Every now and again, we just need to get away from the city, and there are few better places to unwind from the daily struggles of life than to head to the seaside. However, living in Birmingham means that it is often difficult to get away for the weekend to a beach. It is often described as the most landlocked city in the UK. But, there are a number of options for locals looking to get to the coast, with a number of popular beaches within driving distance for a weekend away.

Weston-Super-Mare

The closest beach getaway for locals in the second city is the popular destination of Weston-Super-Mare. The driver from the heart of the city centre will take around two hours, as there is a distance of 105 miles between the two locals.

It is one of the most popular hotspots for Brummies due to the offerings that are in the location. There is an arcade on the beachfront, a wide range of bars and restaurants and a number of different options for accommodation.

Brean

Those looking for a beach getaway unlike anything else in the United Kingdom should visit the idyllic location of Brean. Visitors will be able to find the longest stretch of sand in the continent at the location, as the stretch between Bren, Burnham-on-Sea and Berrow covers miles.

The locations are separated into eight different beaches, but research should be done before making the trip, as some of the beaches are unsafe for swimming. It is also a perfect getaway for the whole family, as the vast majority of beaches allow dogs on the beach.

Barry Island

Instead of staying in England, Brummies could instead cross the border into Wales and head up to Barry Island for the weekend. The seaside resort has become one of the most popular locations over the past ten years due to the popularity of the BBC show Gavin & Stacey. Visitors that are lovers of the sitcom will be delighted with their trip to the coast, as they can sit on one of the famous beaches that the show was filmed on.

The beach is beautiful with clear water suitable for people of all ages to swim. There is also the Pleasure Park, which features an arcade and horse and carriages. Visitors can also find a selection of bars and restaurants, and best of all, it will only take just over two hours to get there.

Tenby

We like to offer an option for all, and that means that those looking for a more adrenaline-fuelled experience while on vacation shouldn’t look past a weekend in Tenby. It is the perfect location for those looking to do watersports, with surfing and sailing available options at South Beach. It is also perfect for those that like a bit of activity and soaking in the sun, as there is Castle Beach, which is perfect for topping up your tan.

There isn’t a better water quality in the sea anywhere else, while dogs are allowed on all beaches in the area. It takes slightly longer to get to this location, as it could take up to four hours depending on traffic.

West Kirby

Located on the Wirral peninsula, West Kirby beach can be accessed by car in just over two hours (traffic permitting) and its gorgeous views and pristine sand make it more than worth the drive. At low tide, the beach stretches out to over 2km and because the surface is atypically flat, it makes it perfect for sporting activities such as Volleyball and beach soccer. Next to the beach is also a ginormous man made lake called the ‘West Kirby Marine Lake’ which plays host to a myriad of water sports for those who like their activities to be a bit more wet and pulsating (ooh err Mrs).