While fair weather can’t be guaranteed, the UK has plenty of beautiful beaches to explore.
However, during the school summer holidays, the most popular seaside hotspots can get crowded. So, if you’re looking for a peaceful walk along the sand or a few hours relaxing with a good book, you might be disappointed.
Fortunately, when the kids go back to school in September, it’s usually a different story. You could find yourself with miles of sandy beach, sparkling waters, and hidden coves all to yourself. Or at least, with a lot less competition for towel space if the sun makes an appearance.
Read on to discover some of the UK’s most stunning beaches that are well worth a visit this September and beyond.
1. Holkham Beach, Norfolk, England
This striking sandy beach on the North Norfolk coastline made it to the top of Time Out’s 2024 guide to Britain’s best beaches.
It’s not hard to see why.
There’s something magical about the vast, four-mile stretch of golden sand that appears behind a bank of pine woods and wildflower-strewn dunes.
This beautiful beach is part of Holkham Nature Reserve, so it’s impeccably maintained.
What’s more, Holkham Hall – a magnificent 18th-century country house – is just a short walk away. So, you could easily make a whole day of a visit to Holkham, whatever the weather.
If you’re keen to take your four-legged friend along for the trip, you’ll be glad to know that Holkham Beach welcomes dogs. You’ll need to keep Fido on a lead between April and September, but outside of this peak season, dogs can run free – another bonus of waiting until the school holidays are over to visit!
2. Camusdarach Beach, Lochaber, Scotland
Camusdarach, one of Scottish Natural Heritage’s most beautiful beaches, is part of the Silver Sands of Morar – a celebrated collection of white sandy beaches on the banks of the Morar River.
This rugged coastline offers spectacular views and clear-blue, typically calm waters. It’s the perfect spot for a day of walking followed by a cooling early autumn dip in the sea.
If you fancy venturing a little further afield, the port of Mallaig is a five-minute drive away. Here, you can jump on the Jacobite steam train that starred in the Harry Potter films or simply lose yourself in the incredible views of the Isle of Skye.
3. Blackpool Sands in Devon, England
Don’t be confused by the name. This wonderful sweep of beach can be found in South Devon. What’s more, the “sands” are actually made up of small pebbles – which keep the water astonishingly clear.
Unfortunately, your dog will need to stay at home if you make this trip. The beach has won awards for cleanliness, so muddy paws are forbidden!
In the summer, Blackpool Sands is usually packed with families enjoying their holidays. However, while this popular beach attracts visitors all year round, it’s considerably quieter from September onwards.
4. Mwnt Beach in Cardigan, Wales
If you’re an animal lover, add Mwnt Beach to the top of your “must-visit” list. This haven for wildlife is a fantastic location for spotting dolphins frolicking in the waves.
During the seal breeding season (August to December), you might even be lucky enough to find a fluffy seal pup on the beach.
If you’re still feeling energetic after all that wildlife watching, Foel y Mwnt is well worth a climb. This hill gave the beach its name and on a clear day, the panoramic views from the top are outstanding.
Beyond the beach itself, lies the picturesque Church of the Holy Cross. History buffs will delight in this 14th-century sailors’ chapel of ease.
As if all that wasn’t enough to keep you busy, Cardigan town centre lies just 4.5 miles away. If you make the short journey from Mwnt, you’ll be rewarded with dramatic views of Cardigan Bay.
5. Botany Bay in Kent, England
This gorgeous sweep of sand tops Condé Nast Traveller’s 2024 list of the UK’s best beaches.
Indeed, Botany Bay is a haven of peace and tranquillity, away from the busier main sands in Broadstairs.
Located less than two hours from London, this Kent beach is a favourite with city dwellers seeking an escape to the seaside.
Stunning white cliffs surround the beach, making it one of the most photographed beaches in the country. It’s also a popular spot for fossil finders who relish the abundance of rock pools.
Just a short walk up the hill from the beach, you’ll find the Captain Digby pub. The perfect place to sip a cooling pint or G and T on a sunny September afternoon, as you gaze across the sea towards France.
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We can help you organise your wealth so you can enjoy days out at the beach and plenty more precious moments with your loved ones.
Please contact us by email at info@lloydosullivan.co.uk or call 020 8941 9779 to see how we can assist you.
Please note
This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.
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