Seaside towns are easy to come by in the UK with a mixture of golden sand coastlines and pebble-lined promenades to explore.
Some may argue the best of this kind are found in south-west England, but new data from the consumer watchdog Which? has proven otherwise. Its latest ranking of the best seaside towns in the UK has crowned a returning winner for the fourth year in a row.
The results spotlight coastal gems from all four nations, with Bamburgh, Northumberland taking the top spot, and Portmeirion, Gwynedd in second place.
Many lesser-known destinations beat their more popular counterparts to the top of the table this year, though a large portion of the 4,700 people surveyed were bowled over by Bamburgh’s “dramatic” castle views. One visitor even branded it “the most impressive in the British Isles”.
Here’s the full list of the UK’s best seaside towns – does your home feature on the list?
10. Swanage, Dorset
Swanage is a delightful small seaside town, with historical interest generated by the Purbeck Stone trade. Another coastal destination with a castle nearby, the beach is close to Corfe Castle which is well worth a visit on your way through.
The Dorset location scored four stars for its beaches, value for money and seafront with an impressive five stars given for its gorgeous scenery.
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9. Llandudno, Conwy
This Welsh destination scored five stars for its seafront, scenery and tourist attractions, with four stars for its beaches, food and drink, and shopping. It also boasts cheap hotel prices, averaging £93.
With two main beaches, Llandudno is Wales’ largest resort based between the Great Orme and Little Orme with the choice of Llandudno North Shore Beach and the dune West Shore Beach.
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7. Rye, East Sussex
Another English seaside town in the top 10, Rye is generally a pebble beach though there are sandy areas to be found. It’s a sleepy Sussex spot renowned for its peaceful atmosphere, and one nature enthusiasts will appreciate for its unique ecosystem.
With a unique location nestled along the Rye Harbour Nature Reserve, its seventh-place spot was earned for its great value for money, five-star seafront, and four-star scenery, and food and drink spots.
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6. Dartmouth, Devon
This picturesque harbour town in South Devon is a hive of activity with festivals, events, exhibitions and markets taking place all year around. Its crystal clear blue waters and variety of beach coves make it the perfect place for visitors to explore.
Dartmouth offers the best of a seaside holiday with a unique contrast of breathtaking coastline and unrivalled views of the surrounding lush countryside. It’s home to rolling hills and forests, but its “quaint, historic and friendly” charm is what won over those who took part in the Which? survey.
(Image: Getty)