The UK's 'most underrated' beaches have breathtaking scenery without the crowds

The UK's 'most underrated' beaches have breathtaking scenery without the crowds

UK spots have featured on the list of the happiest beaches

|

GB NEWS

Sarra Gray

By Sarra Gray


Published: 13/03/2026

- 10:05

Updated: 13/03/2026

- 10:06

One beach 'barely looks real', according to experts

The UK is home to a huge number of incredible beaches, so it is no surprise these are popular with tourists during the warmer months.

While the most popular beaches can quickly become crowded, there are lesser-known coastal spots where you can enjoy peace and quiet while taking in picture-perfect views.


If the longer days are making you want to plan your next staycation, experts at Sweepstakes Table have put together a guide of five of the "most underrated coastal spots" which they claim have fewer crowds.

A Cornish beach took the number one spot, with locations in Scotland, Wales and the north of England also making the list.

Pedn Vounder beach, Cornwall

Pedn Vounder beach in Cornwall has white sands and turquoise waters

|
GETTY

Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall

The experts said: "Tucked beneath the cliffs of Treryn Dinas on the far western tip of Cornwall, Pedn Vounder is the kind of beach that barely looks real.

"The sand is near-white, the water runs turquoise, and at low tide, sandbars emerge to create shallow lagoon-like pools perfect for a paddle. Getting down requires a scramble along a steep cliff path; decent footwear is a requirement, and flip flops are not an option.

"The beach is tidal, so timing matters. Arrive at low tide, and you’ll have hours of space. Turn up at high tide, and the beach may not be there at all. Parking is at nearby Treen village, around a 10-minute walk away. There are no facilities on the beach, so pack everything before you set off."

Ross Back Sands, Bamburgh, Northumberland

"Around three miles of untouched sand, with Bamburgh Castle to the south and Lindisfarne to the north, Ross Back Sands is one of the most quietly spectacular beaches in England," they added.

"The nearest parking is a mile away, which keeps the crowds thin and the seals plentiful. The beach is part of Lindisfarne National Nature Reserve, and dog owners should note that seasonal restrictions apply between May and September to protect nesting seabirds. No facilities on site, so come prepared."

Mwnt Beach, Ceredigion, Wales

Experts said: "Down winding country lanes around 4.5 miles north of Cardigan lies Mwnt, a sheltered golden cove beneath the conical hill of Foel y Mwnt. Bottlenose dolphins are regular visitors to the bay, and the National Trust runs Dolphin Watch events here each summer.

"A 14th-century whitewashed chapel, originally built for passing sailors and pilgrims, sits just above the beach and is well worth a look. There’s a National Trust car park, toilets, and a small kiosk on site. Dogs are not permitted on the beach between May and the end of September."

Bamburgh beach

Ross Back Sands is one of the most quietly spectacular beaches in England

|
GETTY
Sandwood Bay, Sutherland, Scotland

Sandwood Bay is a breathtaking option in Scotland

|
GETTY

Sandwood Bay, Kinlochbervie, Sutherland, Scotland

"Sandwood Bay has no road access. You leave your car at Blairmore and walk four miles across moorland before the bay opens up, and it is absolutely worth every step.

"Nearly 1.5 miles of pink sand, flanked by cliffs, backed by dunes, with the dramatic 65-metre sea stack Am Buachaille standing guard at the southern end. Wild camping is possible here under Scottish land access laws. There are no facilities whatsoever, so go well prepared."

Chapel Porth Beach, St Agnes, Cornwall

The experts said: "Chapel Porth sits at the bottom of a narrow valley, overlooked by the ruins of the Wheal Coates tin mine. At high tide, it’s compact and rocky, but at low tide, the sand stretches all the way to Porthtowan, a vast, dramatic expanse.

"The National Trust cafe at the top is famous locally for its hedgehog ice cream: vanilla, clotted cream, and crushed hazelnuts. Lifeguards are on duty from May to September. Check the tide times before visiting."

Our Standards: The GB News Editorial Charter

More From GB News