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Seven beaches a short drive away from Scottish cities that are perfect day out

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6 months ago

May 19, 2024

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Seven beaches a short drive away from Scottish cities that are perfect day out

As we begin to see more tropical temperatures across Scotland this month, there isn’t a more enjoyable activity than laying out in the sun at the beach.

Whether you enjoy a relaxing stroll along the sand or a fun day out with your loved ones, Scotland’s plethora of beaches are a great way to enjoy the warmer months. However, some of the nation’s most beautiful bodies of water are harder to reach – such as Luskentyre Sands on the Isle of Harris and the Coral Beach on the Isle of Skye.

Luckily, you can visit some beautiful beaches without driving for hours around the Scottish countryside.

Even a city family can reach some stunning sights as the Daily Record has now rounded up seven gorgeous beaches that are just a short drive from cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee, and Inverness.

Read on below to discover seven Scottish beaches that are close to some of the nation’s biggest cities.

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You’ll find Aberlady Bay in East Lothian – between Gullane and the coastal town of Aberlady. It was the first site in the UK to be designated as a Nature Reserve in 1952 and boasts many beautiful sights. Its most interesting feature, though, is definitely the remains of a pair of World War Two X-Class “Midget” submarines that can only be seen at low tide.

(Image: Getty)

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This unique beach is around 45 minutes from Glasgow and is definitely worth checking out this summer. Seamill Beach is around four miles north of Ardrossan and is rather quiet if you want a more relaxing experience.

The beach stretches along the coast at West Kilbride, and is mostly sandy with a few rocky parts too.

(Image: Getty)

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Around just 20 minutes from Aberdeen by car, Balmedie Beach is a perfect to gallivant off to if beaches closer to the city are busier.

This beach is a popular spot among families, dog walkers, horse rider and runners – so you’ll have plenty of experience to enjoy.

(Image: Getty)

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Broughty Ferry Beach can be found just 15 minutes away from Dundee by car, so it is ideal if you don’t want to spend a long time travelling. The huge sandy beach – which is backed by sand dunes and overlooked by the historic Broughty Castle – is the best place for a stroll or picnic.

It is important to know, however, that animals are not allowed on the beach from May to September.

(Image: Getty)

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Dores Beach is unique in that it doesn’t overlook the rolling seas, but rather the famous Loch Ness. It’s one of the best spots to take in the stunning loch, and who knows, you might even catch a glimpse of the ever elusive Nessie.

Best of all, it’s just 20 minutes from Inverness.

(Image: Getty)

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Just 40 minutes away from Edinburgh is Yellowcraigs Beach and shows off the beautiful coast around North Berwick.

It offers stunning views out across the Firth of Forth and the uninhabited isle of Fidra – which is the place that is thought to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island.

(Image: Getty)

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You can drive half an hour outside Glasgow and find yourself at the stunning view of Lunderston Bay.

It is part of the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and is popular for tourists and locals alike. The beach offers beautiful views of Cowal Peninsula, Dunoon, and even the Isle of Bute – and is also home to the likes of seabirds, crabs and grey seals.

(Image: Getty)