One of England’s most beautiful beaches is unknown to even some of its locals
It might not have the reputation of some places abroad, but the UK is nonetheless home to some stunning stretches of coastline.
Whether it's the rugged beauty of Wales, or the gorgeous beaches in Cornwall, the UK can be incredible. Even way up north in the Outer Hebrides there are beaches which, in the right weather, could easily be mistaken for tropical beaches - though you'd have to get there on a sunny day.
However, one stunning beach in the UK has previously been so unknown that even many people who live nearby were not aware of its existence.
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Taking a look at the beach, with its crystal clear water and leafy green trees, you could be forgiven for thinking that this was in Italy or Greece.
But in fact, the beach is located in Devon.
The privately owned beach has been classed as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. In 2022 it also won a Blue Flag award, meaning that it is a particularly gorgeous spot if fancy a bit of swimming or exploring.
Every day, owners Blackpool Sands (Devon) Utilities Co Ltd send a team of cleaners to comb the beach over and make sure that it remains free of litter and in perfect shape.
There are also lifeguards on duty during the busier summer periods, so you can have a splash around in the water without worrying.
It has earned thousands of four and five-star reviews online, with visitors praising the beautiful sands and pristine waters.
The beach, called Blackpool Sands, is so hidden away that even some locals who have lived in the area for years were unaware of it until recently.
The Blue Flag status does mean that dogs are not permitted on the beach during the peak summer months. These run from 1 April to 30 September.
One Google reviewer was keen to sing the praises of Blackpool Sands.
They wrote: "I've lived near the south Devon coast for years now, did I ever think to come here, nope.
"Took the family down to the beach got lost and found this place, now have a favourite beach, it's quieter than the larger beaches but just as nice.
"And has the added bonus of parking almost on the beach itself. There is a little cafe and shop there too, bit pricey, but what isn't now a days."
All this talk is making me want to go for a dip. Excuse me while I go and get my swimsuit.
Kit Roberts