British beach dubbed 'UK's answer to the Seychelles' named the prettiest

For all the beauty of Seychelles, the 14-hour stopover flight to get there is a strong deterrent. Luckily, there is one relatively unknown beach that promises the same majesty of the East African colony much closer to home.

Kuoni, the family travel specialist, analysed thousands of online reviews to create a ranking of the world’s prettiest beaches. They assessed nearly 200 beaches around the world and one little-known bay in the Isle of Scilly cracked the top 20.

Described as the ‘English Seychelles’ , Pentle Bay has been named one of the best beaches in the world. The quiet bay has even beat out popular spots in Australia, the Maldives and the Philippines.

On a list of the 20 prettiest beaches in the world - based on how often the word ‘paradise’ came up in online reviews - Pentle Bay made an unexpected appearance. Found on the east coast of the island of Tresco in the Isle of Scilly, the bay came in thirteenth place, ranking among popular beaches in Asia and the South Pacific.

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The Isles of Scilly are a collection of islands, each with their own character and appeal. The archipelago is a haven for those looking for quietude in nature and on the beach, as well as a more sustainable tourism options.

Pentle Bay specifically is compared to Seychelles for its white sands, turquoise waters and impressive rock formations. According to the survey, 8.7 percent of its reviews used the word ‘paradise’ to describe the bay.

The beach, a half-mile crescent, sits between low rolling dunes, offering a peaceful and undisturbed retreat for those looking to escape the crowds of more commercialized tourist spots. But keep in mind that means there are no modern amenities on hand.

There are no nearby shops, cafes, or facilities, but this adds an untouched appeal to Pentle Bay that is increasingly difficult to find elsewhere in the UK. Visitors can fully disconnect from the demands of modern life and immerse themselves in nature.

This sense of serenity is what draws travellers to the beach and it is no wonder the word ‘paradise’ comes to mind for so many reviewers. The beach’s remote location only adds to its appeal, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil, nature-filled escape away from the hustle of everyday life.

Port Olry Beach in Vanuatu, Oceania, topped the list of beautiful beaches with 15.33 percent of its reviews using the word ‘paradise’. The beach, found on the east coast of Espiritu Santo, is home to lush foliage that surrounds golden sands and shimmering turquoise waters.

Mozambique’s Parque Nacional de Bazaruto came in second place, with 14.29 percent of its reviews mentioning ‘paradise’. The beach, with its swirling sand and bright blue sea, is known for its wildlife, including dolphins and spectacular dugongs - aka sea cows.

Meanwhile, One Foot Island beach in the Cook Islands came in third place, with 13.28 percent of the reviews containing the word ‘paradise’.

The only other European beach on the list was Navagio Beach on the Greek island of Zakynthos. It came in eighth place, with 10 per cent of its reviews containing the word ‘paradise’.