When planning a beach holiday, most British travellers will look to Europe and its magnificent assortment of seaside resorts. Some of the perennial favourites are Spain, Portugal, Greece and naturally Italy.

After all, these countries can normally guarantee sunny weather and warm temperatures, as well as offer up miles of sandy beaches along stunning coastlines. However, for those looking for a short break, the UK has its own magnificent collection of beaches. Visitors have a large range of resorts to choose from, with some 1,500 beaches across the UK and Ireland – according to the Beach Guide.

The guide lists the best UK beaches, but one destination is conspicuous by its absence.

Southport Beach is the most northern part of Sefton’s beautiful 22-mile coastline and has one of the most unique natural environments in the country. It is home to many thousands of wading birds from their northern breeding grounds and is also famous for hosting the Southport Air Show.

Unfortunately, many beach goers have been left disappointed by their visits, judging by reviews posted to Tripadvisor.

Azyar wrote: “Sea is way too far out, and who ever I spoke to seemed to state this is always the case. The beach was awful the worst we had visited.

“The signposted entrance and car park to the beach was like walking through a mini swamp, not ideal with walking toddlers, we were covered in mud and slush and no sea to even wet our feet with.”

While Wildjinny commented: “Pleasure land and area look incredibly run down and sad. The beach lowered our spirits even more.

“There were a few cars parked on the only clean white sand in sight. The rest of the beach was a vast swathe of slippery mud with a dusting of sand and razor shells.”

Southport Beach has been ranked by Which? Magazine as one of the worst seaside towns in the UK for two consecutive years.

Despite the negative reviews, others have enjoyed their visit to the much maligned beach, giving it a top star rating.

Victorian wrote: “I really enjoyed my walk along Southport Seafront and seeing the beach and the pier, however the pier was sadly closed. It is a lovely walk with plenty of cafes, tearooms and in close proximity to King’s Gardens.”