As summer approaches, the British want to find the perfect coastal escape for a refreshing swimming. Instead of heading for a holiday abroad, the UK has hundreds of beaches offering the pristine seas and clean coasts that swimmers want.
Travel experts at Love Cottages have revealed three outstanding destinations recognized for their outstanding cleanliness and water quality. The expert said: “The blue flag status awarded to European beaches for both cleanliness and facility provision means there is no need to study much. With 188 UK beaches awarded the blue flag status in 2025, we paint some of the cleanest beaches in the UK.”
1. Porgias, Cornwall
Porgies is famous for surfing, with its stunning sandy beaches and crystal water. It is located between the Pentiahead and the Camel Estuary in a small village on the north coast of Cornwall.
The beach is popular with families because of the summer days when there is a lifeguard on duty. It is generally safe, but can cause strong surfing and rifts. At low tide, a quiet Pentia Haven Beach connects just north of the main bay.
A travel expert said: “Surf is the main draw card, but cute seaside resorts are growing around its audience, and there are plenty of cafes, pubs and restaurants if you get caught up in the tide (or rain).
The beach boasts a 4.4 rating on TripAdvisor. One person who reviewed the beach said, “Passed parking lots on the beach. Lots of small shops and dining places are within walking distance. There is a stream running into the sea, and children loved it. You can join the coastal path from the beach. Dogs are allowed since September 30th. The beach was very clean.”
2. Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold offers the perfect blend of seaside escapes, vibrant market town charm and beautiful sandy beaches. Located between Aldeburgh and Lowestoft, it is ideal for visitors of all ages.
Southwold, along with Felix Stowe on the East Suffolk Coast, won the 2025 Blue Flag Award. Both beaches have maintained this honorable status since they first won in 2022.
According to Love Cottages, “The one that claims fame around here is the South Wald pier. It's a call card from this traditional British seaside town that has been recently renovated for over 100 years.”
The pier currently has restaurant and entertainment attractions and has a magnificent rating of 4.3 stars. One visitor said, “The beautiful beach and pier, the town is clean and really friendly. It's also really dog friendly. Nice plaque along the railing.”
3. Sandbank, Dorset
Sandbanks Beach is often considered the best beach in the UK. It is famous for its soft golden sand and blue flag rating waters, and is popular for its stunning views of the Jurassic Coast.
Travel experts praised the beach, saying, “If you want to be pup on the best bikini beach, the chances that this might happen here are probably higher than anywhere else in the UK. These white gravel grains, known as Palm Beach in England, decorate the coastline of the UK's most expensive peninsula.”
According to TripAdvisor, the beach has 4.6 stars. One visitor shared: “Top Beach – I love this place. Clean, calm and beautiful.
“If you are in Bournemouth, make an effort to visit, and there are no shops, music, arcades, skateboarders, and more on the beach.
