Brighton beach has been voted the best in the country - and among the top in the world.

Council leader Bella Sankey has dubbed the city's beach legendary after it was ranked in the top 25 beaches across the world.

New research also found that the pebbled stretch was the second most Instagrammable location in the country - with some 214 posts per metre of the three-mile-long beach.

The Argus: The beach packs out into the waterThe beach packs out into the water (Image: Sussex News and Pictures/The Argus)

Travel guide BeachAtlas measured Brighton based on its beauty, lifestyle, diversity, and cultural significance among other metrics.

An algorithm then narrowed down beaches before it was put to travel experts to vote for their favourites.

Bora Bora in French Polynesia came out on top with Black Sand Beach in Iceland voted the best in Europe in sixth place.

Brighton, in the 25th spot, was ranked for its "stunning views of the English Channel and "legendary getaway for Londoners seeking a seaside escape."