It’s arguably one of the most stunning beaches in all of Britain (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
It’s widely acknowledged the UK boasts several spectacular beaches, yet holidaymakers frequently believe they must venture to European countries such as Greece, Italy, Spain or Croatia to discover the finest coastal retreats.
For those blessed with additional time (and funds) at their disposal, the Caribbean or Southeast Asia are regarded as premier destinations when seeking a beach getaway.
Now, imagine learning that a stunningly beautiful UK beach has been named the fifth finest in the whole of Europe, overcoming fierce rivalry from beaches across Greece and Italy, to claim its rightful place.
A magnificent British beach has secured one of the leading positions in Time Out’s 2026 rankings for ‘The Best Beaches in Europe’.
The hidden treasure is located along the Welsh coastline – and tourists cannot stop praising its beauty. Framed by golden sand dunes and a spectacular forest, this remote jewel is enclosed by imposing cliffs on both sides, enhancing its breathtaking appeal, reports Wales Online. Its pristine turquoise waters provide the perfect finishing touch to an already remarkably attractive destination.
Time Out has named Wales’ Barafundle Bay as Europe’s fifth finest beach, and a single glimpse at this gorgeous seaside location will reveal why.
It’s often described as the most beautiful beach in Britain (Image: Getty Images)
Placed above beaches in destinations such as Italy, Croatia and Greece, the Time Out ranking says: “You’re spoilt for choice for perfect beaches along Pembrokeshire’s coastline in Wales, but arguably the loveliest is Barafundle. Not least because this bay is only accessible by a beautiful half-mile walk.
“Follow a path past the lily pads of Bosherston Lakes and you’ll stumble across the warm golden sands of this glorious crescent-shaped bay. The water here is calm and safe for bathing, making it ideal for younger families. And the lack of road access mean that there’s always plenty of space to make your own for the day.”
The sole other British beach to feature on the publication’s ‘Best Beaches in Europe’ list is Kynance Cove on Cornwall’s Lizard Peninsula.
Barafundle Bay, referred to in Welsh as Bae Barafundle, is a remarkably secluded, east-facing sandy shore that features a gently curved shape and lies along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path close to Stackpole Quay in Pembrokeshire, Wales.
Previously owned by the Cawdor family of Stackpole Court, it now forms part of the Stackpole Estate under the ownership and management of the National Trust. The northern entrance to the beach includes steps and a wall, originally constructed during the 18th century by the Cawdor family to provide easier access to what was then their private beach.
This wall was erected to contain the family’s deer park, while the steps were reportedly adorned with attractive trees and decorative columns.
It’s been named among the best beaches in all of Europe (Image: Getty Images)
How to get there
Barafundle Bay is frequently hailed as Britain’s most stunning beach, exuding an almost exotic atmosphere that is heightened by its wonderfully isolated location.
Much of what sets this Welsh gem apart is just how well concealed it truly is. Accessible only via a half-mile trek through woodland along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, the beach can solely be reached on foot.
Following the spectacular walk to the bay, a steep flight of steps on the Stackpole Quay side leads you down to its immaculate sandy shores.
The beach’s breathtaking beauty strikes you from the very top of the staircase, before you’ve even begun your descent, rewarding visitors with a magnificent vista of Barafundle’s sweeping, golden, unspoilt sands and sparkling, crystal-clear waters. Reaching this remarkable Welsh beach requires a little effort — and that only serves to enhance its charm.
The half-mile walk itself carries you across rolling hills and lush, tranquil woodland, with the route delivering spectacular panoramic views of the coastline before the bay is unveiled in all its splendour. Leisurely making your way down to Barafundle Bay on a bright and glorious day holds a certain magic all of its own.
The secluded gem is situated on the Welsh coast (Image: Getty Images)
What makes it so special
If fine golden sands, a backdrop of dunes, verdant woodland dotted with pine trees and dramatic coastal vistas aren’t sufficient to tempt you, then perhaps the beach’s secluded setting and largely calm, safe waters will seal the deal. Barafundle Bay’s east-facing coastline and cliff-lined shores mean this stunning seaside destination remains consistently sheltered from prevailing winds.
This natural protection also makes it particularly tranquil and safe for swimming, especially for families with young children. It is worth noting, however, that there are no lifeguards on duty, so vigilance while in the water remains essential.
Renowned for its vast stretches of unspoilt golden sand, crystal-clear waters and breathtaking natural scenery, it comes as little surprise that Barafundle Bay is frequently cited as one of Britain’s most spectacular beaches, with many even drawing comparisons to the Caribbean.
The bay’s compelling combination of rich heritage, diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes makes it an unmissable destination for beach enthusiasts, nature lovers, hikers and those simply seeking a tranquil coastal retreat.
The appeal of this Welsh gem lies in its understated charm — it is the ideal spot for sunbathing, building sandcastles, or simply unwinding while gazing out across the turquoise waters of the Celtic Sea.
It’s renowned for its swathes of pristine golden sand, crystal-clear waters and dramatic natural beauty (Image: Getty)
Perfect for swimming, paddling or a refreshing dip, Barafundle Bay forms part of a broader coastal ecosystem brimming with wildlife and opportunities for exploration. The surrounding area boasts dramatic limestone cliffs that serve as vital breeding grounds for seabirds, including guillemots and razorbills.
Nearby, Stackpole Quay provides a delightfully picturesque harbour complete with a tea room and substantial parking facilities for guests. Within walking distance of the bay, the Bosherston Lakes serve as a genuine sanctuary for wildlife, featuring water lilies, dragonflies, and potential otter sightings.
Things to note
There are several considerations for guests to bear in mind when organising a visit to Barafundle Bay – given the beach’s remote location, no amenities are available on the beach itself.
Visitors are also advised to verify tide timings beforehand, ensuring sufficient opportunity to appreciate the beach without being stranded by rising waters. Barafundle Bay is additionally unsuitable for wheelchairs, powered mobility vehicles, pushchairs, and those with limited mobility.
The absence of lifeguards also necessitates a considerable degree of personal vigilance.
Why visitors love it
Tourists adore this little pocket of paradise in Wales, with enthusiastic reviews supporting this assertion.
One visitor writes on Tripadvisor: “This is the gem of Pembrokeshire. National Trust car park at the end of some very very narrow lanes and then a short walk across the stunning cliff tops to the stunning bay. It really is beautiful. Would highly recommend.”
Another traveller said: “Our first view of it was breathtaking as the contrasting colours of the red sand, sea and sky were beautiful. We took plenty of photos from the ruins on the path. Once on the beach, the sand is soft. It is also very clean. The beach is dog friendly. This was the best beach we came across in Pembrokeshire.”
One review of Barafundle Bay reads: “This is one of the most beautiful beaches anywhere, no facilities at beach only at nearby stackpole. This place is only accessible via the coast path, so difficult for less able people. Stunning views and lovely clean sand and dog friendly.”