Last minute holidays get expensive. Between the flights and limited choice of hotels, sometimes they end up simply not being worth it. But that doesn’t mean you don’t deserve a break – and seaside staycations are often the perfect budget-friendly solution.
If you’re currently on the lookout for last-minute seaside stay-cay options, you’re in luck. Which? has determined the best and worst beachside towns in the country by surveyed more than 5000 people and asking them to rank each town on several factors including quality of beaches, tourist attractions, value for money, and even ease of parking. After collating everyone’s thoughts, the results are finally in.
The best seaside town in the UK is officially… Bamburgh in Northumberland! The northern village has retained its title for the past four years, and visitors often cite its impressive looming castle as a large part of its appeal. It got five stars in nearly all categories including beaches and scenery, but it did lack in the ‘shopping’ department, receiving only one star for that. You can’t win them all.
In second was Portmeirion, a north Welsh resort created in the 1920s to look like an ‘enchanting Italianate style village’. It certainly delivers on its goal, with colourful buildings and palm trees to boot. Guests love its architecture and tourist attractions, although Portmeirion’s beaches only received four out of five stars.
St Andrews, mostly famous for its university and golf course, came third, and even got four stars for shopping. Take that, Bamburgh.
But any self-respecting beach-enthusiast already has a favourite. What you want to know is where not to go. Don’t worry, Which? has you covered. According to the company Bangor in Wales is the country’s worst seaside town. Although Which? notes that it’s a useful hub for ‘visiting the 'fabulous scenery and coast of North Wales.’
Other places to avoid apparently include Mablethorpe, Burnham-on-Sea, and classic British holiday resort Skegness, all of which got visitor approval ratings lower than 50 percent.
To read the entire report, which ranked more than 120 towns in total, head to the Which? website here. Then simply pick a town, book a hotel room, and boom! Staycation sorted. Happy holidaying!
Get your beach fix
Not convinced by Which?’s picks? Why not plan a trip to one of Time Out’s choices for the best beaches in the country, or this beach which was just named the country’s cleanest? If you’d rather go a bit more off the beaten track, we’ve got a list of the most beautiful hidden beaches too.
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