The Great British seaside break has been a rite of passage for centuries, with most of us having packed up the car and decamped to the coast at some point in our lives. With thousands of miles of breathtaking coastline across England, Scotland, and Wales, british seaside destinations remain firmly on our itinerary. Today, however, they come with a distinctly grown-up twist.
Gone are the days of soggy sandwiches, sugary sticks of rock, and dodging downpours in noisy arcades. In their place is a new generation of coastal escapes that combine postcard-perfect scenery with artisan bakeries, world-class seafood, and boutique retreats.
What are the best seaside travel destinations in the UK?
Whether you are looking for sweeping sands or historic harbour towns, our team of travel editors handpicked 12 of the most captivating coastal destinations across Britain, evaluating each for its unique character, food scene, walkability, and total relaxation factor.
1. Weymouth, Dorset
Why it’s on our list
Characterised by postcard-perfect Georgian townhouses, craggy cliffs, and miles of sheltered coastline, Weymouth is the jewel of Dorset’s coast. Set on the nature-filled Jurassic Coast, it perfectly balances historic seaside charm with a rapidly growing culinary scene, making it a standout option for England staycations.
Top things to do
Fossil hunt along the dramatic cliffs or spend a tranquil day on the shingle beach at Ringstead Bay, a horseshoe-shaped inlet and protected National Trust area surrounded by lofty limestone bluffs.
Where to eat
Explore the bustling harbour’s trendy eateries, where you can sample fresh catches of the day alongside craft cocktails overlooking the water.
Good to know
Best time to visit: Late spring to early autumn for optimal sunbathing weather.
Getting there: Direct train services run regularly from London Waterloo to Weymouth station.
2. Padstow, Cornwall
Why it’s on our list
Set on the northern coast of Cornwall, this bustling fishing port is brimming with coastal charm. From its pretty harbour dotted with pastel-coloured boats to the stately Elizabethan country house Prideaux Place, Padstow offers an iconic Cornish escape.
Top things to do
Stroll through the narrow historic streets, cycle the nearby Camel Trail, or watch the fishing vessels haul in their daily catch right in the centre of town.
Where to eat
Rick Stein’s famous The Seafood Restaurant has been a mainstay on the promenade since 1975. Pull up a stool at the circular bar to devour fresh oysters accompanied by a chilled glass of crisp white wine.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: Book your dining tables months in advance, especially during the summer high season.
Getting there: Fly into Newquay Airport (a 30-minute drive away) or take a train to Bodmin Parkway.
3. Southwold, Suffolk
Why it’s on our list
If you are searching for a quintessential English seaside stay, Southwold ticks every box. This unspoilt corner of the Suffolk coast boasts a butterscotch-hued beach lined with bright beach huts, a historic working lighthouse, and an award-winning 625-foot wooden pier.
Top things to do
Take a blustery walk along the beach, visit the cottage-like Southwold Museum, or catch a classic film at the quirky 70-seat Electric Cinema on rainy afternoons.
Where to eat
Feast on the region’s finest local produce at upscale gastropubs like the Harbour Inn or enjoy fish and chips right over the water at The Boardwalk.
Good to know
Best time to visit: Autumn is ideal for quiet coastal walks and cosy pub evenings without summer crowds.
Getting there: Easily reached by car via the A12; the nearest train station is Halesworth (approx. 9 miles away).
4. Deal, Kent
Why it’s on our list
While neighbouring Whitstable and Margate draw heavy crowds, Deal offers a more relaxed, understated atmosphere. Its pastel-hued high street, picturesque pebble beach, and independent shopping scene make it a dream weekend retreat.
Top things to do
Hunt for vintage treasures in local boutiques, browse antique interiors at Hoxton Store, and admire the wooden fishing boats dotted along the shoreline.
Where to eat
Enjoy vibrant seafood dishes at 81 Beach Street, or pop into Solley’s Ice Cream Parlour to build a custom sundae before grabbing a craft beer at a seafront bar.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: Check out Deal Castle, a Tudor artillery fort built by Henry VIII, located right on the coast.
Getting there: High-speed trains run from London St Pancras to Deal in under 90 minutes.
5. Filey, Yorkshire
Why it’s on our list
Boasting rich history, abundant wildlife, and a scene-stealing five-mile stretch of toffee-coloured coastline, this former fishing village is one of North Yorkshire’s best-kept secrets for idyllic Weekend Breaks.
Top things to do
Lace up your hiking boots to tackle part of the 79-mile Yorkshire Wolds Way, or relax among the blooming flower beds at the clifftop Crescent Gardens overlooking the bay below.
Where to eat
Dine on traditional beer-battered fish and chips while taking in panoramic sea views from the casual esplanade eateries.
Good to know
Best time to visit: Early summer for birdwatching at nearby Bempton Cliffs, home to thousands of nesting seabirds.
Getting there: Filey is connected by rail via Hull and Scarborough.
6. St Ives, Cornwall
Why it’s on our list
Famous for its golden beaches and extraordinary light quality that has attracted artists for generations, St Ives is a maze of narrow cobbled streets, slate-roofed cottages, and turquoise waters that rival the Mediterranean.
Top things to do
Browse world-class modern art at Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden, or surf at Porthmeor Beach.
Where to eat
Head to The Porthminster Café, nestled right on the sands, for Asian-inspired seafood dishes paired with uninterrupted ocean views.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: Parking in town can be challenging; park at Lelant Saltings and take the scenic coastal train line directly into St Ives.
Getting there: Great Western Railway services connect to the St Ives branch line at Erth.
7. Whitby, Yorkshire
Why it’s on our list
Framed by the dramatic ruins of a 7th-century abbey, Whitby combines gothic drama with traditional maritime heritage. Its bustling harbour, cobbled lanes, and historic swing bridge make it one of the north’s most captivating spots.
Top things to do
Climb the iconic 199 steps to Whitby Abbey for sweeping sea views, or explore the town’s rich literary history through its connections to Bram Stoker’s Dracula.
Where to eat
No trip is complete without stopping by The Magpie Café, world-renowned for serving some of the finest, crispest fish and chips in the UK.
Good to know
Best time to visit: Late summer during the Whitby Regatta, or autumn for dramatic atmospheric walks.
Getting there: Accessible via the scenic Esk Valley Railway from Middlesbrough or by car via the North York Moors.
8. Tenby, Pembrokeshire (Wales)
Why it’s on our list
Enclosed by medieval stone walls, Tenby is a Welsh jewel defined by pastel-painted Georgian houses overlooking three sandy beaches. It serves as a vibrant getaway for those exploring Great British Breaks.
Top things to do
Take a boat trip from the harbour to Caldey Island, home to Cistercian monks, or walk along the coastal paths to discover hidden coves.
Where to eat
Enjoy freshly landed Pembrokeshire lobster and craft ales at charming harbour pubs like The Plantagenet House, located in one of the town’s oldest buildings.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: The main town centre is pedestrianised during summer daytime hours, making it ideal for peaceful strolls.
Getting there: Direct trains run regularly from Swansea and Cardiff straight into Tenby station.
9. Aberaeron, Ceredigion (Wales)
Why it’s on our list
With its striking grid of brightly painted Regency houses surrounding a picturesque harbour, Aberaeron is a tranquil Welsh gem that offers a peaceful alternative to busier resort towns.
Top things to do
Stroll around the colourful harbour basin, walk the Ceredigion Coast Path toward New Quay, or spot bottlenose dolphins in Cardigan Bay.
Where to eat
Dine at The Harbourmaster, a renowned boutique hotel and restaurant serving exquisite local Welsh lamb, artisan cheeses, and fresh seafood.
Good to know
Best time to visit: July for the annual Aberaeron Mackerel Festival.
Getting there: Best accessed by car via the A487 scenic coastal road.
10. North Berwick, East Lothian (Scotland)
Why it’s on our list
Located just a short train ride from Edinburgh, North Berwick boasts two sandy bays, dramatic views of Bass Rock, and a thriving high street packed with independent shops and bakeries—making it a stellar entry for Scotland Breaks.
Top things to do
Visit the Scottish Seabird Centre to take a boat trip out to the world’s largest colony of northern gannets on Bass Rock, or climb North Berwick Law for panoramic vistas.
Where to eat
Grab a freshly grilled lobster roll or steamed mussels right off the pier at the famous Lobster Shack during the summer months.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: Pack your golf clubs; the town features world-renowned links courses like North Berwick Golf Club.
Getting there: A direct 30-minute train ride connects North Berwick directly to Edinburgh Waverley.
11. St Andrews, Fife (Scotland)
Why it’s on our list
While globally famous as the home of golf, St Andrews is equally magnificent as a seaside resort. With medieval castle ruins overhanging the sea, grand university architecture, and vast sandy stretches, it stands out among the UK’s hidden gems.
Top things to do
Walk the broad, sweeping sands of West Sands Beach (famous from the film Chariots of Fire), explore St Andrews Cathedral ruins, or tour the historic university grounds.
Where to eat
Enjoy refined seafood at The Seafood Ristorante, perched dramatically on the cliff edge with floor-to-ceiling glass walls overlooking the sea.
Good to know
Best time to visit: May through September for warmer weather and longer daylight hours.
Getting there: Take a train to Leuchars station, followed by a quick 10-minute bus or taxi ride into town.
12. Aldeburgh, Suffolk
Why it’s on our list
Renowned for its rich cultural history, pebbled shorelines, and iconic wooden fisherman huts, Aldeburgh is a serene coastal retreat that has long inspired writers, musicians, and artists.
Top things to do
Admire Maggi Hambling’s striking Scallop sculpture on the northern beach, visit nearby Snape Maltings for world-class concerts, or stroll past historic timber-framed cottages.
Where to eat
Queue up for famous fish and chips at the Aldeburgh Fish & Chip Shop, then eat them fresh on the beach wall while watching the waves.
Good to know
Don’t-miss tip: Buy freshly smoked fish directly from the active fishermen’s huts right on the beach.
Getting there: Easily accessible by car via the A12, or take a train to Saxmundham (7 miles away).
Book your next seaside break with Secret Escapes
Taking a seaside break should be entirely effortless. Whether you want to relax at seaside retreat spaces or luxurious coastal hides, explore our dedicated UK Beach Hotels to start planning your perfect getaway.
For more travel advice and inspiration, deep dive further into the Escapist magazine or get in touch for more information.
