North East beach that's 'quietly spectacular' named one of the UK's best kept secrets
A beach in the North East is officially one of the UK's best kept secrets and many locals have never been
It's a place so well hidden that many people have lived in the North East have still never been. And a beach in Northumberland is now officially one of the UK's best kept secrets, having made a list of just five hidden gems for 2026.
Now, when you think of beaches in the North East, you'd be easily forgiven for naming ones like Bamburgh, Sandhaven in South Shields, Roker/Seaburn, Longsands or King Edward's Bay, all of which have had plenty of recognition on not just a local or national level, but have also now been recognised worldwide. However, there is one stretch of sand in Northumberland that, while is often overlooked by experts in favour of its more famous neighbours, has been described as 'flawless' by those who've visited it.
Step forward, Ross Bank Sands, located near Ross Farm in the Belford area of Northumberland. The beach can only be accessed on foot, with the best place to park being at the farm itself, before you walk the 1.5 mile path towards the dunes, which should take you around half an hour to complete.
A glance at online reviews for Ross Bank Sands, suggests getting there is 'as bit of a trek,' but it's apparently a trek well worth making, as the beach has been described as 'quietly spectacular' and is on a list of the best kept secret beaches for England, Scotland and Wales.
At the time of writing, Ross Bank Sands, which boasts panoramic views of both Holy Island and Bamburgh Castle, had a very impressive rating of 4.8 out of a possible 5 on Trip Advisor, thanks to glowing reviews, like a recent 5 star one headed 'our favourite beach ever' as the visitor enthused: 'A mile walk required to access this stunning 4 mile stretch of stunning golden sands with hardly a soul with you. One of the finest beaches you’ll find anywhere.'
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