BEST FOR SWIMMING: LANGAMULL, SCOTLAND

If you’re fed up with fighting for a space on the sand and desperate for some calm and tranquillity, this remote beach on Scotland’s Isle of Mull could solve all your beachside woes, and then some. Mull is no stranger to beach-seekers, and most visitors will make a trip to Calgary Bay’s admittedly beautiful, white-sanded sweep, which unsurprisingly makes it a popular stop.

But head a little further north and you’ll soon arrive at Langamull, a quiet showstopper of a beach set on a northwestern outpost of the island. This is essentially the ‘hidden Calgary Bay’, since it offers the same soft, white sands and wild scenery, but without as many people there. It’s not uncommon to have the beach to yourself at certain times, a rare treat for somewhere so photogenic.

The beach is split into two parts, one interspersed sandy patches and grassy sections, the other more of a small cove or bay. This second part is the one to head for if you’re keen for a dip. Even if you’re not planning on swimming, take some time to admire the crystal-clear waters that shimmer with a blue haze on a good day.

BEST FOR WILDLIFE-SPOTTING: CWMTYDU, WALES

When it comes to Welsh beaches, glamorous Rhossili Bay so often steals the limelight, but there are countless other gems to uncover. One of the most intriguing is Cwmtydu, a compact cove used by smugglers in its former life as a harbour, thanks to the secluded location. These days, it’s favoured by a different clientele – grey seals.

These wonderful creatures like to relax on the rocks from time to time and you may even glimpse an impossibly cute seal pup here or in nearby areas. Just be sure not to approach the pup, no matter how adorable a sight it is, since the mother needs space and peace to feed her young. If that puts you in the mood for wildlife appreciation, look out for wild ponies roaming the green hills that surround the beach.

Since Cwmtydu is encased by these rugged, rolling hills, it’s easy to miss it altogether on first approach, which makes discovering it even more satisfying. It’s a smallish beach with a mix of pebbles and sand, and although the scenic views are a big part of the appeal, it’s also possible to swim here. Dog walkers and hikers also love the setting, thanks to various nearby walking routes, including a stretch of the Wales Coast Path.

BEST FOR EASY ACCESS: BOTANY BAY, KENT

In recent years, both Margate and Broadstairs have found favour with new audiences, making them hugely popular with visitors from around the country again. Just a few miles from each town, however, lies Botany Bay, a far quieter locale that’s great for escaping the crowds that flock to these fashionable coastal retreats.

There’s plenty of golden sand to get between your toes and striking white chalk cliffs fringing the main beach – plus, a prestigious Blue Flag award. This is another visually rich beach, with brilliantly varied and distinctive scenery, even more of which comes into play when the tide is out – the perfect time to hunt for fossils or explore some of the rock pools.

When it’s time for refreshments, there’s a small cafe nearby and a lovely pub – the Botany Bay Hotel – found above the beach and boasting some rather spectacular and far-reaching views.

BEST FOR ICONIC VIEWS: CUCKMERE HAVEN, SUSSEX

East Sussex isn’t short of beaches, but Cuckmere Haven is a little different to the others on offer. It encompasses an area wider than just its beach, including some gorgeous stretches running alongside the River Cuckmere, which make for a pleasant addition to your coastal visit.

But let’s be honest, as nice as the River Cuckmere is, you visit Cuckmere Haven for another, grander body of water – the English Channel, best seen from over a small row of much-photographed coastguard cottages (dating back to the 1820s) perched above the beach and bordered by the soaring Seven Sisters white chalk cliffs. So admired is this marvellous (and quintessentially English) scene that the area has been used in numerous films and TV shows, including Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, Ian McEwan’s Atonement and one of the Harry Potter films, as well as gracing a Vogue cover.

But despite all this A-list attention, Cuckmere Haven has retained a relatively serene atmosphere and remains largely a beach destination for those in the know. The beach itself is mostly pebble and provides a huge amount of space, again meaning that things never feel crowded. This is another popular haunt for hikers, thanks to numerous walking trails in and around the area – strolling in either direction from the beach unveils yet more epic coastal landscapes.

BEST FOR ESCAPING IT ALL: PORTHERAS COVE, CORNWALL

Nestled between the villages of Morvah and Pendeen in southwest Cornwall, and reached via a craggy path, this paradisical spot (owned by the Duchy of Cornwall) really does feel hidden away from the masses, giving it a special atmosphere.

The main section of the beach is a golden-sanded bay, enclosed by wild cliffs that keep on spreading upwards, peppered with a hotchpotch of colours that differ depending on the season. The result is a uniquely untamed view, which sits perfectly with the beach’s unspoilt feel. Don’t expect deckchairs, cafes or even toilets here – this is a slice of wild Cornwall at its most stripped back. If you’re OK with the lack of facilities – and if you don’t mind the mild clamber down that craggy path mentioned earlier – you’ll thank yourself for persevering when the scene and the accompanying views reveal themselves.

The gleaming turquoise waters here really are something else, and on a peak summer’s day, you’ll be forgiven for wondering if you’ve stumbled across a deserted beach on a faraway corner of a remote Greek island. As a lovely bonus, you might also spot some seals paying Portheras a visit. Be sure to wear footwear at all times on the sand (even in the water), as a shipwreck from the 1960s left some metal debris. Clean-up operations have made the beach safe to visit, but it’s worth being cautious. Park at nearby Pendeen Lighthouse to make your way down to the beach.