Families looking for the ideal beach getaway this summer need look no further than Sennen Cove in Cornwall. The beach has been named England’s best family beach spot, earning an outstanding score of 9.97 out of 10 in a new study.
The sweeping mile-long sandy beach, located near Land’s End, impressed experts for its spacious shores, RNLI lifeguard presence, and sea temperatures averaging a refreshing 14.6°C, making it perfect for a cool dip on a hot summer’s day. Even during peak holiday season, the beach’s generous width ensures enough space for children to play and parents to unwind without feeling overcrowded.
The ranking, compiled by outdoor brand Millets, analysed dozens of coastal spots across the UK based on sea temperatures, lifeguard coverage, parking costs, water sports access and water quality.
Sennen Cove scored top marks for safety and family-friendliness, making it the ultimate destination for a classic British beach day.
Visitors to Sennen Cove have praised its cleanliness, safety, and family-friendly atmosphere, with TripAdvisor reviews backing up its near-perfect family rating.
One visitor described it as “a great beach to go to with family,” noting that it was “very clean and lifeguards seem to be very vigilant.”
Another praised the beach’s high standards, writing, “This is a truly lovely beach, spotlessly clean with excellent safety standards. Even though it was extremely busy…it was a lovely hot Cornwall day.”
Natalie Wolfenden, author and outdoor expert at Millets, said Sennen Cove exemplifies what a family beach trip should be: “England is brimming with gorgeous beaches, from the pebbled Brighton Beach to the sandy shore of Sennen Cove.
“A family beach day is the perfect opportunity to switch off screens and reconnect outdoors, but preparation is key.”
She added: “If you’re heading to the beach with young children or weaker swimmers, bringing along armbands can help give peace of mind, though close supervision is always essential.
“Don’t forget suncream, caps, and sunglasses for the whole family. A beach shelter or windbreak is also a great idea to protect from wind and sun exposure.”
The beach also boasts access to local amenities, coastal walks and water sports facilities, making it an excellent choice for families seeking both adventure and relaxation.
The study evaluated UK beaches based on official data sources including the ONS, environmental agencies and local council websites, and all findings were accurate as of May 2025.
So, whether you’re planning a weekend escape or a full summer break, Sennen Cove stands out as the must-visit destination for families craving sea, sand and safety all in one.