Best beaches near Birmingham
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While Birmingham is nestled in the heart of England, far from the coast, a variety of picturesque beaches are within reach for a refreshing day out or weekend getaway. From the wide, sandy beaches of Barmouth, offering stunning views and ample space for relaxation and play, to the historic charm of Weston-super-Mare with its classic pier and seaside attractions, there's no shortage of coastal experiences for Birmingham residents. These beach destinations, easily accessible by car or train, promise a delightful escape from city life, inviting you to enjoy the fresh sea air, engage in water sports, or simply relax by the soothing waves.
From Poole to Portsmouth, Wales and the classic British beach that everyone loves, Blackpool, Birmingham is nestled in a fantastic spot for sandy spaces. Grab your picnic, fetch that bucket and spade, and enjoy spending some time on fine sands and dipping into clear waters.
Top beaches near Birmingham
- Sandbanks beach, Poole
- Blackpool beach, Lancashire
- Weston-super-mare beach, Somerset
- Whitmore Bay beach, Barry Island, Wales
- Portsmouth beach, Hampshire
- Rhyl beach, Denbighshire
1. Sandbanks beach, Poole
West of Bournemouth, Poole is an ancient seaport on a huge, almost landlocked harbour. The town has an interesting history as it was developed in the thirteenth century and was successively colonized by pirates, fishermen and timber traders. Today it’s home to a handful of lovely beaches with a magnificent backdrop. The area is home to Sandbanks which is the proud winner of more Blue Fags than any other resort in the UK. Think soft clean sands with pleasant sea temperatures. It’s great at any time of the year when you can chill out on a deckchair, enjoy the water or simply watch the waves go by. A longer drive, but well worth the wait.
Best for:
Families looking for a weekend break
How to get there:
Under three hours by car
2. Blackpool beach, Lancashire
Blackpool is really worth visiting for its own sake, a rip-roaring resort which has stayed at the top of its game by supplying undemanding entertainment with more panache than its neighbours. Blackpool remains one of the best beaches near Birmingham. It’s one of Britain's best examples of a wonderful seaside resort. The Golden Mile is home to piers, plenty of arcades and donkey rides, along with all the usual additions at a beach in the UK - think fish-and-chip shops and candy floss stalls! There are over five miles of beach to play with here. Just remember to sample some rock while you’re there!
Looking to enjoy more of what the UK has to offer? Scotland city breaks have plenty of attractions for you to discover.
Best for:
Families looking for a classic beach break
How to get there:
Just over a two hour drive
3. Weston-super-Mare beach, Somerset
Weston-super-Mare is a great option as one of the best sandy beaches near Birmingham. It’s home to a sprawling sands and stands as one of the longest beaches in the UK. The fine area attracts thousands of tourists who flock here for walks, watersports and kitesurfing - and of course for sunbathing! The spot is also home to many music events throughout the year, so there’s always a great atmosphere here.
Best for:
Friends looking for active beach fun
How to get there:
Two hour drive or around a two and a half hour train
4. Whitmore Bay beach, Barry Island, Wales
Head over to Wales for a sparkling beach that’s been drawing in the visitors since the 1870s. Recently refurbished, the Barry Island seafront offers a huge promenade along the Whitmore Bay beach. There’s plenty to keep the children entertained, from climbing walls and adventure golf all available. And who could forget the connections Barry Island has with the TV show Gavin and Stacy?
Best for:
Travelling families
How to get there:
Around a two and a half hour drive.
5. Portsmouth beach, Hampshire
Portsmouth is a great option for where to go to the beach near Birmingham. Follow your eye over the soft sand which stretches along the southern end of Portsea Island to Eastney. Southsea Common, found next to the beach and promenade on the seafront is a huge open space ideal for kite flying. There are plenty of spots to enjoy a barbecue too.
Best for:
Family fun
How to get there:
Around a two hour and forty-five minute drive
6. Rhyl beach, Denbighshire
Back to Wales for another fantastic stretch of sand! At just over two hours away, it's one of the nearest beaches to Birmingham - it’s a wonderful place to spend an afternoon by the water. Rhyl offers visitors around two miles of sand which you can dip your toes into. There are of course plenty of donkey rides here - great for family travel! There are also some grand beachside developments, including the SeaQuarium.
Best for:
Families looking for a pleasant getaway
How to get there:
2 hour and 15 minute drive
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