Scotland's 'best family-friendly' beaches for summer crowned
Scotland's top "family-friendly" beaches have been named as the summer holidays begin to ramp up. The top bays in the country for a visit with your loved ones were revealed by The Times.
All over Scotland, there are picturesque sandy bays perfect for a day out with loved ones. From the Scottish Borders to the Outer Hebrides, no matter where you live in the country it won't be too far to travel to the nearest beach.
On Tuesday, July 1, The Times published an article detailing "five of the best family-friendly Scottish beaches". The newspaper considered factors such as the quality of sand and nearby amenities.
The first beach included on The Times' roundup is Lunan Bay in Angus. The east-facing bay is located approximately 12 miles south of the nearby town of Montrose.
Lunan Bay extends for approximately three miles and is backed by sand dunes. It is overlooked by the ruins of Red Castle, which dates back to the 12th century, while the nearby Lunan Bay Café serves up both light bites and full meals.
The newspaper praised Lunan Bay for its dramatic scenery, describing it as a "perfect spot for a dip". The beach was also singled out for its nearby caves and rock pools that can be explored and investigated.
The Times wrote: "Six miles south of Montrose, off the A92, this great sweep of sheltered sandy beach is backed by a ruined castle and harbour, the perfect spot for a dip or an afternoon of gentle sandcastle-building.
"There's a car park and seasonal café and, for further adventuring, a lime kiln, arch and adjacent coves at ruined Boddin Harbour, two miles north."
Lunan Bay has also received positive reviews from members of the public. On Google, the bay has an overall rating of 4.6 out of five based on 93 reviews.
One visitor posted: "Beautiful sandy beach for long walks and a cold water dip in the sea." Another shared: "Amazing beach, quiet and great scenery."
Meanwhile, placing at number two on The Times' roundup is Cambo Sands in Fife. Also referred to as Kingsbarns Beach, the bay is located approximately four miles out of the former royal burgh of Crall.
Cambo Sands is around two miles in length with rocky outcrops and offers sweeping views out over the Fife coastline. It is a short walk from the historic Cambo Estate, which features lush woodlands and picturesque gardens.
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The Times described the beach as "great for rock pooling" and applauded its peace and quiet. In particular, the newspaper singled out Airbow Point as the "most secluded" spot around the bay.
Like Lunan Bay, Cambo Sands has earned positive feedback from tourists. The bay currently has an average score of 4.8 out of five on Google based on 148 reviews.
One recent visitor wrote: "Lovely beach. Sandy in most places and stones in others. Great place for kids and adults."
The full list of Scotland's "best family-friendly" beaches can be found on The Times website.
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