Sandbanks8

Sandbanks has long attracted visitors drawn to its stretch of golden sand and reputation as one of the UK's premier coastal destinations. The beach here extends for over seven miles, backed by a traffic-free promenade that connects to Bournemouth and beyond. Sandbanks8 puts you in the heart of this area, steps from the water and the cafés, bike hire stations and water sports operators that line the seafront.

The apartment occupies the third floor of a residential building and sleeps four across two bedrooms and two bathrooms. One bedroom has a kingsize bed with an ensuite shower; the other contains zip-and-link twins (which can be configured as a super kingsize). The living space is bright and generous, with patio doors opening onto a balcony where you can catch sea views between the houses opposite. The kitchen is fully equipped for self-catering, and there is a family bathroom with a bath and shower. Electricity, heating, Wi-Fi, bed linen and towels are all included, along with a welcome box of tea, coffee and biscuits. The apartment comes with one reserved parking space accessible by lift.

The location suits anyone wanting straightforward beach access without the formality of a resort. Water sports—paddleboarding, kite surfing and others—operate from the nearby shore, and the council-run electric bike and scooter hire scheme has pick-up and drop-off points throughout the area. No smoking inside.