A study unveiled by Travel Expert at journeyera.com ranks the top 25 UK beaches based on Instagram hashtag counts, and the results are as intriguing as they are beautiful.
Taking the crown is Cornwall’s Kynance Cove, with an eye-catching 61,772 hashtags. Even more impressive is its hashtags-per-metre score of 154.43, given its 400-metre length. Coming in second is another Cornish beauty, Porthcurno Beach, which has 14,875 hashtags and a 49.58 hashtags-per-metre score over its 300-metre stretch. Not far behind is Devon’s Blackpool Sands, stretching 400 metres and gathering 18,242 hashtags, resulting in a 45.61 hashtags-per-metre score.
When it comes to counties, Cornwall is clearly the reigning champ, boasting three beaches in the top 10. Devon isn’t far behind, with its stunning beaches also making multiple appearances. Other regions like Wales, Norfolk, and Lancashire also feature in the top ranks, each offering its own unique blend of natural beauty and local charm.
1. Kynance Cove, Cornwall
Kynance Cove sits at the zenith of the list, and it’s no surprise why. Located in picturesque Cornwall, it boasts a stunning 154.43 hashtags per meter, dwarfing its nearest competitor by more than 100 points. The beach is only 400 meters long but has garnered an astounding 61,772 hashtag counts. What sets Kynance Cove apart is its Instagram-worthy turquoise waters and dramatic cliffs, making it not just a place to sunbathe but also a canvas for photographers and nature lovers. The relatively short length seems to concentrate its appeal, making every meter a hot commodity on social media.
2. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
Another gem from Cornwall, Porthcurno Beach, is a close second in popularity but trails significantly in hashtags per meter at 49.58. The beach is smaller at 300 meters but still impresses with its 14,875 hashtag counts. Known for its fine white sands and open-air theater, the Minack, Porthcurno, offers not just natural beauty but also cultural experiences. Its appeal lies in the combination of nature and art, making it a full-package destination.
3. Blackpool Sands, Devon
Devon makes its debut on the list with Blackpool Sands, boasting a solid 45.61 hashtags per meter. Unlike its namesake, Blackpool, in Lancashire, this is a shingle beach set in a sheltered bay surrounded by evergreens and pines. With 18,242 hashtag counts over a 400-meter stretch, it’s clear that its beauty and family-friendly amenities like cafes and shops make it a social media darling.
4. Barafundle Bay, Wales
Wales’ top entry is Barafundle Bay, with a hashtags-per-meter score of 35.28. Spanning 500 meters and accumulating 17,640 hashtag counts, this secluded, golden sandy beach is often cited as one of the UK’s most beautiful beaches. It’s a bit of a walk from the nearest car park, but that hasn’t stopped it from racking up social media mentions, proving that people are willing to go the extra mile for a slice of paradise.
5. Beer Beach, Devon
Beer Beach is another stunner from Devon, flaunting 30.98 hashtags per meter. With its old-world fishing village charm, Beer Beach offers a unique blend of the traditional and picturesque, boasting 15,488 hashtag counts over its 500-meter stretch. The beach is not just a pretty face; it’s a working beach where fishing boats are still in operation, offering visitors an authentic seaside experience.
6. Cromer Beach, Norfolk
Cromer Beach in Norfolk shows up sixth with 25.36 hashtags per meter. This beach is famous for its iconic Victorian pier, a feature that likely contributes to its social media popularity. Stretching over 1,000 meters and garnering 25,356 hashtag counts, it’s a family-friendly destination with enough room for everyone to enjoy traditional beach activities.
7. Camber Sands, Sussex
Camber Sands is a colossal 5,000-meter-long beach, but despite its size, it still manages an impressive 24.05 hashtags per meter, racking up a whopping 120,233 hashtag counts. Its vast stretches of fine sandy dunes make it a hot spot for beach sports, and its sheer size means it never feels crowded.
8. West Wittering Beach, Sussex
Also in Sussex, West Wittering Beach ranks 8th with 20.01 hashtags per meter. It spans 1,500 meters and has 30,011 hashtag counts to its name. Renowned for its excellent water quality and natural conservancy, it’s a hit among families and watersport enthusiasts alike.
9. Summerleaze, Cornwall
Cornwall’s third entry, Summerleaze, takes the 9th spot with 18.04 hashtags per meter. Though smaller at 400 meters, it has a unique sea pool and a blend of sand and rock formations. With 7,216 hashtags, it’s a beach that offers both leisure and natural beauty, encapsulating the Cornish spirit.
10. Morecambe Beach, Lancashire
Rounding off the top 10 is Morecambe Beach in Lancashire, boasting 16.13 hashtags per meter. Its 5,000-meter length and 80,672 hashtag counts make it a popular destination. Known for its classic seaside promenade and stunning views of the Lake District mountains, Morecambe offers nostalgia wrapped in natural beauty.
