While beaches like Brighton and Camber Sands continue to welcome thousands each week, there are hidden shores across England that offer calm, space, and breathtaking natural beauty without the crowds. These lesser-known stretches of coastline are ideal for travellers who prefer the sound of waves to the buzz of arcades and the rustle of wildlife to the chatter of beachgoers.
According to travel expert Laura Miller from Away Resorts: “England’s quieter beaches provide the perfect solution, allowing visitors to unwind, explore unspoiled landscapes, and enjoy coastal charm without the hustle and bustle of crowded hotspots.” Here are five of the best quiet beaches in England that promise a relaxing retreat this summer.
1. Ringstead Bay, Dorset
Ringstead Bay, Dorset offers visitors a serene escape just a short drive from busy Weymouth.
While Weymouth Beach draws millions each year with its golden sands and family-friendly attractions, Ringstead remains a tranquil alternative known only to locals and savvy explorers.
Nestled between Lulworth Cove and Weymouth, this shingle and pebble beach boasts clear waters, scenic walking trails, and a peaceful charm perfect for picnics and coastal strolls.
“If you’re seeking a tranquil and secluded beach in Dorset, Ringstead Bay stands out as a hidden gem,” says Millar. With minimal development and uninterrupted sea views, it’s easy to see why this spot is quietly winning hearts.
2. Greenwich Bay, Yorkshire
Up north, Greenwich Bay in Yorkshire provides a striking contrast to the well-trodden sands of Scarborough and Bridlington.
While Scarborough Beach may dominate social media with its twin bays and bustling promenade, Greenwich Bay slips under the radar, offering stunning natural surroundings and an unspoilt feel.
This peaceful cove is perfect for walkers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone longing for quiet reflection by the sea.
“It’s a beautiful, peaceful spot with stunning natural scenery, less crowded than the more popular beaches like Scarborough or Bridlington,” adds Miller.
3. Church Ope Cove, Dorset
Another option is Church Ope Cove on Dorset’s Isle of Portland, just a short distance from Bournemouth’s packed shores. This cove is steeped in history and surrounded by high cliffs, wild vegetation, and the ruins of a 13th-century church.
Known for its clear waters and rocky terrain, the cove attracts snorkelers and swimmers looking to escape the busier beaches nearby.
4. Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall
And heading west, Pedn Vounder Beach in Cornwall may well be the county’s best-kept secret, just a stone’s throw from the ever-popular Kynance Cove.
This remote stretch of sand is framed by towering cliffs and turquoise waters, making it a dream location for those seeking solitude and scenic beauty.
5. Birling Gap, East Sussex
Meanwhile, over in East Sussex, Birling Gap offers fossil hunting, rock pooling, and a front-row seat to the dramatic white chalk cliffs of the Seven Sisters, all without the tourist throngs found at Camber Sands.
Miller notes the appeal: “Whether you’re after scenic walks, wildlife spotting, or simply some time to relax by the sea, these lesser-known beaches are ideal for a refreshing and stress-free summer getaway.”
Five of England’s quietest beaches
1. Ringstead Bay, Dorset
2. Greenwich Bay, Yorkshire
3. Church Ope Cove, Dorset
4. Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall
5. Birling Gap, Sussex