Instead of heading across the world to experience some sun and sand, why not look local and indulge in the Great British coastline? The North of England is home to some stunning beaches, as well as Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty like Arnside and Silverdale.
With plenty of beaches to offer, we’ve picked our top picks for beaches in the North of England to visit this year. From sandy shores to beaches off the beaten path, we’ve covered it all.
Don't forget to book your travel with Northern to get you on your way!
Southport Beach
Nearest station: Southport
A short walk from the station, Southport Beach is a 22-mile-long stretch of sand, which is perfect for any and all beach activities you can think of.
Walk among the dunes, gaze at the birds wading through the water, or get real traditional and build a sandcastle. Southport Beach is a great spot to soak in as much sun as possible before the clouds over autumn overcome us once again.
The area is an enticing spot for bird-watching fanatics, with a wide range of species frequenting the beach.
Plan a great day out and travel within walking distance to the beach with Northern. Save on train fares with our advance tickets.
Parton Beach
Nearest station: Parton
Although not as idyllic as Southport Beach, Parton Beach yields a whole different kind of fun in the form of fossils. Littered across the beach, the fossils come in many different shapes and sizes in a very easy-to-access location. This makes it perfect for kids who want to get involved in the world of history and archaeology with plentiful finds to be discovered.
Parton Beach isn’t only for fossil hunting, though; once a port for transporting coal, the remains of the port can still be found after it was destroyed in a storm in the 17th century. The area is filled with both natural and human history, making it an excellent choice for a day out in the sun.
Take the whole family for a great day trip with Northern’s family tickets!
Bridlington South Beach
Nearest station: Bridlington
With a view of the harbour on one side and a beautiful stretch of sand on the other, Bridlington South Beach is an amazing area for adults, kids, and dogs to run around to their heart's content.
There is a promenade that runs behind the beach, with many shops and eateries available, as well as chalets available for hire right on the beachfront. The beach can be busy during the summer months near the promenade, so if you’re looking for something quieter, we recommend heading further down the beach, where you’ll find the same golden sand with fewer people around.
Keep an eye on notices for whether the sea water is safe to swim in; if not, there’s always a pool near the promenade for kids to swim in. If you’re taking your dog, be aware that some areas are dog-free zones.
If you’re looking to chillax in the sun, there’s no better place than Bridlington South Beach so take the stress out of travel and grab an anytime ticket from Northern to travel on your time.
Whitehaven Beach
Nearest station: Whitehaven
Close to Parton Beach lies another sandier beach. With flower meadows surrounding the beach and town, as well as a diverse population of seabirds nesting in the cliffs around, Whitehaven Beach is a unique experience for all who decide to visit.
The beach is located just north of an RSPB sanctuary, St Bees Head, which hosts the only cliff-nesting seabird colony in the north-west of England. The colony is a mix of different species, from Fulmars to the only breeding colony of Black Guillemots in England. You’ll also have the chance to spot puffins flying about from cliff to rock.
A beach that captures the nature of the sublime, Whitehaven is a surefire pick this summer for those who want to take it easy and soak in the sun with minimal people around and an aerial show to top it off.
With Northern, you can arrive right on the doorstep of the beach and save on train fare with our cheaper same-day tickets.
Filey Beach
Nearest station: Filey
Known for its fish and chips, sandy beach, and fair weather, Filey Beach has been a premier destination for a Great British holiday for decades. With a 5-mile stretch of sparkling sand, it is less commercial than its direct neighbours in Whitby and Scarborough, offering a much more intimate experience with the same weather.
Sand isn’t all the beach has to offer with rock pools filled with various sea critters to be found all along the stretch of sand. The beach also has horseback riding as an activity, and the town of Filey is filled with independent boutiques and eateries.
If you’re looking for the weather of Scarborough but without the crowds, then Filey is the perfect option for sun, relaxation, and sand.
A great choice for a couple’s getaway with holiday homes galore and chalets dotted all along the shore, why not make travel to this luxurious destination as easy as possible with a Northern duo ticket. Take you and yours on a relaxation journey this summer.
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.