Eddie PhilipsThe United Kingdom is blessed with some of the most charming, picturesque, and historically rich coastal towns in the world. From rugged Scottish cliffs to soft Welsh shores and vibrant English beach communities, coastal towns in the UK offer a perfect mix of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and seaside hospitality. Whether you’re planning a holiday, researching relocation ideas, or creating a travel bucket list, this detailed guide covers the top 50 coastal towns in the UK, each with its own highlights, landscapes, attractions, and reasons to visit.
Top Best 50 Coastal Towns in the UK
1. St Ives, Cornwall
St Ives is often considered one of the most beautiful coastal towns in the UK. Known for its sandy beaches, turquoise waters, buzzing art scene, and the famous Tate St Ives gallery, the town attracts artists, surfers, and holidaymakers year-round. Its narrow cobbled streets, boutique restaurants, and scenic harbour make it the perfect Cornish getaway.
2. Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby is a striking historic seaside town famous for its dramatic cliffs, Captain Cook heritage, and the Gothic Whitby Abbey that inspired Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Seafood lovers flock here for world-class fish and chips, while history enthusiasts enjoy Whitby’s museums and medieval charm.
3. Brighton, East Sussex
Brighton is a vibrant, colourful, and energetic coastal city popular for its iconic pier, pebbled beaches, quirky streets (the Lanes), and inclusive culture. From nightlife to café culture and the Royal Pavilion, Brighton is one of the UK’s most beloved seaside destinations.
4. Bournemouth, Dorset
With long sandy beaches and clear waters, Bournemouth feels almost Mediterranean in summer. The town is great for families, students, digital nomads, and retirees, offering beachfront attractions, gardens, nightlife, and one of the warmest climates in the UK.
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
One of Wales’ most picturesque seaside towns, Tenby features pastel-coloured houses, spectacular beaches, and medieval town walls. Its harbour views, coastal paths, and boat trips to Caldey Island make it exceptionally photogenic.
6. Whitstable, Kent
Whitstable is known for its fresh oysters, independent shops, and nostalgic seaside charm. With peaceful beaches, artistic culture, and some of the best seafood on the southern coast, it’s a favourite for relaxed weekend getaways.
7. Margate, Kent
Margate has transformed into a trendy coastal hub with galleries, vintage shops, sandy beaches, and the Turner Contemporary museum. Dreamland amusement park adds a touch of retro fun.
8. Scarborough, North Yorkshire
One of the oldest seaside resorts in England, Scarborough offers family-friendly beaches, dramatic cliffs, a medieval castle, amusement parks, and classic British seaside charm.
9. Weymouth, Dorset
Weymouth boasts one of the UK’s best beaches, a charming harbour, and easy access to the Jurassic Coast. Great for swimming, sailing, history lovers, and family-friendly attractions.
10. Llandudno, North Wales
Known as “The Queen of the Welsh Resorts,” Llandudno offers sweeping Victorian architecture, a scenic pier, cable cars to the Great Orme, and peaceful beaches.
11. Padstow, Cornwall
A foodie haven thanks to celebrity chef Rick Stein, Padstow is a delightful fishing town with excellent restaurants, coastal paths, and stunning beaches nearby.
12. Southwold, Suffolk
With its iconic pier, colourful beach huts, and lighthouse, Southwold is elegant, calm, and perfect for a peaceful coastal retreat.
13. Deal, Kent
Deal combines seaside tranquillity with historical depth. The Tudor-era Deal Castle, charming high street, and quiet pebbled beaches make it a Kent gem.
14. Cromer, Norfolk
Known for its famous Cromer Crab and Victorian pier, Cromer offers a nostalgic, relaxing British seaside experience.
15. Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth is a lively harbour town known for sailing, maritime heritage, university culture, and nearby tropical gardens.
16. Oban, Scotland
Nicknamed the “Seafood Capital of Scotland,” Oban offers sweeping highland views, a vibrant harbour, whiskey distilleries, and ferries to the Hebrides.
17. Penzance, Cornwall
Penzance features subtropical gardens, unique history, and easy access to St Michael’s Mount. Its mild climate makes it pleasant year-round.
18. Ayr, Scotland
Ayr has wide sandy beaches, golf courses, and historical links to Robert Burns. Great for families and outdoor lovers.
19. Brixham, Devon
A colourful fishing town filled with seafood stalls, trawlers, and lively harbour attractions. Ideal for coastal walkers.
20. Filey, North Yorkshire
Filey is peaceful, quiet, and perfect for couples or nature lovers, featuring one of the longest sandy beaches in the UK.
21. Hastings, East Sussex
Known for the Battle of Hastings heritage, funicular railway, arcades, and artistic culture, Hastings blends history and seaside fun.
22. Portree, Isle of Skye
Portree’s pastel harbour, rugged landscapes, and dramatic cliffs make it one of Scotland’s most breathtaking coastal towns.
23. Swanage, Dorset
A classic seaside town with sandy beaches, Victorian charm, and gorgeous views along the Jurassic Coast.
24. Ilfracombe, Devon
Ilfracombe is famous for its cliffs, harbour, boat tours, and Damien Hirst’s Verity statue.
25. Morecambe, Lancashire
Known for its promenade, tidal landscapes, and the iconic Eric Morecambe statue, this town offers a calm, scenic getaway.
26. Salcombe, Devon
A luxury coastal paradise with sandy coves, sailing culture, boutique shops, and high-end holiday homes.
27. Skegness, Lincolnshire
A lively, family-friendly seaside town famous for its long sandy beach, attractions, and amusement parks.
28. Berwick-upon-Tweed, Northumberland
Rich in history, Berwick sits near the Scottish border with dramatic coastal walks and medieval architecture.
29. Blackpool, Lancashire
Blackpool is an iconic UK seaside resort known for the Blackpool Tower, Pleasure Beach, and lively nightlife.
30. Newquay, Cornwall
One of Europe’s top surfing destinations. Newquay offers beaches, nightlife, and water sports.
31. Bridlington, East Yorkshire
Family-friendly beaches, promenades, and a historic Old Town make Bridlington a great coastal escape.
32. St Andrews, Scotland
Famous for its university and golf courses, St Andrews also offers beautiful coastal views and medieval history.
33. Torquay, Devon
Part of the English Riviera, Torquay offers sparkling blue waters, palm trees, and marina attractions.
34. Dunbar, Scotland
A quiet seaside town known for its cliffs, wildlife, and excellent surfing conditions.
35. Sidmouth, Devon
Part of the Jurassic Coast, Sidmouth features red cliffs, lush gardens, and serene beaches.
36. Looe, Cornwall
Looe is a charming fishing port with winding streets, fresh seafood, and a relaxed atmosphere.
37. Mablethorpe, Lincolnshire
A family-friendly town with donkey rides, sandy beaches, and traditional seaside attractions.
38. Lyme Regis, Dorset
Known as the “Pearl of Dorset,” Lyme Regis is a fossil-hunting paradise with stunning cliffs and a famous harbour wall (the Cobb).
39. North Berwick, Scotland
Popular for its beaches, golf courses, and the Scottish Seabird Centre.
40. Portrush, Northern Ireland
A lively resort town with stunning beaches, surf spots, and the legendary Giant’s Causeway nearby.
41. Portstewart, Northern Ireland
Peaceful and picturesque, offering wide beaches and great walking trails.
42. Beaumaris, North Wales
Known for its spectacular castle, scenic waterfront, and charming architecture.
43. Barmouth, North Wales
A beautiful Welsh town with sandy beaches and mountainous surroundings.
44. West Kirby, Merseyside
Calm beaches and stunning views across the Dee Estuary make West Kirby a peaceful retreat.
45. Ramsgate, Kent
A historic port town with beautiful marina scenery, sandy beaches, and Victorian architecture.
46. Cleethorpes, Lincolnshire
Popular for family attractions, beaches, and a vibrant promenade.
47. Poole, Dorset
Home to one of the world’s largest natural harbours, Poole is famous for sailing, beaches, and luxurious Sandbanks.
48. Ventnor, Isle of Wight
Ventnor has a microclimate, botanical gardens, and scenic Victorian houses overlooking the sea.
49. Shanklin, Isle of Wight
Known for its sandy beaches, charming old village, and family-friendly attractions.
50. Aberystwyth, Wales
A lively university coastal town with a historic pier, castle ruins, and a long promenade.
Conclusion
The UK offers an incredible variety of coastal towns—some lively and modern, others peaceful and historic. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural experiences, or picturesque views, there’s a British seaside destination for every type of traveller. These top 50 coastal towns highlight the best the UK has to offer, providing inspiration for holidays, road trips, and travel planning.