Caunter Beach

The beach curves in a gentle arc north of Bude, backed by low cliffs and mostly empty when you visit. Caunter is one of those Cornish spots that doesn't get rammed with families in August - partly because there's nowhere to grab a pasty nearby, partly because the car park is small and easy to fill. The sand is wide at low tide, proper golden stuff, and good for a proper walk without dodging bodies on beach towels. Swimming here is decent if the swell's down, though it can get choppy. The bigger appeal is the walking. You can head north towards Widemouth and Crooklets, or just find a quiet corner with a book.

Historically it's unremarkable - no shipwrecks or ruined castles - so this isn't the attraction for history buffs. Families with young kids will have a fine time if the weather cooperates, but there's nothing to keep them occupied if rain comes in. Photographers might catch something decent at sunrise, and surfers sometimes find fun here when better-known breaks are too crowded.

It's free to access and there's no time limit - you pay only for parking if that applies. Summer afternoons are busy enough that you'll want an early start. Just outside Bude itself, it works well as a day trip while staying at Atlantic Horizons or Wooda Farm Holiday Park, both just under four miles away. Worth the detour if you're in the area hunting for quieter sand, but don't expect facilities or nightlife. Bring a flask.