‘Santorini-themed’ beach opens in surprising UK city | Travel News | Travel

Santorini is undoubtedly a dream destination for many holidaymakers.

With its crystal-clear waters, the Greek island beckons sun-seekers and culture vultures alike, offering a plethora of sights and activities.

Now, in an unexpected twist, an English city has brought a touch of that Greek charm to the Midlands by transforming their city centre into a beach haven. From Wednesday, Nottingham Beach invited locals to don their sandals and enjoy a Santorini-style escape without leaving the country.

This urban ‘seaside’ isn’t just about the sand either, including a swimming pool, bar, fairground attractions, and a lineup of summer festivities like outdoor cinema nights and salsa dancing. However, not everyone’s convinced by this makeshift coast, as some claim it looks nothing like the Greek island.

While Santorini hosts some white and red sand beaches, a large number of its coasts are famously black, due to the island’s volcanic history. Critics slammed the initiative for excluding this, while also drawing to the nearby Wetherspoons next to a ginormous English flag.

Social media users have been vocal about their opinions. On Instagram, one user certainly didn’t mince their words, writing: “I’m sorry but this looks nothing like Santorini. The sand is black for a start and where are all the blue churches? Just stick to what you know and don’t try and make it something that it’s not.”

Meanwhile, someone else chimed in: “Nothing screams Santorini like sat on a deck chair in builders sand, in front of a big paddling pool looking at ‘spoons in the background. Does this mean if there wasn’t a gyros stand and it was a jerk chicken stand we’d be told it was just like the Caribbean?”

Others also branded the beach ‘Skeggorini’, as another added: “The designer obviously has never been to Santorini, how embarrassing.”

Ahead of the launch, James Mellors – the man behind this project – told the Nottingham Post: “We are delighted to bring back Nottingham Beach to the city centre. This year we’ve increased the size of the beach and pool area, re-themed the Beach Bar, and added more rides and attractions to give visitors even more variety.

“Nottingham Beach remains one of the city’s best free summer attractions, and we’re proud to support the community by providing an affordable activity to enjoy during this time of year. Now, let’s just hope the summer sunshine turns up!”

Nottingham Beach has been approached for comment.