Popular coastal spots like Formby and Blackpool are always a hit, but there’s a hidden beach gem not too far away that you might not be aware of
Many of us are splashing out on plane tickets in search of sun-soaked holidays during the summer break.
But if a trip abroad isn’t on your agenda, you can still pack your suitcase and head to one of the UK’s golden sandy beaches. Popular coastal spots like Formby and Blackpool are always a hit, but there’s a hidden beach gem not too far away that you might not be aware of. Gaddings Dam, located on the outskirts of Todmorden, West Yorkshire, is just over an hour’s drive from Liverpool. Perched at 355 metres above sea level, this picturesque hilltop location holds the title for the highest beach in the UK.
It’s maintained by a group of local volunteers who saved the dam from closure back in 2001. It’s seen as a relatively safe spot for a dip, with clean water and no tides or currents to worry about. However, swimmers are advised to stick close to the walls and avoid diving due to the presence of rocks under the water near the edges, reports the Liverpool Echo.
Nestled on the moors between Todmorden and Walsden, the site is quite exposed and often windy, so do check the weather forecast before you head out and come prepared for the conditions. It’s recommended to wear sturdy walking boots as it’s a steep climb up the hill from the road and the footpath can get muddy and slippery. The site doesn’t offer any shade from the sun either, so visitors are advised to bring their own parasol – and plenty of sunscreen – if it’s a sunny day.
One person wrote on TripAdvisor: “We often come here for a wild swim but this was our first time paddle boarding. We visited on a quiet Monday morning. We parked near the Shepherd’s Rest Inn and made our way through the gate and up the steep climb to the top of the moor. It was quite a grueller with the paddle board bag on our back but worth it. The views at the top are gorgeous. The water was clear and a lovely temperature, it’s really warming up at this time of year. We stayed for a few hours and as we were leaving at around 12ish it started to get busier. I’d always recommend going early and on a week day if possible. Sometimes if you get it to yourself it’s just perfection!”
