Nearest Beach to Birmingham, UK: 11 Must-Visit Beaches Near the West Midlands

Looking for the nearest beach from Birmingham UK?

As the second largest city in England, Birmingham is known for its vibrant culture, buzzing nightlife, and as the historic birthplace of the Industrial Revolution. 

But with its inland location in the West Midlands, beaches can feel like a world away for Birmingham residents.

Having grown up in Birmingham, I used to spend my childhood summers escaping the city and enjoying nostalgic family vacations at iconic spots like Blackpool and Weston-super-Mare, as well as along the Welsh coast, and more recently, hiking the south English coast.

So this guide offers an insight into the best beaches that are nearest to Birmingham from personal experience.

Essential UK Checklist:

✅ An excellent pair of walking shoes (for all that walking and hiking)
✅ A decent raincoat (it rains a lot here)
✅ A hoodie or warm sweater (it’s quite windy and can get cold here)
✅ A good quality compact camera (for taking great pics)

Luckily, some of the country’s best beaches are just a reasonable drive from Birmingham. With sandy shores, picturesque piers, and charming seaside towns, these nearby beach destinations offer the perfect seaside escape without traveling too far from home.

From renowned English resort beaches to hidden gems on the Welsh coast, here are my 11 best recommendations for best beaches near Birmingham, UK, and what makes each one worth the trip:

Closest Beach to Birmingham, UK: 11 Stunning Beaches

Complete guide to the best beaches near Birmingham UK, including top family-friendly beaches near Birmingham for a day trip, distance, how to get there, and more.

1. Weston-super-Mare, Somerset

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 106 miles (2 hours)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

Located just 2 hours from Birmingham in Somerset, Weston-super-Mare is one of the closest beach resorts to the city. With its expansive sandy beach overlooking the Bristol Channel, Weston-super-Mare has been a beloved seaside destination since Victorian times.

Having grown up in Birmingham, I recall many visits to Weston-super-Mare as a kid and can attest to the soft golden sands and vibrant seaside atmosphere that makes the beach so beloved.

The beach stretches over 3 km from the Grand Pier to the nature reserve of Sand Point. Made up of soft golden sand, the beach is lined with Victorian shelters, beach huts, and gardens.

In town, visitors can ride the Grand Pier’s amusements, catch an outdoor show, or sample fish and chips by the sea. The recently rejuvenated beachfront features the SeaQuarium aquarium, a new observation wheel, and improved facilities.

Weston-super-Mare Beach makes for the perfect day trip from Birmingham for families, with shallow waters for swimming, donkey rides, and close access from the M5 motorway.

2. Thurstaston Beach, Wirral Peninsula

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 90 miles (2 hours 15 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

Part of the Wirral Country Park, this scenic beach is one of the more picturesque beaches near Birmingham for a weekend getaway.

Backed by dramatic sandstone cliffs, the sandy shoreline overlooks the Dee Estuary with views across to North Wales. At low tide, the beach extends out to reveal rock pools, sandbars, and thick mudflats.

As a protected natural habitat, Thurstaston is especially great for nature lovers as one of the best natural beaches near Birmingham with wildlife sightings. Rangers lead wildlife walks to spot shorebirds and marine life.

Facilities include a large pay parking lot, toilets, a cafe, and refreshment kiosk. The quaint village of Thurstaston is nearby for pubs, cafes, and accommodation.

3. Barry Island, South Wales

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 120 miles (2 hours 20 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

For many Birmingham residents, Barry Island in South Wales is the classic, family-friendly beach holiday destination that has entertained generations of visitors with its seaside amusements, fish and chips, and sandy coastline.

Located on a small peninsula in the Bristol Channel, Barry Island offers over 4 km of soft golden sand for picnicking, swimming, and sunbathing. At one end, Whitmore Bay is backed by beach huts and lined with mini golf, amusement arcades and fairground rides.

The main attraction is Barry Island Pleasure Park with old-fashioned seaside rides like the log flume and teacup ride. The promenade comes alive at night with light displays. Nostalgic chalet cafes serve ice cream, candy floss, and British seaside favorites.

With its holiday vibes and proximity to Birmingham, Barry Island remains a top choice for a classic beach day out and is also one of the top beaches near Cardiff. And the train station makes it easily accessible for car-free trips.

4. Blackpool Beach

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 129 miles (2 hours 30 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

For a proper seaside resort experience just a couple hours from Birmingham, the famous beaches of Blackpool can’t be beaten, and to be honest, this is the beach I have the most vivid memories of visiting.

Located in Lancashire, the iconic beaches here have been attracting visitors since the mid-1800s. Stretching 6 miles along the Irish Sea, Blackpool’s sandy beaches are flanked by the lively promenade, fairground rides, vendors, and the colorful Blackpool Tower. 

Kids will love building sandcastles, riding donkeys, and playing on the safe bathing beach. When the tide goes out, the firm sand is perfect for beach games, kites, and walking.

Illuminations light up the promenade from September through November, with fireworks, live performances, and decorated trams. Beachside hotels, B&Bs, and cafes line the bustling seafront for a classic seaside holiday atmosphere.

Having visited Blackpool during many a summer holiday, I can confirm the nostalgic charm of these iconic beaches never fades, from the rollercoaster rides to the fish and chips on the pier.

5. Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, Wales

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 123 miles (2 hours 30 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

Those seeking more secluded beaches near Birmingham for a peaceful escape should head to the Welsh coast at Aberystwyth, about 2 and a half hours from Birmingham.

This vibrant university town is surrounded by rugged cliffs and over 8 miles of sandy beaches along Cardigan Bay.

The main beach is a huge 1.5 mile stretch of soft golden sand lined with a Victorian promenade and colorful beach huts. At low tide, the shoreline expands dramatically, revealing rock pools and miles of sand. Swimmers should be mindful of rip currents near the harbor mouth.

Want to escape the crowds? Head north to the more secluded beaches around Constitution Hill and north of the castle. Trek up Constitution Hill for sweeping views across Aberystwyth and Cardigan Bay.

Facilities include cafes, hotels, public toilets and beachside parking. The central beach has RNLI lifeguards on duty in summer.

6. Llanddwyn beach, Anglesey, Wales

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 175 miles (3 hours)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

Found on the southwest coast of Anglesey in North Wales, Llanddwyn is a spectacular stretch of sand perfect for Birmingham beach-seekers. The 3-mile beach overlooks the Menai Strait with views of Snowdonia.

Llanddwyn is part of Newborough Warren, a nature reserve habitat for wild ponies and diverse birdlife. Walk in the footsteps of patron saint Dwynwen along the scenic pilgrimage trail across the dunes.

At low tide, the beach extends dramatically to reveal long stretches of rippled sand and rock pools. The east end at Rhosneigr offers excellent surf and bodyboarding spots. The Ffynnon Dewi outflow creates a safe sheltered area for swimming.

With a rugged, unspoiled landscape and lack of major development, Llanddwyn feels a world away yet is surprisingly accessible from Birmingham for a beach getaway.

I fondly remember Welsh family holidays exploring the unspoiled shores and diverse wildlife of Llanddwyn during my childhood.

7. Poole, Dorset

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 149 miles (2 hours 40 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

On the south coast of England, Poole offers beautiful sandy beaches and scenic coastal walks. As part of the Jurassic Coast, Poole’s beaches overlook scenic sandstone cliffs and the protected harborside.

Poole Beach has a contemporary waterfront with a new marina complex lining the expansive harbor. Sandbanks Beach is a more tranquil option, with golden soft sands sheltered by dunes and pine trees. At low tide, the shoreline expands dramatically with rock pools to discover.

Did you know: Poole’s beaches are excellent for paddleboarding. Here are the Top Paddleboarding Spots around the UK

Take the chain ferry from Sandbanks across to Studland Bay for four more kilometers of dunes and family-friendly beach backed by South West Coast Path trails and a nature reserve. Spot the Banksy and enjoy an ice cream in the dune-top cafe.

8. Borth, Ceredigion, Wales

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 163 miles (3 hours)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

For an escape to the peaceful Ceredigion coastline of mid-Wales, visit the quaint seaside village of Borth. With rugged cliffs and a huge sandy beach, Borth is great for surfing, hiking, and beachcombing.

Borth Beach runs 2 km along Cardigan Bay, strewn with unique timber remnants that provide insights into the submerged ancient forest offshore. South Beach is more sheltered for sunbathing and swimming.

Nearby nature reserves offer scenic clifftop trails to discover waterfalls, coves, caves, and diverse coastal wildlife. Head to Clarach Bay for quieter sands in the shadow of Constitution Hill.

As an avid hiker, I frequently escape to the rugged cliffs and secluded coves around Borth and Aberystwyth to enjoy miles of peaceful coastal trails.

Stay at one of the simple local hotels, guest houses, or campgrounds. Be sure to sample ‘caws Borth’, the local soft cheese, at the village deli.

9. West Kirby Beach

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 92 miles (2 hours)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

On the northeast corner of the Wirral Peninsula in the Dee Estuary, West Kirby Beach provides a peaceful coastal escape just 2 hours from Birmingham. Part of the Wirral Coastal Park, the beach has plenty of facilities and charm.

Gently sloping sands provide safe paddling and swimming for families, with stunning views across to Wales and Hilbre Islands. Located by a Marine Lake popular for watersports, the beach offers sailing, kayaking, and kitesurfing opportunities.

Stroll along the promenade to the cafes and amusements of West Kirby, or take the 15-minute ferry to Hilbre Island. At low tide, West Kirby Beach connects to Little Eye nature reserve, with excellent walking trails.

With its easy accessibility from the M56 and family-friendly atmosphere, West Kirby makes an enjoyable day trip or weekend break from Birmingham for beach and watersports fans.

10. Burnham-on-Sea Beach

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 106 miles (2 hours)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

On the Somerset coast overlooking the Bristol Channel, Burnham-on-Sea offers over 6 miles of sandy beach. Families flock here for the safe, clean beaches and old-fashioned seaside charm.

The expansive beach provides plenty of space for beach games, kite-flying, picnics, and relaxation. Paddle in the shallow waters and search for marine life and shells in the rock pools at low tide. Rent a beach hut or deck chair to settle in for the day.

Stroll down the seafront promenade to sample fish and chips, fill up on ice cream, and browse the shops. Stop for a pint at one of the beachside pubs to take in the sunset over the Channel.

With easy motorway access from Birmingham, Burnham-on-Sea is a top choice for a budget coastal trip with all the trappings of an English seaside holiday.

11. Barmouth Beach, Wales

📍 Location: (Google Maps)  |  🚗 Distance from Birmingham City Center: 122 miles (2 hours 45 mins)  |  🏖️ Beach type: sand  |  🦮 Dog-friendly: yes

On the southern end of the Snowdonia National Park, Barmouth Beach in North Wales offers scenic views of estuary and mountains.

Set at the mouth of the Mawddach estuary, the huge sandy beach has plenty of amenities for a seaside day out or holiday.

Barmouth’s West Beach runs 2 miles from the harbor wall down to the scenic Mawddach Trail. Here you’ll find soft golden sands, beach huts, donkey rides, watersports, and an amusement arcade.

Cross the 19th-century wooden Barmouth Bridge for hiking and cycling trails with stunning estuary views.

East Beach leads around the harbor towards sand dunes and the Mawddach Trail’s famous dragon sculpture. At low tide, the exposed sands connect West and East Beach for miles of walking.

With its stunning Snowdonia setting yet family seaside atmosphere, Barmouth Beach is a top Welsh coastal destination near Birmingham.

Coastal towns near Birmingham

Coastal towns near Birmingham with great seafood restaurants include:

• Llandudno, Wales – Has several acclaimed seafood restaurants like Lobster Pot and Cai Tomos serving fresh local catch.
• Whitstable, Kent – Famous for oysters from the working harbor, with restaurants like Wheelers and The Oyster Bar.
• St Ives, Cornwall – Historic fishing town with award-winning seafood at Porthminster Beach Café and Alba.
• Sheringham, Norfolk – Highly-rated seafood pubs and cafes line the beach like The Two Lifeboats and Eric’s Fish & Chips.
• Hastings, East Sussex – Great fresh seafood examples are Webbe’s Rock-a-Nore, Maggie’s Fish & Chips, and The Owl.

Surfing and water sports near Birmingham

Some of the best beaches near Birmingham with surfing or water sports activities are:

• Thurstaston Beach, Wirral – Good waves and kitesurfing along the Dee Estuary.
• Rhosneigr, Anglesey – Excellent surfing spot on the east end of Llanddwyn beach.
• Aberystwyth – Popular surfing and bodyboarding beach with surf school.
• Sandbanks, Poole – Watersports like sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the harbor.

👉 Related: Here’s the Best Paddleboarding Destinations in the West Midlands

Beaches Near Birmingham FAQs:

Below are some commonly asked questions about the closest beaches to Birmingham:

Beaches Near Birmingham Map

Check out the interactive Google map below of all the top beaches near Birmingham:

Wrapping up

Despite its inland location, some of England and Wales’ finest beaches are just a reasonable drive from Birmingham.

Destinations like Weston-super-Mare, Blackpool, and Barry Island offer classic seaside charm. For nature and serenity, head to North Wales spots like Llanddwyn and Borth. Even watersports are accessible from landlocked Birmingham at places like Thurstaston.

Whether you seek nostalgic resorts or peaceful scenery, Birmingham residents can easily trade urban life for sandy shores and coastal adventures with a quick road trip.

Don’t let the distance to water limit your possibilities – the sea is closer than you think! Pack up and head to one of these must-visit beaches near the West Midlands.

Further reading: West Midlands

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