than a soggy beach towel on your jollies. Traditional towels can take an age to dry, meaning even in the sunniest of spots, they might not be ready for your next trip to the lido or beach.
However, there is a solution as bargain hunters can snap up towels from the Dock and Bay Summer Sale, running from August 21-28 and offering up to 50% off its popular towels and accessories. Dock and Bay beach towels are crafted from 100% recycled plastic bottles and feature a fabric that is said to dry three times faster than cotton.
Sand is also able to shake right off due to the loopless weave, while the lightweight design makes them a doddle to carry. Each towel comes with a matching pouch so customers can pack it up neatly for trips to the beach, lido or lake.
Available in a variety of vibrant patterns, these towels are designed to stay fresh and absorbent even after being washed. Among the options on sale are the Quick Dry Towels – Sand to Sea, which is down from £28 to £19.59 and comes in a range of colours such as Tangerines and Greens, Cancun Green, Phi Phi Pink and a set of six Rainbow Shores with funky designs.
Touted as being perfect for travellers and explorers, they are also available in sizes large or extra large, with children’s beach towels also available which are foldable, lightweight and compact. These come in various colours including the Turtley Tropical (£18), Build-A-Beach (£18) or a simple Goa Grey (£20), reports the Daily Record.
If towels aren’t what customers are after, there are also beach pillows, ponchos, coolers (£55) and beach bags on offer through their website. For alternatives, smart shoppers could consider the Catherine Lansfield Two Pack Beach Towel (£16) from Argos, which showcases pink and orange hues with horizontal stripes and is machine washable and tumble dryer safe.
Another option is the Printed Microfibre Towel (£12.99) from Mountain Warehouse which is lightweight and said to dry up to four times quicker than a standard towel with extra absorption. But the Dock and Bay towels have received excellent reviews and achieved a 4.9-star rating from customers.
The towels come with handy carry cases(Image: Dock & Bay)
One happy shopper said: “Massive, lightweight, vibrant colours, super soft, very impressed.” Another said: “Absolutely love my Dock and Bay towel. Looks fab and it dried me super quick, so good I have just purchased the head towel.”
Not everyone was satisfied though, as one reviewer said: “Towel arrived in good time but sadly was sent back the same day.” While another satisfied customer said: “Bought for myself, love the stripes. Super quick drying and packs away very small in a nice pouch. 10 out of 10.”
The bustling capital of Tenerife, Santa Cruz is a city that offers a perfect mix of beach relaxation and cultural exploration – and it’s just a short flight away
11:34, 25 Aug 2025Updated 12:14, 25 Aug 2025
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Temperatures average 24C throughout November in Santa Cruz(Image: Andrea Comi via Getty Images)
Santa Cruz, the vibrant capital of Tenerife, is a favourite amongst holidaymakers with its stunning black and white sand beaches and rugged mountainous landscape.
With a matter of weeks before the end of summer, the UK is already bracing for the cooler temperatures and frequent heavy showers of autumn and winter. Luckily, there is a Spanish port city offering a warm haven for Brits in search of some winter sun.
Tenerife boasts warm temperatures all year round, averaging 24C throughout November and a comfortable 21C well into December, reports the Express.
A post-Christmas getaway to this Spanish city could be just the ticket, especially as Santa Cruz hosts one of the world’s largest carnivals each February.
During the carnival season, the streets of Santa Cruz come alive with music, dancing and a riot of colourful costumes.
Temperatures in the winter can still reach 24C(Image: Getty)
These festivities typically draw around 150,000 tourists, contributing to the nearly one million participants who join in over the approximately five weeks of celebrations.
Outside of the carnival season, Tenerife offers a more tranquil retreat, making it the perfect time to unwind and soak up the rich cultural history of Santa Cruz.
Nestled near the city centre is the Palmetum of Tenerife, a vast botanical garden boasting one of the world’s largest collections of palm trees, where you can also savour breathtaking views of the island’s coastline.
Las Teresitas is the city’s main beach(Image: itchySan via Getty Images)
The main beach in Santa Cruz is Las Teresitas, a stretch of golden sand specially crafted using sands imported from the Sahara desert.
In the bustling port of Santa Cruz, one of Spain’s busiest, holidaymakers can discover the Auditorio, a contemporary concert hall that echoes the design of the Sydney Opera House and is crafted to resemble a ship’s sails.
Tenerife, already a favourite amongst British holidaymakers, is frequently serviced by numerous budget airlines, with a flight time just over four hours from the UK.
Santa Cruz, situated near the North Airport at the island’s peak, offers flights from London for a bargain price of as little as £36 during the winter season, according to Skyscanner.
More and more Brits are choosing to ditch their annual holidays with their family and instead head out for some fun with their friends – from birthdays to honeymoons and wellness resets
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36% of people said they prefer to travel with pals
More and more Brits are ditching the traditional family holiday or romantic getaway to go on breaks with friends, according to new research.
Overall, 36% of people said they preferred to travel with pals than partners or relatives – but that number soared to 60% for Londoners. The study, commissioned by mobile provider giffgaff, found that four is the perfect number of travelling buddies with birthday blowouts (57%) topping the list of reasons Brits want a ‘hunnymoon’.
Wanting some fun (51%), escaping the kids (25%), a chance to focus on health and wellness (19%) and celebrating friendship anniversaries (17%) were also on the list. But though we may opt to travel with friends rather than family, Brits are still keen to keep in touch.
giffgaff found that four is the perfect number of travelling buddies
Around 39% said contacting loved ones at home was the top reason to use mobile data on holiday. Ash Schofield, CEO at giffgaff, said: “It’s clear that as a nation we love to stay connected while abroad and share news and pictures of our holidays with friends and family back home.
“But our research shows that people are rationing or denying themselves data usage while away, which must be quite limiting and frustrating at times. That’s why giffgaff makes sure that members stay connected with up to 5GB of inclusive roaming in 40+ EU and selected destinations at no extra cost. ”
To celebrate the UK’s love of a group getaway and the launch of its new travel data add-ons available in 40+ EU countries and selected destinations, giffgaff is opening a pop-up travel lounge this weekend (August 23 and 24) by the Gatwick Express platform at London Victoria Station.
The survey found that access to a departure lounge was on the holiday wish list for 43% of us, so the Holidata Lounge has been created to get ‘hun-in-the-sun’ fun started early. Perks feature those identified as setting travellers up for the ultimate holiday, including complimentary drinks (56%), free travel treats such as sun cream (50%) and assistance with roaming or mobile data before take-off (23%).
Holidaymakers can also relax in the lounge’s Ball Pool Bar or limber up for their flight with Air-obics sessions Giffgaff customers have priority access to the lounge via an exclusive queue jump.
The world’s most beautiful beaches are synonymous with fine sands and crystal-clear waters so one writer went to see if one of the top 100 deserves its accolades
The island is a ‘paradise’ (Image: Clare Fitzsimons)
When it comes to Australia you think of beaches, miles of golden sand, surfing and sunshine. So when you get the chance to visit somewhere that’s been voted one of the top 100 beaches in the world you jump at it.
The Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island, just 75 minutes on a boat from Brisbane city centre, is a little spot of paradise away from the hustle and bustle.
And, as Moreton is the third biggest sand island in the world (the other two are in Oz too) there’s certainly plenty of beachfront to choose from – around 25 miles in total. No sunbed wars worthy of the Hunger Games here.
You can choose to spend the day sunbathing and visitors can come to stay or simply for a day trip to experience the island. I did the latter and seeing the white-lined coastline to the lush green island from the boat was spectacular and only improved as we arrived to be greeted by a flock of enormous pelicans bobbing alongside the beachfront jetty. There are special talks to learn about the birds as staff feed them and you can also attend a daily Kookaburra feeding.
Despite visiting in Australia’s winter, the temperatures in this part of Queensland were remarkably similar to a British summer, regularly in the 20s, and even if you’re unlucky enough to have a chillier day, there’s plenty to keep you occupied.
If you’re feeling a little adventurous, hop on one of the ATV quadbike tours. I’ll admit I was expecting something small but these things are beasts and a little intimidating at first glance. I soon got used to them however and roaring along the beach (loudly but slowly) was wonderful.
Once away from the other sunworshippers you go off on a specially designed trail through the bush and sand dunes. Whizzing round banks and corners you gradually climb the island which lets you see the ocean from a different perspective and the views as you ascend are spectacular.
Clare had a brilliant time on the island(Image: Clare Fitzsimons)
Clare quadbiking on the beach(Image: Clare Fitzsimons)
Peckish after all that activity, I returned to the four star resort which boasts a range of restaurants. Wanting to try something different that I wouldn’t get at home I opted for the grilled barramundi – also known as Asian sea bass. It was one of the best fish dishes I’ve had and was absolutely delicious.
Happily fill you can choose to chill out at the beachfront bars or cafes, watching the waves lap the shore, or partake of one of the other activities on offer.
There are plenty of choices for the whole family, whatever takes your fancy. Whale watching, a glass bottom boat, sand tobogganing and surfing are all available too but people flock here to hand feed a pod of wild bottlenose dolphins that visit the resort at sunset.
It’s a tradition that started in 1986 when a dolphin that the owning family named Beauty began to regularly visit and soon take food from guests.
Now two family groups regularly come to take herring from the hands of visitors – though a very small amount to ensure it doesn’t affect their ability to hunt in the wild.
Book the holiday
Find out more about Tangalooma Island Resort at tangalooma.com.
You can also get further information on Brisbane and Queensland at queensland.com.
Do you have a holiday story that you want to share with us? Email us at [email protected].
The UK has plenty of beautiful beaches up and down the country, but some are dirtier than others
The UK has plenty of beaches but some of them are not suitable for swimming(Image: BerndBrueggemann via Getty Images)
When it comes to heading to the seaside you want crystal clear waters, pristine sand and naturally, zero rubbish. Whilst Britain boasts numerous stunning coastal spots across the nation, occasionally they can be marred with, well, debris.
Research has found the UK’s most polluted beaches, listing them according to the worst contamination levels. This is according to retailer Cartridge Save, which identified the top 10.
The study examined water purity by analysing concentrations of E. coli bacteria and intestinal enterococci, as well as TripAdvisor guest feedback for each spot.
The coastal areas were assessed using a “water cleanliness score” from zero to 10, with 10 indicating the finest state, reports the Express.
Lowestoft Beach is located in Suffolk(Image: Getty)
10. Lowestoft
E. Coli – 45
Int. Enterococci – 12
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 3
Water cleanliness score – 7.45
Lowestoft in Suffolk makes the top 10 muckiest beaches in the UK with a score of 7.45 out of 10. Despite ranking 45th for E.coli, it’s 12th for intestinal enterococci and third for the fewest ‘Excellent’ ratings.
Lancing Beach scored 7.29 and came ninth on the list(Image: Getty)
9. Lancing, Beach Green
E. Coli – 25
Int. Enterococci – 7
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 26
Water cleanliness score – 7.29
Lancing Beach Green in Lancing is next at ninth place with a score of 7.29. It ranks 25th for E.coli and 7th for intestinal enterococci.
Seascale in Cumbria came eighth on the list with a score of 7.28 out of 10(Image: Getty)
8. Seascale
E. Coli – 5
Int. Enterococci – 11
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 29
Water cleanliness score – 7.28
Seascale in Cumbria lands in eighth place with a score of 7.28 out of 10, ranking 5th for E. coli and 11th for intestinal enterococci.
Three Shells Beach has received only 9.38 percent positive reviews from visitors(Image: Getty)
7. Three Shells Beach
E. Coli – 13
Int. Enterococci – 20
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 2
Water cleanliness score – 7.22
Three Shells Beach in Southend-on-Sea comes in seventh with a score of 7.22 out of 10. Despite ranking 20th for intestinal enterococci and 13th for E.coli, the beach has received only 9.38 percent positive reviews from visitors, placing it in the second-worst spot in this category.
This underscores the need for continuous improvements to boost the overall tourist experience.
Brighton Beach is one of the UK’s most renowned spots(Image: Getty)
6. Brighton Beach
E. Coli – 14
Int. Enterococci – 6
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 17
Water cleanliness score – 6.92
Brighton Beach, despite being one of the UK’s most renowned and bustling beaches all year round, takes the sixth spot with a score of 6.92 out of 10. It struggles with high levels of intestinal enterococci bacteria (ranking sixth) and E.coli (ranking 14th), showing that even popular spots can have significant cleanliness issues.
Littlestone Beach in Littlestone completes the top five with a score of 6.51 out of 10(Image: Getty)
5. Littlestone
E. Coli – 4
Int. Enterococci – 5
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 21
Water cleanliness score – 6.51
Littlestone Beach in Littlestone rounds out the top five with a score of 6.51 out of 10. With it ranking fourth for E.coli levels and fifth for intestinal enterococci, it’s best to give this beach a miss.
Hunstanon (Old Hunstanton) had the fourth-highest levels of intestinal enterococci(Image: Getty)
4. Hunstanon (Old Hunstanton)
E. Coli – 6
Int. Enterococci – 4
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 44
Water cleanliness score – 6.34
Old Hunstanton had the fourth-highest levels of intestinal enterococci and the sixth-highest levels of E. coli, giving it a water cleanliness score of 6.34 and placing it fourth on the list.
Fraisthorpe recorded the second-highest levels of intestinal enterococci(Image: Getty)
3. Fraisthorpe
E. Coli – 3
Int. Enterococci – 2
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 30
Water cleanliness score – 3.83
Fraisthorpe Beach in Fraisthorpe and Old Hunstanton Beach in Hunstanton rank third and fourth respectively, with scores of 3.83/10 and 6.34/10. Fraisthorpe recorded the second-highest levels of intestinal enterococci and the third-highest levels of E.coli.
Southend Westcliff Bay scored a mere 2.76 out of 10 for water cleanliness(Image: Getty)
2. Southend Westcliff Bay
E. Coli – 2
Int. Enterococci – 3
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 34
Water cleanliness score – 2.16
Southend Westcliff Bay in Southend-on-Sea is not far behind, scoring a mere 2.76 out of 10 for water cleanliness. This beach recorded the highest levels of intestinal enterococci and the second-highest levels of E.coli. Moreover, only 40% of online reviews rated the beach as excellent.
Haverigg Beach in Haverigg, Cumbria had water cleanliness score of just 2.16 out of 10(Image: Getty)
1. Haverigg
E.Coli – 1
Int. Enterococci – 3
Least ‘excellent’ ratings – 34
Water cleanliness score – 2.16
Haverigg Beach, located in Haverigg, Cumbria, has been named the dirtiest beach in the UK, with a disappointing water cleanliness score of just 2.16 out of 10.
Haverigg Beach had the highest levels of E. coli of any UK beach analysed and ranked third for levels of intestinal enterococci.
Despite these concerning results, many visitors have left positive reviews, recounting enjoyable experiences at the beach.
A new list has been made of the “dirtiest” beaches in the UK as many Brits are heading to the coast this month during school summer holidays to enjoy the hot weather
The UK’s dirtiest beach has been named after new research(Image: SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images)
Brits have been given a list of the dirtiest beaches in the UK where there have even been reports of human faeces found, according to new research.
With the exceptionally hot weather so far this year many people have taken advantage by heading to the coast on holiday and some have been left shocked at the state of the beaches they have visited. Experts have also told how there is a lot of litter which is lift behind after vast crowds turn up with plastics a particular problem as it is a hazard for local wildlife.
And for those wondering which is the dirtiest beach, Skegness Beach in Lincolnshire has been named as the worst offender, closely followed by Margate Main Sands and Formby Beach in Merseyside.
Skegness topped the list for litter on its beach(Image: Getty Images)
The research was carried out by plastic waste specialists at BusinessWaste.co.uk have listed the most litter-strewn beaches in the UK. The experts analysed TripAdvisor reviews to determine how many mentioned litter on the beach.
One review of Skegness Beach from June 2025 warned: “Avoid the grass dunes between the car park and the beach. Not only do you have to dodge the dog waste you also have to with human waste and serviettes covered in faeces and left for you to tread in.”
Another visitor lamented: “Unfortunately, on the walk down the beach, we passed a lot of trash, dirty nappies and baby wipes strewn about the place in one area, and broken glass.”
However, it’s not all doom and gloom, with many tourists sharing positive experiences on TripAdvisor. Despite some comparing Skegness to North Korea and Syria as the worst place to visit, it continues to be a popular destination for many British families.
Margate Main Sands came second in the list(Image: Isle of Thanet Gazette)
A review posted in May 2025 reads: “Skegness is a proper seaside resort. It has everything that you expect from a trip to the coast and a lot more besides. From the iconic Clock Tower to its many attractions.
“But for us the best part was the beach, immaculate golden sands with plenty of places to buy ice cream, fresh food and drinks (including beer and wine). Well done Skeggy! ! ! PS The Blue Fin Fish Bar serves battered fish that is phenomenal.”
Holidaymakers visiting Margate Main Sands have voiced comparable grievances, with assessments highlighting shattered glass, canine excrement, and human waste.
Whilst Formby Beach has received positive feedback generally, countless evaluations reference rubbish scattered across the shoreline. One visitor grumbled that they discovered the car park completely occupied by 10:30am and the coastline already packed with crowds and strewn with debris.
Formby had positive reviews as well as complaints about debris(Image: Liverpool Echo)
Numerous other beachgoers remarked on abandoned picnics, discarded disposable barbecues littering the sand, and even discovering drug-related items, reported the Express.
Graham Matthews, plastic waste specialist at BusinessWaste.co.uk, says: “Litter on the UK’s beaches turns our natural beauty spots into an eyesore and poses a huge environmental threat to marine life.
“Each year, as the weather heats up, we see a sharp rise in people flocking to the seaside, but sadly, many don’t clean up after themselves. It’s common to find food packaging, disposable BBQs, and even human and animal waste scattered across our shores.
“All this unsightly litter ruins the enjoyment of our beaches, but it also threatens local wildlife. Plastic is a particularly major hazard as it takes so long to break down naturally. Initially, this litter can endanger wildlife, entangle animals or be ingested. However, over time, plastic breaks down into smaller particles known as microplastics that find their way into water, sea life, and even our food chain.”
Brixham is a charming seaside town that seems to have sprung straight from a postcard – here’s everything you need to know about the stunning coastal retreat
Brixham is a charming seaside town in Devon(Image: Getty)
There’s a picturesque seaside town in Devon that could easily be mistaken for a scene from a postcard, known for its vibrant houses that tumble down the hillside towards the bustling harbour.
If you’re looking for a last-minute holiday plan, Brixham may have you covered. This quintessential British seaside experience captivates visitors from the moment they step foot in the town. The heart of Brixham is its lively harbour, where fishing boats, yachts and pleasure crafts bob gently on the water.
Brixham is known for its colourful houses cascading down the hillside(Image: Getty)
Visitors can still witness fishermen hauling in their daily catch, with Brixham’s fish market providing some of the country’s finest seafood, reports the Express. This fresh bounty is celebrated in the town’s numerous seafood restaurants, where you can savour everything from traditional fish and chips to gourmet dishes.
A stroll through Brixham’s narrow, winding streets feels like stepping back in time. The beautifully maintained pastel-coloured cottages and shops add to the town’s picture-perfect charm.
Many of these buildings are adorned with hanging baskets brimming with flowers, enhancing the town’s already considerable appeal. For those seeking panoramic views of the harbour and surrounding coastline, a trek up to the Berry Head Nature Reserve is a must.
This dramatic headland offers breathtaking views across Tor Bay, and on a clear day, the vista stretches for miles. The area is teeming with wildlife, offering the opportunity to spot dolphins, seals and a variety of seabirds.
Brixham forms part of the breathtaking English Riviera, a stretch of South Devon coastline famed for its mild climate, stunning beaches, and quaint towns.
From Brixham, you can easily venture to nearby towns such as Paignton and Torquay, each boasting their own unique attractions. Whether you’re after a tranquil retreat, a maritime adventure, or simply a place to savour some of the UK’s finest seafood, Brixham caters to all tastes.
So, if you’re looking for a short staycation away from the hustle and bustle of city life, Brixham is the perfect place. Ideal for couples, families and even as a solo retreat. Not too far away from home, yet it still feels like a holiday abroad.
Turkey’s serene Konakli is the most affordable destination for couples looking for a break, with prices averaging £421 per person for an all‑inclusive stay, according to TravelSupermarket
Konakli is the place to go for a cheap holiday(Image: Getty Images)
TravelSupermarket, a holiday comparison site, has revealed the most affordable beach destinations for couples looking to escape once the summer holidays end, with September offering great value for romantic getaways.
Alanya features prominently on the list(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Konakli sits on the Turkish Mediterranean coast and is best known for its beautiful beaches. Hospitality is by far the biggest business in the region, with 15 five‑star hotels in a town of just 18,000 people.
It’s just 20 minutes away from Alanya, which is a bustling resort packed full of restaurants, bars and holidaymakers from across the world. If Konakli begins to feel a little quiet, then a visit to Alanya is a good bet.
If Konakli doesn’t float your boat, fear not. There are plenty of other cheap all0inclusive resorts to choose from.
TravelSupermarket ranked Puerto de la Cruz in Tenerife second on the list at £487 per person. Turkey’s popular Alanya resort claims third place at £493 per person, while Spain’s Costa Dorada destination Salou ranks fourth at £506 per person.
Greek destinations feature prominently with two Corfu locations making the list, alongside Zante’s Alykes which secures fifth place at £508 per person. Marrakech in Morocco offers excellent value in sixth position at £531 per person, with Corfu’s lively Kávos ranking seventh at £543 per person, followed by Bulgaria’s Sunny Beach at £557 per person in eighth place.
Steph Marinkovic, head of editorial at TravelSupermarket, shares her expert couples tips for five of the destinations below, alongside a great deal for each destination:
Konakli – £421 per person
Turkey is a great bet for couples on a budget, and serene Konakli offers the best of all worlds. There’s a quiet, sandy beach for sunbathing, the Taurus Mountain for hiking and lively Alanya – ideal for fun nights out – just 20 minutes away.”
Deal: Seven nights all‑inclusive at the 5‑star NoxInn Deluxe Hotel from £419pp
Puerto de la Cruz – £487 per person
“Puerto de la Cruz is a world away from the resorts in Tenerife’s south. Colourful streets splashed with huge murals make this north coast city a joy to explore. The black‑sand beaches and cool Lago Martiánez pools are just the cherry on top!”
Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star Melia Costa Atlantis Tenerife from £479pp
Alanya – £493 per person
“Couples can combine culture, history and plenty of opportunities for R&R in sun‑drenched Alanya. Highlights include Cleopatra Beach, Alanya Castle, and the city’s excellent range of traditional Turkish hammams and spa hotels.”
Deal: Seven nights all‑inclusive at the 4‑star Club Big Blue Suite Hotel from £465pp
Salou – £506 per person
“Salou’s three‑park PortAventura World is much quieter in September, so kids‑at‑heart can indulge their inner child without the crowds. Couples will also love the resort’s chilled‑out side – think romantic seaside strolls, spa hotels and wine tasting in ‘cava country’ close to nearby Tarragona.”
Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star H10 Salauris Palace from £440pp
Alykes, Zante – £508 per person
“Low‑key Alykes is the perfect antidote to rowdy Laganas just 30 minutes’ drive away. The village centres around a golden beach lined with loungers and relaxed bars. Paddleboard together by day, then sip cocktails as the sun sinks over the Ionian Sea.”
Deal: Seven nights B&B at the 4‑star Koukounaria Hotel & Suites from £499pp
