The underrated UK seaside town with stunning sandy beaches and no crowds

The UK is home to many wonderful seaside towns, but one stands out as the perfect destination for a relaxed getaway without the crowds. North Berwick in Scotland offers all the benefits of a coastal town without the throngs of tourists you'd encounter in other UK holiday hotspots.

Despite the Fringe by the Sea festival drawing in visitors, there is still room to enjoy a leisurely walk around the town and along the waterfront. Even on particularly sunny days, the sandy beaches aren't too packed, with space for people who want to set up camp with beach towels and picnics. It's also the perfect destination for a family holiday as it features an enclosed tidal pool and numerous rock pools for children to explore.

Bird enthusiasts will also find plenty to explore, as North Berwick is home to the Scottish Seabird Centre and the beach offers panoramic views across the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock, which houses the world's largest northern gannet colony.

The beachfront is adorned with a lengthy promenade, lined with homes overlooking the sea. A leisurely stroll from one end to the other takes no more than half an hour.

The town itself is full of seaside charm, with its picturesque marina filled with boats, cobbled streets, and numerous cafes and ice cream parlours.

Fringe by the Sea is a fantastic alternative to Edinburgh's main Fringe festival. It has a relaxed atmosphere and is family-friendly.

Plus, being just about an hour's drive from Edinburgh, it's a great place to stop as part of a broader Scottish road trip.

One person wrote on Tripadvisor: "A long time since been here but not disappointed. With lovely beaches on either side, cafes and shops and plenty other places nearby, what's not to love. At the harbour itself, lots of yachts to walk past and admire."

Another added: "Beautiful town on the North Sea about half an hour by train from Edinburgh. For those staying in Edinburgh it is worth the train ride. To visit the beach, the town centre with its shops, Scottish Seabird Centre, Tantallon Castle and if the sea allows Bass Rock."

A third commented: "Excellent, unspoilt beaches and harbour with plenty of natural features to explore, including the beach, rock formations and sand dunes. Plenty of space to sit and relax, facing the beautiful Bass Rock plus other rock formations. Easy to walk into the town from the beach itself to access the shops, cafés and restaurants. Well worth a visit."