UK’s ‘own French Riviera’ is a relaxed seaside town with stunning turquoise seas
- UK Hidden Gems
- Aug 18
- 2 min read
With golden sands, warm sunshine and sparkling clear waters, one beautiful seaside town has been nicknamed the UK’s answer to the French Riviera.
The French Riviera is famous for its glamorous coastline and chic resorts, but you don’t always need to board a plane to enjoy turquoise seas and sandy shores.
Right here in Britain, one town has been hailed as our very own version of the Riviera.
Salcombe in Devon has been praised as a perfect alternative to travelling abroad. UK travel blogger Hannah, who shares guides and reviews on Instagram under @postcardsbyhannah, posted a video showing off the charm of the town.
She asked why people complain about the UK when “it’s home to places like this,” comparing it to the stunning Riviera resorts such as Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Antibes and Monaco.
She wrote: “Welcome to South Devon… Salcombe to be exact! Once a quiet fishing village, it’s now one of England’s most sought-after seaside getaways, where pastel cottages slope down to the harbour filled with sailing boats on turquoise waters.”
Hannah added that Salcombe has a relaxed feel with a touch of luxury, offering family-run shops, art galleries, ice cream stalls, and waterside pubs serving oysters fresh from the local estuary.
She continued: “Salcombe’s estuary is breathtaking, with rolling green hills and sandy coves you can only reach by boat or on foot. Wander through the town and stop at Cranch’s Sweet Shop, one of Salcombe’s most loved spots, selling treats since the 1800s.”
The town boasts several beautiful beaches, including Salcombe North Sands, known for its rockpools and sweeping views of the ruins of Salcombe Castle. There’s also Salcombe South Sands, often described as one of the most untouched beaches in South Devon.
Nearby, visitors also head to Hope Cove Bay, a popular place for watersports where you can hire kayaks and paddleboards and head straight out onto the water.
One TripAdvisor reviewer shared their experience at Salcombe North Sands, writing: “Love this little place.
“Tide was in when we arrived but after a stroll round town and lunch at The Winking Prawn, it went out to reveal a gorgeous sandy bay with shallow water perfect for paddling. Plus it’s dog friendly too!”
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