'Blissful' UK beach with crystal clear water can only be accessed by historic tunnel
Travel influencer Chloe Lawford has shared her experience of a hidden gem UK beach, which boasts crystal clear waters.
Finding picturesque beaches in the UK might seem like a challenge.
Yet, Chloe Lawford, a travel influencer, has unearthed an exquisite coastal spot perfect for those balmy summer days. This secluded treasure, complete with shimmering clear waters, lies hidden behind a network of historic tunnels.
In 2023, the keen explorer ventured to this location for a seaside picnic and a quick swim - and the experience was nothing short of spectacular.
Sharing her adventure on TikTok (@chloelawfordtravels), she revealed: "After paying a small fee to enter, you access the beach through these long tunnels.
"The first set of tunnels leads you out to the Gentleman's Beach, which is on the left and there is a wedding venue here. But you can continue going through more tunnels to get to the Ladies Beach on the right.
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"This was the more popular beach and it's where the swimming pool normally is when the tide is out.
"But we opted to head back up to the Gentleman's Beach as it was much quieter and it was like our own private little beach."
Chloe's top pick is none other than Tunnels Beaches, nestled along the Ilfracombe coastline in Devon. A mere stone's throw from Exeter, less than two hours by car, this beach is also in close proximity to other scenic spots such as Woolacombe and Wildersmouth Beach.
According to Niche Museums, its tunnels stem all the way back to the 1820s, when hundreds of Welsh miners spent two years digging six tunnels in the Ilfracombe hillside. It came as North Devon was looking to establish itself as the perfect holiday spot, allowing tourists to access the coast by foot or coach.
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Right now, it costs £3.75 for adults (16 years and over) to visit the Tunnels Beaches. Children between three and 15 can go for £3, while those under three years old can go free.
There's also student and senior citizen discounts available, in addition to family package deals - no cash is accepted on site.
"It was such a lovely day and the water was super clear," Chloe continued. "[...]We had a little picnic and then went for a swim, although there were lots of jellyfish in the water, so we didn't brave too long of a swim and we sort of had a quick dip.
"But it was still super refreshing. If you're down in Devon, you must visit this beach on a super sunny day."
Chloe's thoughts soon garnered plenty of attention on TikTok, with various other users also vouching for the beach's beauty. One person wrote: "This is down the bottom of my road, I have a season ticket and spend every day I can there! Bliss."
Another added: "Omg I’ve been there it was so cool but more rocky then sandy."
