Britain's Best Family Beach

4 August 2010, 11:54

A south coast beach has been named Britain's Best family beach.

Alum Chine in Bournemouth picked up the gold flag award today, voted for by parents from across the UK. Avon Beach in Christchurch also made it into the top 15, and was awarded a silver flag.

They were judged on ten main factors, listed below in order of importance according to mum and dads:

1. How clean the water and beach is

2. How safe is the beach – lifeguards and visibility of flags

3. Its facilities - toilets, food etc

4. Parking facilities

5. Access to fresh water

6. Accessibility

7. How environmentally friendly it is

8. Whether there are family activities available on the beach

9. How popular it is with other families

10. How good its marine life is

Our beaches will now appear in the ‘Family Beach Guide’, created by Nivea Sun and the Royal Life Saving Society.

They said:

“Bournemouth beach is often considered to be one of the most popular resorts on the south coast of England with its 7 golden miles of sandy coastline. It has much to offer when it comes to family fun – from hiring pedalo boats, to canoeing to fishing and there’s also a KidsZone and no smoking area on the beach. The Bournemouth cliffs are great for spotting wildlife too, like the rare sand lizards and smooth snakes that can be found living amongst the rocks.”

Avon Beach was described as “an ideal spot for a family trip to the seaside offering a safe gentle slope into the sea. Crab fishing is a favourite past-time at this beach, and canoe hire is also available.”

The Family Beach Guide also give tips on things like how to keep your kids safe in the sun, basic first aid and ideas for beach games and activities. Take a look here