As summer approaches, Brits are eager to find the perfect coastal escape for a refreshing swim. Instead of heading to a getaway abroad, the UK is home to hundreds of beaches that offer the pristine waters and spotless shores that swimmers desire.
A travel expert at Love Cottages has revealed three standout destinations recognised for their exceptional cleanliness and water quality. The expert stated: “The Blue Flag status awarded to European beaches for both their cleanliness and provision of facilities means we don’t have to do too much research. And from the 188 UK beaches awarded Blue Flag status in 2025, we’ve handpicked a few of the cleanest beaches in Britain.”
1. Polzeath, Cornwall
Polzeath is renowned for surfing, with a stunning sandy beach and crystal waters. It is nestled in a small village on Cornwall’s north coast between Pentire Head and the Camel Estuary.
The beach is popular with families as there are lifeguards on duty during summer days. While generally safe, strong surf and rips can occur. At a low tide, the quieter Pentire Haven beach connects just north of the main bay.
The travel expert shared: “The surf is the main draw card, but a cute seaside resort has grown around that audience, and there are plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants should you get caught out by the tide (or the rain). If you’re feeling brave, there are surf schools aplenty, and if you get bitten by the bug, there are more than a handful of shops to get kitted out in.”
The beach boasts a 4.4 rating on TripAdvisor. One person who rated the beach said: “Paid parking right on the beach. Plenty of small shops and places to eat are within walking distance. The beach has a stream running to the sea, which the children loved. You can join the coast path from the beach. Dogs are allowed from 30th September. The beach was very clean.”
2. Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold offers a perfect blend of seaside escape, lively market town charm, and a beautiful sandy beach. Located between Aldeburgh and Lowestoft, it’s ideal for visitors of all ages.
Southwold received the 2025 Blue Flag award, alongside Felixstowe on the east Suffolk coast. Both beaches have maintained this prestigious status since first earning it in 2022.
According to Love Cottages: “It’s Southwold Pier that claims the fame around here – over 100 years old and recently refurbished, it’s quite the calling card for this traditional British seaside town.”
The pier now boasts eateries and amusement attractions and has a respectable rating of 4.3 stars. One visitor said: “Beautiful beach and pier, the town is pretty and really friendly. Also really dog friendly. Lovely plaques all along the hand railing.”
3. Sandbanks, Dorset
Sandbanks Beach is often regarded as the UK’s best beach. It is famed for its soft golden sands and Blue Flag-rated waters, and it is popular for its stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.
The travel expert praised the beach and said: “If you want to be papped on the beach in your best bikini, the chances of it happening here are probably higher than anywhere else in the UK. Lovingly referred to as Britain’s Palm Beach, these white-as-British-sand-gets grains grace the coastline of Britain’s most expensive peninsula – Sandbanks.”
According to TripAdvisor, the beach boasts 4.6 stars. One visitor shared: “Top beach – love this place. Clean, calm and beautiful.
“Make an effort to visit if you’re in Bournemouth. No shops, music, arcades, skateboarders etc on the beach so super relaxing for a walk or snooze.”