The UK’s ‘secret’ beaches revealed with no crowds or crammed car parks

As the weather gets warmer, there’s no better way to spend a weekend than at the beach.

But with international travel increasingly uncertain amid the war on Iran and the resulting jet fuel crisis, many of us are staying close to home.

Which means this summer, British beaches could be busier than ever before.

No need to panic, though. A new study has revealed the top secret beach spots across the UK.

The research, which analysed online searches for 928 beaches along British shores, found some that were Googled as little as 10 times per month.

One of them is Abermawr Bay in Pembrokeshire, Wales.

It’s a combination of sand and pebbles, but that’s not the only thing going for it: there’s a ruined cottage nearby, ripe for exploring, as well as bluebell fields and a wildlife marsh.

There’s also a loop trail that winds through woods and meadows.

Another underrated gem is Da Lang Ayre, in Northmavine, in Scotland.

It’s tucked away in one of the most remote areas of Shetland. In 2011, Northmavine had a population of 741.

And it’s little surprise so few know about it: it’s only accessible by sea swim or a long walk over Shetland’s highest peak, Ronas Hill.

Once you’ve completed the pilgrimage, though, the beach stretches for a mile-and-a-half, and with red shingle, it’s got a fairly unique look to it.

Be warned, though: the hike isn’t for the faint-hearted, as the terrain is steep and craggy.

Gansey Bay on the Isle of Man also received just 10 searches per month.

It’s a popular location for surfers, and dogs are allowed 365 days a year.

Interestingly, the list does not include a single beach in England. Instead, it’s made up of locations in Wales, Scotland, the Isle of Man, Guernsey, and Northern Ireland.

England is more densely populated than the rest of the UK, so it’s bound to have more visitors flocking to its shores.

Further down on the list, with 20 Google searches, is Browns Bay in County Antrim, Northern Ireland.

The 300-metre bay bends in a horseshoe shape, making it sheltered and peaceful.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for the places to avoid this summer, another study has revealed the UK’s 20 ‘no-go’ beaches.

Swimming – or even dipping your toe in the water – is not advised, because sewage and dump waste are polluting the sea.

These beaches have been classified as ‘poor’ for water quality, which is the lowest rating given by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.

At the top of the list, which doesn’t run in any particular order, is Littlehaven Beach in South Shields, near Gateshead, in Tyne and Wear.

Elsewhere were some high-profile spots, including Lyme Regis, Ilfracombe, Weston-super-Mare, and Blackpool.

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