By Parkdean Resorts on 18/12/2023
10 of the biggest beaches in the UK
From stretches of golden sand to stunning cliff tops, the UK is home to a variety of beaches (we’re an island after all!). Each beach has something unique to offer, from relaxing beaches to surfing beaches, but, which are Britain’s biggest?
Determining the exact size of a beach can be difficult, with changing tides and waves forever moving sand around our coastlines, Britain’s beaches are always evolving and shifting. However, we’ve pulled together a round-up of the current ten biggest beaches in the UK by length. The best part is, they’re all within easy reach of a Parkdean Resorts holiday park, so you can visit and explore them in all their glory on your next UK beach holiday.
1. Chesil Beach, Dorset
Boasting a length of 18 miles, Chesil Beach is a shingle barrier beach and an iconic Dorset landmark. Although you won’t be sunbathing or building any sandcastles here due to the pebbles, the views are simply breathtaking and is definitely a must-visit if you’re staying at West Bay or Warmwell Holiday Park. Why not pack some deckchairs and admire the views over a picnic?
2. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Amassing approximately seven miles of shoreline, Bournemouth Beach is one of the longest uninterrupted stretches of sand and therefore one of the biggest beaches in the UK. A 40-minute drive from Sandford Holiday Park, this colossal beach offers stunning views, a range of attractions, and a number of events throughout the year - it’s also dog-friendly!
3. Pendine Sands Beach, Wales
With seven miles of coastline, Pendine Sands Beach is one of the biggest beaches in Wales and is conveniently located on the doorstep of our aptly named Pendine Sands Holiday Park. Pendine Sands is world famous for its historic land speed records, with it’s miles of flat sand providing the perfect natural speedway. It’s here that Malcom Campbell set the land speed record of 146 MPH in his car ‘Blue Bird’ in 1924. Visitors today can enjoy swimming and horse riding, or explore the local cafes, shops and restaurants nearby.
4. Filey Beach, North Yorkshire
Just a ten-minute drive from Cayton Bay Holiday Park and only a half-hour drive from Skipsea Sands and Barmston Beach holiday parks, Filey Beach is one of the biggest beaches in the UK with around five miles of coastline. Perfect for long beach walks, Filey Beach has cafes, an amusement arcade and shops, but is relatively unspoilt and quiet making for stunning views and peaceful surroundings.
5. Sandown Beach, Isle of Wight
Less than a ten-minute drive from both Landguard and Lower Hyde holiday parks, and just a 15-minute drive from Nodes Point Holiday Park, Sandown Beach is the largest on the Isle of Wight stretching for five miles along the shore. From classic amusement arcades and crazy golf to picturesque views, there’s plenty of fun to be had at Sandown.
6. Camber Sands, East Sussex
At nearly five miles long and on the doorstep of Camber Sands Holiday Park, this East Sussex beach is one of the biggest in Britain. One of the only sandy beaches in the region, Camber Sands has plenty to offer from water sports and kite surfing to beach combing and ample walking routes.
7. Weymouth Beach, Dorset
Dorset appears again as home to another of Britiain’s biggest beaches, with Weymouth Beach spanning approximately three miles in length. This sandy beach is a hit amongst tourists and visitors can enjoy Weymouth Sea Life and Adventure Park, a variety of cycle routes and the Sandworld Sculpture Festival - plus, it’s just a 25-minute drive from the Warmwell Holiday Park!
8. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall
A mere 15-minute drive from Holywell Bay Holiday Park and only a 20-minute drive from both Crantock Beach and Newquay holiday parks, Perranporth Beach is home to three miles of golden sand. This spectacular Cornish beach also boasts rock pools, dunes and perfect waves for surfing as well as calmer waters for paddle boarding.
9. Gwithian Towans Beach, Cornwall
The biggest beach in Cornwall, with a length of approximately three miles, Gwithian Towans is less than a 40-minute drive from both Crantock Beach and Holywell Bay holiday parks. Keep an eye out for grey seals popping their heads above the water while you swim in the blue seas or explore the rock pools at low tide.
10. Exmouth Beach, Devon
A 45-minute drive from our Torquay Holiday Park, Exmouth Beach boasts two miles of golden sand. As one of the oldest seaside towns in Devon, Exmouth is a must-visit if you’re staying at our nearby holiday park. You can enjoy rockpooling, kayaking and swimming in the sea - with this beach boasting some of the warmest waters in the UK! After a day of activities, why not take a scenic stroll across the promenade or check out the the local shops and restaurants the town has to offer?
If you fancy ticking off some of the largest UK beaches on your bucket list, explore our nearby holiday parks today and discover what Britain’s coastlines and expansive golden sands have to offer.