Over the last few years the UK’s seaside towns have been making a comeback with thousands of us flocking to the coastlines at the first sign of summer.
The Victorian-esque holiday is back, a flurry of sea, sand, fish & chips and arcades are all luring us back to the shores.
But where do you go to witness the best of what Britain can offer?
1. St Ives, Cornwall
St Ives is a truly stunning seaside town, its recently been voted the top beach resort in the UK as well as ranking high for being one of the best sandy beach destinations in Europe.
A popular resort for the surfers, it’s also a great place to check out the local wildlife including seals, porpoises, dolphins and sometimes even basking sharks. Cycling in Cornwall is also very popular with tourists.
If you are looking to enjoy a really special break view our list of amazing luxury hotels in Cornwall.
2. Margate, Kent
Margate offers everything you would expect from a British coastal resort, its beautiful Blue Flag beach is the ideal place for a day of sun, sea and surfing and if you head into town you will find streets and buildings steeped in tourist history.
Head back down to the beach and explore the stunning ‘Shell Grotto’ a series of underground tunnels lined with shells – a place as enchanting today as it was in the 1800’s.
A visit to nearby Broadstairs is also recommended.
3. Brighton
Brighton is one of the most popular places to visit in the UK and is a popular seaside resort on the south coast of Britain.
In the past decades millions has been invested into the town has transformed it into a very fashionable place to be. It’s filled with trendy bars, restaurants and hotels whilst still holding onto its heritage, its home to The Royal Pavilion – one of the most extravagant and must see palaces in the country.
There are also some of the best boutique hotels in the UK located here, and also cheap/midrange accommodation for all budgets.
4. Mousehole, Cornwall
Mousehole, pronounced ‘Mowzel’ is one of Cornwall’s most beautiful harbours, it’s an incredibly tranquil and picturesque place to be.
This tiny little fishing village with its quaint collection of yellow-lichened houses and its small and simple beach sheltered to one side of the harbour makes it the ideal seaside town for both couples and young families.
5. Barry, Wales
Barry is the largest seaside town in the Vale of Glamorgan. It’s always been a popular holiday destination for us Brits and even more so in the wake of BBC hit TV show ‘Gavin and Stacey’.
It has all the charm you expect from a coastal town, beautiful beaches, wonderful cliff tops as well as fantastic Welsh architecture and wonderful parks.
6. Southend on Sea
Southend on Sea is home to the world’s largest pier and is a seaside town built with families in mind.
You have the Sealife Adventure Centre for the kids and it’s just a short journey in the Cliff Lift and you’re in the High Street enjoying the shops, art galleries and museums.
7. Great Yarmouth
Great Yarmouth embodies everything you would expect from a British seaside resort and you’ll not be disappointed.
Along the seafront you have miles of beach, two piers, a Sea Life Centre and countless Fish and Chip shops, those all-important arcades, not forgetting the pleasure beach.
Head towards the rows of streets and you’ll find traditional seaside restaurants and a plethora of tourist shops with sweets and gifts galore.
8. Bournemouth, Dorset
Bournemouth has always been one of the most popular seaside tourism destinations in England due mainly due to the beautiful 7 mile beach.
There are lots of popular attractions in Bournemouth including the beach, hikes to Henigstbury Head or Old Harry Rocks, learning to surf in Boscombe, exploring the historical town of Christchurch or enjoying the shops, entertainment and restaurants of Bournemouth city centre.
If you want to explore a little further there are boat and bus trips to the stunning Jurassic coast on offer where you can go and explore this spectacular coastline, its wildlife and its ancient architecture.
You could also combine a visit to nearby Weymouth, which offers a stunning Blue Flag beach and plenty to do in the town including The Pavilion Theatre, Portland Caste and the Portland Bill Lighthouse to name a few.
9. Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire
Saundersfoot is a beautiful and picturesque fishing village situated in the heart of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park.
It sits at the bottom of a wonderful wooded valley and has everything you could wish for from a quaint Welsh seaside town, it has stunning sandy beaches, lovely coastal paths as well as boutique shops and traditional pubs and restaurants.
10. Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold is a very idyllic seaside town, famous for its beautiful beaches, its pier and not forgetting the Adnams Brewery.
This very old town offers an insight into days gone by whilst still providing all the niceties of modern life, great food, nice drinks and a brilliant atmosphere.
Plan Your UK Seaside Break
Who needs to go abroad? There really are so many reasons for Brits to enjoy a staycation and hopefully we have given you some ideas for the best seaside towns to checkout. Now go explore them for yourself.
