The best UK beach breaks, like this one in Cornwall, offer stunning visages that rival the Mediterranean ... if only the weather were so kind!

Although the United Kingdom may not be your initial choice for a beach holiday in the sunshine, there are certainly reasons to to make it one. With idyllic coastlines and stunning scenery, there are a multitude of hot-spots around Britain that holiday makers simply love.

Although the UK isn’t fortunate to have the climate of the tropics, it certainly does have some outstandingly beautiful sandy shorelines. Whether you’re a lover of a brisk and windy walk, wrapped up in a cosy jumper or an admirer of a quiet, sheltered bay with vivid turquoise waters, the United Kingdom certainly has something to offer for everyone.

One of the most popular destinations for holidaymakers in the UK has to be Cornwall. The beaches here are actually rated amidst some of the best in the world and their unique position on the South West peninsula means that almost 80% of Cornwall is surrounded by the sea. It’s a fabulous place for a relaxing weekend break or family holiday so why not stay in one of their infamous Holiday Cottages.

Websites like Helpful Holidays have carefully hand-picked the top self catering homes in Cornwall; most being dog friendly too! They offer everything from cosy coastal cottages to grand houses nestled in rolling green countryside. If you’re after a place to stay along the shore, somewhere with picture-perfect scenery out of every window, Cornwall is definitely our top pick for a UK Beach Break.

Next on the list we have Torquay, otherwise known as The English Riviera. Here you’ll find everything a good coastal holiday should offer: award winning beaches, a wealth of visitor attractions, great value accommodation, activities for all the family and a fabulous night life.

This seaside town in Devon was originally based upon agriculture and fishing, however, since the early 19th century, this town fringed with palm trees became a very fashionable place for holidaymakers to visit. As Torquay’s fame spread, it quickly became a favourite spot of the creme de la creme of English Victorian society, this is how it earned its nickname of The English Riviera.

If you’re travelling around Scotland, you simply have to visit The Isle of Harris, in particular Huisini’s beach. Located around 30 miles off the North-West coast of Scotland, nothing can quite prepare you for the beauty of this location. This little gem hosts some of the most spectacular scenery and elegant shorelines. There are no bright gaudy deckchairs or ice-cream vans here, just pure, uninterrupted white sand and bright turquoise waters, even on a dull day.

The only way to the beach is a single track road on the mountainous North Coast and behind the beach sits green rolling plains adorned with wild flowers in the Summer. The beach also has secretive views across the Atlantic to the uninhabited island of Scarp. There are a number of places to stay for the perfect beach break, why not check out this great guide from Explore Harris in order to make your match.