Northcott Mouth beach

The walk down to Northcott Mouth takes longer than you'd expect - rough coastal path, a bit of scrambling, proper steep in places. But that's rather the point. This north Cornwall beach doesn't get mobbed because it demands effort, and the reward is a proper dramatic cove with high cliffs either side and golden sand that gets swallowed by tide twice daily.

It's a swimmer's beach when conditions allow, though the Atlantic can be bracing and the rip currents need respect. Surfers occasionally venture here, but the reef and rocks mean it's not reliable. Families with young kids might find the access annoying - there's no facilities, no car park right at the top, just that relentless descent. Older children who like a real walk and the chance to explore rock pools will get hours out of it.

Walkers benefit most. The coastal path offers stunning views before you drop down, and you can string together a longer route along the cliffs if the beach itself isn't enough. Allow two to three hours if you're taking your time and actually paddling.

Stay at Wooda Farm Holiday Park, just 1.7 miles away - it's highly rated and puts you within easy reach of Bude's amenities whilst keeping you quiet enough to appreciate spots like this. Atlantic Horizons is further out but excellent if you want proper peace. Go early in summer to dodge the crowd, or autumn when the light's better and you've got the place to yourself.