Oh we do like to be beside the sea side, and living on a small island, the UK has plenty of coastal areas on offer. If you’re in need of a beach break, take a look at these summer-tastic coastal resorts.
1. Newquay
Beach towns in Britain don’t get much more famous than Newquay. A haven for surfers, nature lovers and holiday makers, this stunning fishing port in Cornwall boasts nine beautiful stretches of sandy beach.
The area is widely regarded as Britain’s surfing capital, with the waves at Fistral Bay being the first choice for board lovers from around the country.
You’ll also find a lively night life in Newquay, with a mixture of laid-back chill-out bars and more buzzy live music venues. Stay at our Travelodge Newquay Seafront hotel to be right at the heart of the action.
2. Stonehaven
Not far from Aberdeen in Scotland, Stonehaven offers a sheltered cove, friendly locals and a laid-back, out-of-the-city feel.
The village was originally a fishing port and these days you can still see local fishermen setting out before breakfast from the port. While the beach itself is all golden sand and white sailing boats.
RC-enthusiasts should get over to Mineralwell Park if you’re there on the second Sunday of the month. This is your chance to join in the mini road race round the outdoor 275m track (newly revamped!) that’s one of the biggest in Europe. See if you can get up to the top speeds of 17 seconds per lap.
The area has a rich history to explore too, if the weather’s a tad grey. If you’re looking for stunning views over the harbour and and sea, head 2 miles south to the atmospheric ruins of Dunnottar Castle. Kids get in for £1 (adults for £4), and you can roam the clifftop fortress at will. Then walk balk to Stonehaven as the sun sets.
3. Brighton
Brighton Beach may be covered with pebbles, but it’s still one of the best locations for family-friendly activities and a relaxing drink overlooking the sea. Plus you won’t need to worry about sticky sand ruining your tan or the car boot.
Chill out at one of the many beach cafés and bars or head to the pier for traditional arcade games, candy floss and even the odd rollercoaster.
Our Brighton Seafront Travelodge hotel is just moments from the shore line, with its own cafe for easy family breakfasts and an ATM machine so you don’t need to roam town looking for cash.
4. Barry Island
The wave-washed Welsh coastline is at its best around the peninsula of Barry, just 35 minutes by train from Cardiff. There are several beaches in the area and a vivid history that stretches back to the Middle Ages.
Barry Island is actually part of the peninsula (it did used to be an island) and it’s here you’ll find the family beach resort activities to make your stay. Most of which are free!
Head to Whitmore Bay beach to test your serve on the volleyball courts. Go wild at Smuggler’s Cove pirate-themed crazy golf, or take the kids to the Pleasure Park for classic rides and sticky treats.
For something a bit quieter, you can visit the remains of Barry Castle or visit the heritage railway, which houses an original steam passenger train.
5. West Wittering
The white-sands beach at West Wittering in West Sussex is popular with watersports enthusiasts, particularly windsurfers. This isn’t one of your big, commercialised tourist spots, so it’s ideal if you prefer your family holidays a bit quieter.
Lined with pretty little beach huts, the natural sandy shore line is just the settingf or picnics and wildlife spotting. What’s more, you can bring the family dog too. There’s a parking lot for car travellers, but you pay for the day so it’s worth making the most of it. Rent a paddleboard, slather on the sunscreen and indulge in a soft ice cream or two.
The nearby village is a peaceful place to visit, with waterside pubs and restaurants for a chilled out evening.
