The beaches near Greater Manchester named best in the UK as the summer holidays approach

Just in time for the school holidays, the UK’s best beaches have been named by The Sunday Times in their annual list. Among the 50 beaches featured are several within a three hour drive of Greater Manchester and one which is only an hour away.

This year’s list was the first one to be nominated by readers and each of the beaches have been visited and inspected within the past eight weeks. The sites, all of which have received “excellent” ratings by the Environment Agency (apart from those not rated - although pollution was assessed at these locations), were inspected on numerous factors including cleanliness, accessibility and parking facilities.

The ever-popular Formby Beach in Merseyside has made the cut - the only beach in the North West to feature on the list. Much-loved for its beautiful sand dunes and pine woods, The Sunday Times described it as “wild and fascinating”. The beach is just an hour’s drive away from Greater Manchester so it’s perfect for a day trip this summer.

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Included in the list are several beaches in North Wales, all just under a three hour drive away from Greater Manchester. The stunning Barmouth beach in Gwynedd has gorgeous views of nearby mountains, including Cadair Idris, while visitors are urged to keep an eye out for dolphins swimming offshore.

Llanbedrog, on the Llyn Peninsula, has earned a spot on the list thanks to its “huge sheltered beach” and “relaxed feel”. Meanwhile Traeth Penllech - also found on the Llyn Peninsula - is also included. Described as “one of Wale’s most secret beaches”, one reader recommended it for it’s vast sandy beach which is ideal for making sandcastles.

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