A blast of bracing sea air is an easy way to cheer yourself up and shake off the winter blues – and when you’ve had enough of Christmas carols, a walk on the beach is just the ticket.
If the festive season is driving you up the wall and you’re feeling a touch of cabin fever, why not escape to one of the UK’s stunning beaches for a breath of fresh sea air?
While winter might not be ideal for sunbathing or swimming, it’s still perfect for a brisk walk along the shore, hunting for shells and other seaside treasures. .
A blast of bracing sea air is an easy way to cheer yourself up and shake off the winter blues – and when you’ve had enough of Christmas carols, a walk on the beach is just the ticket.
Here are the best winter walks to do with the family between Christmas and New Year.
Durdle Door, Dorset
Durdle Door in Dorset, located on the Jurassic Coast, is more than just a picturesque spot. The beach’s standout feature is a magnificent limestone arch that extends from the land into the sea.
This natural marvel, shaped by the ocean over thousands of years, gives the beach a magical charm. For two weeks either side of the winter solstice (December 21), you can witness the sunrise through the horizon, perfectly framed by the arch – but make sure you arrive early.
Looe Beach, Cornwall
Looe Beach in Cornwall is another gem. You might associate Cornwall with summer, but there’s plenty to see and do off-season too.
East Looe Beach, nestled in front of the old town, is perfect for a winter stroll. You can even pop into a local shop for a warming cuppa before heading to the white sands.
Holkham Beach, Norfolk
This stunning windswept beach is a sight for sore eyes, with its beautiful white sand dunes and towering pine trees. It’s teeming with wildlife, and your four-legged friends are welcome too, so gather the family and the dog and head down to its expansive shores.
Fraisthorpe, Yorkshire
Situated near Bridlington in the East Riding region of Yorkshire, Fraisthorpe Beach is a picturesque, tranquil spot that’s ideal for a winter walk with your pet. The beach is backed by low cliffs which become more accessible the further you stroll.
Unlike other British beaches, Fraisthorpe is completely flat and extends for miles down to the Humber Estuary, making it the perfect beach for a leisurely amble.
Walberswick, Suffolk
This beach is nestled on the south bank of the River Blyth and is a wild location with stretches of both sand and shingles along with marsh and heathland, providing a perfect walk with plenty to observe. The varied landscape means you’re not going to get bored, and the fact that it’s listed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty adds to its charm.
Saundersfoot Beach, Pembrokeshire
Although not the biggest of beaches, this gorgeous spot in Wales is perfect for a winter walk with your family – and the dog is welcome too.
Saundersfoot Beach is sandy, wide and flat with plenty of space when the tide is high.
The nearby harbour is particularly pretty, and there are spectacular views from the top of the hill.
Scarista Beach, Isle of Lewis
Looking out over the Atlantic Ocean in Scotland this beach is famous for its imposing waves that make it a top surfing destination in the country – but in the winter months its perfect for a bracing stroll.
In the final months of the year, the crowds at the beach thin out and it is even dog friendly, meaning you can take your furry friend along with you for the adventure.
Giants Causeway, Northern Ireland
Although this is not technically a beach walk, it’s still a gorgeous winter wander which will take you on the cliff tops above one of the most jaw-dropping views in Northern Ireland. Look out for the Grand Causeway, the largest of the three outcrops that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site beneath the cliffs – just make sure you watch your step as the p[ath can be dangerous in high winds.
