Beaches might not be the first thing that spring to mind when you think of Britain, but our coastline is worth exploring.

You don't have to venture far from home to find long stretches of sandy beach. Mainland Britain's coastline is over 11,000 miles long and as we Brits are never more than 70 miles from the sea, there really is no excuse not to head to the seaside this summer.

CLICK ON PHOTO FOR FULL GALLERY OF BRITAIN'S BEST BEACHES

And Britain's coast is on the up. This year the prestigious international Blue Flag award has been given to 79 British beaches - nine more than in 2011. The Blue Flag guarantees high levels of cleanliness, water quality and safety - blue flag beaches can be found dotted up and down the British coastline.

And with the weather set totake a turn for the better next week, there's no better time to pack a picnic, dig out your bucket and spade and hit Britain's best beaches.

Bamburgh, Northumberland Bamburgh is a vast stretch of 3 miles of white sand is surrounded by glossy, grassy dunes and is overlooked by the ancient Bamburgh Castle, an imposing castle perched on a basalt outcrop. What the beach lacks in sun-bathing opportunities and warm inviting waters, it makes up for with its spectacular setting and abundant surrounding nature birdwatchers, photographers, kite-flyers and fishermen alike will not be disappointed. Views from the beach extend to The Farne Islands on the North Sea and inland to the dramatic Northumberland moors.

Barafundle Bay, Pembrokeshire Surrounded by a nature reserve, Barafundle Bay might be the closest you'll get an exotic paradise in the UK. Its golden sands and clear waters can only be accessed by a cliff path which winds down to the beach through grassy dunes and picturesque pine trees. This award winning, pristine beach suits those with a sense of adventure - once you're there, you won't find any facilities which means it stays relatively quiet, even during the summer. Granny in tow?Visit one of the Pembrokeshire coasts many charming seaside towns instead such as medieval, walled Tenby.

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Beaches: Britain's best kept secret