11 of the best seaside towns in the UK

There are plenty of fabulously fun places in the UK to build sandcastles, paddle in the sea and eat fish and chips, but if you know where to look, you can also find Michelin-worthy restaurants specialising in seafood, striking artworks, and beaches with historic castles as a backdrop.

We’re not just about the big hitters of Cornwall either. From stunning sandy stretches in Northern Ireland to pastel-coloured towns in Wales and hip hangouts in Kent, here are some of the UK's best seaside towns for a staycation with character.

1. Bamburgh, Northumberland

On the Northumberland coast, Bamburgh’s sandy beach is a fantastic spot to surf, build sandcastles and enjoy windswept strolls along the dunes. So much so that it's retained its top spot on Which?'s round up of the best seaside destinations in the UK for the fourth year running (it scored particularly highly for its scenery and tranquillity).

One thing that really makes it stand out is the imposing Bamburgh Castle, 46m (150ft) above the beach. Explore its grounds and staterooms to discover more than 3,000 years of history, filled with battles and rebellions.

Bamburgh is also likely to be quieter than other seaside hotspots in the UK, allowing you more space to explore attractions such as its RNLI Grace Darling Museum, which tells the story of a Victorian heroine who risked her life to rescue survivors from a wrecked steamship in 1838.

And, there are plenty of places to refuel, whether you’re looking for locally-sourced seafood, high-quality takeout burgers or a cup of tea and a slab of cake.

2. St Ives, Cornwall

The popular Cornish town of St Ives has long attracted artists due to its natural good looks. It’s home to galleries, studios and cultural attractions galore; two big hitters are Tate St Ives, which overlooks surfers' favourite Porthmeor Beach, and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, where you can see carvings and sculptures in the artist’s former home and gardens kept as she designed them.

In the town itself, wander the narrow, cobbled streets, popping into independent shops for gifts and sussing out lunch options, where you’ll be able to find everything from bakeries selling pasties and swish spots serving seafood to cafes and tearooms. The Sloop Inn is on the harbour and has a terrace with views over the water.

Don’t forget to allow some time to relax on one of the town’s three lovely beaches, where you can try watersports or simply sit back and gaze across the twinkly water.

3. Filey, Yorkshire

In 2021, Filey Beach came 18th in Tripadvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards for the best beaches in Europe. It’s not quite made it back on the list since, but it’s still no less lovely.

On a visit to this seaside town, you can stroll down its 8km (5 miles) of golden sand, admiring its colourful beach huts and looking down on the town from the Filey Brigg peninsula. Make sure you also wander along the promenade next to the sand, looking at its Seafront Sculpture Trail by artist Russ Coleman, then potter in Crescent Gardens where you may catch a brass band playing in the bandstand.

The town isn’t as built up as its neighbour Scarborough, which adds to its appeal if you’re looking for a quieter break. Other attractions include Filey Dams, a freshwater marsh popular with migratory birds, and the Spirit of Yorkshire Distillery, where you can go on a tour or treat yourself to afternoon tea in its Pot Still Coffee Shop.

4. Ilfracombe, Devon

This pretty Devon harbour town has pastel buildings, art and craft galleries and Damien Hirst’s Verity, a 20m (66ft) bronze statue of a pregnant woman holding a sword. There’s also the fascinating Tunnels Beaches – tunnels that were hand carved in the 1820s that lead to a tidal Victorian bathing pool and beaches.

In the town centre, you’ll find independent shops in 19th-century buildings and plenty of places to eat. One stand-out restaurant is Michelin-recognised The Antidote, located in the heart of St James Place. Here you can try its thoughtfully prepared set menu, which centres around local and seasonal ingredients, and enjoy wines to match every plate.

5. St Andrews, Fife

Known as the home of golf, Scotland’s oldest university town and the end of the Fife Pilgrim Way, there’s plenty to discover in St Andrews away from its beaches – but do allow plenty of time to visit its white-sand stretches, too.

On a visit to the remains of St Andrews Cathedral, look at medieval sculptures that were found on the site then climb St Rule’s Tower for a knockout view.

St Andrews Castle is another historic spot, which was the main residence of the bishops and archbishops of St Andrews in medieval Scotland. And, golfer or not, you’ll enjoy a guided walk of the Old Course to walk in the footsteps of some golfing greats.

6. Margate, Kent

A cool Kent seaside town, Margate has the British seaside staples of a sandy beach, fairground rides and fish and chips, but complements these with an art scene and vintage shops in its old town.

Its seafront Turner Contemporary gallery turned ten in 2021 and has been credited with turning the town into a cultural destination for art lovers. The Dreamland Margate theme park has classic vintage rides and hosts performances by big-name bands.

For something unique, visit Margate’s Shell Grotto. Discovered in 1835, it’s a fascinating attraction because no one really knows who built it or why its chalk walls are decorated with more than 4.6 million shells. You can debate this puzzle afterwards over a craft beer in a hip bar or cosy pub.

7. Tenby, Pembrokeshire

On Wales’ southwest coast, Tenby has a pretty harbour backed by pastel-hued townhouses and the lovely Harbour Beach, which is perfect for families.

If that wasn’t enough, there are also three further fantastic sandy stretches, and coastal walks with memorable views from the Pembrokeshire Coast Path.

Away from the sea, there’s an old town to explore within medieval walls, the ruins of a 13th-century castle, and the Tudor Merchant’s House, a National Trust property that will transport you back to Tudor Tenby. Wildlife enthusiasts can also take boat trips to spot grey seals, while Tenby Museum and Art Gallery is the oldest independent museum in Wales. If you’d like to dine in one of the trendiest spots in town after exploring, head to Upper Frog Street where you’ll find venues such as Sandbar, which serves craft beer and street food.

8. Falmouth, Cornwall

Maritime history, seaside charm and a flourishing arts scene combine in Falmouth, a vibrant town perched on the Cornish coast.

Its bustling harbour is the heart of the town, where you can watch ships come and go but, this being Cornwall, you’ve also got a trio of beaches on your doorstep. Gyllyngvase is an award-winning sweep of golden sand just 15 minutes from the centre of town. A further 20 minutes takes you to Swanpool Beach, where you can learn watersports basics with the team at ElementalUK or hire a stand-up paddleboard and hit the water yourself.

For history buffs, the National Maritime Museum Cornwall has fascinating exhibits about seafaring history, while Henry VIII’s Pendennis Castle provides an interactive glimpse into the town’s past complete with stunning coastal views.

9. Llandudno, North Wales

Llandudno is another seaside spot that scored highly in Which?’s survey; as well as its top-rated scenery and attractions, the town scored four out of five for its value for money.

It’s also one of the British classics – a proper Victorian resort that’s retained its charm and even has the longest pier in Wales (and the fifth longest in the UK!). Kids will adore the fairground rides and shops, but it’s the Llandudno Cable Car, which whisks you up the Great Orme, that has the real wow-factor.

If you’re going for the beach, North Shore is Llandudno’s ideal for sunbathing and you can take sightseeing and fishing boat trips from the jetty.

10. Wells-next-the-Sea, Norfolk

Wells-next-the-Sea in Norfolk is one of those charming little places that feels both relaxed and lively. It's got a fabulous spot on the North Norfolk coast with a beach that blends into Holkam’s protected dunes on one side and the Wells Salt Marshes on the other.

Wildlife lovers will feel right at home as the marshes and adjacent mudflats are a birdlife heaven (try to spot oystercatchers and curlews), and you can spot grey seals at Blakeney Point just 20 minutes away.

Wells Quay is the heart of town life and where you’ll find Platten’s and French’s – two brilliant fish and chip shops that overlook the harbour. For the kids, The Little Blue Hut rents out ‘Gilly Gear’ during weekends and school holidays so you can go crabbing off the harbour.

11. Portrush, Northern Ireland

Portrush’s main draw? Two huge sandy beaches that stretch out along the promontory the town is built on. Both are lovely, with lifeguards on duty during summer and activities including diving and surfing on offer.

For golfers, it’s here you’ll find the challenging Dunluce Links at the Royal Portrush Golf Club. The course is named for the ruins of the 13th-century Dunluce Castle, which is just a short drive away and a great day out. Further along the coast, you can visit the Giant’s Causeway to see its striking hexagonal basalt columns.

To get to a flavour of the town’s food scene, and have a great night out on the town, join Portrush Tasty – a food tour that includes a private craft beer tasting, two-course meal and great company.