TripAdvisor rates UK's 10 best beaches - not all of them are packed with tourists

TripAdvisor has listed the best beaches in the UK, and there are a few names you may not recognise. While long-time favourites and summer hotspots like Brighton beach and Bournemouth beach top the list, the ranking features a few beaches and coves that have slipped under the radar. Until now.

Out of 969 beaches, these are the top 10 UK beaches according to TripAdvisor - sorted based on traveller favourites.

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10) Scarborough Beach

Scarborough offers visitors two large sandy bays to explore and its impressive waves attract surfers and bodyboarders. South Bay Beach is the busiest part of the beach because of its bathing waters and soft sand.

One TripAdvisor reviewer that visited the beach in April 2025 said the beach is great for dog owners. “We had a lovely time at Scarborough Beach with our dogs. The beach is clean, spacious, and has stunning views—plenty of room for the dogs to run around and enjoy themselves.” They did cite one issue: “Parking was a bit tricky during peak times. Still, it didn’t take away from the experience.”

9) Woolacombe Beach

Located in North Devon, Woolacombe Beach is consistently ranked one of the best beaches in Britain. The three-mile expanse of soft pale sand makes it easier to find a quiet, isolated spot and the beach has a laid-back and friendly atmosphere.

If you value peace and quiet, one TripAdvisor reviewer suggests moving down the beach. “If you're willing to be a bit further from the facilities (e.g. bring your own food and drink), the stretch southwards where Woolacombe Beach fades into Putsborough Beach is a lot quieter. Nice place to spend a day, or walk for a while.”

8) Rhossili Bay

The three miles of Rhossili Bay shore sit at the western end of the breathtaking Gower peninsula in Wales. In addition to housing one of the region’s most famous landmarks - Worms Head - the beach’s fine golden sand and Atlantic surf have made it a hub for watersport enthusiasts, dolphin-watchers and families alike.

One thing to be mindful of is the wind, warns one TripAdvisor reviewer: “A beautiful unspoilt bay. Be prepared for Welsh weather (can be wet and windy) - the day we went the day was dry but windy - however the walk along the beach is amazing.” They suggest coming equipped with the proper footwear: “Quite a walk down to the beach but on a good path - remember you've got to come up again!! Wear sturdy shoes. The View cafe (near the top of the path) makes a perfect stop with views of the bay.”

7) Fistral Beach

Cornwall has no shortage of incredible beaches and Fistral Beach is the first that comes to mind for many. Located in the middle of Cornwall’s north coast, it is considered the “home of British surfing” and the rolling sand dunes and dramatic surrounding high cliffs and an invigorating atmosphere to the beach.

“I have visited this beach many times before, the vibe here is just unmatched (especially in the summer),” writes one TripAdvisor reviewer. “This beach is a perfect day out for families, couples or even solos like me! It’s a great place to go if you’re wanting surfing lessons, or to attempt surfing. I always feel very safe in the sea here, the lifeguards are always on duty and looking out for people,” they confirm.

6) Filey Beach

You may not have heard of Filey Beach, but if you’ve been lucky enough to visit you’ll understand why it's considered a beach gem. Located in North Yorkshire, the sandy shore stretches for five miles and the nearby town is perfect for a perfect English day out.

“Filey is a wonderful little seaside town. Not even slightly commercialised. Very low key with little more than a sandy beach and a few eateries slightly inland,” attests one TripAdvisor reviewer. “The promenade has no tacky shops or arcades ruining its image, a good old fashioned day out at the sea.”

5) Gorleston-on-Sea Beach

Gorleston-on-Sea Beach was named TripAdvisors' 2025 Travellers’ Choice Best of the Best. Despite its impressive size, it is well-known for being remarkably well kept and has plenty to keep beachgoers entertained, including bowling greens, a children’s splashpad and long promenade.

One reviewer writes: “The views were amazing, the two pics give a gist of the cleanliness and amazing stretch of sand. So clean.” Another five-star reviewer wrote: “clean beach, everything you need was there. public toilets , bandstand in a small park type area, souvenir shop cafe and a restaurant.”

4) Weymouth Beach

Located in the heart of the Jurassic Coastline in Dorset, Weymouth Beach stands out with its unique Georgian seafront features. The arc of golden sand sits adjacent to the town centre and the famous Weymouth pier is at the southern end of the beach.

One recent five-star reviewer said they had a great time at the beach this past March and that it was exceptionally accessible. “This beach is great for kids and adults, very clean beach with no rubbish blowing about…The sand was quite solid where the tide came in and we were able to walk on it with a disability walker, which you cannot always do, it was so nice to be so close to the sea.”

3) Camber Sands

East Sussex natives will be familiar with Camber Sands and its distinct sand dune system - one of the purest and longest on the South Coast. The beach also stands apart for being onf the region’s few sand beaches, with many of its neighbours being stone and shingle beaches.

One reviewer dubbed Camber Sands the cream of the crop, writing: “In my view, possibly the best beach in the UK. Miles and miles of gorgeous sandy beaches, with dunes and rocks for those who like these kinda things.” Even the amenities were worth raving about, though they noted one deterrent: “The only downside to this amazing place is the local council charges for parking - really extortionate and a pure scam on holiday makers.”

2) Bournemouth Beach

Stretching for seven miles beneath an impressive cliff line, Bournemouth Beach offers unique and breathtaking views. One of its most raved about features is its temperature. The bay has its own micro-climate which creates some of the warmest sea temperatures in the UK.

“I came here when the sun was setting with clear skies and it was absolutely beautiful visiting in march the sea nor sand was particularly warm but the sun shining over the cliffs was very nice,” writes one reviewer. But, like many reviewers, they imply you may want to avoid the city itself.

1) Brighton Beach

Topping the list at number one is Brighton Beach, which is hardly a surprise. The pebble beach centres around the iconic Palace Pier, which adds a distinct charm and character to the coastline.

One visiting family shared their five-star review, saying: “We've visited many times over the years. Brighton beach is always a family favourite: it's relaxing, peaceful and full of entertainment in all the right places.” Another family shared; “The beach is stony but it’s still gorgeous. Nice for a walk and stopping at one of the beachfront bars. Always lively and plenty going on.”