Northumberland is most famous for its beautiful countryside and its majestic castles and historic sites, but one of its greatest assets are its miles of pale golden sands that stretch along its rugged heritage coastline. These shores also teem with wildlife and are dotted with some incredible landmarks. And before you discard the idea of a summer exploring these un-spoilt beaches because of the climate, then think again. You'll be amazed how warm the summer months of July and August can be up North and the North Sea temperatures can be very easily remedied with a cheap summer wetsuit.

Cornwall is considered to be the mecca of surf for the UK for a variety of reasons. Firstly, because it has the best of the Atlantic beaches in the UK and literally offers a 'perfect' wave to suit every level of surfer and secondly, it is blessed with a subtropical climate and the Gulf Stream currents that are ideal when spending long hours in the water.

There's no doubt that some of the most picturesque and idyllic beaches are on the Northern coasts of Britain. I'd go as far as to say that the North Sea has some of the most virgin, un-spoilt beaches in the whole of the United Kingdom. East Anglia and especially Northumberland are my favourites with their deserted beaches of powdery sands and wild dunes. Unfortunately the temperatures surrounding these virgin beaches don't always reach bikini temperatures, hence the deserted aspect. Yes, the sand may be white, the sea may be turquoise, and you may have sole possession of a Caribbean-esque shore, but those icy waves have a bit too much bite to take the plunge.

This self-catering holiday cottage in Torcross, South Devon is located on the popular Slapton Sands. With pets welcome and room enough for six people this beachfront cottage is ideal for families. For availability and rates check it out here

A Classic Medoc 1930's beach house that sleeps up to 15 guests and just a few minutes walk to the beach. The shabby chic feel of this wooden beach house will linger long in your memory after you’ve left… booking well in advance is essential!

This stylish beach house is located right on the seafront at Croyde Bay in North Devon and enjoys uninterrupted sea views. The house has Wi-Fi and parking and sleeps up to five guests.

This cool beach house located at Portreath in Cornwall has extensive outside decking which takes advantage of the fabulous beach and sea views. The house sleeps up to 7 in 3 bedrooms, check it out here

This luxury beachfront holiday cottage in East Preston, Sussex exudes pure class with a level of attention to detail unheard of in a holiday rental property. The interior and exterior design of this property is uber cool, creating wonderful spaces for its guests to lap up the incredible sea views. To enquire about availability and rates click here

This luxury penthouse on the beachfront at Porth in Cornwall is just one of a handful of apartments spanning the entire top floor of the building. With enough room for 8 and direct beach access this is the perfect bolthole for a large family or group beach holiday. See here to check out rates and availability.

This beach house in Cornwall has everything... from its own indoor heated swimming pool to a Nespresso coffee machine... go on take a look, it's amazing!