The UK isn’t often thought of as the type of place that also doubles up as a beach destination for holidaymakers, with many of us usually opting for a flight over to the likes of Greece or Portugal for a sunny break. While the sun isn’t always guaranteed, that doesn’t mean we don’t have some spectacular stretches of sand and sea.

In fact, it’s quite the opposite, and many of the UK’s beaches are often regarded as some of the best in the world, famed for their dazzling turquoise waters and majestic coves. If you’re looking to plan a staycation this year, or simply want to explore more of the UK, one beach that rivals the tropical shores of Thailand has just been voted one of the best to visit in Europe. Each year, the list of Europe’s 50 Best Beaches is released, with the results decided by travel professionals taking into account factors like unique landscapes and lack of crowds to crown the winners.

Famed for its white sand and serpentine rocks that make for an impressive landscape, over 1,000 travel professionals have decided that Cornwall’s Kynance Cove is one of Europe’s best beaches.

In fact, the beach that’s also known for its turquoise waters and often regarded as one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in the UK, managed to make it into the top ten on the list. 

Located at the tip of the rugged Lizard Peninsula, dotted with tranquil harbours, sandy bays and caves, Kynance Cove also makes for a perfect destination for those in search of something slightly more adventurous. 

Rock pools and caves can be explored at low tide, and there are a number of towering rock formations along the beach made from red and green stone that are iconic to the Lizard Peninsula. 

The beach’s impressive landscape recently made it onto TV too, featured in the House of the Dragon series and one visitor wrote on TripAdvisor: “Kynance Cove is the most beautiful piece of nature I've seen. It was breathtakingly beautiful”.

After taking in the views, visitors can stop for a break and a Cornish pasty at the Kynance Cove Beach Cafe, which has been located on the peninsula for almost 100 years.

There’s no vehicle access to the beach, with parking located a 10 minute walk away, and while there is step access it can also be steep in places. Visitors are also advised that parking is limited throughout July, August and September during its peak season.