St Ives has been ranked as the best British beach resort by holidaymakers.
St Ives in Cornwall was rated top by users of the review website TripAdvisor, and came sixth in their list of top European beach destinations.
It has beaten the likes of Spain, Italy and France, proving that holidaymakers are not always looking for the scorching sunshine you might find abroad.
St Ives not only boasts stunning beaches and some of Britain’s top ranked hotels according to the travel website, it is also home to attractions such as Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth museum.
Malcolm Bell, head of tourism at VisitCornwall, said: “This award is an amazing testament to the popularity of St Ives which is truly one of the jewels in Cornwall’s crown.
“As well as stunning beaches it has a range of quality accommodation and fantastic attractions making it appeal to visitors of all ages and interests.”
The West Country also scooped the number two spot in the best British list, with Newquay coming in second place.
Bournemouth came third in the poll, with Weymouth and Tenby coming fourth and fifth.
The winners of the TripAdvisor Travellers’ Choice Beach awards are based on the opinions of visitors who post reviews on the website.
TripAdvisor spokeswoman Emma O’Boyle said: “These awards recognise the best beach destinations in Britain and Europe as decided by millions of travelers.
“Vast numbers of Brits jet off to traditional Mediterranean beaches every year, yet a British beach resort has out-classed all its Spanish, French and Italian counterparts in the awards.”
Ayia Napa in Cyprus came top in the European beach destinations, with Greece, Cyprus and Turkey all being in the top five.
Top 10 Beach Destinations in Europe
1. Ayia Napa, Cyprus
2. Skiathos, Greece
3. Protaras, Cyprus
4. Mykonos, Greece
5. Oludeniz, Turkey
6. St Ives, England
7. Alcudia, Balearic Islands, Spain
8. San Vito lo Capo, Sicily, Italy
9. Calvia, Balearic Islands, Spain
10. Villasimius, Sardinia, Italy
Top 10 Beach Destinations in the UK
1. St Ives, Cornwall
2. Newquay, Cornwall
3. Bournemouth, Dorset
4. Weymouth, Dorset
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
6. St Brelade, Jersey
7. Woolacombe, Devon
8. Padstow, Cornwall
9. Shanklin, Isle of Wight
10. Swanage, Dorset
