Summer is in its final days and the autumn is fast approaching. Although you might not think of the seaside when you think about autumnal getaways, there are plenty of beautiful spots in the UK that are perfect for a cosy weekend away. Just because they’re on the seaside doesn’t mean it all has to be sunbathing and sandcastles.
Hope Cove in South Devon is one of these picture perfect spots. Originally a fishing and smuggling village, Hope Cove thrived during the 18th and 19th centuries when its sheltered harbour provided refuge for fishing boats and merchant vessels. Nowadays, this seaside village is packed out with holidaymakers in summer but as the weather cools and the tourists start to drift away it offers a more peaceful holiday with fewer crowds.
Its beaches are stunning and teeming with wildlife. One of the popular things to do at Hope Cove is explore the craggy rock pools that lie at the edge of the tide, with all kinds of crabs, anemones and sea slugs living inside them. However if this is on your itinerary make sure you leave the nets at home.
Look, marvel but don’t touch! These delicate species can be harmed by the edges of nets, and it’s important to leave them in their natural habitat to ensure they can continue their life cycles. After you’ve had your fill of tidepooling, why not rug up warmly and head to Bolberry Down where a network of winding paths run along the cliff tops, giving walkers a perfect view of the ocean stretching out beneath them. The .