Summer might not officially be here, but the weather certainly is.

Plus, with travel restrictions still in place for heading to many overseas countries, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the British coastline in the sunshine.

With that in mind, a recent piece of research by Holidaycottages.co.uk has showed the best beaches across the country.

Comparing over 400 beaches across England, Scotland and Wales, the company assessed UK beaches on factors like parking, toilets, lifeguards, cafes, water quality, accessibility, water sports availability, and how welcoming the beach is for dog owners.

The winning spot was taken by Saltburn Beach in Yorkshire, with Cornwall nabbing two spaces in the top 10.

Check out the winners below.

1. Saltburn Beach, Yorkshire

The sand and shingle beach of Saltburn has been a hotspot since the Victorian times, and boasts nearby attractions like the Italian Garden, just a short tram ride away.

Considered to be one of the best surfing spots on the North Sea coast, it’s ideal for those who want to catch some waves.

2. Fistral Beach, Cornwall

Another beach that’s a surfer’s paradise is this one near Newquay.

It is considered to be Cornwall’s premier ‘big wave’ location with wave faces as high as 30 feet, plus big surf competitions and festivals (including Boardmasters) are hosted here.

3. Hemsby Beach, Norfolk

For all the fun of the seaside, head to Hemsby beach near Great Yarmouth.

Cafes, restaurants, and amusements keep families busy when they’re not enjoying the sand and sea, and there’s also a Herring Festival and a new Viking festival in June.

4. Tankerton Beach, Kent

Whistable’s Tankerton beach is shingle-covered and has a low tide, making it a great spot for those who love to paddle in the sea and explore the rockpools.

With grassy areas just off the beach, you can chill with a picnic – or head to Marine Parade to stay at a local hotel or have a bite to eat.

5. Dovercourt Bay, Essex

There’s so much to take in at this pretty shingle beach, with active folks able to jet ski, sail, and wind surf here.

As well as that is a skate park and a boating lake, and Hemford Water National Nature Reserve a short drive away, known for its resident seals.

6. Camber Sands Beach, East Sussex

Unlike other beaches in East Sussex, Camber Sands is covered in – as the name suggests – golden sand.

Stretching out over five miles long, even on busier days you can still find a secluded spot to beat the crowds.

7. Alum Chine Beach, Dorset

Venture west of Bournemouth’s bustling pier and you’ll find this Blue Flag award-winning beach.

Rent one of the quaint beach huts here, take the kids to the pirate-themed adventure playground, and watch the land train make its journeys along the seaside.

8. Perranporth Beach, Cornwall

This huge sandy beach is popular with horse riders, who often trot their ponies across the sand early in the morning.

Surfing, sailing, and just plain enjoying the pubs and cafes nearby are also just some of the other activities you can take part in here.

9. Tresaith Beach, Ceredigion

Between Aberporth and Penbryn is Tresaith Beach.

Families love the soft sand, shops, cafes, and sweet local pub nearby, as well as the nature that can be seen from the rock pools and privacy offered by the cove.

10. Saundersfoot Beach, Pembrokeshire

Be sure to check the tide times when you head to this Welsh beach, as low tide transforms the sand and gives you loads of room to relax.

Events like The World Cawl cooking championship take place here, and you can enjoy all the amusements that make the British coastline so beloved.

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