Explore these hidden coastal gems
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Which? reveals the UK’s best beaches for 2025
As the summer holiday season edges closer, a new survey by Which? has revealed the UK’s best seaside towns.
The survey saw over 4,000 respondents rating more than 100 coastal destinations across the UK, scoring them for beach quality, scenery, seafront atmosphere, peace and quiet and value for money. For the fifth year in a row, the Northumberland village of Bamburgh topped the table for its vast, uncrowded beach, dramatic views of the castle and unspoilt charm – a real hidden gem.
The top 10 also included lesser-known gems such as Portmeirion and St Davids in Wales and Nairn in the Scottish Highlands.
According to Which?, these places triumphed not through big attractions or busy piers, but by offering something far more valuable: space, tranquillity and natural beauty – something you cannot find everywhere.
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Macaulay Nichol Content Editor: Caravans
Hidden gems on the rise
Among the most striking trends was the continued shift away from what we would typically call 'the traditional seaside locations' such as Cornwall, Blackpool, etc. In turn, participants have favoured more peaceful corners of the coast.
Tyddyn Llwyn Caravan Park
The Welsh village of Portmeirion, famous for its continental European architecture and position on the Dwyryd coast, was singled out for its uniqueness.
Not far from Portmeirion, caravanners looking to pitch up can find Tyddyn Llwyn Caravan Park just outside Porthmadog.
Tucked beneath wooded hills and within easy reach of Black Rock Sands, it’s an ideal base for exploring this corner of Snowdonia and the estuary coast.
Morfa Bychan Road, Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL49 9UR
Blair Castle Caravan Park
Nairn beach also impressed for its long, white-sand beaches and views over the Moray Firth.
Though less known than nearby St Andrews, its quieter setting and Highland backdrop made it a favourite among those looking for a more restorative kind of seaside holiday. For those venturing further inland, Blair Castle Caravan Park offers a peaceful Highland setting within the castle grounds – and easy road access for a day trip to Nairn.
Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire PH18 5SR
Rhyd Y Galen Caravan & Camping Park
Beaumaris Beach on the Anglesey coast quietly clinched one of the most interesting accolades:
- 100% of respondents gave it top marks for scenery.
With views across the Menai Strait to Snowdonia’s peaks and a waterfront lined with Georgian terraces and a Victorian pier, it’s little surprise it stood out.
If you’re planning a visit, Rhyd Y Galen Caravan Park near Caernarfon is well placed – offering a quiet base within a short drive of both the Anglesey coast and the heart of Snowdonia.
Bethel, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 1DX
Northern Ireland’s top-rated beach
Ballyness Caravan Park
While Northern Ireland didn’t make the 2025 list, last year’s top spot went to Portstewart, a relaxed town on the Antrim coast with a sweep of golden sand and a scenic coastal path.
Just over 20 minutes inland, Ballyness Caravan Park near Bushmills remains a standout campsite in the region – well-kept, peaceful and ideally placed for exploring both the coastline and local sights like the Giant’s Causeway.
40 Castlecatt Road, Bushmills, Co Antrim BT57 8TN
Planning a coastal escape this summer?
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to explore these beaches for yourself, consider combining your trip with a stay at a Premier Park – these award-winning parks offer a comfortable base within easy reach of the UK's best coastal views.
But as this survey shows, popularity is growing – so wherever you plan to pitch, booking early might just be your ticket to a quieter, more scenic British summer holiday by the sea.
Enjoy a high-quality holiday with Premier Parks!
A collection of the best campsites across the UK and Ireland, all editorially selected and offering the ultimate holiday experience.
If you’re looking for the perfect campsite, and a first-class experience, look no further than a Premier Park.
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