10 best British beaches

For safe swimming

Alum Chine, Bournemouth, Dorset

Bournemouth has seven miles of golden sandy beaches, but perhaps the prettiest and quietest is that of Alum Chine. The beach is narrow, backed with a promenade and beach huts (which you can hire), and swimming on its gently shelving sands is extremely safe, with lifeguards throughout the summer season.

Bournemouth TIC (0845 0511700, www.bournemouth.co.uk).