Escape the hassle of booking flights and long queues in customs, discover the delights of the British seaside instead!
From coastal towns to quaint fishing villages, the UK is full of some of the most beautiful places that are right here on your doorstep. A staycation is definitely what you need this summer.
Can’t decide where to visit? Have a read of our top 10 seaside towns to visit in the UK this summer:
1. Bournemouth
With its miles of long sandy beaches, Bournemouth provides the perfect backdrop for a summer holiday. Its main beach was recently voted number one best beach in the UK in the Trip Advisor Travellers’ Choice Awards 2019, and number six in Europe!
There are so many fun things to do in Bournemouth. Outdoor activities to take part in include surfing, paddle boarding, cycling and jet-skiing, all alongside serene views.
Bournemouth Pier makes a great day out with amusements, a zip wire and climbing walls, it’s sure to keep you entertained. For something a little more relaxing, head to the Key West Bar and Grill which serves a varied menu and cocktail list with panoramic views of Bournemouth.
A new addition to Bournemouth is the Selfie Trail. A variety of artists have created colourful murals that make the ideal background for your selfies. The trail stretches from Sandbanks to Southbourne and can be followed by foot, bike or land train.
Have a look at our Bournemouth hotel stays.
2. Llandudno
Set in North Wales, Llandudno is a coastal town with picturesque beaches and breath taking scenery. It’s home to the longest pier in Wales which first opened in 1858 and is 2,295 ft long. The pier is open to food stalls, shops, arcades and even a Punch and Judy Show – a seaside classic.
If you want to see more of Llandudno then why not take to the sky on the Llandudno Cable Cars which run from Happy Valley to the summit of the Great Orme, expect incredible views!
Did you know that Llandudno has its own Alice in Wonderland Trail? The original Alice, Alice Lidell, used to holiday in Llandudno and she inspired Lewis Carroll for his famous story.
Download the app and follow the trail all around the town.
Thinking of visiting Llandudno? Browse our Llandudno hotel deals today.
3. Torquay
Located in Devon, Torquay is a popular seaside resort with a beautiful marina and two piers.
It has its own award winning coastal aquarium (Living Coasts) which is filled with fascinating mammals, birds and marine life.
Watch the Penguins play on Penguin Beach or see the otters entertain, Living Coasts is an ideal all weather attraction.
When the sun is shining, take a picnic down to one of the many beaches. If you don’t fancy the sand then head over to Anstey’s Cove, a shingle beach that is tucked away between Wellswood and Babbacombe.
The cove has its own Quality Coast Award and is excellent for canoeing and kayaking.
Don’t forget to ride the big wheel in Torquay which stands at 60 metres high and offers fabulous views over the bay.
We have several hotels available in Torquay. View our latest deals, or read our ultimate guide of things to do in Torquay.
4. Blackpool
Blackpool has been one of Britain’s most popular holiday destinations since the 1800s and is bursting full of attractions to suit everyone.
Explore Pleasure Beach, an amusement park filled with thrilling rides, a Nickelodeon Land and a Hot Ice Show. Brave Infusion if you dare, a five loop rollercoaster that’s suspended over water.
Did you know the largest stick of rock was made in Blackpool? No wonder Blackpool rock has its own song! It was created by confectioners Coronation Rock and weighed 424.5 kg.
Every year the town comes alight with the Blackpool Illuminations, a free event that takes place from the end of August to November. It was founded in 1879 and uses over one million bulbs. Blackpool is definitely worth a visit during this time or year!
Take a look at our Blackpool hotel offers.
5. Brighton
Whether you’re looking for a romantic break for two, some seaside fun for the family or a lively girly weekend, Brighton is the place to go.
With its city like atmosphere and beautiful seafront, it provides the best of both worlds.
Head to The Brighton Palace Pier for some traditional seaside antics. It’s home to thrilling rides like the Turbo Coaster as well as everyone’s favourite – the amusements. You’ll find multiple food and drink concession stands here including the classic fish and chips.
Take a stroll along its famous pebble beach and see the brightly coloured beach huts. Further inland you will find The Lanes, an historic maze of alleyways crammed with cafes, restaurants alongside unique and wonderful shops.
When the day starts to end, the fun doesn’t stop there! Brighton comes abuzz with a whole range of restaurants, cocktail bars and clubs where you can enjoy the rest of your evening.
Have a look at our Brighton hotels.
6. Newquay
Cornwall becomes a haven for tourists during the summer months and with its stunning coastline and picturesque scenery it’s easy to see why!
Newquay brings together the perfect mix of tourist attractions and beautiful beaches to create the ideal place for a Cornish break.
It’s home to the famous Fistral Beach and a hot spot for surfers, there are also multiple surf schools so you can try it yourself.
Embark on a swashbuckling adventure at Newquay’s Pirate Quest or discover the underwater creatures at the Blue Reef Aquarium which is situated on Towan Beach.
The harbour is great to walk around as you enjoy a traditional Cornish pasty, you might even get to see a few seals!
In the evenings, watch as Newquay comes alive with a choice of pubs, clubs and restaurants to visit.
Whilst staying in Newquay, why not explore nearby towns and villages such as Perranporth, Crantock, Watergate Bay and Porth.
Have a look at our hotels available in Newquay.
7. Scarborough
One of the first seaside towns in the UK, Scarborough has attracted holidaymakers since the discovery of its spa waters in the early 17th century.
It’s home to The Grand Hotel which was the largest hotel in Europe when it first opened in 1863. This stunning Victorian building can be seen from the towns harbour and South Bay, and is ideally located to enjoy all of what Scarborough has to offer.
Why not visit the ruins of the once majestic Scarborough Castle and discover its 3,000 year old history. It offers incredible views of the North and South Bays.
Along with its beautiful beaches, there’s plenty of parks and gardens to explore including Peasholm Park, South Cliff Gardens and Royal Albert Park. For more inspiration, check out our ultimate guide of things to do in Scarborough.
Scarborough also makes a great base for exploring the North York Moors National Park and Yorkshire Coast.
Start planning your Scarborough break today.
8. Isle of Wight
Known as the Dinosaur Capital of Great Britain and filled with amazing beaches, the Isle of Wight is a destination just waiting for you to visit.
With its bustling towns alongside quaint little villages, there’s something on the Isle of Wight for everyone to enjoy.
Shanklin brings to you all the charm of a seaside town. Its old village is littered with thatched cottages and independent shops, perfect for souvenir gifts to take back home.
Sun yourself on Sandown Bay which recently won ‘Beach of the Year’ in the BBC Countryfile Magazine Awards 2019.
Don’t forget to visit the famous Needles, a group of distinctive chalk rocks that rise around 30m out of the sea, or take a trip to Osborne House, the holiday home of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert.
Did you know most of our breaks to the Isle of Wight include free car ferry?
9. Weston-super-Mare
Weston-super-Mare is a traditional seaside resort steeped in Victorian history. You can learn all about it at the Weston Museum.
Its Grand Pier is open all year round and offers the ideal family day out. Here you will find amusements, thrilling rides, dodgems, indoor Go-Karting and even a Museum of Memories.
Known as the ‘Sand Sculpting Capital’, every year the town hosts a Sand Sculpture Festival which takes place in April until September. You can see amazing sand creations from talented artists, the theme of this year’s festival is ‘What If?’.
The town is home to The Helicopter Museum which has over 80 helicopters on display, making it the largest dedicated Rotorcraft Collection in the world. At the museum there is also an interactive zone, film theatre and ‘play copter’ outside for children.
When the sun is shining, the long stretch of golden sand awaits you – why not take a donkey ride?!
Book your hotel stay at Weston-super-Mare today.
10. Ilfracombe
Situated off the North Devon coast, Ilfracombe is filled with hidden gems and a small sheltered harbour.
For something different, head over to Tunnels Beaches a series of tunnels that were hand carved in the 1820’s and lead to secluded beaches and a tidal Victorian bathing pool. Learn about its history throughout the site as well as hilarious Victorian etiquette for boys and girls.
The Ilfracombe Aquarium is an ideal family attraction with over 75 species of aquatic animals from North Devon on display. It has a gift shop and Pier Café serving delicious food with amazing views of the harbour.
On the outskirts of Ilfracombe, you will find Cairn Woodland Local Nature Reserve, an historic woodland grassland area with an old railway. Standing at 520ft above sea level, Cairn Top provides vast views across the North and South West.
Ilfracombe harbour is perfect to walk around on a sunny day. Sea-life safaris and coastal cruises can be taken from there and trips to Lundy Island. On the surrounding streets there are restaurants, cafés, pubs and gift shops.
Book your Ilfracombe break today!
