The ‘hidden’ UK beach with fossil-filled shores, a tiny village and free parking
- UK Hidden Gems
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
In the past few years, more people have been choosing staycations, which has led to large crowds gathering at some of the UK’s most famous seaside towns during the busy summer months.
A report from Consumer Intelligence last year showed that 52% of Brits were planning to take their holidays within the UK. Around 34% said they would go on two UK trips in 2024, while 23% planned three or more breaks.
Popular destinations included St Ives, Southwold, Brighton, Bamburgh and Portmeirion, many of which first became popular when the railways made seaside travel affordable for everyone.
Experts have said that some of these seaside favourites are now “feeling the pressure”, with overcrowding and long traffic jams becoming a regular issue in summer. Because of this, many holidaymakers are looking for quieter alternatives.
The report also found that 40% of staycationers were hoping to “discover more of the UK’s hidden gems” away from the usual hotspots.
Travel company Simply Sea Views has put together a list of 10 of the UK’s best secret beaches, describing them as “wild coastlines and hidden coves where you can escape the long queues and feel like you’ve found somewhere truly special”.
One of the highlights on the list is Kilve Beach, found on the Jurassic Coast in Somerset.
One of the highlights on the list is Kilve Beach, found on the Jurassic Coast in Somerset.
This rugged beach is made up of striking limestone layers, and it is well known for its driftwood, ammonites and fascinating fossils, making it the perfect spot for explorers and fossil hunters.
Experts describe it as being “tucked beneath the Quantock Hills” and say it’s ideal for walkers, scramblers and anyone who enjoys dramatic seaside scenery.
Visitors are advised to stay in the little village of Kilve and then follow the paths beyond the cliffs for a scenic coastal walk along the rocks.
Another plus for visitors is that there is free parking close to Kilve Court, which makes the beach easy to reach.
Facilities nearby include public toilets, and dogs are welcome all year round to enjoy the rocky landscape alongside their owners.
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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