Between Bristol And Exmoor National Park Is A Coastal Town With Beaches, Shops, And A Wildlife Park

England's Somerset coast stretches over 64 miles, offering travelers scenic views of the Bristol Channel, peaceful trails, and a wide range of landscapes, including ancient rock formations, salt marshes, and, of course, sandy beaches. One of the most convenient ways to experience all of that and small-town charm is to add one of the many overlooked destinations that dot the coast to your bucket list, starting with Burnham-on-Sea. The small but thriving coastal gem might occupy less than 2 square miles of land, but it's home to one of Europe's longest sand beaches. You'll find three main spots to soak in the sunshine while in town, with one even boasting a Quality Coast Award.

Burnham-on-Sea's waterfront allure is also accentuated by its scenic promenade and early 20th-century pier. Once Europe's first structure of its kind, today, the pier's claim to fame remains the fact that it's Britain's shortest, measuring at just over 120 feet long. There's also a 19th-century lighthouse to check out on the coast, though the only way to get close is to visit during low tide. Beyond its maritime attractions, Burnham-on-Sea keeps travelers occupied with its charming, locally owned shops and a wildlife park that offers wildflower areas, walking paths, and tranquil lakes.

Chances are it'll be easy to find your way here, too. Burnham-on-Sea is located between Bristol and Exmoor National Park and is less than an hour away from each. London takes around three hours to reach both via car and public transportation, but fliers can always make use of Bristol Airport instead. True to British fashion, the town is walkable, and trains take you to and from most major points of interest, so getting a rental isn't a necessity.

Burnham-on-Sea's main draw is its wide, sandy coastline, which stretches over 7 miles, nabbing the title of Europe's second-longest strip of sand. And because all of its shoreline is west-facing, visitors can look forward to some picturesque sunset views. It's worth noting, however, that because tidal changes in the area can be pretty significant, the landscape varies dramatically, too. For the best views, try to explore the coastline while the waters are high. All that to say, while Bristol is named one of the best places to travel in the world, its lesser-known neighbor manages to draw travelers with something new: beautiful beaches.

The area's main beach is a lifeguard-controlled stretch that's been recognized with a Quality Coast Award for its cleanliness and water quality. It's also a popular paddling spot, featuring a vessel launch. You'll also find plenty of cafes and shops nearby, not to mention the beach is ideal for families with children looking to build sandcastles. 

You can also access the town's north and south beaches, but they tend to be a bit rockier, muddier, and better suited to taking in the scenery or enjoying a quick picnic. One even reaches the town's iconic lighthouse, which dates back to the 19th century and remains active to this day. You can also walk along the traditional promenade that's lined with seating shelters and local businesses. Nearby, you'll find one of the U.K.'s oldest illuminated piers that dates back to the early 1900s. It's also Britain's shortest, at only 117 feet, yet it features arcade games and a covered shelter. Day trippers can also plan a visit to Taunton, a charming town with markets, antique shops, and nature getaways, just 30 minutes away by car.

Small towns are often a playground for those looking to browse locally owned shops, and Burnham-on-Sea is no exception. Start your spree at Sanders Garden Centre, which was first opened in 2001 and is one of the biggest businesses of its kind in the South West. While it resembles more of an open-air market, this is the spot you come to not only for good-quality plants and garden equipment but also home goods, gifts, and seasonal decor. They even have a cafe and restaurant on-site, so you can take your time looking around. For a unique gift to bring back home, stop by Collective Dreams, a small business specializing in handmade goods from local vendors. They take custom orders for some souvenirs and knick-knacks, but don't forget to browse the owners' lines of fudge and wax melts first.  

Apex Leisure Park, on the other hand, is a 42-acre gem located just a little over a mile out of the town center. Once a space used for clay digging, this is now home to several lakes, giving fishers access to a well-stocked supply of bream and carp. Other amenities to look forward to include an easy, well-marked pathway, a skatepark, playground equipment, plus BMX biking, boating, and picnicking opportunities. Common wildlife sightings include mute swans, Canada geese, mallard ducks, water voles, toads, and more. Parking is free, and those visiting with children might have an especially good time thanks to all the duck feeding, zip lining, and cargo net climbing opportunities. From here, you can cover the 30-something miles to Frome, an underrated town with antique shops, markets, and a vibrant food scene.