The UK is blessed with hundreds of beautiful beaches, so narrowing them down to a single standout is no easy feat. Still, Sykes Holiday Cottages has taken on the challenge, compiling its list of the 30 "best beaches in the UK" - and the top spot might surprise you. It's not in Cornwall or Devon.

"Top of our list of the best beaches in the UK is Bamburgh Beach," they said.

"It comes as no surprise that Bamburgh Beach has made it onto our guide to UK beaches, thanks to its stunning beauty and rich heritage. With the beach also welcoming dogs, this Northumberland beach is perfect for a scenic walk with your furry friend."

Tucked along the Northumberland coast, Bamburgh Beach is famed for its sweeping stretches of golden sand and the dramatic silhouette of Bamburgh Castle rising proudly above the shoreline. It's perfect for long, windswept walks, afternoons spent kite flying, or even a spot of surfing. Just a stone's throw away, the town offers cosy pubs, charming cafés, and plenty of history to explore around the castle itself.

Unsurprisingly, the area is dotted with some truly special holiday cottages - and guests say one in particular feels like a "hidden gem", with availability still up for grabs this year.

The Chimney, located in Bamburgh, sleeps up to eight guests across four bedrooms. This traditional stone property is brimming with character, centred around a spacious open-plan living area that's perfect for gathering together. It's an inviting, cosy space with plush sofas you can really sink into, paired with modern touches that sit seamlessly alongside the home's period charm. At the heart of it all is a woodturning stove, ideal for curling up beside on cooler evenings.

From the sitting area, step through into a stylish, fully fitted kitchen with everything you need to cook for the whole family, including a gas range oven, grill and hob, microwave, fridge/freezer, washing machine, tumble dryer, and dishwasher. Flooded with natural light, it's a bright and welcoming space.

On warmer days, throw open the patio doors and wander out into the postcard-worthy courtyard, a lovely spot for al fresco dining or a relaxed evening drink.

When it's time to turn in, guests can choose between a ground-floor super-king-size bedroom for easy access or three first-floor options: a super-king-size, a king-size, and a twin. There are also four bathrooms, including a family bathroom and an en suite, so there's plenty of space for everyone to unwind.

The only slight drawback is that the property isn't dog-friendly, so it won't suit those hoping to bring a four-legged companion (though Sykes Holiday Cottages do offer plenty of pet-friendly alternatives).

"A Hidden Gem," said a guest who stayed in September 2025. "From the moment we arrived, the place radiated warmth and charm. The accommodation was beautifully presented-immaculately clean, tastefully decorated, and full of character. It felt like a perfect blend of comfort and style. The layout was ideal for a gathering. The kitchen was well-equipped, making it easy to cater for a large group, and the bedrooms were cosy and peaceful."

And of course, one of the biggest draws is the location. Guests are just a short stroll from Bamburgh's stunning beach, with the village centre also within easy walking distance. " A nice 15-minute walk into Bamburgh centre, which is good for burning off pub meals and a couple of pints," said one guest.

From here, you can follow the Heritage Coastline for miles of sandy beaches, charming fishing villages, and truly breathtaking castles. If you fancy exploring further afield, nearby spots like Alnwick and Seahouses are well worth a visit, and you can even venture up to the border to discover the historic town of Berwick-upon-Tweed.

The cottage is proving popular and is already booked up for most of 2026, but there are still some dates available for a stay - even during the peak summer months. Prices vary depending on the date and length of stay. However, a quick independent search shows you can book a three-night stay in mid-July from £2,850. Prices are a little cheaper later in the year, with a three-night stay in October from £1,263.

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