Brean Sands
Brean Sands stretches for seven miles along the Somerset coast, creating one of the longest and most expansive beaches in the UK. This vast expanse of golden sand sits between Weston-super-Mare to the north and Burnham-on-Sea to the south, backed by extensive sand dunes forming an important ecological habitat. The beach has been popular since Victorian times, truly flourishing during the 20th century as caravan parks and holiday centres developed. The sheer scale is its most striking characteristic - at low tide, the beach seems endless. The firm, flat sand has made it popular for sand yachting, kite surfing, and vehicle access is permitted on certain sections. The beach's west-facing aspect provides spectacular sunsets with views to the Welsh coast. The northern end is dominated by Brean Down, a dramatic limestone headland rising steeply from the beach with panoramic coastal views and atmospheric ruins of a Victorian fort at the summit. Access is straightforward via the M5, Junction 22.