Looking to escape the madding crowds and find a quieter, more relaxing - and more photogenic - UK beach experience this year?

Then pay close attention.

Travel experts at holidaycottages.co.uk have been combing the land for lesser-known beach gems and have highlighted four dazzling strips of sand that may just make you feel like you're somewhere exotic in a foreign land. 

From hidden coves in Wales to sprawling white sand in Northumberland, scroll down to discover the spots you simply must put on your bucket (and spade) list for 2024...

Church Door Cove, Pembrokeshire

The above two pictures show Church Door Cove in Pembrokeshire, one of the UK's best hidden beaches, according to holidaycottages.co.uk 

This 'amphitheatre-shaped cove' is located near the village of Manorbier in Pembrokeshire, hidden beneath steep-sided cliffs - and it and can only be accessed by a coastal path.

Wondering about the name? 

Holiday Cottages experts explain: 'The cove is home to a colossal door-shaped archway, which has taken shape from the force of the ocean, giving the beach a very Jurassic Park-esque feel. Be sure to pack a camera to capture the spectacle.'

Unsurprisingly, visitors have left glowing reviews online. One reviewer, 'Amirah', wrote on Tripadvisor: 'Oh what a beautiful mesmerising hidden gem in Pembrokeshire. The sea, the cove, loads of rocks, the nature, an amazing way to relax!'

Embleton Bay, Northumberland 

Embleton Bay in Northumberland is known for its 'magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle' 

This lesser-known spot is located near the village of Embleton and features a 'white sandy beach' that 'stretches for miles'. At low tide, the beach yields a 'number of rock pools that are perfect for kids to explore'. The bay is also famous for its birdwatching and wildlife spotting opportunities.

The experts note: 'Families are almost always guaranteed a peaceful visit and can enjoy the vast expanse of sand and coastline to themselves, with the magnificent ruins of Dunstanburgh Castle and a row of romantic wooden beach huts in the distance.' 

The beach has been branded the 'Northumberland jewel of the North East' by one Tripadvisor review. And locals love to visit, with Newcastle-based TikToker @geordie_ice_woman declaring it the 'most stunning beach in Northumberland'.

Kingsgate Bay, Kent

Kingsgate Bay in Kent is 'much quieter than its neighbouring beaches' and is 'steeped in history', according to experts

Located by Broadstairs in Kent, Kingsgate Bay features 'stunning white chalk cliffs' and is best known for its sea caves. 'Much quieter than its neighbouring beaches, the secluded sandy cove draws the attention of artists year-round to capture the stunning seascape, which meets the eye-catching cliff faces,' the experts note.

The bay is 'steeped in history', with a section of the beach forming part of the Viking Coastal Trail. Visitors will find Kingsgate Castle at the southern end of the beach and a 1760s public house at the other end.

Those who have visited have likened it to being abroad. For instance, @venus.onthego posted on TikTok: 'It legit feels like a girls' beach holiday in the Algarve – but we're in England!'

Porth Iago, North Wales 

Porth Iago in North Wales (above two images) is a 'breathtakingly beautiful beach', according to experts at holidaycottages.co.uk

Found on North Wales' Llŷn Peninsula, this 'breathtakingly beautiful beach' boasts 'golden sand and turquoise sea' and is 'sheltered by rocky cliffs'. 

The west-facing cove, located at the end of narrow country lanes, is the 'perfect spot to visit in the evening for a romantic picnic at sunset by the shore', says holidaycottages.co.uk, which adds that it's also a 'fantastic spot for families', with locals known to visit with their paddleboards, kayaks, snorkels, and inflatables.

Over to Tripadvisor users Nigel and Vicky for the final say: 'The beach is to die for.'