Sandsend, Yorkshire
Avoid the much busier beach at Whitby and head slightly further north to the picturesque village of Sandsend, where you’ll find a much prettier and much quieter stretch of sand. Backed by cliffs, the large expanse of sand offers plenty of opportunities for fossil hunting and playing in rock pools when the tide is out, subsequently proving popular with families. The water may be cold, but an area is cordoned off for swimming in the summer months with many visitors at least braving a paddle on the shoreline. In the winter, this is the perfect place for a blustery stroll with your dog, offering beautiful views as you walk down the coast into Whitby.

Sandsend Beach | © Immanuel Giel / Wikimedia Commons