The 6 best beach walks around the UK
Our expert shares her choice of the best beach walks across the UK, from dramatic clifftops to golden sandy beaches.
Our expert shares her choice of the best beach walks across the UK, from dramatic clifftops to golden sandy beaches.
Often named as one of the top 10 beaches in the world, this walk starts at the pretty village of Rhossili and then takes you up along the ridgeline of the downs, to enjoy stunning views over the bay and Bristol Channel.
You’ll drop down for the return leg and return at beach level back to the village – watch out of the wreck of the Helvetia, a Norwegian Barque that was wrecked in 1887, which is visible at low tide.
At the start of the causeway to the tidal island of Worm’s Head a board will tell you when it’s safe to cross. If so cross to the island (you may spot seals in the coves below you) before returning back to Rhossili to finish.
Food and drink
Try The View, in Rhossili for the best views over the bay while you enjoy fresh coffee, lunches and homemade cake.
This coastal walk takes you along the spectacular Causeway coast from Portballintrae to Ballintoy.
Start the walk from the picturesque harbour at Portballintrae and head east past the National Trust's Giant's Causeway visitor centre. Continue to Dunsverick Castle. The ancient ruins are perched on the cliff tops and thought to date back to the 5th century. Continue to Portbraddan before passing along the wide sandy beach at Whitepark Bay.
The final section runs along the beach to Ballintoy where you'll find a lovely harbour and a good range of shops, cafes and restaurants.
This short walk on the rugged Northumberland coast starts in the fishing village of Craster and leads along a wildlife-rich seafront to the stunning Dunstanburgh Castle.
The castle can only be reached on foot and is just a flat, 1.3 mile walk from the village of Craster, making it a great choice for an easy walk.
This linear route passes along wildlife-rich salt marshes and through England’s largest national nature reserve.
You'll pass the Lookout visitor centre, with wonderful views over the reserve, and at the beach, a raised platform has benches from where you can enjoy one of Norfolk’s finest coastal vistas.
You'll experience amazing views of Dorset's Jurassic Coast and its unique rock formations on this walk.
Old Harry refers to the chalk formation furthest out to sea in this area and is said to be named after famed local pirate Harry Paye.
The walk to Dunnottar Castle is along dramatic cliff tops gazing out over the North Sea before you descend 180 steep stairs to reach the medieval fortress.
You return through the picturesque Dunnottar Woods.
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Saga’s walking holidays are perfect for exploring Europe’s stunning destinations on foot. They’re suitable for all fitness levels and offer a well-balanced mix of guided walks and relaxation.
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