There are thought to be around 1,500 beaches in the UK, and while some have been called ‘stunning’ others have left beachgoers rather underwhelmed.

And now Hidden Gems UK has conducted a study to discover the ten most ‘disappointing’ beaches in the UK.

Looking at the number of one, two and three star reviews on TripAdvisor, the researchers labelled North Shore Beach in Llandudno as the UK’s most “disappointing” beach, adding that it’s left visitors feeling rather “underwhelmed”.

One disappointed tourist left a review writing: “This used to be a gorgeous sandy beach providing a stunning coast for visitors who flock here every year, but now it’s just a long bay filled with stone, pebbles and boulders, so it can’t really be enjoyed as a beach typically would, and it’s just an eyesore.

“Very disappointing that the council wouldn’t invest in adding a new sandy area for visitors.”

However, not everyone was quite so negative about the North Shore Beach, with another visitor adding: “Absolutely beautiful views. One of the best seaside in the UK. Definitely worth a visit. Best to stay overnight as there is plenty to do and plenty of walking.”

Here is the full list of the UK’s ‘most disappointing’ beaches, as determined by Hidden Gems UK:

1. North Shore Beach, Llandudno
2. Morecambe Beach
3. Weston-super-Mare Beach
4. Blackpool Sands
5. Brighton Beach
6. West Wittering Beach
7. Formby Beach
8. Skegness Beach
9. Camber Sands
10. Blackpool Beach

After sharing their findings on Instagram, fans of these beaches were quick to hit out at Hidden Gems, defending some of their favourite coastal retreats.

One commented: “Camber Sands is one of the best beaches I’ve been to. But the beach is great.”

While another penned: “Formby Beach is great, not sure why it made the list.” To which a third replied: “Totally agree! Formby is a clean, beautiful beach!”

A fourth wrote: “I knew Blackpool would be on this list. It’s just cool to hate Blackpool. Blackpool has great beaches along with the sand dunes towards Lytham St Annes. Peaceful and tranquil walks for miles. I don’t call that disappointing.”

And a fifth disappointed beachgoer commented: “And what’s wrong with Skegness beach? Basically we have a list done by snobs lol”