In a triumph for British seaside tourism, the 2025 Best UK Beaches guide has awarded top honours to coastlines across Wales, Scotland, and England, showcasing their breathtaking natural beauty, commitment to safety, and eco-conscious tourism practices. The ranking, compiled annually by The Times and Sunday Times, highlights 50 standout beaches across mainland UK, drawing from an unprecedented 756 coastal site inspections.
The guide, curated by renowned travel journalist Chris Haslam, is a staple for domestic holidaymakers seeking reliable, scenic, and family-friendly coastal destinations. In 2025, the guide focused exclusively on mainland UK beaches, omitting offshore islands to better serve visitors prioritising accessibility and convenience.
Wales Shines with Multiple Beach Honours
Among the biggest winners was Wales, with Saundersfoot, Whitesands Bay, and Shell Island securing high praise. Located in Pembrokeshire, Saundersfoot and Whitesands were recognised for their clear waters, lifeguard coverage, and welcoming atmosphere for families, surfers, and walkers alike.
The standout title of “Wales’s Beach of the Year 2025” went to Shell Island in Gwynedd—a sprawling, dune-laced beach renowned for its camping appeal, marine biodiversity, and uninterrupted views of Cardigan Bay. With its extensive collection of seashells, it has become a favourite for both naturalists and families seeking a remote, nature-rich escape.
Also featured from Wales:
- Dunraven Bay: Known for fossil hunting and dramatic cliffs
- Three Cliffs Bay: Offers unspoiled beauty and panoramic views along Gower Peninsula
- Mwnt: A scenic Ceredigion cove popular for dolphin sightings
- Aberdaron: Remote with historic charm on the Llyn Peninsula
- Traeth Llanddwyn (Newborough, Anglesey): A beach steeped in Welsh mythology and romance
These destinations reflect a growing trend: West Wales’s rise as one of the UK’s premier beach tourism zones, combining pristine wilderness with family amenities and deep cultural value.
Scotland and England Recognised for Rugged Beauty and Clean Waters
Scotland’s coastal gems were also well-represented in the 2025 list, particularly along the Highlands and Fife’s North Sea shoreline, where beaches like Achmelvich Bay and St. Andrews West Sands were praised for their rugged, untouched appeal and clean water quality.
In England, counties such as Northumberland, Cornwall, and Devon dominated. The Northumberland Coast was commended for its historic charm, while Cornish beaches like Porthcurno and Polzeath ranked highly for surfing and family-safe coves.
How the Beaches Were Chosen: A Rigorous 11-Point Checklist
Each of the 756 inspected beaches underwent assessment via an 11-point checklist, designed to capture the full experience of beachgoing. Criteria included:
- Water quality
- Beach cleanliness
- Accessibility for all abilities
- Parking and transport convenience
- Lifeguard presence
- Environmental sustainability
- Hygiene and toilet facilities
- Dog-friendliness
- Community engagement
- Family suitability
- Scenic value
Beaches that scored well across these categories earned a place in the top 50, reflecting not only aesthetics but also visitor well-being and eco-responsibility.
Chris Haslam: “British Beaches Among the World’s Most Underrated”
Chris Haslam, lead compiler of the guide and one of the UK’s most trusted travel voices, noted that many British beaches rival international hotspots. According to Haslam, “There’s a quiet revolution in how our coastal communities manage, clean, and promote their beaches. What we’re seeing now is an exciting blend of nature, safety, and hospitality—something every beachgoer deserves.”
Haslam’s decision to exclude offshore islands this year was intentional. “We wanted to focus on the easily reachable,” he explained, noting that accessibility remains a key factor in domestic travel planning, particularly among families and older visitors.
Domestic Tourism Gets a Boost from Coastal Rankings
The 2025 Best UK Beaches guide arrives at a pivotal moment. With rising costs of international travel and a growing appetite for eco-conscious holidays, staycations remain a cornerstone of Britain’s tourism recovery.
According to VisitBritain, 76% of UK residents say they plan at least one domestic holiday in 2025, with coastal escapes ranking highest among preferences. The emphasis on clean, safe, and beautiful beaches is not just a feel-good story—it’s a driver of regional economies and local tourism resilience.
Where to Access the Guide
The full 2025 Best UK Beaches list is now available online for subscribers of The Times and The Sunday Times. A print version will be published in the Saturday, July 13 edition. The guide is expected to serve as a planning tool for millions of summer travellers in the coming weeks.
Conclusion
From surf-ready Welsh bays to Northumbrian sands kissed by castles, the UK’s coastline continues to offer diverse, top-tier beach experiences. With strong showings from Wales, Scotland, and England, the 2025 guide is more than a ranking—it’s a celebration of Britain’s enduring coastal heritage.
Whether you’re a family looking for safe waters, a hiker chasing scenic cliffs, or a couple seeking a quiet cove, the UK’s beachfront excellence promises something for every type of traveller.
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