Want to find sandy shores that offer golden sands, clean water and plenty to do? You don´t have to go far, given the number of British beaches that now hold the ultimate mark of quality, the Blue Flag. We uncover six of the best where you can sun, surf, sail and more.
North Bay, Scarborough
The ruins of a Norman castle tower high over the harbour of North Bay beach, its lovely sands making it a firm family favourite - if you´re looking to catch a wave or two, winter and spring are the best time for surfers. North Bay is also close to attractions like the Sea Life Centre which is renowned for its North Sea ecology displays, underwater walk and hospital for rescued seals. Nearby, ride the miniature Scarborough North Bay Railway, built in 1931 and complete with mini signal box and tunnel. Views extend over North Bay and the Japanese-style Peasholm Park with waterfalls, floating bandstand and naval battle enactments on the lake.
Westward Ho! Devon
A pebble ridge connects two miles of sandy shores to Northam Burrows Country Park - which happens to be part of the UK´s only United Nations Biosphere Reserve. Incidentally, the town´s quirky name was inspired by Charles Kingsley´s novel Westward Ho! set in nearby (fictional) Bideford Quay. From the town, a ramp leads down to the beach, well-kitted out for watersports and sun-worshipping, and lined with rows of picturesque beach huts. Kids will love swimming in the rock pools. The beach is handily adjacent to the South West Coast Path and close to the fishing village of Clovelly. Golfers should pay a visit to the Royal North Devon Golf Club - founded in 1864, it´s England´s oldest course.
Borth Beach, Wales
Surfers, families, swimmers and paddlers flock to Borth Beach, seven miles north of Aberystwyth. Borth itself is an old fishing hamlet and its four kilometres of gently shelving shores make up one of Ceredigion's longest beaches. When the tide´s out, look out for the 5000-year-old tree stumps, remnants of an ancient submerged forest. The beach stretches all the way to the Dyfi National Nature Reserve which includes the spectactular flower-rich sand dunes of Ynyslas. Spot lizards, stoles and polecats and listen out for the skylark and meadow pippit. The reserve also incorporates the huge Cors Fochno peat bog and the Dyfi Estuary. For walkers, the Ceredigion Coast Path is a must.
Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear
Whitley Bay is the quintessential Victorian seaside resort. Climb the landmark St Mary´s Lighthouse for excellent views or indulge in traditional seaside activities such as mini-golf or The Spanish City´s amusement arcades. The town also boasts over a mile-and-a-half of Blue Flag beach with a nature reserve occupying the northern end and rocky outcrops in between. Try the local fish and chips - one of the best is Seashells at 13 Front Street. It´s also worth venturing out to Tynemouth for the Blue Reef Aquarium´s colourful displays of aquatic life and new Seal Cove. For a spot of culture, check the listings for Whitley Bay Playhouse whose eclectic programme covers everything from theatre to flamenco.
