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Writer's pictureMartha Edwards

Hidden Beach UK: The 20 Best Secret Beaches

At Seaside Jewellery, Cornwall, we know there's nothing quite like the thrill of discovering a secret beach. Imagine stepping onto a secluded stretch of sand, far from the hustle and bustle, where you can truly escape and immerse yourself in nature.


Whether you're searching for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous hideaway off the beaten path, this guide is your treasure map to the perfect spot.


Join us as we unveil the 20 best hidden beaches across England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each of these tranquil havens offers stunning scenery and unique features that make them truly special. Read on and explore these secret gems waiting to be discovered!

hidden beach UK

Hidden Beach UK: the Top 20


  1. Sandwood Bay, Scotland

  2. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

  3. Barafundle Bay, Wales

  4. Traeth Llyfn, Pembrokeshire

  5. Lantic Bay, Cornwall

  6. Mwnt Beach, Wales

  7. Kinney Sands, North Yorkshire

  8. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

  9. Rhossili Bay, Wales

  10. Rackwick Bay, Orkney Islands

  11. Covehithe Beach, Suffolk

  12. Aberlady Bay, Scotland

  13. St. Ninian's Isle, Shetland Islands

  14. Holkham Beach, Norfolk

  15. Portheras Cove, Cornwall

  16. Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire

  17. Porth Iago, Wales

  18. Ballintoy Beach, Northern Ireland

  19. Gaddings Dam, West Yorkshire

  20. Ross Back Sands, Northumberland


The Best Hidden Beaches


We have carefully selected these hidden beaches based on their beauty, seclusion, and the overall experience they offer. Each beach on our list is a beautiful shingle or sandy beach, providing a secluded spot for those who seek peace and tranquility away from the more crowded tourist destinations.


1. Sandwood Bay, Scotland

hidden beach uk
Image by Mat Hayward

  • How to Get There: Located in Sutherland, reach Sandwood Bay via a 4-mile walk from the nearest car park at Blairmore.

  • Features: Sandwood Bay is a remote, sandy beach with rugged cliffs and a freshwater loch. It's considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK.

  • Why Go: The seclusion and stunning scenery, including views of Am Buachaille sea stack, make it worth the hike.


2. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall

hidden beach UK
Image by Maxwell Hunt

  • How to Get There: Near the Minack Theatre, parking is available at Porthcurno car park with a short walk to the beach.

  • Features: This sandy beach is surrounded by high cliffs and has crystal-clear waters.

  • Why Go: Perfect for a quiet day out with dramatic coastal views and the Minack theatre nearby for a unique cultural experience.


3. Barafundle Bay, Wales

hidden beach UK
Image by Éric Bolliger

  • How to Get There: Accessed by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park at Stackpole Quay.

  • Features: Golden sand and turquoise waters, surrounded by dunes and pine trees.

  • Why Go: Often likened to a Caribbean beach, Barafundle Bay offers a secluded and picturesque escape.


4. Traeth Llyfn, Pembrokeshire

hidden beach UK
Image by Daniel Morris

  • How to Get There: A steep climb down from the coastal path, with the nearest car park at Porthgain.

  • Features: A sandy beach with dramatic cliffs and rock pools.

  • Why Go: Its inaccessibility keeps it quiet, making it perfect for those seeking solitude.


5. Lantic Bay, Cornwall

hidden beach UK
Image by James Shaw

  • How to Get There: Access via a steep path from the nearest car park at Frogmore.

  • Features: A secluded cove with golden sand and clear waters, reminiscent of the picturesque qualities of the Jurassic Coast.

  • Why Go: Ideal for those who enjoy a challenge and the reward of a beautiful, hidden beach.


6. Mwnt Beach, Wales

hidden beach UK
Image by Nick Russill

  • How to Get There: A short walk from the National Trust car park.

  • Features: A sandy beach sheltered by cliffs.

  • Why Go: The beach is known for dolphin sightings and its peaceful atmosphere.


7. Kinney Sands, North Yorkshire

hidden beach UK

  • How to Get There: A bit of a walk from Sandsend village car park.

  • Features: A mix of sand and shingle beach with rock pools.

  • Why Go: Its lesser-known status makes it a quiet retreat with beautiful coastal views.


8. Bamburgh Beach, Northumberland

hidden beach UK
Image by Petr Bouda

  • How to Get There: Easy access from the Bamburgh village car park.

  • Features: Expansive sandy beach with views of Bamburgh Castle.

  • Why Go: The historic castle backdrop and the beach's vastness provide a tranquil setting.


9. Rhossili Bay, Wales

hidden beach UK
Image by Yiming Ma

  • How to Get There: A short walk from the National Trust car park.

  • Features: A long stretch of sandy beach with impressive views.

  • Why Go: Frequently listed among the best beaches in the world, Rhossili Bay remains relatively uncrowded.


10. Rackwick Bay, Orkney Islands

hidden beach UK
Image by Walter Frehner

  • How to Get There: Accessible via a scenic walk from the nearby Rackwick car park.

  • Features: A sandy and rocky beach with dramatic cliffs.

  • Why Go: Its remote location ensures peace and solitude amid stunning landscapes.


11. Covehithe Beach, Suffolk

hidden beach UK
  • How to Get There: Park at the nearby layby and walk through fields to the beach.

  • Features: A secluded sandy beach with eroding cliffs.

  • Why Go: The combination of natural beauty and tranquility makes it a hidden gem.


12. Aberlady Bay, Scotland

hidden beach UK
Image by Pete Walls

  • How to Get There: A walk through a nature reserve from the nearest car park.

  • Features: A mix of sand dunes and mudflats.

  • Why Go: Its status as a nature reserve ensures it remains quiet and teeming with wildlife.


13. St. Ninian's Isle, Shetland Islands

hidden beach UK
Image by Pamela Hallam
  • How to Get There: A short walk from the mainland car park.

  • Features: A stunning sandy tombolo connecting the island to the mainland.

  • Why Go: The unique geographical feature and serene environment make it a must-visit.


14. Holkham Beach, Norfolk

hidden beach UK
Image by Archie Eke
  • How to Get There: A walk from the Lady Anne’s Drive car park.

  • Features: An expansive sandy beach backed by pine woods.

  • Why Go: Its vast size means you can always find a quiet spot, even in peak season.


15. Portheras Cove, Cornwall

hidden beach UK

  • How to Get There: A coastal path walk from the nearest car park at Pendeen.

  • Features: A small, sandy cove with clear waters.

  • Why Go: Its secluded location and picturesque setting make it perfect for a peaceful day out.



16. Marloes Sands, Pembrokeshire

hidden beach UK
Image by Ian Cylkowski

  • How to Get There: A ten-minute walk from the nearest car park at Marloes village.

  • Features: Long stretch of golden sand, impressive cliffs, and rock formations.

  • Why Go: Marloes Sands is a secluded beach known for its dramatic landscapes and tranquility. It offers stunning views, especially at low tide when the beach reveals a wide expanse of sand and interesting rock pools to explore.


17. Porth Iago, North Wales

hidden beach UK
Image by Tomasz Anusiewicz

  • How to Get There: Access via a farm track, with parking available at the nearby campsite.

  • Features: A small but beautiful sandy beach with clear waters.

  • Why Go: Its hidden location ensures it's quiet and unspoiled, ideal for a peaceful escape.


18. Ballintoy Beach, Northern Ireland

hidden beach UK
Image source: Pinterest

  • How to Get There: A short walk from the nearby harbour car park.

  • Features: A mix of sand and rocky pools.

  • Why Go: Known for its scenic beauty and as a filming location for Game of Thrones, it remains surprisingly quiet.


19. Gaddings Dam, West Yorkshire

hidden beach UK
Image credit: https://the-yorkshireman.com/

  • How to Get There: A steep climb from the nearest village of Lumbutts.

  • Features: A unique inland beach around a reservoir.

  • Why Go: Its remote location and beautiful surroundings make it a peaceful retreat.


20. Ross Back Sands, Northumberland

hidden beach UK
Image by Joshua J. Cotten

  • How to Get There: A walk from the nearest car park at the end of the Ross Farm lane.

  • Features: A long, sandy beach. This secluded beach boasts views of Lindisfarne.

  • Why Go: The isolation and breathtaking scenery make it perfect for those seeking tranquility.


What is the Best Beach UK?

While there are many stunning and secluded secret beaches in the UK, Sandwood Bay in Scotland is often considered the best secret beach. Its remote location, requiring a 4-mile walk from the nearest car park at Blairmore, ensures that it remains one of the quietest and most pristine beaches.

The combination of its expansive sandy shores, rugged cliffs, and the presence of the Am Buachaille sea stack creates an unforgettable and picturesque experience for visitors seeking solitude and natural beauty.


The Best Quiet Beaches in the UK

Exploring these hidden and secluded beaches across the UK offers a wonderful opportunity to escape the crowds and enjoy the natural beauty of our coastlines. Each beach has its unique charm and characteristics, making it worth the visit.

Whether you are looking for a quiet sandy beach, a secret shingle beach, or a picturesque spot along the South West Coast Path, there is a perfect hidden beach waiting for you.

hidden beach UK

FAQs: Hidden Beaches UK


What should I consider when visiting a secluded beach for the first time?

When visiting a secluded beach for the first time, it's important to plan ahead. Check the weather forecast and tide times, particularly low tide, as some beaches are only accessible at low tide. Bring essentials like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a first aid kit, as facilities are often limited. Also, ensure you have a reliable map or navigation device, as secluded beaches can be harder to find.


Are there any secret beaches in the UK that are family-friendly?

Yes, there are several secret beaches in the UK that are family-friendly. For example, Barafundle Bay in Wales offers a beautiful sandy beach with calm waters, making it ideal for families. When visiting, always check the tide schedules to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.


Is there a secret beach in the Uk that is also a sandy beach?

Absolutely! Many of the UK's secret beaches are sandy beaches, providing perfect spots for relaxation and beach activities. Porthcurno Beach in Cornwall and Holkham Beach in Norfolk are prime examples of secluded beaches with expansive sandy shores.


What are the best times of year to visit secluded beaches in the UK?

The best times to visit secluded beaches in the UK are during the late spring, summer, and early autumn months. These periods typically offer milder weather and longer daylight hours, making beach visits more enjoyable. Additionally, visiting during low tide in these months can reveal more of the sandy beach and rock pools, enhancing your beach experience.

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