Hidden Beaches of Britain

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Hidden Beaches of Britain

By Amy Matthews

Published on September 4, 2025

7 min read

Wild and Secluded Coastal Escapes

Britain is home to countless beautiful beaches, from sweeping golden sands to dramatic coastal cliffs. But with popularity comes crowds—and in some cases, restrictions or closures when rules aren’t respected. If you’re planning your next seaside escape and craving something quieter, why not explore some of Britain’s hidden beaches?

Our curated collection of secluded bays and lesser-known beaches offers the perfect alternative to the usual hotspots. Whether you’re seeking tranquillity, natural beauty, or a peaceful place to unwind, these tucked-away treasures promise a more intimate coastal experience.

Before planning a visit to one of these hidden beaches, take a moment to check any local beach guidelines and refresh yourself on the Countryside Code—it’s the best way to help keep these beautiful coastal spots pristine and protected for everyone to enjoy.

Sandwood Bay, Sutherland

Sandwood Bay

Tucked away on Scotland’s remote northwest coast, Sandwood Bay is one of Britain’s most stunning well-kept secrets. This untouched stretch of pink-hued sand is only accessible by a four-mile walk through moorland. It is backed by towering dunes and framed by dramatic cliffs

The beach is rich in wildlife, so make sure to look out for seabirds, deer, and even seals basking offshore. Its raw beauty and isolation make it feel almost otherworldly. It offers a peaceful retreat, where the only sounds are wind, waves, and the occasional call of a distant bird.

For the walk to the secluded Sandwood Bay, take a look at the route on OS Maps.

Sandwood Bay, Sutherland

Kynance Cove, Cornwall

Kynance Cove

Nestled on the Lizard Peninsula of Cornwall, Kynance Cove is a stunning beach that feels like a secret slice of paradise. Surrounded by dramatic rock formations and turquoise waters, it’s a haven for nature lovers and photographers alike. At low tide, hidden caves and sandy coves reveal themselves for those looking to explore further.

Despite its growing popularity in the summer months, Kynance retains a secluded charm thanks to its rugged access and protected status within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Wildlife thrives here, from coastal birds to rare plants clinging to the cliffs, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful, nature-filled escape.

For a walk from the Lizard Peninsula to Kynance Cove, take a look at this beautiful circular route along the Cornish coast.

Lizard Peninsula to Kynance Cove Walk

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire

Barafundle Bay

Hidden behind a tree-fringed clifftop and accessible only by a half-mile walk from the nearest car park, Barafundle Bay feels like a secret waiting to be discovered. Nestled between limestone cliffs in Pembrokeshire, this golden-sand beach is surrounded by unspoiled nature and crystal-clear waters.

Out of season, Barafundle Bay is quiet and perfect for a peaceful day out. It provides ample opportunities to spot seabirds, explore nearby walking trails, and soak in the tranquil atmosphere.

For an afternoon hike along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, visiting Barafundle Bay, the popular Broad Haven beach and lakes of Stackpole take a look at this scenic circular route.

Beaches and Lakes at Stackpole

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Seilebost Beach, Isle of Harris

Seilebost Beach

Located on the Isle of Harris in the Outer Hebrides, Seilebost Beach is a breath-taking hidden gem known for its sweeping white sands and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Framed by rugged hills and grassy machair, it offers a tranquil escape into nature, far from the crowds.

This remote beach is perfect for quiet walks, wildlife spotting, and soaking in panoramic views across the Sound of Taransay. With its untouched beauty and peaceful atmosphere, Seilebost Beach is a dream destination for those seeking solitude and natural splendour.

When exploring the beach, be aware of potential quicksand and avoid walking on wet sand at low tide.

To make the most of your visit to Seilebost Beach, take a trip along the ‘Coffin Road’. This track was once used to carry the dead to their final resting places near the beach.

South Harris, Highland

Presipe Bay, Pembrokeshire

Presipe Bay

Tucked beneath towering sandstone cliffs and only accessible at low tide via a scenic coastal path, Presipe Bay is one of Pembrokeshire’s best-kept secrets. This secluded beach offers golden sands, dramatic rock formations, and a peaceful atmosphere.

Surrounded by rich wildlife and wildflowers, it’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and walkers looking to explore untouched coastal landscapes. Fossils are abundant too, making it an ideal location for those looking to discover ancient remnants. Have a look at our guide to fossil-hunting to make the most out of a trip to Presipe Bay.

If you’re looking for a short a walk along the Pembrokeshire coast alongside a visit to Presipe Bay, take a look at this circular route that provides beautiful views out across the dramatic Welsh coastline.

Manorbier, Pembrokeshire Coast, Wales

Covehithe Beach, Suffolk

Covehithe Beach

Located on the Suffolk coast, Covehithe Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach where nature quietly reclaims the land. Known for its dramatic erosion and crumbling cliffs, this hidden spot offers a wild, untouched feel that’s perfect for those seeking natural charm.

Backed by woodland and farmland, Covehithe Beach is a peaceful retreat where you can walk among driftwood, spot seabirds, and enjoy the raw beauty of the ever-changing shoreline.

Take a look at Covehithe Beach on OS Maps to start planning your visit to the stunning Suffolk coast.

Covehithe Beach

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We are with you every step of the way. Shop our trusted walking and hiking maps and guidebooks so you can explore the outdoors with confidence.

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Portheras Cove, Cornwall

Potheras Cove

Tucked away near St Just on Cornwall’s rugged north coast, Portheras Cove is a hidden beach that feels truly untouched. Surrounded by dramatic cliffs and reached via a scenic coastal path, this quiet cove offers soft sand, clear waters, and a peaceful atmosphere far from the tourist trail.

Rich in wildlife, there are often plenty of seabirds nesting on the cliffs, and occasionally seals might be spotted offshore. Be aware that the cliffs can be unstable and extra caution should be taken when exploring the beach.

To stretch your legs beyond Portheras, explore along the coast and head inland for some moorland walking. This circular route includes a visit to Chun Castle and Chun Quoit for a glimpse into the past.

Morvah & Chun, Cornwall

Traeth Llyfn, Pembrokeshire

Traeth Llyfn

Nestled between the popular beaches of Abereiddy and Porthgain, Traeth Llyfn is a quiet, secluded location along the Pembrokeshire coast. Accessible via a steep staircase from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, this wide, sandy beach is framed by rugged cliffs and offers a tranquil escape.

With natural charm, Traeth Llyfn is ideal for walkers, nature lovers, and those seeking solitude. The surrounding area is rich in wildlife, rockpools, and dramatic scenery. It’s a perfect spot to relax and explore, where you can simply soak in the beauty of the Welsh coastline.

For a circular hike from the blacks sands of Aberriddy Bay, another of Wales’ hidden beaches to explore, to Traeth Llyfn, this route combines magnificent coastal scenery with some unexpected industrial relics of Wales’ past.

Abereiddy & Porthgain

Seacliff Beach, East Lothian

Seacliff Beach

Hidden near North Berwick on Scotland’s east coast, Seacliff Beach is a peaceful, lesser-known spot offering stunning views and a rich natural setting. With golden sands, rockpools, and dramatic views of Tantallon Castle and Bass Rock, it’s a perfect blend of history and coastal beauty.

Accessed via a private road, with a small fee for cars, Seacliff is ideal for quiet walks, wildlife spotting, and soaking in the serene atmosphere. Its sheltered location and unspoiled surroundings make it a true quiet wonder for nature lovers.

Start planning your visit to Seacliff Beach with OS Maps, and see what stunning scenery you might uncover on East Lothian’s coast.

Seacliff Beach

If you can’t get enough of Britain’s hidden beaches and are looking for more coastal escapes, take a look at our guides for more inspiration. We’ve collected beaches in Wales, in Scotland and many others across Britain. If you’d like to uncover fossils along the British coast, explore our beaches that are perfect for a prehistoric day out.

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By Amy Matthews