A beach break is something that many Brits search for further afield: France, perhaps, the bustling coastlines of Spain or even distant locations like the Caribbean. However, since the pandemic started, we've been looking a little closer to home and have been pleasantly surprised to find that the UK is packed with gorgeous sandy beaches that rival those abroad.
For summer 2022, there's nowhere in the UK that will feel more inviting for a staycation that Country Living's pick of the best sandy beaches.
There are the sand dunes and varied wildlife of Holkham Beach in Norfolk, the turquoise blue sea and sheltered bays of Blackpool Sands in Devon and the dune-backed surf of Crantock Beach in Cornwall. In fact, we discovered the options seem almost endless when looking for sandy beaches in the UK.
So, to save you scouring every coastline, we’ve rounded up the very best – the warmest, cleanest and prettiest beaches, from the family-friendly crowd-pleasers in Devon to the surfing hotspots in Cornwall and secluded coves in Scotland, consider this your beachy bucket list for the summer ahead.
With miles of white sand, turquoise sea and grassy dunes, we'd forgive you for thinking you were in the Med at one of these sandy UK beaches.
Check out Country Living's ultimate list of the best sandy beaches in the UK and the places to stay nearby.
Porthcurno. Ashley Cooper - Getty Images