Amazing beaches in a charming town? There are many picturesque seaside towns in the UK, each with their own unique atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs, or historic harbours, there’s a coastal escape for every traveller. In this guide we’ll be looking at some of the best seaside towns across the UK, from the wild northern coastlines to the sun-kissed shores of the south.
Whitby: A Historic Gem on the Yorkshire Coast
Whitby is a town of history and is famous for its stunning Gothic abbey. It sits on the edge of Yorkshire’s rugged coastline, providing visitors a mix of dramatic scenery and quaint charm. The town is made up of cobblestone streets leading to cosy tearooms and independent shops. The harbor around here is perfect to take an easy walk in and the area beaches are great for families or for people seeking some quiet. In Whitby, the connection to the famous novel Dracula only serves to compound the place’s mystique.
Whitby is also a fantastic base for exploring the surrounding areas. The North York Moors National Park is just a short drive away, providing ample opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. For accommodations, consider booking through myhotelbreak.com to find the perfect spot to enjoy this enchanting town.
St Ives: Cornwall’s Artistic Haven
St Ives in the far southwest of the UK is known for its golden beaches and vibrant art scene. The light and natural beauty of this town attracts creatives from around the world. St Ives is a cultural hub that encapsulates the warmth of the Cornish coast, all the way from contemporary art galleries to traditional pottery workshops. Porthminster Beach is a clear blue waters beach where visitors can enjoy a leisurely day, or the cobbled streets are lined with boutique shops and cafes.
Tenby: Wales’ Coastal Treasure
On the coast of Pembrokeshire, Tenby combines a magical blend of medieval history and superb seaside views. Tenby is encircled by ancient town walls and its Georgian houses look down on golden beaches and a busy harbor. Comprised of Castle Beach and North Beach, these are great places to sunbathe and to explore rock pools, Caldey Island, just a short boat ride away, allows you to enjoy a more tranquil spot away from the mainland. The town’s fortress walls and the Tenby Museum & Art Gallery are great for history lovers to learn about the town’s past.
Bournemouth: A Classic British Seaside Resort
Bournemouth is lively, with its sandy beaches, bustling piers and family friendly attractions, but for those who prefer more traditional seaside activities, Bournemouth is the place to go. This popular town is located along the southern coast of England and has been a go to holiday destination for generations. There’s seven miles of pristine coastline, watersports galore and easy access to the stunning Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town also has a lively nightlife, shopping and eating out, and is perfectly rounded for a getaway.
The Pier and Gardens
Bournemouth Pier is a major attraction with everything from arcade games to zipline rides into the sea. Just a short walk from the beach, the town’s award winning gardens are great for a peaceful afternoon, lush green spaces that contrast well with the nearby coastline.
Portree: A Highland Escape on the Isle of Skye
Portree is far from the typical British seaside town, and instead offers a rugged, remote escape on the Isle of Skye. Surrounded by some of Scotland’s most spectacular landscapes, dramatic cliffs, serene lochs and the iconic Old Man of Storr are all within easy reach. Portree’s harbor is a postcard perfect scene, with brightly painted buildings lining the sea’s edge and fishing boats bobbing in the bay. It’s the perfect place for people who want to combine coastal views with a wild, outdoor holiday. Portree is a must for nature enthusiasts due to its hiking trails, wildlife spotting and a rich local culture.
Brighton: A Bohemian Seaside Haven
Brighton is a lively, bohemian seaside town on England’s south coast with a hint of the traditional. Brighton is famous for its pebble beach and iconic pier, and combines seaside nostalgia with modern city life. The Lanes are a maze of narrow streets, rammed with independent shops and quirky cafés, and the town’s art and music scenes are widely known around the UK. Brighton is the perfect destination for those who are looking for both relaxation and culture.
Margate: A Seaside Revival
Margate was once a faded seaside resort, but has been undergoing a renaissance in recent years. Margate’s blend of traditional British seaside culture and modern influences has seen it lauded for its retro charm and contemporary art scene. The Turner Contemporary gallery gives a little of the modern, but it’s Dreamland, a restored amusement park, that gives visitors a flavour of vintage seaside fun. A weekend escape to Margate’s golden sands and burgeoning foodie scene is a great idea.
In short, the UK’s seaside towns have something for everyone whether you’re into adventure or art, or simply a peaceful retreat by the water. The British coastline has its own unique character, so there is something for everyone, whether you are a family or a solo traveler.
