Glorious UK beaches to explore – with EV charging nearby
Handy places to charge near beautiful coastline in the UK
Nothing beats going to the beach. Whether you’re going to have a paddle, build a giant sandcastle or surf a monster wave, you’re guaranteed a great time. So dive in to find EV charging points that make great starting points for seaside adventures.
1. Swansea
You’ll find many beautiful beaches within twenty miles of sunny Swansea.
Swansea Beach is a 5-mile stretch of golden sand built for brilliant beach days. You can stroll along the promenade, enjoy spectacular views and pop into shops, cafes and restaurants if you need to cool off.
Other beaches nearby include Langland Bay, a surfers’ haven with rock pools to explore; Oswich Bay, a spot with dunes, salt marshes and shady woodland – that superlatives can’t do justice; and Caswell Bay, another stunning beach with sheltered swimming for the family.
Where to charge: Langdon Rd, Swansea, SA1 8LD
2. Aberystwyth
Nestled in the glorious green hills of the west coast of Wales, near Aberystwyth, lie some magnificent stretches of sand.
Aberystwyth Beach is a charming dark sand and shingle beach. You can enjoy classic seaside entertainment on its promenade and pier, including donkey rides and more surprising delights like the pier garden.
Other beaches nearby include Tan Y Bwlch Beach, which is part of the Llyn Peninsula, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and home to all kinds of enchanting wildlife; and Penparcau Beach which is known for its rock pools, great views and nature spotting (yes, be ready to scream, ‘OMG it’s a dolphin!’).
Where to charge: Penglais Road, Aberystwyth, SY23 3FL
3. Inverness
Swap a seaside trip for a lakeside trip near Inverness.
Dores Beach is an enchanting shingle beach overlooking the beautiful Loch Ness. Its tranquil waters are great for swimming, paddling or paddleboarding – just be careful a famous hump-backed creature doesn’t knock you off.
Other beaches nearby include Lochend Beach, another launching point for a paddleboard or kayak (if you prefer to do your paddling sitting down). You can also head up into the surrounding hills on spectacular walking trails with forests, waterfalls and ancient history.
Where to charge: 22 24 Longman Road, Inverness, IV1 1RY
4. Ballycastle
Find the beaches of your dreams just over an hour’s drive from Belfast.
Ballycastle Beach is located along the Causeway Coastal Route and is easily accessible from the town centre. Head through delightful dunes to discover a superb stretch of sand and shingle.
Other beaches nearby include Whitepark Bay Beach, a crescent-shaped golden-sanded bay that is not so suitable for swimming because of strong rip currents but is excellent for nature spotting, including cows taking a stroll by the shore.
Where to charge: 60 Moyle Road, Ballycastle, BT54 6LG
5. Devon
Newton Abbot in Devon has all kinds of beach adventures on its doorstep.
Ness Cove is a shingle and sand treasure accessed through a narrow path known as the Smuggler’s Tunnel. The red cliffs on either side offer secluded shelter when the wind wants to blow off your sunhat.
Other beaches nearby include Teignmouth Back Beach, a serene retreat along the River Teign estuary, where you can wander past fisherman’s boats, shops and coffee shops; Maidencombe Beach, where a steep path leads you to a secluded shoreline; and Antsey's Cove, Seaside Award Winner 2018, a tranquil, pebble-strewn beach surrounded by dramatic red cliffs.
Where to charge: Newton Road Newton Abbot·TQ12 6SJ
6. Clevedon
Clevedon is a small beach town that’s within easy reach of Bristol.
At Clevedon Beach, you’ll find classic seaside family fun alongside the Bristol Channel and a special place to swim. Clevedon Marine Lake is a saltwater lake fed by the waters of the Bristol Channel. Its seawall provides a sheltered bathing and watersport area. (Cold-water swimmers like an icy dip here in the winter.)
Where to charge: Tickenham Road, BS21 6AB Clevedon, BS21 6AB
7. Eastbourne
There are plenty of prime-paddling spots near Eastbourne.
For those who like their beach days lively, Eastbourne Beach can be a great place to go. The promenade has cafes, restaurants, and attractions, and the iconic pier has various amusements, arcades, and cafes.
More quieter beaches nearby include Pevensey Bay Beach, where you can combine a swim in the sea with a history lesson – it’s believed to be where William the Conqueror landed and the site of Roman ruins. Norman’s Bay is another spot to get away from the crowds and (as you may have guessed from the name) where lots more Normans first appeared.
Where to charge: Wartling Road, Pevensey, BN24 5JW
8. Margate
Trendy Margate also knows how to make being at the seaside special.
Margate Main Sands Beach is a wide golden-sanded beach perfect for sandcastle building, close to amusement arcades, children’s rides and cafes. With a Grade II listed tidal pool, you can take a dip in history. And if you get tired of soaking up the sun, you can visit the Tate Art Museum to soak up some culture.
Where to charge: 233 Canterbury Road, Margate, CT9 5JP
