There’s something about a coastal town that just seems to tick all the boxes. The salty air, the sound of waves crashing, and of course, the promise of a decent cup of tea (or a dodgy one, but we’ll get to that!). As someone who’s splashed through the sands and nibbled on fish and chips from Cornwall to Yorkshire, I’ve got a soft spot for those hidden gems, the charming coastal towns that don’t always make it into the big travel brochures. So grab a cuppa and let’s chat about some essential spots you really should consider for your next trip.
Ah, Whitstable. This little treasure on the Kent coast may not be the first spot you think of when someone mentions the seaside, but it should be. Picture this: a quirky little fishing village with colourful beach huts, a thriving oyster scene, and a little hint of hipster vibe. I ended up here during one of my spontaneous weekends away, and I can honestly say I fell in love.
A stroll along the seafront is a must. There’s nothing quite like plonking yourself down on the pebbles with a good book while nursing an ever-so-slightly-warm pint from one of the local pubs. One thing to try? The oysters—fresh from the Whitstable Oyster Company, naturally. And do try not to be taken aback if your first one doesn’t go down as smoothly as you think. I ended up chasing mine with a pint, just to be safe!
Check out Whitstable Harbour for the stunning views, and don’t miss the Whitstable Oyster Festival if you’re around in late July. Trust me; it’s a shell of a good time!
Now, let’s talk about St Ives—the Instagram darling of the Cornish coast. This place is stunning. With golden sandy beaches and a thriving arts scene, it’s no wonder I keep going back. I had a particularly memorable moment here when I tried surfing for the first time. Spoiler: It didn’t go well. Myself and my board became best friends, but only because it kept knocking me over!
On a serious note, the Tate St Ives is an absolute must-visit, even if art isn’t your thing. The views from the gallery are enough to make you weep a bit. And if you fancy a little stroll, head to the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. It’s peaceful, with sculptures popping out in odd corners, and a lovely escape from the crowd.
And could we talk about the food? Seriously, I don’t know what’s in the Cornish air, but everything tastes better. Grab a Cornish pasty and sit by the sea. Just make sure you’re not in a wind tunnel, or you’ll end up with flaky pastry all over yourself… not that I did that or anything.
Say hello to Filey, a lesser-known gem compared to its louder neighbours, Scarborough and Bridlington—but that’s exactly why it’s special. As I ambled along the long, sandy beach, I felt as if I’d stepped back in time; it’s more of a classic seaside resort, and I adore that.
The Filey Brigg is well worth your time, especially if you fancy a spot of birdwatching or a chance to channel your inner David Attenborough. I spent a good hour trying to identify what I thought was a super rare bird (turns out, it was just a pigeon that had had a tough day).
Local tip: For tea, head to the Café on the Brigg. Their homemade cakes are to die for, but not so much when they default on the tea strength. Imagine brewing so weak you could hardly see it against the pale china. Still, I drank it all down with a chuckle.
Next up is Southwold, a delightful town with a distinct character (and a stunning pier!). I was drawn here initially for the famous Adnams Brewery, because who wouldn’t want to take a brewery tour that ends with a pint? The staff, bless them, were so passionate about their hops that I nearly took up brewing myself—until I recalled I once burned toast.
Stroll along the pier, indulge in some of the best fish and chips from the Dunwich Beach Café (the views are as good as the food), or simply kick back on the beach. Oh, and don’t forget to stop by the quirky little shops along the high street. Ever bought a pint-sized gnome holding a pint? Totally normal, right?
If you time your visit right, you might just catch the Southwold Pirate Festival in early September, where fancy dress is not just encouraged; it’s mandatory! You could pick up funky outfits and enjoy the maritime fun with a thumping atmosphere.
While we’re on the east coast, I can’t resist mentioning Aldeburgh. This town is an absolute charmer, famous for its fish market and the stunning beach. Once, after a long day of hiking, I sampled the local fish and chips and nearly fell off my chair. Fresh is an understatement—just don’t let a cheeky seagull swipe your meal like it did mine. That was a lesson learned!
Want a slice of culture? Head to the Aldeburgh Festival in June, which celebrates the arts in a splendid way. Or just take a leisurely walk along the beach and mentally prepare yourself for the breathtaking sunset. It really is Instagram gold, minus the filters.
So there you have it: a handful of the UK’s delightful coastal towns that deserve a spot on your travel itinerary. They’re filled with charm, quirky sights, and—let’s be honest—a few mishaps along the way that make for great stories. Whether it’s the joyous chaos of Whitstable’s oyster festival or the peaceful shores of Filey, there’s something waiting for everyone.
Next time you’re plotting your next getaway, remember to skip the obvious and seek out these hidden gems. Trust me; you won’t regret it.
Now, tell me—what’s your favourite coastal town that hasn’t made the mainstream radar? I’d love to hear your stories!
