The UK is home to some stunning beaches, and one stretch of sand has been described as being like something out of a “fairy tale” with its golden sands and hidden sea caves
The UK coast boasts an array of stunning beaches, from the wild cliffs of Cornwall to the unspoiled sands on the Lleyn Peninsula, mirroring Mediterranean shores, to the picturesque West Sands Beach in St Andrews, Scotland.
Whether you’re after a tranquil retreat or keen for a spot of adventure, Britain’s coastline offers a wealth of sites for seaside exploration. Still, one particular beach has been singled out as resembling something straight out of a “fairy tale”.
Highlighting Britain’s most enchanting spots in a special series, travel expert @lotteboo3 took to TikTok to reveal a “magical” beach, a mere 90-minute drive from London, nestled along the Kentish coastline.
This coast, also boasting seaside towns likened to Spain’s sunny Costa del Sol, harbours a secluded gem celebrated for its “dramatic chalk stacks, golden sands and hidden sea caves.”
Lotte gleefully showcased Botany Bay in her TikTok footage, dubbing it “one of the UK’s most photogenic beaches”. Cradled between Broadstairs and Margate, Botany Bay serves as the northern tip of seven bays in Broadstairs.
Yet there lies a spellbinding secret with these sea caves, which only emerge at low tide, beckoning visitors to time their visits perfectly to witness this concealed spectacle, so checking tidal schedules is crucial when planning a journey to Botany Bay, reports the Express.
Furthermore, this “magical” coastline forms part of the Viking Coastal Trail, tracing the rugged Isle of Thanet in Kent, and featuring the dramatic chalk cliffs that Botany Bay is renowned for.
The majestic free-standing chalk stacks that “tower like castles” have emerged on the beach due to the erosion of the cliffs, creating a perfect environment for exploration with numerous rock pools scattered along the shore.
At low tide, caves concealed within the chalk cliffs become accessible, many of which were carved out by pirates and smugglers over 300 years ago.
Having been awarded Blue Flag status in 2023, it’s also a favoured spot for swimming and surfing, not to mention its golden sands were showcased in the BBC mini-series D-Day: The Last Heroes.
During the peak season from May to September, lifeguards are stationed daily, and visitors can enjoy various cafes, restaurants, and the Captain Digby pub, which boasts an outdoor dining area with sea views.
Botany Bay is accessible via a scenic 45-minute coastal walk from Margate or Broadstairs, or a quick taxi ride from any nearby Thanet town in Kent.
For those driving, Lotte mentioned there’s limited parking at the Botany Bay Hotel car park, which “fills up fast on sunny days”.
Alternatively, parking is available at Kingsgate Bay or Joss Bay, both around a 20-minute stroll from the beach.