Camping in Somerset offers an escape into some of England’s most picturesque landscapes, where rolling hills meet the expansive beauty of the Bristol Channel and the English Channel.
For campers, the allure of Somerset’s coastline is undeniable, with its array of beaches offering everything from tranquil retreats to adventure-filled shores.
Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking a caravan, discovering Somerset’s beaches is an essential part of the camping experience.
Here are the 12 best beaches to visit, each with its own unique charm and key features.
1. Weston-super-Mare Beach
Key Benefit: Family-Friendly Attractions
Weston-super-Mare is the quintessential British seaside resort, bustling with attractions that cater to families.
The beach boasts miles of golden sand, making it perfect for sandcastle building, while the Grand Pier offers entertainment for all ages.
From traditional donkey rides to modern water sports, there’s something for everyone, ensuring a memorable day out for camping families.
2. Porlock Weir Beach
Key Benefit: Natural Beauty and Tranquility
Porlock Weir is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful escape with its pebble and sand beach nestled at the foot of Exmoor National Park.
The quaint harbour and stunning views across to Wales make it an ideal spot for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty.
It’s a perfect setting for a quiet picnic or a leisurely walk along the shore.
3. Dunster Beach
Key Benefit: Scenic Walks and Historical Sights
Dunster Beach is known for its scenic beauty and the opportunity to explore the local area on foot.
With Dunster Castle looming in the distance, the beach offers a mix of sand and shingle, ideal for leisurely walks.
The coastal path to Blue Anchor provides stunning views and a chance to immerse yourself in Somerset’s rich history.
4. Berrow Beach
Key Benefit: Dog-Friendly with a Shipwreck Site
Berrow Beach is a haven for dog owners, with no restrictions on furry friends year-round.
The beach features the remains of a shipwreck, providing a unique backdrop for beachgoers.
The extensive dunes and nature reserve nearby offer ample space for walks, making it a great choice for those with pets.
5. Blue Anchor Bay
Key Benefit: Relaxation and Fossil Hunting
Blue Anchor Bay is the epitome of relaxation, with its long stretch of sand and shingle beach.
It’s a quieter spot, popular with walkers and fossil hunters.
The dramatic cliffs and views across the Bristol Channel add to its charm, making it an ideal location for those looking to unwind and perhaps discover a prehistoric treasure.
6. Burnham-on-Sea Beach
Key Benefit: Lighthouse Views and Kite Surfing
Burnham-on-Sea offers a picturesque setting with its iconic lighthouse on stilts.
The beach is a favourite for kite surfers, thanks to its favourable conditions.
With a bustling town nearby, visitors can enjoy a mix of seaside activities and explore the local shops and eateries.
7. St Audries Bay
Key Benefit: Waterfalls and Pebble Beach
St Audries Bay is renowned for its stunning waterfalls that cascade directly onto the beach, creating a magical atmosphere.
The pebble beach, set within the Quantock Hills AONB, is perfect for those looking for a scenic and tranquil spot to relax and enjoy nature’s beauty.
8. Bossington Beach
Key Benefit: Wildlife Watching and Seclusion
Part of the National Trust’s Holnicote Estate, Bossington Beach offers a secluded pebble beach ideal for wildlife watching.
The views across the Bristol Channel are breathtaking, and the surrounding area is rich in flora and fauna, making it a peaceful retreat for nature lovers.
9. Clevedon Bay
Key Benefit: Victorian Pier and Marine Lake
Clevedon Bay features a historic Victorian pier and a marine lake, offering a blend of cultural heritage and recreational activities.
The pebble beach is backed by a promenade, providing easy access to local amenities and making it a great spot for families.
10. Glenthorne Beach
Key Benefit: Secluded and Tranquil
Glenthorne Beach, located on the border of Somerset and Devon, is a secluded pebble beach offering tranquility and escape.
Its remote location within Exmoor National Park makes it an ideal spot for those looking to get away from it all and enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline.
11. Sand Bay
Key Benefit: Wild and Untouched
Sand Bay is known for its ‘wild’ feel, with a large stretch of sand and shingle that remains relatively untouched by tourism.
The beach offers stunning views across the Bristol Channel and is popular with dog walkers and those seeking a quieter beach experience.
12. Kilve Beach
Key Benefit: Fossil Hunting and Rock Pools
Kilve Beach, a Site of Special Scientific Interest, is famous for its rich geological features and fossil hunting opportunities.
The rocky shore and numerous rock pools make it an exciting place for exploration, especially for families with curious children eager to discover marine life.
Somerset’s coastline is a diverse tapestry of beaches, each offering its own unique experience.
From the family-friendly shores of Weston-super-Mare to the tranquil retreats of Glenthorne and Kilve, there’s a beach in Somerset to suit every camper’s preference.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a bit of both, these 12 beaches provide the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable camping trip.
So pack your beach towel, grab your bucket and spade, and set off to explore the stunning beaches of Somerset, where natural beauty and seaside charm await at every turn.
