Businesses and residents in South Shields are celebrating after Sandhaven Beach was named the best beach in the UK by the Sunday Times.
The Times chief travel writer, Chris Haslam, has revealed the 50 best beaches in the UK, after visiting 800 beaches over the last year to draw up his list. And it's the long stretch of golden sand at Sandhaven in South Shields that's beat off stiff competition from all over the country to be crowned number one.
ChronicleLive visited the Blue Flag beach to find out what businesses and walkers thought of the accolade and why they thought it deserved the title.
READ MORE: North East beach comes out on top in Sunday Times 50 Best Beaches Guide
Richard Ord, director of Colman's, which offers stunning views of Sandhaven from its Seafood Temple restaurant, said it was incredible to see the beach receive national recognition.
He said: "It’s incredible to see the recognition our amazing coast rightfully deserved, although we’ve always known it’s one of the best!
"It’s testament to our local council who take huge care in looking after it day in and day out, and all of the local businesses who continue to make the area strive!
"It’s now great to know the rest of the UK knows we have someone thing very special in Sandhaven Beach!"
Families who have visited Sandhaven Beach will know that it makes for a great day out, offering the perfect spot to build sandcastles, paddle in the sea, and explore rock pools. Weather depending, South Shields Surf School also teaches paddle boarding and surfing, while volleyball nets are in place on the beach during the summer.
It is also easily accessible on public transport from Newcastle, making it a winner for both residents and tourists.
And Edward Hilton, who owns the Sand Dancer pub which is based on Sandhaven Beach, said people travel from all over the UK to visit it.
"It's a great accolade for the local area," he said.
"We are super proud of our local beach and location with the panoramic views we have of the whole coast. We have invested a lot in the business and our outdoor areas over the past three years realizing the potential and beauty of the coast we have.
"Friends travel from Peterborough and Manchester to visit regularly and stay in Shields and they love the area and the coast. We are so lucky to have this asset and the council work with us to encourage events, festivals and family days to show off the area.
"It's not like work when you have those views from your office! It's great to see our regular customers chilled out and holidaymakers enjoying their breaks with family."
Bethany Compton, who owns Bessy's Sweet Bakes, which has been trading from Sandhaven Beach for four years, was delighted with the news.
She said: "We're absolutely chuffed. It's such a beautiful beach which is why I chose to build my business down here.
"Being a Shields lass myself and growing up around the seafront, I know how much of an amazing place it is and we've built such a great community with the surf school, surf club and beach access.
"Hopefully we'll be serving our delicious coffees and cakes for many years to come down here!"
Wendy and Michael Tinmouth from South Shields, who were enjoying a walk along Sandhaven Beach on Saturday, were delighted that it had been recognised by the Sunday Times.
"It is spot on that it has been named the best," Michael said. "It is brilliant for the town."
Daniel Duncan, 34, was having a day out with friends at Sandhaven Beach on Saturday.
He said: "I come here once a month for a walk. Entertainment wise there is a lot more here than there is in Seaburn, where we live.
"There are decent chip shops and the fairground which we don't really have in Seaburn. The title is definitely well deserved."
But it's not just Sandhaven that was recognised in the Sunday Times list. Three Northumberland beaches were also included: Howdiemont Sands, Newton Steads and Football Hole and St. Aidan's Dunes.
What's your favourite beach in the North East? Let us know!
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