You'd never guess this white-sandy cove with turquoise waters was in rainy old Britain. After all, with temperamental weather and sewage-riddled seas, the UK isn't exactly the first place you'd picture when it comes to a postcard-worthy beach. Scepticism aside, there are actually stunning seaside towns and villages dotted around the nation - many of which attract swathes of tourists from all across the globe. Cornwall is perhaps one of the most famous coastal areas of all, witnessing a whopping 4 million overnight visits every single year - a number that is bound to increase.

The picturesque region, which is designated as an Area of Outstanding Beauty, boasts more than 300 beaches and has a coastline exceeding 250 miles long. The county also experiences a more continental climate than the stereotypically cold North - meaning you might get a whole week of sun and balmy temperatures if you're lucky. St Levan, a tiny village located at the tip of West Cornwall, is renowned for its 'beautiful beaches, ancient holy wells and fascinating folklore'. History buffs can visit the parish church, aptly dedicated to St Levan, and will come across a large granite rock split into two pieces.

"Legend states that when a donkey with panniers astride can pass through the gap between the stones then this will signify the end of the world," states travel experts over at Into Cornwall. The holy well, located above Portchapel beach, is still actually used for baptisms in the nearby church. It was said drinking its water could cure you from toothache and eye diseases, especially if you slept in the well.

Of course, if you're not in the mood for an apocalyptic holiday - you can head over to Porthgwarra, a neighbouring village famous for its bird-watching. Here, you'll be in for a chance of spotting rare migrations including Puffins and Hoopoes. Want the latest travel news and cheap holiday deals sent straight to your inbox? Sign up to our Travel Newsletter. But, St Levan's piece-de-resistance has to be the Instagram-worthy Pedn Vounder Beach. Arguably one of the most beautiful stretches of coast in the UK, this slice of paradise used to be somewhat of a hidden gem - but is now a hotspot for tourists no matter the weather.

"Pedn Vounder is located at the eastern end of the bay that makes up Porthcurno cove and on a big enough low tide one can walk to Pedn Vounder from neighbouring Porthcurno beach," explains Cornwall Beaches. "However, be warned, as the tide comes in you will not only find yourself cut off but facing a climb up the steep cliff 'path'. The headland to the east of the beach is the location of the famous Logan Rock, a rectangular block of granite which weighs about 70 tons, and which can be rocked back and forth by one person.".

On TripAdvisor, dozens of tourists have raved about the beach - branding it 'breathtakingly beautiful' and well worth the hike down. However, others have pointed out the beach is actually a nudist one - so don't be surprised if you see more than you bargained for. "Stunning little beach, difficult to get to, don't go if not nimble on your feet," one person warned. "Yes it's a nudist beach, lots of nude folk, so if [you're] offended don't go." Another agreed, commenting: "Beautiful clear turquoise sea. No cafe or shop so take your own refreshments. It is a nudist beach so if you're easily offended... don't go.".

Getting over to St Levan can be a trek in itself, with car journeys from London taking over six hours. You can take a direct train from the Big Smoke instead to Penzance, and then get public transport or a taxi over to St Levan (half an hour's drive). Single adult fares can be bought for as little as £62 if you're flexible with dates. What's your favourite UK seaside village? Let us know in the comments section below.