Inspiration

Our favourite sunset spots in the UK

Ella Perryman Profile Image

Ella Perryman

Sawday's Expert

5 min read

Autumn's changing light gives way to the very best sunsets. Combine this with less crowds and a bountiful harvest and you've got our favourite time of the year. We've pulled together some of our top places in the UK to watch sunsets as summer slowly begins to shift seasons.

 

 

 

Photo courtesy of @laura_hinttula

Belle Tout Lighthouse, Sussex

If anywhere’s going to have a good sunset viewing spot, it’s going to be high up on a clifftop overlooking the ocean. With Beachy Head to the left, Birling Gap to the right and the South Downs rolling behind, Belle Tout really is in a magical position. The lighthouse dates back to 1832, but the interiors were recently renovated into a lovely little B&B hotel.

After busy days exploring the Sussex coast, come back to white walls that soak up the light, fantastic views, pretty fabrics and lovely linen. There’s a fabulous sitting room where guests gather every night before climbing up to the lantern room for sunset. On a clear night, you can soak up the sky’s changing colours from the top of the lighthouse and watch the sun disappear behind the horizon – just dreamy.

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The Barn at Warmth & Wonder, Herefordshire

This is a romantic escape for couples or a getaway for families who love the countryside. With 48 acres of wildlife rich hillside, you’ll certainly struggle to feel bored. You’ll love foraging, paddling in the stream, cooking outdoors and enjoying endless walks through beautiful landscapes. With over 48 acres of wildlife rich hillside and woodland surrounding the barn, it’s the perfect space to rest and unwind.

In autumn, nothing beats wrapping up warm with a glass of wine and sitting out in the hammock chair in the woods. The sun sets right onto the barn and everything around you is silent apart from the gentle hum of wildlife. Expect stunning views at every turn, and plenty of places to sit and take in the view.

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Wood H, Isle of Skye, Scotland

A roller-coaster road screeches to a halt on a headland: views shoot across Loch Pooltiel to Dunvegan Head and the Outer Hebrides. This larch-clad cabin blends into its surroundings: wildflowers, sky and sea. Spot splashing whales, dolphins, seals and puffins; sea eagles circle and swoop. 

Inside, light cascades through large glass doors and windows. You can lounge around the sitting room’s wood-burner and eat at the long antique table overlooking the water. In the evening, settle back in one of the comfy sofas or sit quietly with a whisky and enjoy the sunset views. At night, the sky flaunts a sparkling shawl of stars so sink your toes into sheepskin rugs and bodies into king-size beds for a deep slumber.

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Lewinnick Lodge, Cornwall

Poised above the cliff edge to a backdrop of rustic headland, you’re overlooking the ocean from most angles – a magical setting in all weathers. Look out for seals and dolphins from the terrace or through binoculars left out in your room. 

Sunsets can be enjoyed from every room of the hotel: whether you’re dining in the wonderful restaurant, having drinks on the terrace or relaxing in your room. There really is nothing better than sinking into a deep roll top bath after a long day of walking, and the views here are  truly unbeatable. You’re between Fistral and Crantock beaches so head out early to catch the surf before the crowds or set off on long walks on the coastal path.

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Pentonwarra, Cornwall

On its own private headland between two beaches – a sandy one for swimming and surfing, the other for exploring rock pools – is this enchanting spot. Explore the long stretches of coastal path in either direction, and walk the gentle two mile track to Padstow.

Go barefoot all week and bask on the terrace overlooking Rocky Beach, where the sun shines from late morning until the invariably spectacular sunset – you’re so close to the water you can leave your towel here or lower a basket down for a beach picnic. Kids will love running around on the large level garden overlooking Trevone Bay while the grown-ups light up the barbecue and enjoy a beer.

Take me there >

 

More inspiration…

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Places to stay in the UK

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Ella Perryman

Sawday's Expert

Outdoor enthusiast from the sea to the tallest mountains, content creator, dog mum. Growing up in Devon means Ella knows the south west very well but she also spends a lot of time in Wales and is on the lookout for dog-friendly places and activities wherever she goes. Her years in marketing have given her a keen eye for an interesting story and she loves the character she finds in Sawday's places, from decor and design to the owners' bookshelves.
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