Britain becomes a different place during the summer time. Especially at the seaside. The bleak winter, wind and rain thrashing in from the Atlantic or North Sea, and the shuttered up shops all become a bit brighter and spaces perfect for getting some fresh air and relaxing.
The deck chairs come out, the ice cream parlours open back up and many of us flock to sit on the beach and kick back from the stresses and strains of the city.
With the sun out in the UK, and many people on their holidays, here are five coastal towns you should take a trip to and really make the most of the British seaside…
Southwold, Suffolk
Southwold, on the Suffolk coast, is the very definition of understated seaside elegance. Famous for its colourful beach huts, historic pier and gently lapping waves, it’s ideal for anyone seeking peace, good food, and plenty of fresh air.
Stroll along the promenade, visit the working lighthouse, or take a brewery tour at Adnams, one of the UK’s most beloved regional breweries. There’s a lovely mix of independent shops and traditional tea rooms, and if you’re after a good read on the beach, the local bookshops are a joy to explore.
Whitstable, Kent
Just over an hour from London, Whitstable is a picturesque fishing town with a laid-back vibe and a passion for seafood. Its working harbour, pebbled beaches, and colourful weatherboard cottages make it a beautiful spot to unwind.
Whitstable is best known for its oysters, served fresh at the harbour or in one of its many seafood restaurants. Wander the town’s galleries, browse vintage shops, or simply sip a glass of something cold while watching the tide roll in. The sunsets here are especially beautiful on clear evenings.
Leigh-on-Sea, Essex
Often overshadowed by the livelier Southend, Leigh-on-Sea is a really charming part of the country that is a perfect escape. Many people flock to Leigh to bring an element of calm to their life, for all manner of reasons, whether it be to escape stress, medical treatment, or even to refresh and reset after going through private alcohol and drug rehabilitation centres in Essex to get their life back on track, and here can be just the place to do that.
Its old world charm and more modern creative spirit gives it a rather bohemian feel, and is a lovely spot to enjoy a slower pace of life. A great place for seafood, there’s nothing that quite beats a sunny day with sand, seafood and a spot to just while away the hours.
Tenby, Pembrokeshire
Located in southwest Wales, Tenby is one of the prettiest towns on the UK coastline, with pastel-coloured buildings, soft sandy beaches, and a dramatic harbour framed by cliffs. Its medieval town walls give it a fairytale-like feel, while the Blue Flag beaches are perfect for a gentle swim or a sun-soaked picnic.
There’s a wealth of walking opportunities along the Pembrokeshire Coast Path, or you can hop on a boat to nearby Caldey Island, home to a small community of Cistercian monks. Tenby combines natural beauty with history and charm in just the right measure.
North Berwick, East Lothian
Just a short train ride from Edinburgh, North Berwick is a stylish yet peaceful seaside town nestled on Scotland’s east coast. Its wide beaches, award-winning seabird centre, and views out to the volcanic Bass Rock make it a top spot for nature lovers and anyone in need of a proper breather.
There’s golf, birdwatching, excellent seafood, and scenic walks — all with a backdrop of rugged coastal beauty. The town also boasts great cafés and delis, perfect for fuelling your days of pottering and exploring.
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