10 Best Beaches in England to Escape the Crowds

When you think of English beaches, your mind might jump to bustling Brighton on a sunny bank holiday or the cramped Cornish ‘hidden gems’ that everybody seems to know about. But England also hides quiet corners of coastal paradise — unspoiled, less touristy, and absolutely breathtaking. Whether you’re craving dramatic cliffs, golden sands, or turquoise waters, these beaches offer the peace and space that busy tourist hotspots can’t.

Here are 10 of the best beaches in England to avoid the crowds, with tips on parking, accessibility and information about their dog policy’s.

1. Nanjizal Beach, Cornwall

Tucked away near Land’s End, Nanjizal (also known as Mill Bay) is a wild, remote beach accessible only by foot. Its iconic rock arch, the “Song of the Sea,” and scattered caves make it one of Cornwall’s most photogenic spots. It’s untouched, with no facilities — which keeps the crowds at bay.

Parking Advice: Park at the Lands End car park and walk along the coast path (about 30–40 minutes).

Postcode: TR19 7AA

Is Nanjizal Beach Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are welcome year-round. It’s a natural, off-leash spot, but watch for livestock on the walking route.

2. Great Bay, St Martin’s (Isles of Scilly)

Remote and untouched, Great Bay on St Martin’s in the Isles of Scilly is a white-sand paradise often completely deserted. Obviously, not being mainland means it’s less accessible for tourists and therefore you will find many untouched hidden gems on the Isles of Scilly. You might need to pay for a flight or ferry but the tranquility is worth it!

Parking Advice: Park in Penzance (e.g., Harbour Car Park – TR18 2GB), then ferry or fly to St Martin’s.

Postcode (Mainland): TR18 2GB

Is Great Bay Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are welcome all year, but must be under control due to nesting birds and local wildlife.

3. Saunton Sands, Devon

With its huge 3-mile stretch and rolling dunes, Saunton is perfect for a peaceful walk or surf, and while the main car park can get busy, there’s always space on the beach to spread out.

Parking Advice: Large beach car park available at the main entrance.

Postcode: EX33 1LG

Is Saunton Sands Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are welcome all year. It’s one of the most dog-friendly beaches in Devon, with no restrictions.

4. Steephill Cove, Isle of Wight

A charming, car-free cove near Ventnor, Steephill has crab shacks and sea views, and a gentle, nostalgic atmosphere.

Parking Advice: Park at Ventnor Botanic Garden or Ventnor Esplanade, then walk (10–15 minutes).

Postcode: PO38 1UL

Is Steephill Cove Dog Friendly? : No — dogs are not allowed from 1 May to 30 September. They are welcome in the off-season.

5. Ringstead Bay, Dorset

Ringstead Bay offers shingle beaches and cliff walks along the Jurassic Coast. Quieter than Durdle Door, it’s ideal for fossil hunting and views.

Parking Advice: National Trust car park available above the beach.

Postcode: DT2 8NG

Is Ringstead Bay Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are allowed all year, but must be kept on leads near livestock or cliff paths.

6. Portheras Cove Beach, Cornwall

A wild, rugged cove near Pendeen, Portheras is a peaceful beach reached by foot. It’s popular with locals — and seals. If Seals are occupying Portheras cove it is very important that you do not disturb them.

Parking Advice: Park near Pendeen Lighthouse and follow the coast path (approx. 20 minutes).

Postcode: TR19 7EB

Is Portheras Cove Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are allowed year-round. Keep them close due to steep cliffs and seal activity.

7. Porth Joke (aka Polly Joke), Cornwall

Tucked between Holywell and Crantock, this small cove is quiet, family-friendly, and framed by wildflowers in spring. With the better known and more accessible beaches taking the limelight, Porth Joke usually remains much more peaceful.

Parking Advice: Use West Pentire car park and walk down to the beach via the footpath (10–15 minutes).

Postcode: TR8 5SE

Is Porth Joke Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are welcome year-round. A great spot for off-lead beach time.

8. Pedn Vounder Beach, Cornwall

This tidal beach below the cliffs of Treryn Dinas offers aquamarine waters and golden sands with a dramatic setting. Its steep cliff path access means it’s usually quiet. It’s definitely less busy than it’s counterpart, Porthcurno and some of the other big name beaches in Cornwall.

Parking Advice: Park at Porthcurno Car Park and walk the coastal path east (15–20 minutes).

Postcode: TR19 6JX

Is Pedn Vounder Dog Friendly? : Yes — dogs are allowed all year, but access is challenging, so only bring confident walkers.

9. Bossington Beach, Somerset

A long peaceful pebble beach within Exmoor National Park, surrounded by marshes and unspoilt countryside. Bossington is a beautiful stretch of the south west coast path and features many walks with gorgeous coastal views

Parking Advice: Use the National Trust car park in Bossington village (20-minute walk to the beach).

Postcode: TA24 8HQ

Is Bossington Beach Dog Friendly: Yes — dogs are allowed all year, but must be on leads near farmland and wildlife.

10. Marsden Bay, South Tyneside

Striking cliffs, caves, and the famous Marsden Grotto pub-in-a-cliff make this beach unique and atmospheric. The beach is very unique and boasts is ‘Algarve like’ apostles.

Parking Advice: Park at the Marsden Grotto car park, right above the beach.

Postcode: NE34 7BS

Is Marsden Bay Dog Friendly: Yes — dogs are allowed year-round, but the beach is rocky and tide-dependent, so take care.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re a solo adventurer or bringing a four-legged friend, these hidden beaches in England are perfect for peaceful getaways. From quiet Cornish coves to tranquil Dorset shores, their beauty is best enjoyed without the crowds!