The beach is one of the UK’s most popular spots but according to a new study, it’s also a place that people have a lot of negative things to say about
A beloved UK beach, famed for attracting crowds on sunny days, has been dubbed one of the world’s most ‘complained about’ beaches. Cloudwards’ recent study has pinpointed coastal areas that have left holidaymakers feeling let down, and a British seaside spot has cracked the top 10.
Bournemouth beach, often praised for its beauty, has been singled out as one of the globe’s most underwhelming stretches of sand. The research delved into TripAdvisor reviews for 200 leading beaches to discover which picturesque locations are failing to meet expectations.
Bournemouth, nestled in Dorset, landed at number five, with gripes centring on its cleanliness and propensity for overcrowding.
Despite its reputation as one of Britain’s most popular beaches, it seems Bournemouth doesn’t always live up to the hype.
Spanning seven miles, Bournemouth’s coastline is a magnet for Brits during the warmer months, drawing visitors from across the nation, reports the Express.
However, this popularity has become a bone of contention, with a ‘complaint score’ of 52% on TripAdvisor specifically about overcrowding.
The state of cleanliness at Bournemouth beach has also been criticised, with 31% of reviewers expressing disappointment.
Voicing their concerns, one visitor said: “I have been to Bournemouth many times and have enjoyed it. On this occasion, I have never been so dismayed.
“I have never seen so much rubbish left behind by the people using the beach. Food, plates, wrappers, bottles, towels, plastic bags and the list goes on.
“I think the council need to get their act together and start patrolling the beach and either educate or fine these litterers heavily. It’s a dump.”
On the other hand, not everyone shared this negative view of the beach. One visitor was full of praise on TripAdvisor, saying: “Beautiful sandy beach, probably the best in the UK! With the sunny weather we are having at the moment it is nicer than Spain!
“The kids had a swim and the water was not too cold. All together, Bournemouth is a perfect family seaside escape destination. We plan to return this summer.”
Another commenter said: “Great beach to visit. Loads to do including; aquarium, shops, pier and food venues.
“Lifeguards available on the beach. Clean and tidy layout, nothing negative that we found. Great facilities close by, would highly recommend.”
And a third added: “This is certainly one of the best beaches I have visited in the UK. We were blessed with beautiful weather so was just lovely to stroll across the sand.”
If you want ideas and inspiration to plan your next UK adventure plus selected offers and competitions, sign up for our 2Chill weekly newsletter here