Fairbourne Beach

The beach at Fairbourne feels like the kind of place locals keep quiet about - a long sweep of sand and shingle that stretches for miles along Cardigan Bay, just south of Barmouth. You get proper views across to Snowdonia when the weather plays ball, and on a clear day it's genuinely stunning. The beach itself is wide enough that even in summer you can find a decent patch without stepping over someone's windbreak.

It's the sort of spot that rewards a good walk rather than a quick visit. Head south from the village and you can amble along the shore for hours, with the Fairbourne Railway running alongside if you've got kids in tow - they might fancy a ride on that narrow-gauge line, though it's more novelty than thrilling. The beach works best for walkers and anyone after a bit of peace. Families with small children will find it pleasant enough, but there's not much in the way of amusements or facilities, so you need to go prepared.

Fairbourne itself is a quiet little settlement, nothing fancy, but that's rather the point. For a caravan holiday in the area, you're well-positioned - Hendre Mynach and Sunbeach Holiday Park are both within a few miles, making this an easy outing from your base. Come out of season if you can; summer weekends bring crowds from Manchester and beyond. Allow a couple of hours minimum, longer if you're a proper rambler. Free access to the beach, naturally.