The UK is home to many beautiful seaside towns, so you’re spoilt for choice if you fancy a beach break. From Falmouth in Cornwall all the way to Rothesay on the Isle of Bute, there are some fabulous resort towns in the UK that contain a great range of amenities and fantastic beaches.
Plus, as these reviews of Hotels.com show, these seaside spots are full of beautiful B&Bs and boutique hotels that are easy to book. With this in mind, let’s take a look at the UK’s nicest seaside towns so you can start planning your next long weekend away with the family.
#1 Falmouth, Cornwall
The port town of Falmouth is a real gem. It sits in a relatively sheltered bay on the south coast of Cornwall, and it’s a haven for water sports enthusiasts.
The pretty harbour on one side of the town is split from the three beaches on the other by a grassy headland with a Tudor castle. During your long weekend, you’ll uncover lots to see and do in the town. You can climb Jacob’s Ladder, visit the Great Gardens of Cornwall and soak up the views from Pendennis Castle. Plus, because the town has an upmarket feel, you’ll never struggle to find a nice restaurant to dine in on an evening.
#2 Herne Bay, Kent
Herne Bay sits on the south coast of the Thames Estuary, near both Canterbury and Whitstable. This means it’s a great base for a long weekend, because it’s easy to take a short trip if you don’t fancy an afternoon lounging on the beach.
If relaxing on the sand is more your thing, you’ll never struggle for space. The coastline in Herne Bay stretches for more than two miles and comes with colourful beach huts, seafront gardens, a pier and bandstand. Elsewhere in the town, you can see ancient landmarks like the twin Reculver Towers. Here you’ll discover the site of one of the earliest Roman forts in the UK, according to English Heritage.
If history isn’t your thing, you have plenty of other options. You can visit a wild animal park in Herne Common or see one of the local shows. If you’re lucky enough to be in town for the South East Air Show, you may even see the Red Arrows.
#3 Portstewart, County Londonderry
The town of Portstewart in County Londonderry has a reputation as an upmarket place for a staycation. The town is home to a spectacular beach, a gorgeous harbour and a selection of fine eateries.
But, it’s in a sporting sense where Portstewart really excels. The town is the perfect place for a golfing break because Portstewart Golf Club is home to three links golf courses, and Royal Portrush is only a 10-minute drive away. But, if you’d rather explore this gorgeous part of the country instead, try taking the 33-mile Causeway Coast Way. On your way, you’ll pass the White Rocks, the Giant’s Causeway, Dunluce Castle and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. You can follow this route created by WalkNI.
#4 Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear
Don’t believe the rumours – it really isn’t ‘grim up north’. In fact, Tynemouth is a beautiful location steeped in maritime history. Plus, it’s full of gorgeous shopping boutiques and contains several fabulous restaurants.
Plus, from your base in Tynemouth, you have the best of both worlds. You’re under half-an-hour away from Newcastle’s bustling city centre and under an hour away from Northumberland National Park.
#5 Rothesay, Isle of Bute
If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend break, look no further than Rothesay on the Isle of Bute. This smart, Victorian seaside town is as pretty as a picture, and it’s a great place for exploring the island’s past. You can explore the impressive Rothesay Castle and its dungeons, or visit the Bute Museum. If you’d rather just relax away from the crowds, Ettrick Bay and its stunning beach is just around the corner.
Visit any of these top seaside towns and you’ll have a fantastic long weekend filled with love and laughter. Just remember to bring home a stick of rock as a souvenir for your family and friends.
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