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Daily Mirror
3 days ago
- Daily Mirror
I love Bournemouth beach but I always ditch it for a nearby spot in summer
If you edge closer to the Dorset-Hampshire border, there's a wealth of coastline waiting to be discovered. And it's perfect if you're craving a bit of peace and quiet by the sea Bournemouth beach is a hotspot in Dorset that draws in approximately 6.88 million visitors each year. With its sprawling seven-mile sandy shoreline and array of amenities — bars, cafes, restaurants, toilets, arcades, and a pier — it's no surprise that Bournemouth is one of the UK's favourite seaside destinations. However, after living in various parts of this bustling town for three years, I've discovered that the summer season can be less than enjoyable. Like many coastal treasures, the vast beach is packed with locals, day-trippers, and holidaymakers who contribute to the thriving tourism industry. While this has its advantages, dealing with steep roads crammed with parked cars and a beach teeming with people during the summer peak often led me to seek solace at a lesser-known gem along the coast: Highcliffe. This beach is the first to connect the Southeast to the Southwest. It consists of sand and shingle and is just a short drive from the New Forest. It's the perfect picnic spot, and you can relax on the shoreline while taking a dip in the chilly English Channel. There are plenty of coastal walks to do from Highcliffe, too. For those who fancy a leisurely walk, there's a 2.5-mile stroll along the beach leading to Mudeford Quay. From here, you can hop on a ferry to Mudeford Sandbank or continue your walk to Hengistbury Head, then along the promenade to Bournemouth Pier, reports the Express. Highcliffe Beach is a hit with swimmers, surfers, and bodyboarders, as well as those who simply want to relax and take in the scenery. The beach also boasts unique attractions that set it apart. According to Visit South East England, the official tourist website for the region, Dorset was one of the highest winners of the seaside awards in 2024, with Highcliffe among 14 of the beaches awarded in the area. Despite being a mere seven miles from Bournemouth, this serene beach feels like it's in a different world. Parking is plentiful, and the absence of crowds lends an air of tranquillity. Highcliffe is a Blue Flag-awarded beach, characterised by a series of breakwaters that form sheltered coves of sand and shingle. With grassy dunes, wooded cliffs, and lush shrubland as its backdrop, the beach exudes an intimate and shaded atmosphere, particularly delightful on warm sunny days. Perched above the beach is the historic Highcliffe Castle, a striking example of mid-19th-century Gothic Revival architecture. The grounds are open daily at no cost, but you should book admission tickets to visit the building. Meanwhile, the Castle Kitchen Tearoom serves homemade cakes and hot beverages, all with views of the lawns and the sea beyond. Getting to the beach is remarkably easy; a zig-zag ramp path and surfaced wheelchair routes gently slope down from the Highcliffe Castle car park. For those seeking a bit more adventure, there's a flight of 118 steps nearby offering a quicker route to the shore. While Highcliffe beach may not rival Bournemouth in terms of amenities, it offers a comfortable day at the seaside. Modern public facilities, such as accessible toilets and the Cliffhanger Cafe, cater to visitors at the top of the cliffs. On a clear day, you can look across to Barton-On-Sea and Milford-On-Sea in the New Forest. If you're lucky, you might even spot the Isle of Wight and Needles Rock formation in the distance. To the right, you have Hengistbury Head and beautiful Mudeford. Highcliffe, with its tranquility, spaciousness, and close connection to nature, offers a stark contrast to the bustling Bournemouth Beach, known for its golden sands, vibrant beach huts, and lively atmosphere. However, recent concerns over crime and overcrowding have somewhat tarnished Bournemouth's appeal to both locals and tourists. Nestled at the western end of Highcliffe is Steamer Point Nature Reserve, a haven for wildlife where visitors can spot a variety of bird and plant species. The shoreline is often dotted with seabirds such as gulls, terns, and waders, while woodland birds like robins, woodpeckers, and warblers inhabit the nearby trees. The reserve also boasts some rare coastal plants, making it a favourite haunt for nature enthusiasts and photographers. Beyond the beach, the wider Christchurch area is teeming with potential. It's a charming town filled with quaint independent cafes, boutique shops, and historic allure - an ideal spot for a leisurely lunch or a relaxed stroll. The Christchurch Coastal Path stretches from Chewton Bunny Nature Reserve at Highcliffe cliff top, through Steamer Point Nature Reserve, all the way to Mudeford Quay. While Bournemouth Beach may be unbeatable for sunset views from the cliff tops or for those who don't want to travel far, there's something uniquely calming about the coastal gems that connect Dorset and Hampshire. They're definitely worth exploring before the summer season draws to a close.
Daily Mirror
20-07-2025
- Daily Mirror
Hidden gem country 3 hours away praised for bargain prices, beauty and culture
From its bargain beaches to its variety of experiences and relaxed charm, the country is an affordable gem for those looking to holiday in Europe When planning a European getaway, Bulgaria may not be the first destination to come to mind, but that's exactly why it's becoming a top pick for savvy travellers, according to travel specialists. Tucked along the Black Sea coast, this " Eastern European gem" offers far more than its modest profile suggests. According to Daniel Howick, Travel Manager at Your Co-op Travel branches, Bulgaria continues to excel in terms of value, natural beauty, beaches and family-friendly experiences. Located in southeastern Europe, Bulgaria is generally considered a good place to visit for people interested in history, nature, and affordability. It offers a blend of beautiful landscapes, ancient ruins, vibrant cities, and a rich cultural heritage. Below, Daniel has shared five reasons why British holidaymakers are setting their sights on Bulgaria this year - from unbeatable prices to a surprisingly rich cultural offering. Bargain beaches without sacrificing quality Daniel says Bulgaria's headline attraction is its prices, which he says are hard to beat. He adds: "Whether it's a getaway with friends or a sunshine-soaked family escape, the country routinely comes out as one of the most affordable beach destinations in Europe. "We've found holidaymakers love that they can book an entire beach holiday - flights, hotel, food, and drink - for a fraction of the cost they'd pay in Spain, Portugal or Greece. Sunny Beach is a standout resort in Bulgaria that boasts a Blue Flag-awarded beach, golden sands, and a vibrant nightlife scene, as well as family-friendly amenities." All-inclusive comfort at self-catering prices The travel manager says one of Bulgaria's major appeals is how far your money goes. Holidaymakers can enjoy all-inclusive hotels for the prices typically associated with self-catering stays elsewhere in Europe. Even those who opt to dine out will find the costs "refreshingly low". He explains: "Because Bulgaria isn't in the Eurozone, the cost of living is significantly lower, which means meals, drinks, and taxis are incredibly affordable." Experiences to suit everyone Beyond its golden coastlines, Bulgaria often surprises visitors with its cultural and historical depth, according to Daniel. A "must-see" is Nessebar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, he says. This ancient town features cobbled streets, Byzantine churches, and Roman ruins. He adds: "Whether you're a history buff or just looking to explore Bulgaria beyond your sun lounger, Nessebar adds an unforgettable layer of magic to your stay." Charm that'll have you coming back for more Bulgaria draws a diverse crowd, including families looking for hassle-free fun in the sun, younger groups seeking nightlife on a budget, and couples enjoying a quiet escape. But what's especially notable, according to Daniel, is the high number of repeat visitors. "Many travellers who take a chance on Bulgaria return again and again," he says. "It is proof of its lasting appeal. With a variety of things to see and do, each trip to the country reveals something new." A hidden gem that's easy to reach Daniel claims that one of Bulgaria's greatest strengths is its accessibility. Direct flights from the UK to coastal cities like Burgas are "frequent and inexpensive," even during peak summer months. The relatively short flight time (around three hours) adds to its "convenience", making it ideal for long weekends or quick getaways. He said: "Add to that the low cost of airport transfers and hotel shuttles, and it's no wonder many travellers find the overall travel experience refreshingly simple and affordable."
