Warkworth Beach in Northumberland has been crowned the UK's best hidden gem beach, according to new data from outdoor specialists Millets. The beach scored top marks for its combination of average sunshine hours, typical temperatures, and water quality among UK beaches with fewer than 500 reviews.
Award-Winning Beach Offers Golden Sands and Unspoilt Views
Nestled less than a mile from the medieval village of Warkworth, the beach sits between Birling Carrs and Amble Breakwater. It spans more than two miles of immaculate golden sand beneath the imposing Warkworth Castle. The water quality is rated 'excellent', and the landscape is described as 'unspoilt'. Visitors can enjoy free parking and nearby pubs and cafes.
One glowing Tripadvisor review states: "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." Another adds: "Seriously stunning beach, unspoilt, vast and with very few people. Gorgeous sand and beautiful views. Parking is free."
Top Three Hidden Gems Revealed
Highcliffe Beach in Dorset ranked second, offering sand and shingle, paid parking, a café with sea views, and RNLI lifeguards during July and August. East Strand Beach in Portrush, County Antrim, took third place with a score of 8.89/10, praised for its white sand and year-round watersports. One visitor compared it to the Sahara: "A glorious stretch of sand so long and golden it could make the Sahara blush."
Expert Tips for Summer Beach Trips
Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, advises: "Summer is the perfect time to explore the stunning coastlines across the UK. When planning your trip, remember sun-protective clothing, a waterproof jacket, supportive footwear, and layering for changing temperatures. Always leave beaches as you found them."
The full list of UK's best hidden gem beaches includes: Warkworth Beach (Northumberland), Highcliffe Beach (Dorset), East Strand (County Antrim), Joss Bay (Kent), Seacliff Beach (East Lothian), Mossyard Beach (Dumfries and Galloway), Flamborough South Landing (East Riding of Yorkshire), Caister-on-Sea Beach (Norfolk), Treyarnon Bay Beach (Cornwall), Cayton Bay Beach (North Yorkshire), and Beadnell Bay Beach (Northumberland).
