Over the last three months, there has been an 80% increase in the number of people searching for ‘coastal weekend breaks’, after all the UK is famed for its coastline. From the sweeping cliffs of Dover to Dunnet’s Head, the most Northern point of Scotland, we have a lot to offer in the form of our rolling coastline. For years, our southern shores have been famed for their variety of tourist towns and coastal attractions. However, choosing the place to visit that is right for you can be a tricky dilemma.
As a result, the travel experts at Village Hotels have revealed their pick of the best UK coastal destinations based on your holiday preference.
1. Bournemouth, Dorset – For the outdoor enthusiasts
Bournemouth is home to over ten miles of award-winning sandy beaches and for years has been a fan favourite for those wanting to escape to the coast. The city is also part of the Jurassic Coast, a 95-mile-long stretch of coastline recognised for its outstanding rocks, fossils and landforms by UNESCO. From galleries to gardens, Bournemouth has it all when it comes to staying entertained over the summer.
According to Tripadvisor and with over 8,959 reviews averaging 4.5 stars Bournemouth Beach ranked as the top must see attraction, it’s no wonder thousands of families visit each year. There are also over 532 places to eat out in restaurants Bournemouth and 6 hotels rated over 5 stars.
2. Poole, Dorset – For the quintessentially British
The smaller neighbour to the left of Bournemouth, Poole has risen to fame in recent years for frequently appearing at the top of the lists for the UK’s most sought after postcodes. However, while most people know Poole for its natural harbour and scenic shops, the town in quintessentially British. Poole boosts a picturesque old town and a recently revamped Quayside area, showing off the best of British architecture.
In regards of places to eat out, there are over 240 options and 9 hotels rated over 5 stars. Brownsea Island ranks as the best attraction to see in Poole, a National Trust Island located just off the harbour, hosting a vibrant woodland.
3. Southampton, Hertfordshire – For the history buffs
Southampton is a port city with a rich naval history, and is home to the SeaCity Museum, which includes an interactive model of the Titanic, which famously launched departed from the city in 1912. Southampton’s museums further explore the cities relationship which industry, both the Solent Sky and The Wool House which explore the cities industrial past.
Outside of local attractions, there are over 563 places to eat in the city and 3 properties rated 5 stars. With such a rich history, it is no wonder that the Solent Museum ranks as the top attraction for those visiting Southampton.
4. Brighton, East Sussex – For the vibrant queer scene
While Brighton has always been a popular seaside destination, the demographics of the city are changing. The city has a bustling LGBTQ+ scene and frequently tops the charts for having the largest queer population in the UK, with its vibrant cabaret and nightlife scene, its not difficult to see why. As a result, the city attracts many young professionals, which has led to a surge in the number of independent cafes, shops and businesses.
Across the city there are over 904 for eating across the city and 1 hotel which has ranked 5 stars. The cities vibrant arts scene appears to appeal to most of its visitors as the cities Royal Pavillion ranks as the cities top attraction.
5. Torquay, Devon – For a taste of the Mediterranean in the UK
The resort town coast has been nicknamed the ‘English Riviera’ and with its clear water and green cliff faces, its easy to see why. The small town could easily be mistaken for being along the Mediterranean coast. The Imperial Spa and Babbacombe beach gives any seasoned traveller the feeling of being in an exotic town on the European continent.
There are 239 places to eat around Torquay and 13 hotels which ranked as 5 stars. For those making the trip to the English Riviera, Kent’s Cavern, Britain’s oldest prehistoric home ranks as the best attraction to visit.
Commenting on the best coastal towns in Southern England to visit, a spokesperson from Village Hotels commented stating;
“The southern coast holds a big place in the hearts of many people across the UK, from its shoreline to its vast countryside, what’s not to love? However, before you book your time away its important to find which town or city will suit your needs best.
“With this in mind, we’re pleased to have put together a comprehensive list on where to book, depending on your needs. We hope this list has inspired anyone who is thinking of going away this summer.”
