That’s right, our very own Blackpool has topped the charts for being the best stretch of sand anywhere in the world. And to put that into perspective, Bondi beach in Australia and the Maldives didn’t even make the top ten!

Blackpool is, of course, famous for its illuminations and the Pleasure Beach, as well as donkey rides along the sand and comedy ‘kiss me quick’ hats.

But the top ten wasn’t just topped with a British beach, it also contained 5 additional entries:

1. Blackpool
2. Benidorm
3. Majorca
4. Brighton
5. Bournemouth
6. Algarve
7. Scarborough
8. Weymouth
9. Tenerife
10. Great Yarmouth

Post Office Money marketing director Pete Markey said; “Although some beaches have stood the test of time, there have been seismic shifts in tastes in the past sixty years.
Nowhere matches Blackpool for beach appeal but today’s holidaymakers are travelling further afield to find their new favourites.”

The survey went on to gauge the top beach activities, which are unchanged: building sandcastles, having a 99 ice cream and a paddle in the sea!

Where’s the bucket and spade? I’m off to Blackpool…..

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A beautiful portion of sand that has been captured between huge, picturesque cliffs, the beach is easily accessible and has super fine and soft golden sand – no pebbles in sight. The beach is very popular with families due to the location and the clear sea. When the tide is out, it is possible to walk round to the surrounding bays to visit the other beaches, but do beware, one of the surrounding beaches is a nudist one!

Treat yourself by sitting on the sandbars that form beneath the cliff fort of Treryn Dinas, which is surrounded by stunning bright blue waters – make sure you take your camera.

If you would like to grab something to eat, we would recommend the Minack Theatre Coffee Shop – offering local delights and light meals as well as soft drinks and teas and coffees, the theatre offers access to the local gardens for when you want a change of scenery. There is a payable admission fee for the theatre at £4.50 per adult and £2.50 for 15 years and under.

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Set on a backdrop of health land and dunes, the bay is perfect for children wanting to play and explore!

The northern stretch of the bay is accessible via chain ferry and exudes a desert island feel – you certainly do feel like you are stuck in the middle of nowhere!

There are a few nearby beaches; Shell Bay is a nudist beach and Knoll Bay is again popular with families.

If you want to grab a bite to eat, there is a nearby café at Knoll Bay called the National Trust Beach Café – this establishment serves hot and cold meals alongside refreshing beverages and the option to eat indoors our outside.

Studland Bay really is one of the places that you need to see with your own eyes to believe it.

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A whopping 660ft curve of stunning sand is set against the backdrop of dazzling white cliffs.
Children will love exploring in the rock pools, looking for crabs as well as shell picking. Safe swimming is also featured at this beach, making it great for families of all age.

If you want to have a walk when the tide is out, Joss Bay is just around the corner. The bay is popular with surfers and thrill seekers – don’t forget the suncream!

For food, there is a local retro restaurant that serves hot and cold meals including breakfast, lunch and dinner.
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The beautiful beach at Watergate Way is a two-mile long stretch of soft, golden sand set beautifully with a background of rugged cliffs and caves – perfect for investigating with the kids!

The beach also provides the perfect setting for a spot of surfing, thanks to the Atlantic swell.

There is plenty of wildlife to see with plenty of gulls, peregrine falcons and fulmars flying overhead. Look a little closer and you might just spot a few crabs and anemones within the rock pools – don’t forget your bucket and spade!

For the thrill seekers out there, you can book surfing lessons or take part in a traction kiting lesson right on the beach. And walkers will be happy too, the clifftop views provide unprecedented views of the beach below and the beautiful Cornish waters.

Food wise, if you feel like splashing out, Jamie Oliver’s restaurant, Fifteen Cornwall, is located nearby and there is also a Beach Hut bistro that is a little more pocket friendly and is right on the beach – perfect for families after a long day!

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