WINDSWEPT WALKS
DURDLE DOOR, DORSET
In winter, for a couple of weeks either side of the solstice, position yourself correctly and you can see the sunrise shining directly through the “keyhole” of the famous limestone arch – a scene popular with photographers. On other mornings you can expect mist and blissful tranquillity at one of the UK’s best-known beaches. Climb up to the coastal path to look down over Man O’ War Bay, adjacent, before continuing on to the perfect curve of Lulworth Cove.
HOLKHAM BAY, NORFOLK
In the mood for a long, solitary stroll? Look no further. Holkham in winter can feel like the end of the earth – in a good way – with huge skies, mounds of dunes and thick pine forests separating you from the rest of the world. There is car parking (at a cost) and wooden walkways that point you in the direction of Wells-next-the-Sea. A circular, two-hour walk takes you to the harbour here, looping back between the forest and marshes.
BRANSCOMBE, DEVON
This stretch of large shingle beach, cut off by steep, reddish cliffs, is often empty. A scenic winter stroll should involve skimming stones, enjoying the peace and then making your way up and over the coastal path to the quaint village of Beer. Protected by white chalky cliffs, fishing boats squat on the diminutive crescent shore here, while the clifftop and village pubs are fine spots to seek shelter.
ARNSIDE BEACH, CUMBRIA
Arnside is a little-known gem of a seaside village. When the tide is out, the perilous sands of Morecambe Bay are patterned with ripples that glisten in the sunlight. With the fells sitting moodily in the distance, a good walk takes in the sands (stick to the path and don’t attempt at high tide) and Arnside Knott, a hill behind the village with great bay views. Finish back in the village with a pint and a spectacular sunset looking across to the viaduct.
POLZEATH, CORNWALL
The beach in front of Polzeath village is hugely accessible for winter walkers, with plenty of parking. It can be a fair old stroll out to the sea when the tide is out, with surfers regularly criss-crossing the water-slicked sand. The rocks on either side are a striking purple; pick your way up to the coastal path on the left for glorious views of the churning sea from the grassy cliffs of the Camel Estuary. Continue to golden Daymer Bay and onwards to Rock.