Earlier this year, Weymouth was honoured as the UK's top beach. With summer in full swing, I decided it was high time to explore this acclaimed spot and see if it lived up to its reputation.

Situated along Dorset's stretch of the Jurassic Coast, the beach also earned the title of 20th best in all of Europe. This marks the fourth consecutive year that it has clinched the top position in the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards. Beyond its expansive golden sands, Weymouth seafront offers a plethora of family-friendly attractions, including the Observation Wheel, donkey rides, and amusement arcades.

However, during my visit, it wasn't the array of attractions that left the most significant impression on me. Rather, it was the impeccable cleanliness of both the beach and the broader seafront area that truly stood out.

It can be disheartening to visit a beach during the summer months only to find it strewn with litter. The Marine Conservation Society recently revealed that plastic pollution surged by nearly 10% last year, with over three-quarters of a million pieces of rubbish gathered during voluntary beach clean-ups, reports the Express.

While an average of 170 items of litter were reported per 100 metres of coastline across the UK, Weymouth presented a stark contrast to this distressing statistic. The area was pristine and well-kept, undoubtedly contributing to its appeal for visitors throughout the summer season.

The atmosphere was notably congenial, with families and friends unwinding on the sands and enjoying the local amenities. The beach is a secure spot, vigilantly watched over by RNLI lifeguards throughout the high season.

In stark contrast to the rising number of "Brown Flag Beaches," - those deemed "poor" by the Environment Agency in terms of water quality - Weymouth has defied the odds, securing a Seaside Award from Keep Britain Tidy this year.

While I refrained from taking a plunge myself, the sea looked rather inviting. Its light blue waters seemed perfect for a refreshing swim during a sweltering afternoon.

The Seaside Award is an accolade that celebrates beaches which are well-maintained, clean, and safe, ensuring a top-notch experience for visitors. Jane Biscombe, Town Clerk at Weymouth Town Council, expressed her joy: "We are delighted to be awarded the prestigious Seaside Award for another year. Weymouth Beach is such a fantastic resource for our residents."

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs reports no pollution incidents at Weymouth Beach this year, and the latest classification for its waters stands at "good", following samples collected from 2021 to 2024.

Beyond the allure of the beach and sea, my visit to Weymouth Esplanade revealed it to be impeccably tidy. It served as an idyllic promenade, flanked by a variety of cafes, eateries, and craft shops.

The promenade, skirting the edge of Weymouth beach, boasts a row of well-preserved Georgian buildings that stand as a testament to the area's history. It offers a splendid spot for strolls, unwinding, and soaking in the spectacular seaside panoramas.

Visit Dorset has praised the beach, stating: "Weymouth Beach has had many annual accolades for its management, cleanliness, information provision and safety for over 20 years including Blue Flag, Seaside Awards and Quality Coast Awards."

They further highlighted its reputation by adding: "In addition it has consistently been recognised as one of the top beaches in the UK by the Marine Conservation Society Good Beach Guide and TripAdvisor."