The B-word you can talk about this summer – 7 unbelievable beaches (PS, they’re all in Britain!)

When was the last time you took a last-minute road trip to the coast?

It’s actually believed that we all live within two hours’ drive of the nearest beach in Britain and yet over half of us still book to go abroad for our summer holidays.

But why should we all be so keen to leave this summer? Thanks to Airbnb, there’s more choice than ever on unique homes across the country to suit your next short break.

And they’re not just in cities either; an unparalleled amount of rural retreats, cosy cottages and coastal homes are offered on Airbnb, so whatever your accommodation needs, you’re covered.’

So, with more than 200 glorious beaches on our doorstep, discover the most unbelievable places that will make you want to stay in the UK this summer…

BEST FOR LONG WALKS – Portscatho, Cornwall

Picturesque and unspoiled, Portscatho Beach is best explored on foot.

Situated on the remote Roseland peninsula, this walkers’ paradise is like a breath of fresh air and you’ll find a plethora of smart and stylish homes on Airbnb for your own Cornish escape.

Many of these hosts take so much pride in their homes that Portscato rentals are the perfect option for holidaying couples, families or pals – making them the perfect place to unwind after long days walking by the beach.

BEST FOR ADRENALINE JUNKIES – West Wittering, Sussex

Learn a new water sport on the Sussex coast this summer.

West Wittering has been a hub for windsurfers and kite surfing since the 1970s and in this quaint seaside town, just two hours outside of London, you’ll find a community of thrill seekers much like yourself.

With waist-height waters and a low tide, this surf is ideal for beginners, so if you’re looking for a bit more adventure from your beachside break, a short stay near West Wittering could be the perfect place to escape.

BEST FOR THE ‘GRAM – Wells, Norfolk

Your camera roll will never be brighter than ever after a trip to North Norfolk.

From the candy-striped deck chairs to the rainbow beach huts lining Wells-next-the-sea, you’ll get seriously snap-happy in this picture-perfect beach town.

And then there are the seriously artsy homes that are just waiting to host you at the coast this summer.

Wells property owners clearly have style in spades and have successfully captured the vibrant energy of Wells beach in summertime, to create fun and welcoming spaces for your beach holiday.

You only need scan Airbnb to see the many contemporary homes on offer that would make the ideal backdrop for your Gram-tastic beach getaway.

BEST FOR FAMILIES – Formby, Lancashire 

Reconnect with family on a trip to Formby, Lancashire this summer. Make the easy train ride out of Liverpool or a simple drive from Birmingham in under two hours and get the whole family together on a short break, where you can really enjoy some quality time.

When was the last time you got the bucket and spades out and packed a picnic for a very British day out at the beach? Well maybe it’s time to brush off the bodyboards and head for a refreshingly uncrowded spot on Formby’s glorious golden sands.

What’s more, with its very own microclimate, you could be fooled into thinking it’s more Lanzarote than Lancashire!

BEST FOR FOODIES – Outer Hebrides

The isles of Harris is a haven for food lovers – especially seafood. It’s only two hours from Edinburgh and Glasgow but you’ll instantly recognise the shift to homegrown, line-caught fresh food in the Outer Hebrides.

Once you’ve seen the azure waters of the Luskentyre beach, you’ll wonder how you ate fish from anywhere else. Hebridean salmon and scallops are among the highest prized of the island’s offerings.

But the best way to enjoy the delicacies from the seas is overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at one of the area’s finest seaview restaurants.

So, whoever said these islands feed the soul, must not have tried the seafood.

BEST FOR ROMANCE – Bamburgh, Northumberland

When was the last time the two of you took a long, romantic walk on the beach, alone? Or got to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, uninterrupted? Well, Bamburgh in Northumberland, a bolthole just north of Newcastle upon Tyne, could be the ideal place for you to reconnect.

There’s almost 30 miles of beautiful beaches to explore along the Northumberland coast. And, walled by large dunes, Bamburgh beach is so sparse you’ll be sure to find your own private spot.

So, if a spa or hotel seems to overcrowded, discover a little haven made for two with a home on Airbnb that’s got everything you need to hide away for the weekend.

BEST FOR NOSTALGIA – Southwold, Suffolk

Many argue that the charming coastal town of Southwold in Suffolk practically invented the British beach break – and it’s certainly clear why.

With an award-winning pier, a traditional lighthouse and a thriving market atmosphere, Southwold will make you feel like you’re stepping back in time with plenty of charm, and even more nostalgia.

This national treasure has lovingly held onto all of the hallmarks of a vintage seaside town, which keeps people coming back for staycations year after year.

On Airbnb, you’ll find stunning properties that are close to the beach and old town for you to enjoy for a weekend or a longer break.

The town of Southwold feels the way old seaside towns used to feel (Picture: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

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