Britain's Best Beaches and Seaside Towns

Britain has a long coastline with many beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns. Here are some of the best:

Photo by Elektra Klimi
1.  Kynance Cove

Ah, Kynance Cove, what a marvelously beautiful place. If you're ever in Cornwall, this is one destination that should be at the top of your list. From the moment you set foot on the beach, you're transported to another world, one of stunning beauty and natural splendor. The first thing that strikes you is the color of the sea - a vivid turquoise blue that shimmers in the sunlight. Then, there are the rocks that jut out from the water, worn smooth by the relentless pounding of the waves. And let's not forget the sandy beach, which seems to stretch on for miles.

But it's not just the scenery that's impressive at Kynance Cove. The area is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, from the seals that bask on the rocks to the seabirds that swoop overhead. If you're feeling adventurous, you can even take a hike along the coastal path that winds its way along the cliffs, offering breathtaking views of the cove and the surrounding coastline.

Photo by Simon Ridgwell

2. Polperro

Polperro is a small fishing village located on the south coast of Cornwall, England. It is famous for its narrow, winding streets, historic harbour, and traditional thatched cottages. The village has a rich maritime history and was once a thriving center for the pilchard fishing industry. Today, the harbour is home to a small fleet of fishing boats, as well as a number of pleasure boats. Polperro is surrounded by beautiful countryside and cliffs, making it a popular destination for walkers and nature lovers. The village is also home to several museums, including the Polperro Heritage Museum, which tells the story of the village's history and the local fishing industry.

Photo by Max Leveridge
3. Southwold

Walking through the town, you can't help but be struck by its picturesque beauty - the colorful beach huts, the iconic lighthouse, and the quaint shops and cafes that line the streets. And let's not forget the pier, with its retro arcade games and quaint little stalls selling everything from souvenirs to candy floss. But there's more to Southwold than just its pretty facade. This is a town with a rich history, dating back hundreds of years. From the medieval church that dominates the town center to the Victorian brewery that still produces beer to this day, Southwold is a place where the past is still very much alive.

And let's not forget the beach - a long, sandy stretch that's perfect for a stroll or a dip in the sea. It's no wonder that Southwold has been a favorite holiday destination for generations of families. All in all, Southwold is a true gem of the British coastline - a place that's both quaint and charming, yet still manages to offer plenty of things to see and do. I, for one, can't wait to return.

Photo by James Ratchford
4. Dungeness

Dungeness, my goodness, what a peculiar place. It's like nowhere else on earth - a windswept shingle desert that seems to stretch on for miles. And yet, despite its desolate appearance, there's something strangely alluring about this place. For starters, there's the wildlife - a plethora of rare and exotic birds that flock to the area to feed and breed. Then, there's the architecture - a mishmash of abandoned fishing huts and quirky cottages, all painted in bright colors and adorned with whimsical sculptures.

But perhaps the most fascinating thing about Dungeness is its nuclear power station, which looms large over the landscape like some kind of futuristic monolith. It's a strange juxtaposition - this symbol of modern technology standing in stark contrast to the natural beauty of the area. And yet, somehow, it works. Dungeness has a kind of rugged, offbeat charm that's hard to resist. It's a place that marches to the beat of its own drum, where the rules of normality seem to have been left behind.

Photo by Beniamin Şinca

5. Staithes

Staithes is a historic fishing village located on the coast of North Yorkshire, England. It is known for its charming cobbled streets, picturesque harbour, and stunning coastal scenery. The village has a rich history, dating back to the medieval period, and was once a busy port for smugglers. Today, Staithes is a popular destination for tourists who come to enjoy its breathtaking coastal walks, quaint street, and charming pubs. Visitors to the village can explore its narrow alleyways, which are lined with traditional fisherman's cottages, and admire its stunning views of the North Sea. Staithes is also known for its artistic heritage and was once home to the famous Staithes Group of artists, including the painter, James Clarke Hook.



Photo by  Zeyu Jiang
6. Whitby

Whitby is a historic seaside town located on the northeast coast of England, in North Yorkshire. Its rich history and stunning natural beauty make it a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. The town is divided by the River Esk, with the old town located on the east side of the river, and the new town located on the west side. One of the most iconic landmarks in Whitby is the Gothic ruins of Whitby Abbey, which is perched high on a cliff overlooking the town and the sea. This historic abbey is said to have inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and it is a popular spot for tourists to explore and take photographs.

Whitby is also home to a working harbour, which is a hub for the town's fishing industry. Visitors can see the fishing boats coming and going, and sample some of the freshest seafood in the country. The town is also known for its unique jet jewelry, which is made from fossilized wood that is found in the cliffs surrounding the town.




Photo by Beata Mitręga

7. Tenby

Tenby is a picturesque seaside town located in Pembrokeshire, Wales. Its sheltered harbor, stunning beaches, and colorful houses make it a popular destination for tourists from around the world. The town's history dates back to the medieval period, and visitors can still see evidence of this in the town's architecture, including the ruins of the medieval town walls and the Tudor Merchant's House. Another popular attraction is the Tenby Museum and Art Gallery, which showcases the town's rich history and artistic heritage.

One of the highlights of Tenby is its beautiful beaches. The town has four main beaches, including Castle Beach, which is overlooked by the ruins of Tenby Castle, and South Beach, which is a wide, sandy beach that stretches for miles. Visitors can enjoy a range of water sports, including surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding, or simply relax on the sand and soak up the sun.


Photo by Simon Ridgwell
8. Portmeirion

Ah, Portmeirion. A place that looks like it was airlifted in from Italy and deposited on the Welsh coast. A whimsical, fantastical place that is part village, part sculpture garden, and part architectural folly. Walking through Portmeirion is like wandering through a dream. You'll find yourself strolling down narrow streets, passing pastel-colored buildings with ornate balconies and terraces, and all of it surrounded by lush gardens and exotic plants.

But the real jewel in Portmeirion's crown is its eccentric architecture. Everywhere you look, there are unexpected surprises and playful touches, from the golden angel perched atop the Campanile, to the ornate pagoda in the Chinese garden, to the Roman-inspired statues and fountains dotted throughout the village.



Photo by Simon Ridgwell

9. Bosham

Bosham, Bosham, Bosham. It's hard to say without sounding like you're stuttering, but once you've been there, you'll never forget it. This charming little village on the south coast of England is one of those hidden gems that only the locals seem to know about. The first thing you'll notice about Bosham is the harbor. It's small, but perfectly formed, with colorful fishing boats bobbing up and down in the water. The tide goes out a long way, revealing a wide expanse of mudflats that are perfect for a brisk walk or a spot of bird-watching.

But there's more to Bosham than just the harbor. The village itself is a delight, with winding streets, thatched cottages, and a beautiful church that dates back to Saxon times. There's even a pub, The Anchor Bleu, that has been serving up cold pints and hearty food since the 18th century. One of the best things about Bosham is the sense of history that permeates every corner of the village. It was once an important center for trade and commerce, and the Romans even had a fort here. But it's also a place that has inspired artists and writers over the years, from J.M.W. Turner to John Keats.



Photo by Marcus Woodbridge

10. Rhossili Bay
Rhossili Bay is a stunning three-mile stretch of golden sand located on the Gower Peninsula in Wales. The beach is a popular destination for visitors from all over the world, thanks to its pristine sand, crystal-clear water, and breathtaking views. One of the highlights of Rhossili Bay is the Worm's Head, a rocky outcrop that juts out into the sea and is accessible only at low tide. Visitors can hike along the rocky path to the end of the headland, where they will be rewarded with panoramic views of the coastline and the ocean.

The village of Rhossili is also worth a visit. It's a charming place, with whitewashed cottages, a historic church, and several pubs and restaurants serving up local food and drink. From the village, visitors can take a short walk up to the hilltop ruins of the 13th-century St. Mary's Church, which offers stunning views of the bay below. Rhossili Bay is also a great base for exploring the wider Gower Peninsula. Visitors can take a coastal walk to nearby beaches and coves, including Mewslade Bay and Fall Bay, or head inland to explore the beautiful countryside.

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Yorkshire is ahistoric county in northern England, known for its rolling hills,stunning coastline, and charming towns and villages.

Cornwall's Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Cornwall is acounty located in the southwest of England, known for its stunningcoastline, picturesque villages, and unique cultural heritage.

Norfolk's Most Beautiful Places to Visit

Norfolk is a county in the East of England, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns and villages, and rich history.

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Cornwall is acounty located in the southwest of England, known for its stunningcoastline, picturesque villages, and unique cultural heritage.

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Norfolk's Most Beautiful Places

Norfolk is a county in the East of England, known for its stunning coastline, charming towns and villages, and rich history.