At Seaside Jewellery, Cornwall, we love the unique beauty and history of sea glass, and can transform these sea gems into stunning pieces of jewellery. Today, we are excited to share our favourite sea glass beaches in the UK, perfect for sea glass hunting enthusiasts. From personal experiences to expert tips, this guide will help you find the best spots to uncover sea glass treasures.
Top 10 Sea Glass Beaches in the UK
Seaham Hall Beach
Robin Hood's Bay
Cullen Bay
St. Ives Harbour
Fortuneswell Beach, Dorset
Weymouth Beach
Hartlepool Beach
Kimmeridge Bay
Whitley Bay
Mundesley Beach
What is Sea Glass?
Sea glass is weathered glass found on beaches along saltwater bodies. This glass originates from broken glass bottles, glassware, and other glass products that have been tumbled and smoothed by the ocean waves and sand over many years, resulting in beautiful, frosted pieces.
The Best Sea Glass Beaches in the UK
1. Seaham Hall Beach
Seaham Hall Beach in County Durham is renowned for its abundant sea glass. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Seaham was home to several glass-making factories that disposed of waste glass directly into the North Sea. Over time, this glass has been weathered and transformed into distinctive Seaham sea glass.
This beach is especially famous for its multi-coloured and art glass pieces, which are rare and highly sought after by collectors. The sea glass found here is often vibrant and comes in a variety of shapes and sizes, making it a top destination for sea glass hunters.
2. Robin Hood's Bay
Located in North Yorkshire, Robin Hood's Bay offers a rich history and a great variety of sea glass. The remnants of old glass bottles and drift glass from shipwrecks make this a prime spot for sea glass hunters.
3. Cullen Bay
Cullen Bay in Scotland is a gem for finding sea glass. The unique wave patterns and historical waste glass dumping contribute to the variety and quality of the sea glass found here.
4. St. Ives Harbour
St. Ives Harbour in Cornwall is not only picturesque but also a fantastic location for sea glass hunting. The harbour's busy history of shipping and fishing provides a plentiful supply of sea glass treasures, including rare green glass and milk glass.
5. Fortuneswell Beach, Dorset
Fortuneswell Beach, part of the Jurassic Coast, is a beautiful spot for beach combing. The strong tides and rich history of coastal settlements ensure a good supply of sea glass, including pieces from old medicine bottles.
6. Weymouth Beach
Weymouth Beach is another excellent location in Dorset. Known for its smooth, weathered glass, this beach is perfect for those looking to find genuine sea glass and enjoy a family-friendly beach environment.
7. Hartlepool Beach
Hartlepool Beach in the North East of England is a lesser-known gem for sea glass hunting. Its proximity to historical glass-making sites means you'll find plenty of weathered glass pieces.
8. Kimmeridge Bay
Kimmeridge Bay, also along the Jurassic Coast, offers a unique mix of fossils and sea glass. The rugged coastline and history of glass bottle disposal make it a worthwhile visit for sea glass enthusiasts.
9. Whitley Bay
Located near Newcastle, Whitley Bay is popular for its striking sea glass, including rare colours and shapes. The area's industrial past and strong North Sea currents contribute to the diversity of sea glass found here.
10. Mundesley Beach
Mundesley Beach in Norfolk offers a quieter experience for sea glass hunting. The beach's long history and the presence of old shipwrecks provide a good supply of beach glass, making it a perfect spot for those looking to find sea glass in a peaceful setting.
Is It Legal to Take Sea Glass?
Yes, it is generally legal to collect sea glass in the UK, as it is technically considered rubbish. However, it is important to take only a reasonable amount for personal use and not for commercial purposes. Always check local regulations as some protected areas may have specific restrictions.
Sea Glass Hunting Tips
Collecting sea glass can be a fun and rewarding hobby. Here are some tips to make your sea glass hunt successful:
Check the Tides: The best time for a sea glass hunt is during low tide when more beach area is exposed.
Look After Storms: Storms often churn up the sea and wash new sea glass onto the beach.
Focus on Rocky Areas: Most sea glass tends to accumulate in rocky or pebbly areas where it gets trapped.
Be Patient: Finding sea glass can take time, so be patient and enjoy the process.
Use the Right Tools: Bring a small mesh bag to collect your finds and a pair of gloves to protect your hands from sharp pieces of glass.
Respect the Environment: Only take a reasonable amount of sea glass and leave natural shells and rocks behind.
Sea Glass Jewellery Commissions: Making Jewellery from Sea Glass Treasures
If you have found a special piece of sea glass, we at Seaside Jewellery can transform it into a beautiful piece of custom jewellery. Our bespoke service ensures your sea glass treasure is preserved and cherished forever.
By exploring these top sea glass beaches and collecting these unique ocean treasures, you can enjoy a fulfilling and eco-friendly hobby.
Happy sea glass hunting!
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