UK's 'most beautiful seaside town' is unsung spot with 'overlooked' beach
Weymouth in Dorset has been named as an "unsung beach town" despite its stunning beach and range of activities on offer, making it a great place to visit this summer
As the summer season approaches, many are eager to unwind on a beautiful beach, and the good news is that you don't have to venture far in the UK to find an incredible destination. Weymouth in Dorset, England has previously been hailed by the Guardian as an "unsung beach town" - a hidden gem that's often overshadowed by its more popular neighbouring resorts.
The publication claimed: "While its wide, sheltered beach is consistently voted among the nation's favourites, the town itself is often overlooked in favour of its trendier seaside neighbours".
Despite not being the trendiest of spots, Weymouth is a haven for beach enthusiasts, boasting crystal-clear waters, golden sands, and proximity to the breathtaking white cliffs of the Jurassic Coast, a World Heritage site.
Visitors to Weymouth beach can enjoy an array of activities, from traditional Punch and Judy shows and donkey rides to adrenaline-pumping water sports like jet skiing and paddleboarding, reports the Express.
The beach also features a historic promenade, offering stunning coastal views, as well as a range of shops, cafes, and restaurants, making it easy to indulge in a plate of fish and chips after a day soaking up the sun.
Throughout August, a funfair will be setting up shop at Weymouth Beach, bringing with it an array of amusement rides, sideshows, and a dazzling firework display.
Adjacent to the promenade, you'll find the stunning Greenhill Gardens, boasting spectacular coastal views, vibrant floral displays and a quaint cafe for those seeking a tranquil spot to soak up the sun.
Weymouth beach offers something for everyone, but the town is also renowned for its historic harbour. Dating back to the 13th century, it's famed as the original entry point of the Black Death into Britain.
The harbour isn't just a must-visit for history buffs; it's also visually striking, surrounded by colourful Victorian buildings and boats. It's an ideal spot for snapping photos or enjoying lunch while taking in the picturesque views.
History enthusiasts and fans of stunning vistas should also consider a trip to Nothe Fort in Weymouth. This well-preserved 18th-century fort houses a museum, a nuclear shelter, and a network of underground tunnels.
Offering breathtaking views of Weymouth Bay, the fort also hosts guided tours and special events throughout the year, including ghost hunts, making it a fantastic place to visit.
Nature lovers will also be drawn to Weymouth's Radipole Lake Nature Reserve. Nestled in the heart of the town, this wildlife sanctuary features nature trails where visitors can spot a variety of bird species, otters, and more.
Additionally, the serene Bennetts Water Gardens offers a Japanese-style garden boasting an impressive collection of water lilies scattered across numerous ponds, lakes and streams within the grounds.
Visitors can embark on a guided boat tour through the gardens, explore the museum, and even indulge in afternoon tea at a cafe with picturesque views of the gardens for a truly scenic lunch.
Regardless of your holiday preferences, Weymouth has something to offer everyone. Despite not being as well-known as other neighbouring towns, it boasts an incredibly beautiful beach, making it an ideal destination for a summer visit.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
North Wales Live
3 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Unsung market town in Wales that's great for hiking, biking and epic Sunday lunches
As I navigated the rolling hills of Mid Wales, the scenery began to subtly transform. The narrow roads meandered through steep valleys, alongside dense forests, and over historic stone bridges that crossed swift streams. After journeying past farmlands and small clusters of homes, I found myself in Rhayader, the first town on the River Wye. Rhayader is a hidden gem, home to the stunning dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. This underrated market town is a perfect base for biking, hiking and wildlife spotting. It has stayed true to its agricultural heritage and remains a vital hub for the farming community, with a bustling livestock market serving a large rural area. Historically, Rhayader has been a rest stop for weary travellers in Mid Wales, serving as a staging post for drovers and those journeying the lengthy route from London to Aberystwyth, reports Wales Online. Today, it's known as the gateway to the Elan Valley, located just outside the expansive estate. It's a handy base with a variety of independent shops, cafés, and pubs, and also brands itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales'. This spot is certainly one of my favourite places in Wales for an exhilarating bike ride followed by a hearty Sunday lunch at one of the many local pubs. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone Here's how to make the most of a visit to Rhayader. Shopping The main street hosts a compact shopping area where you can peruse a range of antiques, local crafts, prints, pottery, upcycled clothing, and local souvenirs. Hafod Hardware, a family-run hardware store with a vintage feel that has been in operation since 1895, is one of the more unique shopping experiences available here. In addition to standard DIY items and kitchenware, you can also find vintage-style tourism prints of Wales and, rather more predictably, specially-made Elan Valley mugs and chocolate bars. Quillies, a local craft shop, is worth a visit for its beautiful locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery and fused glass. Family-run No 8 Clothing offers a retail fix with men's, women's, and children's clothing, accessories and gifts across two floors. It stocks well-known brands such as Joules, Brakeburn, Seasalt, Soya Concept, Mistral, Joe Browns, Wrangler, Pachamama, Jellycat, and Powder. River Wood is a glorious place - the UK's only gallery-bookshop dedicated solely to wildlife and wild places, filled with original paintings, prints, cards, and books. Upstairs, there's a working artist's studio and space for creative workshops. For outdoor gear, Hill Walking provides a good selection of clothing, boots, and accessories from brands like Urban Road, Game, Regatta, Trespass, and Craghoppers, all suitable for walking in Wales' unpredictable weather conditions. Explore the dams Rhayader serves as the entrance to the stunning Elan Valley, home to the area's Victorian dams nestled amongst rolling green hills. Constructed over a century ago to quench the thirst of a rapidly urbanising Birmingham, these unique gravity dams attract photographers from far and wide, eager to capture their cascading waters. The tale of the Elan Valley originates in the late 19th century when Birmingham, a bustling city at the peak of the industrial revolution, was expanding at an unprecedented rate. In desperate need of a reliable and clean water source, engineers turned their attention to the remote Elan Valley. With its high rainfall and steep, narrow landscape, the valley was the ideal location for a series of reservoirs. In 1892, one of the most ambitious water supply projects of its era commenced. Over 3,000 workers were employed to construct dams, reservoirs and aqueducts by hand, aided by steam-powered machinery. By the time the project was completed in 1904, the Elan Valley had undergone a significant transformation. Four main dams were built – Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen y Garreg, and Craig Goch. Each dam is a feat of engineering, constructed from local stone and designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. For instance, the Caban Coch Dam, viewed from afar, appears to be a natural cliff face. However, up close, its sheer size and the sound of water tumbling over its edge are nothing short of breathtaking. The reservoirs themselves, vast and deep bodies of water, mirror the surrounding hills and sky, creating a picturesque spot. A map of the estate can be obtained from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, where staff are also on hand to suggest scenic routes to view the dams. The optimal time to leisurely drive around the estate is after heavy rainfall - a common occurrence in Wales - when the reservoir water cascades over the steep, 'Birmingham Baroque'-style structures. Fancy being guided by a local expert? You can arrange a custom tour of the Elan Valley and the Cambrian Mountains area with Cambrian Safaris and discover all the hidden nooks with a local guide. Stay updated Cycle the Elan Valley trail One of the top ways to explore Elan Valley is by walking or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail. This 13-mile (21km) path traces the route of the old railway that transported materials to the valley during the dam's construction. Today, a well-kept trail meanders through some of the valley's most scenic spots. Starting in the quaint village of Cwmdeuddwr, just west of Rhayader, you'll follow the old Birmingham Corporation Railway line, perfectly situated to showcase Elan's finest Victorian dams. The linear trail is mostly level, save for a few inclines, with several tarmacked stretches making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, including older children. If you fancy a bit of assistance on your journey, why not hire an E-bike in Rhayader and glide through the valley with ease? For those without their own bikes, the market town of Rhayader offers rental services from Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes. With the trail taking approximately three hours to complete, a half-day bike hire should provide ample time for photo opportunities and coffee breaks. The route ascends 165ft from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, passing the awe-inspiring Caban Coch and Garreg Ddu reservoirs. When full, millions of gallons of water tumble over the historic 120ft-high dam walls of Cabin Coch – a sight worth capturing on camera. Go Wildlife watching Rhayader is ideally situated for wildlife spotting, being adjacent to the wildlife-rich Elan Valley where red kites can often be seen soaring above the town. The nearby Elan Estate is owned by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, but a significant portion is vested in the Elan Valley Trust. While its primary function is to provide clean water, it also serves as a meticulously managed beauty spot for visitors. Over 80% of the valley is designated a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), teeming with wildlife and boasting remarkable landscapes. The Elan Valley is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats and meticulous management. The valley's forests, moorlands, and wetlands are home to a diverse range of species including birds, mammals, insects and plants. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety of species that can be spotted here. Waterfowl such as tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and goosanders are drawn to the reservoirs, while woodpeckers and nuthatches inhabit the surrounding woods. The expansive moorland serves as a hunting ground for birds of prey, with red kites, buzzards, and occasionally peregrine falcons seen soaring high above. For a closer view of the resident red kites, head to Gigrin Farm, renowned for its red kite feeding. Situated half a mile from Rhayader, hundreds of red kites feed here, making it the best spot in the UK to see and photograph these magnificent birds (including the rare leucistic red kites). Small-scale cattle farming also plays a vital role in the Elan Valley. Today, only a few farms continue this practice. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll spot cattle grazing freely on the open hills and in some enclosed habitats. The flora of the Elan Valley is equally impressive. Dense forests house ancient oaks and the moorlands are blanketed in a mix of heather, bilberry, and mosses. In the spring and summer, the valley's meadows come alive with wildflowers, adding a burst of colour to the landscape. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Try stargazing Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley boast some of the world's darkest, clearest, and least polluted skies? The Elan Valley, with its 45,000 acres of safeguarded land, has been at the forefront of this movement since it was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned yet publicly-accessible park globally to achieve this. This prestigious status now ensures that the Elan Valley is shielded from light pollution, providing a safe haven for the wealth of wildlife and nature found within the estate. Since receiving its dark sky designation, the Elan Valley is now acknowledged as one of the premier stargazing destinations worldwide and has been highlighted in numerous stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does this mean in pactice? Simply put, it means minimal light pollution and such clear skies that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's secluded location and considerate conservation efforts make it an exceptional spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here, you'll discover several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky, whether you're a casual observer or a passionate astrophotographer. Craig Goch Dam car park: A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam: Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools: Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. Pont ar Elan: Easily accessible yet wonderfully secluded, it's a fantastic spot to gaze at constellations or catch a meteor shower. Bring a red-light torch to maintain your night vision and allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the full experience. For a more engaging experience, consider attending organised stargazing events in the area to connect with the cosmos or try your hand at astrophotography. The Elan Valley Trust and Dark Sky Wales regularly host guided tours and workshops offering expert insights and access to telescopes. For dark sky events, check out the Elan Valley's What's On webpage, Facebook (ElanValley), and Instagram (@elanvalley). Eating and drinking in Rhayader Pop into The Lost ARC for lunch and coffee in this quirky community café. Be sure to order my favourite – a delicious Welsh rarebit consisting of toasted bread covered in warm, mature cheddar, Welsh ale, and a touch of laverbread and mustard. They also offer coffee, cakes, light lunches, and a wide selection of vegan options. By evening, this trendy establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop providing a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Give their incredibly tasty chicken curry made from a family recipe a try. For a hearty Sunday lunch, make your way to The Crown for generous servings of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch as Mam would make it – no-nonsense, satisfying, and with plenty of gravy. You certainly won't leave hungry. The Historic Triangle, a beautiful 16th-century drover's inn located in Cwmdauddwr, is a short stroll away. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. Another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries is The Lamb and Flag, while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader, Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader, making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans is a delightful spot that boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, serving everything from hearty Welsh breakfasts to evening meals. Its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Just a short drive from the Elan Valley, the Elan Valley Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a boutique hotel setting. Here, guests can enjoy well-furnished rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is famed for its exceptional menu, which uses locally-sourced ingredients to provide a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's the ideal location for easy access to the Elan Valley's numerous trails and reservoirs, all while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily reachable from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving, Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (around two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into Mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside, so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Train and bus services are available, albeit limited due to the rural location. The closest train station is situated in Llandrindod Wells, approximately 12 miles away, with connections provided by Transport for Wales. From there, a local bus can be taken to reach Rhayader. For further details and timetables, consult Traveline Cymru or utilise transport apps to assist in planning your journey.
Western Telegraph
8 hours ago
- Western Telegraph
Beer only Cresselly Arms in Pembrokeshire named pub of week
The Grade II listed Cresselly Arms in Cresswell Quay is a 250-year-old riverside pub with a Victorian public bar dating back to the 1880s. The pub, which won the Pembrokeshire CAMRA Pub of the Year awards in 2015 and 2024, and was named the Wales CAMRA Pub of the Year 2024, has retained much of its original charm over the years. Not only is it Grade II listed, but it has a cosy farm kitchen interior, complete with a red and black quarry-tiled floor, a roaring open cast-iron fireplace, and Victorian-era counter and bar-back shelves. It serves a wide selection of beers and lagers, including its popular Quay Ale, but it does not serve food. (Image: Supplied) However, it sometimes hosts barbecue events outside during the summer months, and it partners with street food vendors like Feast Pembrokeshire and We Love Curry to cater for customers. The Cresselly Arms can be reached by boat from the Milford Haven estuary or by paddleboard at high tide, and it's just a short drive from Tenby. It's also situated on several walking routes, making it a favourite spot for hikers. A spokesperson from the Cresselly Arms said: "On a bright summer's day, the pub provides the perfect setting to watch the sun set over the estuary - that is, if you're lucky enough to snag a table." The pub is a sanctuary for both locals and tourists, hosting community events and offering four cask beers. (Image: Supplied) It also has a homely farm kitchen interior, where a fire burns in the hearth. It is accessible by boat from the Milford Haven estuary at high tide and lies on a series of interesting walking routes. A spokesperson added: "Given its prime location, it's no surprise that this popular pub gets crowded when the weather is warm." The pub also boasts a Victorian public bar, which dates back to the 1880s and has retained much of its original charm over the years. The pub is a Grade II listed Pembrokeshire heritage pub.
Scottish Sun
10 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland
Scroll down to find the seven most unique overnight stays across Scotland RELAXING RETREATS From luxury castles to rustic brochs – seven of the most unique overnight stays across Scotland Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) SUMMER has officially arrived, and if a trip abroad isn't in the cards, then there are plenty of unique staycations to choose from. With the season starting off rather dreich, a getaway is often the perfect remedy for the June gloom. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 15 If a trip abroad isn't on the cards, then a staycay is often just as good Credit: Alamy From luxury castle stays to rustic brochs or even monasteries, here are seven of the most unique overnights across the country. Fingal Hotel, Water of Leith, Edinburgh 15 Fingal Hotel is a Northern Lighthouse Board Ship turned floating hotel Credit: Alamy 15 Each room is beautifully decorated Credit: Visit Scotland This former Northern Lighthouse Board ship, now a floating hotel, features 22 luxurious cabins that promise an unforgettable stay. Permanently berthed along the picturesque Leith waterfront, this five-star vessel offers breathtaking views of twinkling city lights as you drift off to sleep. Each room is beautifully decorated and comes equipped with a lavish king-size bed and rain showers. The onboard Lighthouse Restaurant is a culinary gem, recognised with 2AA Rosettes. The Brochs of Coigach, Achiltibuie, Highlands 15 The Brochs of Coigach are situated in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Both properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled in one of Britain's most stunning National Scenic Areas, The Brochs of Coigach offer an unparalleled luxury getaway. These roundhouse buildings are modern interpretations of ancient brochs, offering views of the rugged coastline and majestic highland mountains. Set on four acres at the end of a private farm track, each broch is decorated with original works from renowned contemporary Scottish artists. Inside Binky Felstead's getaway to Spencer Matthews' lavish Scots family estate Both self-catering properties feature saunas and expansive panoramic observation areas, ideal for wildlife watching. Despite their secluded setting, the charming retreats are conveniently close to a highly-rated restaurant. You can also enjoy various activities such as hill climbing, sea kayaking, sailing, surfing and motor cruises. The Monastery, Fort Augustus, Highlands 15 The Monastery in Fort Augustus is a the perfect retreat to unwind and recharge Credit: Visit Scotland 15 It is a spacious one bedroom apartment Credit: Visit Scotland Situated in a striking monastery building in Fort Augustus, this venue is an exceptional retreat to unwind and recharge. The spacious one-bedroom apartment boasts a double-height living room with Gothic-style windows, an open-plan kitchen and a stunning master bedroom offering breathtaking views over Loch Ness. The luxurious bathroom features a soaking tub and underfloor heating for added comfort. On-site amenities include a heated indoor pool, a games room, and captivating vistas. Guests can explore nearby whiskey trails, take scenic countryside walks to the local pub or even try their luck at spotting Nessie. The Suites at Urquhart Church, Elgin, Moray 15 The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church sleep up to 11 guests Credit: Visit Scotland 15 Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings Credit: Visit Scotland The Sanctuary Apartments at the Suites at Urquhart Church are the perfect place for a bit of peace and quiet. The apartments sleep between two and eleven guests, making it an ideal retreat for couples, families or groups of friends. Each apartment is thoughtfully designed with cosy furnishings and modern amenities. The converted church is surrounded by nearly two acres of rolling farmland. The picturesque gardens include a pond, a charming waterfall, and a stream that meanders through the landscape. In the Moray region, there are plenty of attractions to explore, such as centuries-old whisky distilleries, the historic Elgin Cathedral and beautiful white sandy beaches. Chaffeur's Apartment, Lochinch Castle, Stranraer 15 The Chaffeur's Apartment is located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle Credit: Alamy 15 It was originally the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur Credit: Visit Scotland The Chaffeur's Apartment, located in the Victorian Stable Courtyard of Lochinch Castle in Stranraer, is a newly refurbished three-bedroom self-catering accommodation. Originally serving as the residence for the Earl and Countess of Stair's chauffeur, it maintains some of its historical features while incorporating modern upgrades. Guests will enjoy breathtaking views of the White Loch and the turreted Lochinch Castle. The apartment includes three spacious bedrooms, an open-plan living room with a log fire and all essential amenities. Guests have unlimited access to the stunning Castle Kennedy Gardens, which are open to the public from 10am to 5pm, February to October. Visitors can partake in a variety of activities, such as pony riding, exploring a nearby chocolate factory or mountain biking in the surrounding area. Rua Reidh Lighthouse, Gairloch, Wester Ross 15 Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe Credit: Alamy 15 The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat Credit: Visit Scotland Rua Reidh Lighthouse is a functioning lighthouse located at the entrance to Loch Ewe - making it perfect for a secluded getaway. First lit in 1912, this Stevenson lighthouse provides breathtaking views across the Minch to Skye, the Shiants and the Outer Hebrides. The former Keepers' Quarters have been converted into a cosy retreat featuring two ensuite bedrooms, both with stunning sea views. It's a dream destination for nature lovers as sightings of whales, dolphins and basking sharks are not uncommon. Bracken Treehouse, St Andrews, Fife 15 Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway Credit: Alix McIntosh 15 It features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light Credit: Visit Scotland Nestled among the treetops, Bracken Treehouse is a romantic adults-only hideaway set in an ancient 36-acre woodland. It sleeps two guests and features a stargazing window and is designed to maximise natural light. Modern amenities include a fully equipped kitchen, a flushing toilet and a shower with panoramic views of the surrounding canopy. While it offers a serene and tranquil retreat in the beautiful Fife countryside, there's easy access to the picturesque East Neuk, St Andrews, and Dundee is just a short distance away.
