The best beaches in the UK and Ireland 2023: Hotels, villas and more

Last summer when the lockdown was lifted, there were countless reports of people gathering on beaches and beaches as we all tried to adjust to our newfound freedom and enjoy the beautiful weather.

Even now, with all the restrictions in distant memory, it seems that many people have a real taste for living, and now they have more opportunities to relax in the UK and Ireland than before Covid. And while that’s great for the hospitality and tourism industry, it can make finding a peaceful spot more difficult — especially if you’re just relaxing on the beach.

But search a little harder and there are plenty of hidden spots along the beach – places where you can sunbathe on your own or dance to the sound of crashing waves.

Below are hidden beaches that are still under the radar – from England and Wales to Scotland and Ireland – where privacy is (almost) guaranteed. The best part is that they come with comfortable beach seating to come home to after a day at sea.

The best seaside resort in England

Location: Beadnell Bay, Northumberland

A stunningly beautiful region that has never been forgotten, Northumberland benefits from stunning scenery, both inland and by sea. Although the lake is well-known, it is still less popular than other parts of the UK, and the beaches are often less crowded.

Close to Beadnell Bay and its sandy beach, dog-friendly Levante Cottage is the perfect beach retreat with waterfront views. Sleeping up to six, the place has an open fire for those chilly nights, but the idea is to spend as much time as possible outside. After paddling the waves, visit one of the A-list houses in the area: Bamburgh which starred in the Hollywood version of Roald Dahl’s. The price of the BFGwhile Alnwick doubles as Hogwarts in the Harry Potter films.

Price: A week’s stay costs from £659 (six sharing), plus £20 per dog

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Location: South Downs, West Sussex

Nothing sums up summer fun at the beach more than a beach house. Decorated in candy colours, the row of beach houses have delighted British holidaymakers for years.

Even if you struggle to get your own seaside cottage (they sell for eye-watering prices), it’s possible to book a short-term stay in one of West Sussex’s modern villas.

Find them at a distance of seven miles, in a quiet part of the Sussex coast, near the South Downs. Built in 2019, the four-bedroom apartment belongs to The Beachcroft Hotel, where guests can use the facilities, including an indoor heated pool – handy if the English Channel is too cold.

Location: Rame Peninsula, Cornwall

It’s hard to imagine a Cornish beach yet to be discovered, but the Rame Peninsula – often referred to as the county’s “forgotten corner” – is said to be under the radar, even if locals are puzzled by its location. To be clear, it is in the south-east, just over the border from Devon, and is surrounded by three bodies of water: the Lynher River, the Tamar River and Plymouth Sound.

Rivers, sandy beaches and footpaths characterize the peaceful surroundings, while nearby attractions include Mount Edgcumbe House and Country Park: a Tudor estate surrounded by manicured gardens, temples and follies.

Perched on a cliff in Whitsands Bay, Brackenbank Cottage is a Scandi hideaway, where rabbits fly overhead and dolphins walk in front.

Price: A week’s stay costs from £830 per week (five times sharing), including a small charge for dogs

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The best seaside resort in Scotland

Location: Dornoch, Highlands

Undoubtedly beautiful, Scotland divides opinion when it comes to weather. But Dornoch is different – benefiting from its microclimate, the seaside town is much warmer and the evenings are lighter than anywhere else in the country.

Madonna and Guy Ritchie got married here years ago, but despite many claims of fame, the accommodation is still unknown.

Close to the coast and only 45 minutes’ drive from Inverness, Links House is a five-star hotel, with 15 rooms, divided into three buildings. Built in 1843, it has fantastic views of the Dornoch Firth, and sits on the famous 516-mile NC500 route (favorite of Jeremy Clarkson and Richard Hammond, who stayed on filming. Advanced Equipment). Four leading single whiskey distilleries are also within 30 minutes’ drive.

The best place to stay in Wales

Location: Cwmtydu

In the north of Pembrokeshire, and very busy, the stretch of Cardigan beach between Llangrannog and New Quay is a playground for active activities: go hiking, cycling, sailing, kayaking or surfing. Alternatively, take a walk along the beach and explore the hidden spots. The coast is lined with beautiful beaches, National Trust sites and holiday towns.

Cwmtydu, in Ceredigion, is a small village, where a winding path joins a narrow valley that drops into the sea. Very close to the marble beach, Ty Cwch Boat House is a group of three cabins built from shipping containers – available to rent individually or for a group of 12 people. Tables and chairs are raised from wooden boxes, and the large doors can be turned back for views of the the sea.

There is ample storage for equipment, such as kayaks and bicycles, which can be rented locally. Owners can also connect guests with qualified guides, who can create customized tours.

Why: From £136 per night (four sharing a house)

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Ireland’s best seaside resort

Location: Ardmore Bay, Co Waterford

Beneath the 12th century church tower, Ardmore in County Waterford has a wonderful sandy beach. When the sun shines brightly, the turquoise waves appear, making it seem like a strange escape.

The Cliff Beach House designed by the award-winning Cliff Beach House team is a luxury rental property located 2 minutes away.

Making the most of its waterfront location, all six en-suite bedrooms have glass windows framed by the Atlantic waves. A patio area is available for dining al fresco or soaking in the hot tub. On windy days, stay indoors and play the grand piano, if you will.

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