When you think of the seaside, your mind will typically wander to stunning beaches and the warm glow of the sun, as you indulge in the good weather. However, the unique charm about British seaside towns is their grey skies and pebble beaches that shouldn’t work but combine to create a wonderful aesthetic that is both calming and enchanting.
There’s many seaside towns in the UK that are perfect for a day out, weekend away or even to live if you’ve gained your British Citizenship when moving from abroad.
This guide will take a look at some of the best British seaside towns and why they are must-visit destinations for anyone looking for a lovely experience in the UK. Continue reading to find out more.
Why British Seaside Towns Excite Me
Timelessness
The charm of British seaside towns is rooted in how little they have changed over the years. When you go to the bigger cities in the UK, they’re very modernised, but you can visit a seaside town and feel exactly like your grandparents did decades ago.
The same wooden planks line the piers and the same mechanical horses spin on the carousel to give you a feel that you can’t achieve anywhere else. This sense of timelessness is what makes them special.
Towns like Southwold and Tobermory are great escapes where you step away from the modern world and feel more connected to the authenticity.
Unique Atmosphere
The feeling in a British seaside town is unlike anywhere else in the world. It is a mix of simple fun and deep history, as you’ll see a lot of different attractions. You can stand on a pier that is a hundred years old and watch your children enjoy modern amusement rides, or go to a local cafe to feast on the locally caught fish.
Even when the weather is cold and the sky is grey, which is most of the time, you can still get all the pleasantries you would when the sun is out. The quiet little arcades you often find also create a unique atmosphere that is full of cheerful nostalgia.
Food and Drink
Fish and chips is perhaps the most famous British dish, as it’s synonymous with our culture. British seaside towns offer the most wonderful fish and chips in the country and maybe even the world, as they are all locally caught and cooked to perfection in the restaurants and cafes that go across the coastline.
Fresh local produce is common, especially in areas like Cornwall, with dishes featuring crab, lobster and various shellfish dishes being a must-try when you visit the towns.
Traditional pubs are often found in seaside towns, offering a range of local drinks alongside their food. Forget about the beers you can find anywhere else, in these towns you can find locally brewed beers and ales that have an extra special taste.
Hidden Character
Beyond the sometimes-busy seafront and the bright lights of the pier lies a deeper life. If you walk just a few streets back you find antique shops filled with treasures and small art galleries run by local people that house some of the most unique pieces. These towns have a wonderful soul that the tourists often miss when they travel to cities like London. When the summer crowds leave, you discover a peaceful town with beautiful old architecture and welcoming neighborhood pubs.
The changing tides can also reveal hidden beauty, from golden beaches at low tide to the historical sites that can be found off the coastline, creating a picturesque seaside view that is perfect for those who want to take some photographs of the scenery.
Best British Seaside Towns to Visit
Staithes, North Yorkshire
Staithes is a rocky cove with cottages clinging to the cliffside. It is a fantastic spot to look for fossils on the famous Dinosaur Coast when the tide is low. Visitors love wandering the narrow streets and finding the cosy pubs near the old harbour. It offers a strong sense of history and is an unforgettable place on the Yorkshire coast.
Burnham on Crouch, Essex
Burnham-on-Crouch is based next to the quiet waters of the River Crouch. This town is a dream for boat lovers, with multiple busy marinas that are beautiful. Its riverside promenade is ideal for gentle walks, watching the boats and enjoying fresh air without the big crowds. With traditional pubs and old buildings, it provides a very calm feeling of traditional English coastal life.
Crail, Fife
Crail is one of Scotland’s most beautiful fishing villages, part of the scenic East Neuk of Fife. It is famous for its harbour with brightly coloured boats and red pan tiled roofs. Visitors can walk the quaint cobbled streets, explore the historic village centre and watch the local fishermen bring in their catch. It’s a lovely stop for people exploring the historic Scottish coastline.
Final Thoughts
For those looking for an authentic adventure in the UK, visiting a British seaside town can be a wonderful experience for those who want to have a peaceful trip along the coastline. You get the chance to eat locally sourced fish and drink ale brewed specially in the area. Find some of the best historic sights in the country, as you explore seasides in Yorkshire, Essex, Scotland and more.
Darcy Fowler has dedicated a lot of time to travelling around countries in Europe and Asia. She is determined to provide interesting and insightful content with the hope of inspiring others to broaden their horizons. Darcy has a big ambition to establish herself in the world of home travel blogging.
