A Sussex beach has been crowned as the best in the South East of England by The Times and Sunday Times.

In their annual best beaches guide for Britain West Wittering beach in West Sussex was named as the best in its region for 2023.

It’s the first year the guide has been nominated by readers of The Times and Sunday Times, who put forward their favourite beaches for a detailed inspection.

Following that, The Times's chief travel writer Chris Haslam then assessed the beaches using a rigorous checklist.

Every one of the coastal spots listed has been visited within the past eight weeks.

Great British Life: The lifeguards at West Wittering beach were seen as one of its strong pointsThe lifeguards at West Wittering beach were seen as one of its strong points (Image: @catherinesasky/Tripadvisor)

The full breakdown of the best beaches can be seen on The Times website here.

What did The Times say about West Wittering Beach?

West Wittering earned much praise from The Times, with points of commendation coming for its "dog-friendly environment" and nearby "culinary delights".

Additionally, its lifeguards and professional instructors for activities such as surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding were also singled out.

On Tripadvisor West Wittering Beach has also been well-received, with a score of 4/5 from 1,387 ratings.

Claire Irvin, Head of Travel at The Times and Sunday Times, said: “The Times and Sunday Times Best UK Beach 2023 is a highly anticipated annual guide, informing and inspiring our readers’ much-loved coastal trips throughout the year.

"And from the winners, it’s easy to see why, as a nation, we still love to be beside the seaside. See you on the beach!”

Great British Life: West Wittering beach has 161 beach hutsWest Wittering beach has 161 beach huts (Image: NQ)

Chris Haslam, Chief Travel Writer at the Times and Sunday Times, said: “As families flock to the British coastlines this summer, and tourists migrate to more northerly latitudes, beaches in Britain could be on the cusp of a new golden age.

"This is the most comprehensive and detailed beach guide available, and the only one in which every stretch of sand, pebbles or shingle has been physically inspected within the past eight weeks.

"The weather was magnificent throughout, and when the sun is shining - our beaches are the most beautiful on earth."