The 'hidden' UK beach full of fossils with tiny village and free parking

In recent years, more people have been choosing to have a staycation, a consequence of which is crowds of people showing up at well-known idyllic coastal towns during peak seasons. Indeed, a Consumer Intelligence report published last year suggested that 52% of Brits were choosing to holiday within the UK. Some 34% were planning to holiday twice in the UK during 2024, with 23% even having three or more trips pencilled into their calendar. Popular spots include St. Ives, Southwold, Brighton, Bamburgh and Portmeirion, with a lot tracing their heyday back to the advent of the railway, which made travelling to the beach a lot more affordable for the masses.

Experts say some British seaside towns are "feeling the heat", with "over-tourism and summer gridlock becoming the new norm". Consequently, many travellers are seeking quieter, lesser-known spots for a more tranquil holiday experience. Consumer Intelligence found that 40% of those who were planning a statcation wanted to "uncover more of the UK's hidden gems".

Simply Sea Views has uncovered 10 of the UK's best hidden coastlines for "wild beaches and secret coves where you can escape the ice cream queues and feel like you've discovered somewhere truly off the map".

One of these is Kilve Beach on the Jurassic Coast in Somerset.

It isn't your typical sunbathing spot, the site says.

It's a "wild, limestone-layered beach scattered with ammonites, driftwood and fossils for the ultimate explorer".

Experts added: "Tucked beneath the Quantock Hills, it's ideal for adventurers, scramblers, and those who love dramatic coastal landscapes."

It is recommended that visitors stay in the village of Kilve, and head beyond the cliffs for a scenic beach walk along the rocks.

Other things good to know are that there is free parking available near Kilve Court.

Public toilets are also nearby, and dogs are allowed year-round on the rock formations.

Stays in nearby rural B&Bs or self-catering cottages cost between £90 and £140 per night, according to Simply Sea Views.