Blackpool Sands in South Devon is celebrated as a scenic coastal gem in the UK. Unlike typical southeastern beaches, this sheltered bay in the southwest of England features lush greenery and rolling hills. Its clear waters and seclusion attract locals and visitors, especially in summer. Recently, it was named one of the UK’s best beaches for autumn visits by outdoor experts at Millets.
The research, which ranked beaches on factors including average autumn temperatures, rainfall, daily sunshine, and Google review scores, placed Blackpool Sands fifth in a top 10 list. With an impressive overall score of 8.06 out of 10, it’s clear that the beach’s many amenities and stunning location resonate with visitors. Natalie Wolfenden, a hiking enthusiast at Millets, highlighted that autumn is the “perfect time to enjoy long walks along the coast away from the summer crowds”. However, despite its beauty and high ratings, the beach is tainted by one thing that leaves many visitors disappointed.
For a beach named “Sands,” a significant number of visitors are taken by surprise to discover that it is, in fact, made of shingle.
This “misnomer,” as one reviewer described it, has led to numerous complaints from unprepared beachgoers. On TripAdvisor, many have expressed their frustration, with one person writing: “Don’t be fooled by the name it’s not sandy just shingles. We drove a long way to visit here and was so disappointed, the shingles were so sharp you couldn’t walk barefoot.”
Another said: “Nice beach but the name lies! This is NOT a sandy beach. Parking is easy, if not a little expensive (£9 for the day). Shingle is painful on bare feet and the sea goes deep quickly so not good for small children. But if you are prepared for this, it is a good day out.”
This sentiment is echoed by others who found the pebbles “unforgiving” or “harsh” to walk on.
However, the shingle is much less of an issue during an autumn visit, when you’re likely to be in sturdy walking shoes anyway.
The beach’s golden shingle and evergreen backdrop take on a particularly beautiful and rugged feel during the cooler months, with the coastline looking “really stunning” according to one reviewer.
It’s also an ideal starting point for a hike. The South West Coast Path runs adjacent to the beach, offering a stunning 3.2-mile circular walk to the village of Strete. The route takes you high above the bay, providing breathtaking views of the coastline all the way to Start Point with its lighthouse.
For those who want to brave a dip in the sea, there is a quirky wooden beach sauna available for hire year-round.
While you might still need to contend with cold water, the sauna is a welcome post-swim treat. For sauna users, a wooden boardwalk leads right down to the sea, making the effort of walking barefoot on the shingle a small one for a truly invigorating experience.
Beyond the shingle, Blackpool Sands offers an array of features that contribute to its high praise.
It is much more accessible than many of Devon’s other famous beaches, such as Hope Cove and Sunny Cove, with ample parking and excellent on-site facilities.
The cafe-restaurant and takeaway kiosk are typically open daily from 9am to 5pm, though they may operate with reduced hours in the colder months.
For those looking for a truly peaceful and scenic autumn retreat, Blackpool Sands promises a beautiful experience — as long as you remember what to expect from the shore beneath your feet.