UKs 'best-kept secret' beach is perfect for those who want to escape crowds

Wales boasts an abundance of golden coastlines and secluded coves to choose from if you fancy a day at the beach. Should you have already explored the renowned destinations such as Barafundle Bay, Rhossili Bay, and Harlech Beach, you may well be eager to uncover somewhere fresh to unfurl your beach blanket.

If this sounds familiar, there's some good news. There's a hidden sandy beach that has been hailed as "one of Ceredigion's best-kept secrets." Penbryn Beach is a mile-long inlet accessed via the woodland of a bracken-covered valley under National Trust stewardship, reports Wales Online.

This pristine coastline sits behind a dune network and clifftops, positioned between the better-recognised destinations of Llangrannog and Tresaith.

Whilst it may lack the fame of more celebrated beaches, Penbryn has previously earned recognition amongst Britain's finest.

The Telegraph featured a compilation of the nation's 20 'greatest beaches' across the UK, with charming Penbryn securing inclusion.

The Telegraph wrote: "If you've never heard of Penbryn, it's most likely because locals whisper quietly about this sublime, cliff-clasped bay on the Ceredigion coast.

"In spring, the woods are dusted with bluebells. And my, my what a beach: here rugged cliffs roll down to butterscotch sands and booming surf, where you might spot dolphins and seals early or late in the day."

Take a bracing dip in the chilly waters, or venture northwards along gorse-covered clifftops on the coastal route to Traeth Bach, that secluded haven straight from childhood dreams. "

Getting to the shoreline forms part of the adventure, as you wander down verdant country lanes bordered by blossom-laden hedgerows to discover a golden sandy bay with churning surf.

The 870-mile Wales Coast Path stretches from this beach in either direction and provides breathtaking vistas across the water.

For nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike, the trek from Penbryn to Llangrannog proves particularly rewarding.

This picturesque route forms part of the extended Ceredigion Coast Path, spanning 60 miles alongside Cardigan Bay and renowned for its spectacular panoramas, featuring the famous Ynys Lochtyn.

Your journey will also take you past Traeth Bach and the ancient Iron Age stronghold of Castell Bach before eventually descending into Llangrannog, where numerous cafes and eateries await.

The rugged shoreline here sits within the Cardigan Bay Special Area of Conservation and supports an abundance of marine wildlife and flora, including bottlenose dolphins.

Another major attraction lies in the opportunity to observe charming seal pups throughout the breeding period (August to December).

During coastal walks, visitors might encounter fluffy white seal youngsters on beaches or catch sight of them basking on rocky ledges dotting the Welsh coastline.

Though the urge to approach for that perfect seal photograph proves strong, maintaining distance from these untamed animals remains crucial, particularly since protective mothers likely lurk nearby. If you're travelling by car, most of the parking is a few hundred metres back up the valley at Penbryn village.

Here, you'll discover a shop and a charming stone-built cafe offering homemade cakes, The Plwmp Tart.

Nestled in an old farm cart house, just a short stroll from the beach, the Plwmp Tart is a perfect spot for lunch or a post-walk ice cream or cake.

The well-liked cafe boasts a good selection of light lunches, homemade cakes and pastries, excellent coffee, and Welsh ice cream. If it's on offer, do try the Plum and Almond Frangipane Tart, served with a generous side of Pistachio Ice Cream.

Their afternoon teas come highly recommended as well.

If you fancy extending your visit, there are numerous accommodation options nearby. For idyllic getaways on the coast or in the countryside, consider booking.com or Airbnb.