Anybody who's experienced one of Cornwall's famous beaches on a quiet day can agree how breathtakingly beautiful they can be. Anyone who's visited at the height of summer, however, will know that heaving crowds can make it much harder to appreciate them.
But while Cornwall is a summer hotspot for a reason, there are plenty more incredible beaches across the UK — and this unspoiled beach in the north of England has been named the UK's best 'hidden gem' beach.
Warkworth Beach, situated less than a mile from the pretty medieval village of Warkworth in Northumberland, came out on top in research carried out by outdoor specialists Millets.
The team analysed a series of factors that determine what makes a good beach, including average sunshine hours, water quality and typical temperatures. They also specifically looked for beaches with fewer than 500 reviews online in order to find the nation's 'hidden gem' beaches.
Warkworth Beach scored highly across the board and, at two miles long, is vast enough so that it feels relatively secluded, even in the popular summer months. The setting is also incredible, with views of atmospheric Warkworth Castle from the beach.
The beach's unique setting and calm waters are key reasons it's rated highly, and it's also praised as being a dog-friendly beach, with one review on TripAdvisor calling it a "dog walker's must."
The reviewer says: "Stunning Beach. This is a dog walker's must. Beautiful views across the headland. A sandy beach, with some interesting rocky pools.
"A peaceful place most of the year. Reasonable parking, a bit of a steep walk to the dunes. If you tire of the beach, some great walks by the sand dunes and salt marshes."
With more high temperatures ahead before the summer is over, many of us are planning coastal getaways to make the most of the hot weather. Rather than heading south, consider adding Northumberland to your mini-break wish list.
As well as beautiful beaches like Warkworth Beach, Northumberland has plenty to offer as a weekend break destination. Alnwick Castle and Garden is a historic site a twenty-minute drive away from Warkworth Beach. Visitors can take in its rich history by touring the State Rooms and fully restored kitchens.
Northumberland is also a top destination for hiking. The Craster and Dunstanburgh Castle Circular is AllTrails' top coastal route in the country, praised for its dramatic scenery and historical significance, taking hikers through the 14th-century Dunstanburgh Castle ruins.
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