Embleton Bay

Northumberland’s coast garners another endorsement with this win. Stretching for miles, this enormous sandy silver beach is dominated by the epic ruins of 14th-century Dunstanburgh castle on its southern tip.

Fringed by dunes, with ample birdwatching opportunities, the bay is perfect for family outings or long walks.

Second place: Balephuil Bay

A beach to call one’s own… This remote paradise on Tiree in the Inner Hebrides has miles of white sand and turquoise sea, and, thanks to its location, a high likelihood of having it all to yourself.

Flanked by low dunes and machair habitat, the beautiful bay harbours corncrakes as well as free-roaming cattle and is a mecca for surfers.