Two small beaches on England’s south-west coast have been singled out as among Britain’s best hidden coastal escapes, according to national media and regional tourism sources. Lantic Bay and Bream Cove, both in Cornwall, were included in The Telegraph’s rundown of the top 20 “secret and remote” beaches in the country.
What makes them ‘hidden gems’?
Lantic Bay, which lies near the village of Polperro and between Fowey and Polruan, is described by local tourism body Visit Cornwall as the “definition of a ‘hidden gem’.” The cove sits within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is characterised by crystal-clear waters, a mix of white sand and shingle, and steep, imposing cliffs backing the shoreline. The site is privately looked after in part by the National Trust and its remoteness contributes to its reputation for never feeling crowded.
“Hidden away down a long, zig-zag path near Polruan – making it a good choice for anyone visiting Fowey – this part sand, part shingle beach is backed by steep cliffs, adding to the away-from-it-all feel,” The Telegraph wrote.
The Telegraph cautioned that Lantic Bay has no lifeguard and that rip currents can be strong, so swimming is not recommended — though the outlet praised the cove as a pleasant sunbathing spot for those prepared to tackle the steep path down and back up the hillside.
Bream Cove: quieter alternative to busier resort beaches
Bream Cove, which overlooks Falmouth Bay, was the other Cornish beach named in the top-20 list. Though the cove is privately owned, the coverage notes there are no restrictions on public access. The Telegraph highlighted the woodland walk from the nearby village of Mawnan Smith as part of its charm, saying the route evokes classic countryside adventure.
- Lantic Bay — location: between Fowey and Polperro; features: sand and shingle, steep cliffs, National Trust ownership, no lifeguard.
- Bream Cove — location: overlooking Falmouth Bay; features: sand and shingle, accessible woodland walk, allows dogs in summer, calm waters suitable for paddleboarding.
Regional and local guides were quoted for practical notes. Visit Cornwall emphasised Lantic Bay’s solitude and natural beauty, while other online guides describe Bream Cove as suitable for swimming and for water activities like snorkelling and paddleboarding during favourable conditions. A local site mentioned the presence of a food truck at the top of Bream Cove that sells refreshments and light meals.
Why this matters to Cornwall, Ontarians
For readers in Cornwall, Ontario, the story holds a few points of local interest. First, it emphasises the shared name between the cities and the different geographical scales and coastal cultures attached to each. Second, as international travel resumes for many, these profiles offer practical insights for anyone in the city planning a visit to south-west England. Finally, the piece is a reminder of how regional tourism messaging — from national outlets to local trusts — can shape which places are perceived as worth seeking out.
Those considering a trip should note the practical cautions reported alongside the praise: limited facilities, steep access paths and variable sea conditions. The Telegraph’s coverage is geared to readers prepared for a bit of effort in exchange for solitude; Visit Cornwall and local guides add context about natural protections, tides and seasonal differences.
| Beach | Nearest village | Noted features |
|---|---|---|
| Lantic Bay | Polperro / near Fowey | Sand and shingle, steep cliffs, National Trust, no lifeguard |
| Bream Cove | Near Falmouth / Mawnan Smith | Woodland approach, calm waters, dog-friendly in summer, food truck nearby |
For Cornwall residents in Ontario who might be nostalgic for rugged coastline or considering long-haul leisure travel, the two coves offer contrasting experiences to the busier, serviced beaches favoured by many tourists. Whether travellers choose to seek out a secluded cove or prefer the certainty of lifeguards and amenities, these nominations highlight the variety that Cornwall — in the U.K. — offers along its coastline.
