Suffolk’s tourism industry and coastal communities have reacted with disappointment after a list of the UK’s top 25 beaches failed to include any from the county.

East Anglian Daily Times: Felixstowe beach at sunsetFelixstowe beach at sunset

The list, based on TripAdvisor reviews, features Hunstanton and Gorleston beaches in Norfolk, and is topped by Woolacombe beach in Devon, but ignores all Suffolk’s attractions, such as Southwold, Aldeburgh and Felixstowe.

Naomi Tarry, of Best of Suffolk, the holiday accommodation agency, said the county had many “beautiful beaches to rival those on the list”. “I’d personally recommend Southwold’s golden sandy beach complete with the quirky Southwold Pier, pretty beach huts along the promenade and stunning cliff-top views.

“Aldeburgh’s shingle beach would be a very strong contender too, lined with traditional fishermen’s huts and fishing boats.

“Away from the towns, there are some beautiful beaches at places such as Covehithe, Walberswick and Thorpeness, so we really are spoilt for choice for beautiful beaches to visit – there really is something for everyone.”

East Anglian Daily Times: The Scallop at Aldeburgh beach. Picture by Jerry TurnerThe Scallop at Aldeburgh beach. Picture by Jerry Turner

Felixstowe mayor Graham Newman said it was a “great shame” his town had not featured.

“Over the years considerable strides have been made to ensure Felixstowe’s beaches are safe and clean – and given that we have the country’s largest container port on our doorstep, that process has been remarkably successful,” he added.

“Between the Orwell and Deben estuaries, we have everything from a fort, museum and nature reserve, through traditional seaside attractions, some excellent eateries, a links golf course, and the quiet rurality of Felixstowe Ferry.”

Aldeburgh town clerk Ruth Proctor, suggested the predominance of sandy beaches on the list explained why her town had not featured, adding there were “lots and lots of other reasons to visit”.

Elizabeth Ann Betts, Southwold’s mayor added her disappointment at the town’s omission. “I think it’s very sad,” she said. “I was on the beach only yesterday and it was looking absolutely beautiful.”

See our top 10 Suffolk and Essex beaches here