It’s at times like these when those of us in Nottinghamshire become ever so slightly jealous of our neighbours in Lincolnshire.
Nottinghamshire’s landlocked position in the country means that, on the rare occasions when the thermometer needle tips over 20C, we aren’t able to cool off with a visit to the coast.
With unseasonably warm weather forecast for much of the week ahead, it’s a shame that Costa del Nottingham doesn’t exist.
Thankfully, however, a number of amazing coastal locations are within a two or three hour drive of Nottinghamshire.
We’ve picked out 6 of the best beaches near Nottinghamshire that you can escape to for swimming, amusements and fish and chips.
1. 8 beautiful beaches within a 3-hour drive of Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands
Hunstanton beach is within a three-hour drive of Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands | Christine Matthews Photo: Christine Matthews
2. Hunstanton Beach, Norfolk (Approx. 2 hours and 22 minutes)
Just over a two-hour drive from Nottinghamshire, the beautiful Norfolk beach of Hunstanton is well worth a visit this summer. Hunstanton's stunning west-facing beach is just a short walk from the town centre, where visitors can choose from many different restaurants and cafes. Little ones can enjoy amusements along the seafront. | Richard Croft Photo: Richard Croft
3. Anderby Creek Beach, Lincolnshire (Approx. 1 hour and 40 minutes)
Nestled between Chapel St Leonards and Sutton on Sea, Anderby Creek Beach boasts a long, sandy beach with plenty of space for visitors to enjoy. Anderby Beach is known for its chilled-out vibe, with far fewer visitors than nearby Skegness and Ingoldmells. | Mat Fascione Photo: Mat Fascione
4. Skegness Beach, Lincolnshire (Approx. 2 hours)
Skegness is a beloved seaside destination known for its wide, sandy beaches and traditional British charm. Perfect for families, this Blue Flag beach offers clean waters for paddling, donkey rides along the shore, and amusement arcades along the promenade. Nature enthusiasts can explore Gibraltar Point Nature Reserve, just a short drive away, for birdwatching and coastal walks. | Julian P Guffogg Photo: Julian P Guffogg