The 'best beach in UK' found at historic underrated seaside town with royal link

03 March 2024 , 10:18

1058     0

Holidaymakers enjoy the sunshine on the sand at Weymouth (Image: Getty Images)

A beach at a historic British town - often visited by King George III - has been named one of the best in the world.

Weymouth Beach is the only British one to make a list of the 25 best beaches in the world, compiled and released by TripAdvisor last year. It came 19th and was praised for its golden sands, panoramic views and stunning natural beauty. It is one of 40 beaches across Dorset, though it boasts more history than the others.

King George III made Weymouth his summer holiday residence on 14 occasions between 1789 and 1805, even venturing into the sea in a bathing machine. In celebration of the king's patronage, in 1810, a painted statue was built on the seafront. Known simply as the King's Statue, it was extensively renovated in 2007–08.

And in 2023, Dorset was named one of the most underrated places in the UK by Time Out Magazine. Weymouth was praised then for its beauty and other tourist attractions, such as lakes, museums, aquarium, and two shopping centres.

The TripAdvisor list, also compiled last year, features beaches across Europe, North America, Africa and elsewhere. Praia da Falésia in Portugal tops the list and is praised for its "dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and sparkling blue waters". It beats Spiaggia dei Conigli, which is in Lampedusa, Italy.

Brit uses browser hack to bag business class seat for less than price of economy

Weymouth Harbour is also popular with tourists (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

But no other British beaches make the top 25, despite popular golden sands across the whole of the UK. Bournemouth Beach, Fistral Beach near Newquay, Cornwall, Brighton Beach and Gorleston-on-Sea Beach are among those highly praised on TripAdvisor.

The Mirror's travel reporters this week shed light on a "hidden gem" beach in Coldingham, Scottish Borders. The main beach to bookmark is Coldingham Sands, a sheltered beach with golden sands, clean waters and rugged coastal surroundings thanks to its location within the St Abbs and Eyemouth Voluntary Marine Reserve.

The spot tends to be a hit with water sports fans, particularly surfers, not to mention it's also dog-friendly, and from July through to September there are lifeguards on patrol if you want to go and take a dip. There is also a café serving up some drinks and snacks although it can be closed when it's off season, as well as a variety of beach huts that can be hired.

• Get your tickets Weymouth through the Trainline website to save cash.

Bradley Jolly