UK's 'best kept secret' beach is 'heaven on earth' with golden sand and untouched beauty

Hidden in the tranquil realms of North Devon lies a spectacular , dubbed "heaven on earth" and celebrated as one of the UK's best-kept coastal secrets. Broadsands Beach, cradled between Watermouth and Combe Martin, offers an idyllic stretch of ideal for basking in the sunshine, playful frolics, or enjoying a delightful family picnic.

The waters here are calm, offering a safe haven for swimmers, although it is important to be aware that there are no lifeguard services provided. Indeed, Broadsands Beach eschews modern facilities, entrusting its pristine natural allure to attract visitors. For those looking to do more than sunbathe, myriad coastal paths and beckon, affording mesmerising views of the dramatic coastline.

The area also provides rich opportunities for wildlife enthusiasts with its abundance of seabirds, marine creatures, and occasional sightings of dolphins or seals.

Previously heralded by The Times as one of the UK's most hidden coastal gems, Broadsands Beach has firmly established itself among Britain's treasured hidden beaches.

Recommended by the publication for adventurers, they said: "This is a beach for the brave-hearted: it involves a dramatic descent via steps through heavily wooded cliffs, with occasional railings to cling on to, but the reward is worth it.

"The sheltered cove of coarse, gunmetal grey sand is best at low tide, with views north across Combe Martin Bay to where Little Hangman rears up, further along the rollercoaster ride that is the South West Coast Path."

"Beyond Hangman the cliffs are fierce, broken only at Heddon's Mouth, where a bucolic stream runs through the landscaped gardens of the National Trust-owned Hunter's Inn hotel, the perfect place for hearty pub meals after a day on the beach."

Boasting an impressive 4.5 score on Tripadvisor, glowing testimonials from visitors highlight their fondness for this radiant coastal gem.

One ecstatic holidaymaker branded the beach as "paradise", raving in their review: "Beautiful natural beach carved out of the tree lined cliff, accessible by cleverly crafted steps not for wimps or disabled. The effort is rewarded when you witness the pure nature beauty and the clear clean sea lapping on the shore of a quiet beach blessed with areas of natural shade. It's a paradise on earth, don't tell anyone."

Another guest praised their trip saying: "We recently stayed at the Watermouth Valley campsite and visited Broadsands Beach. Yes the steps are steep and it's a long way down, but we are so glad we did it. Gorgeous little enclosed beach, fantastic for a little swim, sea glass hunting and taking in the beautiful sounds of the sea."

A third visitor remarked: "It's a little piece of heaven and we even forgave the 250 steps to get down to the beach. Of course we had to come back up too."