Seaside

Reconnect with some of Britain's loveliest scenery, and holiday closer to home. Time Out Seaside presents the best beaches in England, Scotland and Wales, up close and personal. Craggy coves and sweeping strands, family favourites and surfers' paradises, sheltered bays and secret islands; here are intimate portraits of more than 60 seaside gems, brought to life in glorious colour, with tips on where to eat, drink, sleep and go for a swim. So come on in, the water's lovely. Snapshots Holkham Beach, Norfolk A glorious expanse of sand stretching for miles and backed by woods and dunes, popular with families, dog-walkers and horse-riders. A nature reserve and bird-watchers' haunt that's equally good in winter or summer. Bedruthan Steps, Cornwall The epitome of rocky Cornwall, massive volcanic stacks, dotted around golden sand. This one's for the atmosphere and the views. Clifftop paths and steep cliff staircase make it great for walking and exploring. Luskentyre & Seilebost, Harris, Outer Hebrides Ethereal. The waters are 100 shades of blue and the swirling patterns of white sands are backed by soft-focus mountains, myriad bays and rock pools. The surf here is gentle rather than pounding. Remote and beautiful. Southwold, Suffolk Beach huts and a gleaming new pier (the best one in Britain) coupled with tasteful seafront architecture. A pebbled beach backed by a handsome village with a real air of nostalgia about it. Great for fish and chips. Practical information includes: how to get there, where to stay (hotels and campsites) and where to eat - all as close to the shore as possible - plus useful facts about shops, ice-cream stalls and activities including boat trips, seal watching and surfing.