Beach Holidays

The town has been named among the prettiest in the UK, and there are now plans to turn part of a ‘under-utilised’ car park into a modern Premier Inn that’s just steps from its golden sandy beaches

A brand-new Premier Inn is headed for a seaside location that has been named among the prettiest in the UK.

The UK’s largest hotel chain, which already boasts over 840 locations, confirmed that it’s coming to Hunstanton on the North Norfolk coast with a 108-bedroom property on the town’s Southend Road, subject to planning permission.

In a statement, Whitbread PLC, which owns Premier Inn, confirmed: “The company is in early discussions with planners at the Borough Council of King’s Lynn and West Norfolk on the design of the new hotel, with a planning application expected to be submitted in the autumn.”

It also revealed: “The multimillion-pound Premier Inn will feature the brand’s latest guest bedrooms, including its popular enhanced ‘Premier Plus’ rooms, and guest-focused restaurant alongside dedicated on-site guest car parking spaces.”

The planned hotel would be the first from the chain on the North Norfolk coast. Premier Inn’s last opening in the county was the Great Yarmouth Seafront Premier Inn, which opened its doors in 2019. Premier Inn was also recently granted permission to redevelop its current Norwich Nelson hotel, which will include a new, larger 248-bedroom Premier Inn, student accommodation, a new public park, and an upgraded public river walkway.

The new hotel comes amid a proposed ‘masterplan’ for Hunstanton, which is currently undergoing a consultation until July 27. Its objectives include “promoting and diversifying the town’s tourist offer”.

Part of a car park described as ‘a generally underutilised area’, Seagate East Car Park on Southend Road, is the proposed site of the new hotel. Whitbread clarified: “The coach park and the Honeystone Public House car park do not form part of the proposed development site.” This location is just a three-minute walk from the town’s South Promenade and attractions such as SEA LIFE Hunstanton.

Hunstanton is a purpose-built seaside resort, dating back to Victorian times, famous for its unique striped cliffs, fine golden sands, and soft sand dunes. It’s also the only east coast resort in England facing west, meaning you can watch spectacular sunsets over the sea.

The town was recently named the UK’s best place for fish and chips thanks to the number of chippies close to the beach, many of which have won awards. It was also dubbed one of the UK’s prettiest seaside towns by Time Out in 2025.

Councillor Simon Ring, deputy council leader, said: “This is huge news for Hunstanton, the culmination of years of discussions between the council and Premier Inn, and I’m so proud the agreements are finally in place, subject to formal planning consent.”

He added: “The detailed designs, of course, will come out through the usual planning process and consultation. But the sheer fact that the UK’s largest hotel chain wants to invest in Hunstanton is a vote of confidence in the resort’s future, placing us alongside Norfolk’s other big visitor destinations, and this investment and new facility will hopefully act as a catalyst for further money, guided by our Masterplan.”

Paul Smith, regional acquisitions manager for Whitbread, said in a statement: “Hunstanton is one of the UK’s best-known seaside destinations and a place we’ve wanted to bring Premier Inn to for some time. It attracts visitors from across the East of England and beyond, yet it does not currently offer any branded hotel rooms to visitors.

“We believe a Premier Inn in Hunstanton would be a great addition to the town’s tourism offer, providing visitors with the quality, value and reliability they expect from the UK’s leading hotel brand while helping to support local businesses, jobs and year-round economic activity.”

Premier Inn’s statement also said: “In launching the plans, Whitbread has confirmed it does not have any agreements with national government departments to house asylum seekers at any of its trading Premier Inn or hub by Premier Inn hotels in the UK and Ireland.”

The brand also said it was looking for further potential Premier Inn locations across the country.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com

Cape Verde has been named the ‘best ultimate football-inspired island’ by Expedia, with searches for Cape Verde holiday packages up 265% following the African country’s World Cup heroics this summer

Searches for Cape Verde holidays have soared by 265% following the African nation’s footballing exploits this summer, according to figures from Expedia.

The island, made up of 10 volcanic islands with a total population of 491,233, captured the public’s hearts thanks to their performances at the World Cup. Their impressive showing proved so popular that searches have risen sharply compared to this time last year – with overall interest in island breaks up 55%.

Cape Verde features on Expedia’s 2026 Island Hot List, which spotlights the world’s most sought-after island destinations. Each location on the list falls into a distinct category, covering the finest romantic, wellness, nature, family and budget-friendly getaways – among others – with Cape Verde crowned the ‘best ultimate football-inspired island’.

Travel expert and spokesperson Melanie Fish said: “The list was finalised until one destination generated so much buzz from football fans that we had to give them an award of their own.”

Elsewhere on the list, St. Lucia takes the top spot as the ultimate romantic escape, while Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal, is the preferred choice for wellness and relaxation.

Praslin, Seychelles leads the way for nature enthusiasts, and Syros, Greece, takes the crown for cuisine. Palawan, Philippines, is ideal for natural wonders, while Culebra, Puerto Rico, reigns supreme for water-based adventures.

Norway’s Lofoten Islands also secured a place on the list for arctic adventures, while Sanibel Island, Florida, USA, is the destination for family getaways. Phu Quoc, Vietnam tops the list for affordable luxury while Fiji leads the way for ‘multi-generational value’.

Expedia’s Melanie Fish added: “Islands don’t just satisfy the urge to get away; they can also be one of the smartest holiday values.”

Holidaymakers can book flights, hotels, car hire and activities on Expedia – making the planning process far simpler, and helping save money in the process.

Popular islands fill up quickly, particularly during busy holiday seasons – booking ahead helps guarantee the best prices and availability.

EXPEDIA’S 2026 ISLAND HOT LIST (INCLUDING YEAR-ON-YEAR SEARCH INCREASES).

1. St. Lucia (+125%) – Best for Romantic Escapes (Hotel Recommendation: Sugar Beach, 5 stars)
2. Porto Santo, Madeira, Portugal (+85%) – Best for Wellness & Relaxation (Hotel Recommendation: Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, 5 stars)
3. Praslin, Seychelles (+80%) – Best for Nature Lovers (Hotel Recommendation: Coco de Mer Hotel and Black Parrot Suites, 4 stars)
4. Syros, Greece (+60%) – Best for Cuisine & Charm (Hotel Recommendation: Syrou Melathron, 4 stars)
5. Lofoten Islands, Norway (+50%) – Best for Arctic Adventure (Hotel Recommendation: Henningsvær Bryggehotell, 4 stars)
6. Palawan, Philippines (+40%) – Best for Natural Wonders (Hotel Recommendation: Carpe Diem Villas & Resort, 4 stars)
7. Culebra, Puerto Rico (+35%) – Best for Water Adventures (Hotel Recommendation: Club Seabourne Boutique Hotel, 3 stars)
8. Sanibel Island, Florida, USA (+25%) – Best for Family Escapes (Hotel Recommendation: Sanibel Inn, 3 stars)
9. Phu Quoc, Vietnam (+25%) – Best for Affordable Luxury (Hotel Recommendation: Green Bay Phu Quoc Resort & Spa, 5 stars)
10. Fiji (+15%) – Best for Multi-generational Value (Hotel Recommendation: OUTRIGGER Fiji Beach Resort, 5 stars

• New for 2026: Cape Verde (+265%) – Best Ultimate Football-inspired Island (Hotel Recommendation: Morabeza Hotel, 4 stars).

Ambassador Cruise Line is offering a triple discount on holidays with hundreds to save on once-in-a-lifetime trips

The summer holiday season is officially here – and those who are bored of lazing on a beach every year might want to try something a little different by embarking on a cruise. While the cost factor may usually be enough to put travellers off the idea, one popular cruise line has launched some huge discounts on holidays for 2026 and beyond.

Ambassador Cruise Line is offering a series of stacked deals on voyages setting sail from ports across the UK. With more than 200 holidays to choose from, there’s 20% off to be had on selected cruises running from London, Liverpool, Newcastle and more in a sale running until July 29.

Holidaymakers can also score an additional 5% off all no-fly cruises using the code SMILE5, on top of all other sale offers, with just hours left to nab this deal. And to top it off, Ambassador is offering an extra 15% off a handful of its winter sun trips with the discount code SAILMORE15 – giving holidaymakers the chance to save up to 40% in total on a cruise to the likes of the Caribbean or Canary Islands.

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One of the biggest deals gives passengers the chance to kick off the New Year in style with the Gems of the Caribbean Sea cruise setting sail from London Tilbury on January 5 for an incredible 42 nights. Calling at 14 countries, stop-offs include iconic destinations such as Barbados, St Lucia, Jamaica and Antigua.

At £3,415 per person, this six-week trip doesn’t come cheap – but those who book before 9 am on Friday, July 17 and stack their discount codes can get on board from £2,049 with a huge 40% saving, working out at less than £49 per night. And the beauty of a cruise is that travel, accommodation and dining are all included in that price.

Get up to 40% off Ambassador cruises

From £202pp

Ambassador Cruise Line

Book here

Ambassador Cruise Line is offering multiple discounts on holidays from the UK to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Canary Islands and more.

Another top deal comes on the Gems of the Adriatic & Mediterranean Autumn Sun holiday, which also has 40% off if passengers book before 9am on Friday, bringing prices from £2,903 per person down to starting at £1,742. Setting sail from London Tilbury on November 3 for 31 nights, this journey has 15 ports of call across seven countries, from beauty spots in Greece and Croatia to hidden gem destinations in Morocco and Tunisia.

And for those seeking a shorter and more budget-friendly option, there’s also the Autumn Escape to the Canary Islands, which not only has 10% off all cabins and an extra 5% off on top, but is also on a Cruise of the Week offer, spelling an extra 10% discount. Now available from £991.50 per person, this 14-night holiday from London Tilbury promises “volcanic landscapes, lush forests, and stunning beaches” as it visits Madeira, La Palma and Tenerife.

Meanwhile, those who plan ahead can also bag a buy-one, get-one-half-price deal on Ambassador cruises from April 2028, meaning passengers can bring a loved one along for less. But this isn’t the only cruise line offering savings on holidays departing from the UK.

Fred Olsen is also running special offers on selected winter sun cruises, such as the Mediterranean & Canary Islands Warmth holiday in November 2026. Passengers can get a half-price drinks package and a free flight at the end of the cruise back to London or Manchester.

Half-price drinks and a free flight are also available on the Canaries Escape with the Fleet Fiesta. As well as a discount for solo travellers on B-grade cabins.

In addition, TUI Marella Cruises is also offering a selection of last-minute cruise deals for summer holidaymakers, although it’s worth bearing in mind that these also include flights. Top offers for the summer holidays include the Mediterranean Medley trip sailing from Palma on August 1 for seven nights, now priced from £1,114 per person with a £712 discount.

Another option is the Aegean Delights cruise from Cyprus for seven nights from August 5. Now £1,095 per person with a discount of £822.

Brits with holidays booked this year to Europe could risk facing issues entering Europe if they don’t check a number on their passport well in advance

Schools across the UK will close for the six-week summer holiday, and thousands of families will be taking the opportunity to spend time together abroad during the peak travel season. However, a travel insurance specialist has issued an alert urging people to check a specific number on their passports before they jet away to avoid risk of being refused entry to Europe.

Travellers with passports issued before 2018 are being warned that they could face issues entering Europe if they don’t check a specific number, thanks to a ’10-year passport rule’. New analysis from Saga Travel Insurance found that the EU and Schengen ’10-year passport rule’ was the most discussed passport concern among travellers on Reddit, with discussions amassing 35,417 upvotes across the platform.

The Schengen area is a group of 29 European countries where travellers can move between countries without routine passport checks. It includes popular holiday destinations such as France, Spain, Italy, Greece and Portugal.

Michelle Cooper, Director of Saga Travel Insurance, said: “EU and Schengen countries require passports to be less than 10 years old on the day of entry. While all new passports last exactly ten years, passports issued before 2018 remain valid for 10 years and nine months.

“If you have an older passport, make sure you check both the issue date and expiry date before travelling to avoid problems at the border.” Michelle warns that passengers travelling with these 10-year and nine-month passports may face issues travelling in Europe if they’re in the final nine months of their passport.”

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The analysis also found that more than three-quarters (80%) of holidaymakers are unaware that different countries have different passport validity requirements, according to Saga Travel Insurance’s survey. Meanwhile, half (50%) believe that every country requires a passport to have six months remaining before travel.

Michelle said: “It’s important to check the specific rules of the country you’re travelling to so that you know how long you need to keep your passport. Some destinations require three months remaining on your passport, while others require six months.

“If you travel to a country without enough time left on your passport, there is a possibility you’ll be denied entry into the country. This could be by your airline, before flying, or by border security, once you reach your destination. If you’re denied boarding or refused entry because your passport doesn’t meet those rules, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs such as cancelled accommodation, missed flights or return travel expenses.

“This is because the responsibility typically sits with the traveller to ensure their passport meets the entry requirements of the country they’re visiting. That’s why checking your passport carefully before travelling is one of the most important things you can do before a holiday.”

Frequent flyers could be turned away for not having enough blank passport pages

Some countries require travellers to have a minimum number of blank pages remaining in their passports for stamps and visas. Michelle says: “People can sometimes focus entirely on expiry dates and forget to check how many blank pages they have left, but some destinations can refuse entry if there isn’t enough room for official stamps or visa documentation.

“If you’re a frequent traveller, you should regularly check how many blank pages you have remaining in your passport before booking a trip. You might also benefit from purchasing a passport with additional blank pages.

“As travel systems evolve, including the gradual rollout of digital border systems such as the EU’s Entry/Exit System (EES), physical passport stamping may become less common. But for now, requirements can still vary depending on destination and border process.”

What should you do if you lose your passport?

One in 20 (5%) Brits have needed an emergency replacement passport before travelling, according to Saga Travel Insurance’s survey. And, one in 25 (4%) have cancelled a holiday because they couldn’t find their passport before departure.

Michelle says: “If you lose your passport before travelling, you can apply for a one-week fast-track application. This is an in-person application that requires an appointment, so it’s important to factor in booking availability – as well as the additional cost. It’s £76 more than a standard passport but means you should still be able to go on holiday.

“If you lose your passport while abroad, you should report this to the HM Passport Office as soon as possible. You will also need to apply for an emergency travel document online so that you can travel home. You’ll typically need a valid digital passport photo, your phone number, an email address, and a debit or credit card to make the £125 payment.

“If the loss of your passport means that you need to delay or rearrange your journey home, travel insurance may be able to help with some of the associated costs depending on your policy. Check your insurance documents and contact your insurer as soon as possible to understand your next steps.”

Brits warned over new ETIAS travel checks for Europe

From late 2026, British travellers visiting most European countries will need to apply for a new European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) before travelling. The new system is similar to the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme and will apply to visa-exempt travellers visiting 30 European countries for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Michelle says: “Travellers may not realise that visiting Europe will soon involve an additional pre-travel authorisation step. From late 2026, British holidaymakers will need to apply for ETIAS approval before travelling to many popular European destinations. The authorisation will be linked directly to your passport, meaning travellers could be denied boarding if their ETIAS details don’t match their travel document or if the authorisation has expired.

“Most ETIAS applications are expected to be processed within minutes, but it could take longer if additional checks are required. Holidaymakers should apply well in advance of departure to avoid last-minute disruptions.”

She added: “Similar systems already exist elsewhere. For example, UK travellers visiting the United States must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) before departure. These systems are becoming more common globally, so it’s important to check requirements for each destination well ahead of travel.

“As with passport validity rules, people are responsible for making sure they have the correct travel authorisation before they leave the country. If someone is unable to travel because they failed to obtain valid ETIAS or ESTA approval, travel insurance is unlikely to cover costs associated with denied boarding or cancelled trips.”

Breaking a little-known beach rule may carry a hefty financial penalty

Taking a dip in the sea is one of the highlights of any beach holiday. With the sun beating down, temperatures soaring and swimwear at the ready, millions of holidaymakers head into the water each year to cool off and enjoy time with family and friends.

Anyone travelling to Portugal hoping to do the same may want to brush up on local rules first, as breaking one little-known sanitation regulation could reportedly lead to fines of up to €750 (around £630). Knowing the law before you head to the beach could help you avoid an unexpected and potentially costly mistake.

It relates to urinating in the ocean, something many people – particularly children – have probably done at some point without giving it a second thought. While some may assume the sea would quickly dilute human waste, some travel experts say Portuguese rules are intended to protect marine ecosystems and coastal hygiene.

According to travel website Islands, beach sanitation rules allow authorities to issue fines of up to €750 for people caught urinating in the sea. It does mention, however, that there is no practical way for authorities to monitor the behaviour beneath the waves, and that enforcement is considered rare.

The law exists to reduce pollution in coastal waters, particularly in areas that attract large numbers of visitors during the summer months. Portugal’s beaches are among Europe’s most popular, drawing millions of holidaymakers each year to destinations including the Algarve, Lisbon Coast and Madeira.

Fortunately, most public beaches in Portugal provide public toilets or nearby facilities, making it easy for visitors to avoid any potential issues. Using designated toilets also helps protect water quality and the wider coastal environment.

Portugal is not the only European destination with strict rules covering beach behaviour. In parts of Spain, including Vigo and Marbella, local authorities have introduced similar bans on what they describe as “physiological evacuation” in the sea, with fines also reaching €750, according to local municipal regulations.

Holidaymakers should also be aware of other rules in Portugal. Several beaches prohibit loud music from portable speakers, while Albufeira has introduced regulations that could see people fined for wearing swimwear away from designated beach areas as part of efforts to tackle anti-social behaviour.

The UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office advises British travellers to familiarise themselves with local laws and customs before travelling abroad. Checking the rules before heading to the beach could help visitors avoid unexpected penalties and ensure they enjoy a stress-free holiday.

Swanage in Dorset is home to the fantastic Swanage Carnival, which takes place across two weekends in July and August and is about to return for its 2026 outing

It wouldn’t be a trip to the British seaside without a lorry-load of child stormtroopers appearing at some point.

Or at least, that seems to be the case in Swanage.

Last week, the seaside town was named the 14th best in the country by readers of Which?, who praised its fantastic scenery and beach. What the 5,320 readers did not mention in the rankings (which placed Bamburgh in Northumberland for a sixth year in a row), is Swanage’s weirder side.

I visited the Dorset town of 10,000 during a stay in the beautiful village of Kimmeridge, a little further down the Jurassic Coast. I was expecting more of the same: a pebbly beach, rugged headlands and a sense of peace and quiet that belies its location and quality.

I got nothing of the sort.

Swanage is home to one of the best and weirdest events you’ll find anywhere on the British coastline. The iconic Swanage Carnival.

The Swanage Regatta and Carnival, as it is formally known, has a history dating back to the mid 1800’s when the first sailing regatta was held in Swanage Bay. The carnival portion was added in the early 1900s and hit a real high point in the 1950s when Noddy and Famous Five author Enid Blyton became its president. She loved getting stuck in, even organising the closing firework display.

Today, the show remains one of the best points of the carnival. On warm evenings, people swim out into the sea to get a unique view of the rockets and roman candles exploding above.

What has changed quite a bit – and where Swanage’s strangeness lies – is in the carnival floats.

When I visited, a lorry was loaded up with a primary school classroom’s worth of girls dressed as Star Wars stormtroopers, sporting blasters and shiny white helmets. A short while later, they were joined by Granny Tourismo, the world’s first (and only) shopping trolley dance display team. Look up to the sky, and you’d be treated to a genuinely breathtaking aerobatic wingwalking display team.

The year’s theme? ‘Swanage Goes Musical’, of course.

Last year, the dress code was ‘Cirque du Swanage’. Cue a floatload of 20 clowns in violently bright rainbow wigs and a traveling circus float, followed a short way after by a child in an electronic jeep, pulling a large giraffe toy.

Belly-dancers danced and majorettes twirled their batons, at the same time as a pair of orange-faced Oompa Loompas raced against the Undertaker and Hulk Hogan for glory in the ever-popular wheelbarrow race.

A woman dressed as a tiger could only watch on from her position on the back of a lorry, locked in a cage.

It’s all the kind of excellent, distinctly weird stuff that the south coast does particularly well. When viewed on a scorching hot summer’s day, sky blue and ice cream melting onto your hand, the effect is almost surreal.

And the good news is, the Swanage Carnival is about to begin again. For eight days from July 25, thousands of visitors will descend on the town to enjoy more than 100 events. This year’s theme is ‘A wacky western in Carnival Canyon’. Expect Stormtroopers in cowboy hats.

If all of that wasn’t enough, come September, the streets of Swanage are taken over by hundreds of members of Britain’s longest-running and most beloved cult, morris dancers.

TOP 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Bamburgh — 84%
2. Tynemouth — 82%
3. St Andrews — 81%
4. Aldeburgh — 80%
5. Crail — 80%
6. Frinton-on-Sea — 80%
7. Portmeirion — 80%
8. St Davids — 79%
9. Bude — 78%
10. Southwold — 78%
11. North Berwick — 77%
12. Plockton — 77%
13. St Ives — 77%
14. Swanage — 77%
15. Lyme Regis — 76%
16. Lytham St Annes — 76%
17. Portstewart — 76%
18. Conwy — 75%
19. Dornoch — 75%
20. Filey — 75%
21. Lynmouth — 75%
22. Sidmouth — 75%
23. St Mawes — 75%
24. Tenby — 75%
25. Tobermory — 75%
26. Wells-next-the-Sea — 75%
27. Whitley Bay — 75%
28. Broadstairs — 74%
29. Falmouth — 74%
30. Llandudno — 74%

BOTTOM 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Ilfracombe — 57%
2. Minehead — 57%
3. Bridlington — 56%
4. Cleethorpes — 56%
5. Fishguard — 56%
6. Seaton — 56%
7. Torquay — 56%
8. Abersoch — 55%
9. Colwyn Bay — 55%
10. Morecambe — 55%
11. Newquay — 55%
12. Barry Island — 54%
13. Skegness — 54%
14. Mablethorpe — 53%
15. Margate — 53%
16. Paignton — 53%
17. Southport — 53%
18. Herne Bay — 52%
19. Littlehampton — 51%
20. New Brighton — 51%
21. Weston-super-Mare — 50%
22. Burnham-on-Sea — 48%
23. Clacton-on-Sea — 48%
24. Southend-on-Sea — 47%
25. Bangor — 46%
26. Blackpool — 46%
27. Fleetwood — 46%
28. Great Yarmouth — 46%
29. Lowestoft — 46%
30. Bognor Regis — 41%

Results are based on an online survey conducted in January-February 2026 of 5,320 Which? Connect panel members who spoke about 11,999 experiences of visiting a UK seaside town for leisure purposes in the previous 12 months.

It is easy to see why people love the Northumberland village so much. The centre is quaint and pretty, the beach sandy and impressive, and the castle perfectly preserved and towering

Has there been a run as dominant as this in the history of British seasides?

Once again, Bamburgh has been named the best coastal town or village the UK has to offer, bringing the run of victory to six in a row in the Which? annual survey.

It is easy to see why people love the Northumberland village so much. The centre is quaint and pretty, the beach sandy and impressive, and the castle perfectly preserved and towering.

In a gushing show, 5,320 Which? readers handed Bamburgh perfect marks for its seafront, scenery and beach. “It is a wonderful historic village with miles of sand and glorious views,” one happy visitor enthused.

Another said: “Bamburgh Castle, a stunning building, is the core of the village and leads through the sand dunes to an extraordinary beach, which never fails to captivate us.”

And a third agreed: “It’s just gorgeous and is as good now as it was years ago; it’s not been spoiled by commercialisation. What made it successful then has been retained.”

But amid all of the enthusiasm for the settlement of 300 people, not everyone is convinced by its dominance of the Which? survey. In fact, a number of locals are fed up with the limelight that is being cast on Bamburgh.

“I wish they wouldn’t do things like this. All it does is make rich southerners read it and then decide to buy a holiday house there, pushing up house prices and pushing out actual locals,” one irked person wrote online.

Another chimed in: “Peace and quiet?! Not on a sunny summer’s day. The village (it is not a Town) is rammed with vehicles and visitors.”

The gripes are consistent. Back in 2022, when Bamburgh’s reputation as the best of the best was still being forged, resident John Graham shared his frustrations. He said: “When the sun is out the place can be overrun. In the day, you get the ice-cream brigade leaving their rubbish everywhere and in the evenings the drunken louts have their fun.

“On an average morning in the summer, I pick up five or six burnt-out disposable barbecues and half a dozen or so bin bags full of bottles and cans.”

One business owner said it is really sad to see a big increase in litter being dumped in the sand dunes below the castle. They added: “A friend of mine summed up the problem quite well the other day when he said it’s like over-fishing.

“Pubs and hotel owners might be enjoying the money rolling in, but the more people who come here, the more damage is done to the environment.”

I visited last summer and was not overly impressed by what I found. One major issue was the cars. On a hot June day, the stream of traffic on the arterial road that runs through Bamburgh’s centre is relentless. The closest train station is seven miles away in Chathill, and the buses are sporadic, so any hopes of embarking on a relaxing, car-free day trip will prove difficult.

For me, the real issue with Bamburgh is its vibe. Central to the charm of Britain’s great seaside towns is a slightly edgy, salty quality in some way connected to large quantities of sailors. Bamburgh, with its Farrow and Ball doors and memorial benches, has none of this.

The stars of the show in Bamburgh are the beach and the castle. It is undeniable that the combination of the two — how the 1,400-year-old fort hangs above the broad, sandy shore — is magnificent. You won’t find me criticising Bamburgh Castle.

The beach, however, is arguably a little one-note. Once you’ve waded out half a mile to get to a patch of water deep enough to paddle in, you’ll be frozen by a North Sea that rarely swells itself into anything remotely as interesting as what you’d find on the UK’s Atlantic coast.

If you’re in search of a very long beach, Camber Sands near Rye in East Sussex not only enjoys a lot more sunshine — as one of the sunniest places in the country — it also has superior sand dunes, particularly so if you’re a teenager interested in launching yourself off their summits.

Clacton on Sea, Lowestoft, Great Yarmouth and Blackpool all did poorly in this year’s Which? ranking of the best and worst seaside towns and villages in the country, but they were beaten to the bottom spot

“It’s a dead town.”

That’s how one former resident of Bognor Regis described the much-maligned West Sussex town, which has just been named the UK’s worst for a second year in a row.

Thousands of Which? readers decided that Bognor is the bottom of the bottom, calling it expensive and noisy, while arguing it’s got a rubbish beach and terrible attractions.

“Lacking investment, slow to supply tourists what they need,” one recent visitor commented. “The place is run down and feels neglected,” another said.

If things couldn’t get any worse, the town was recently plagued by a pervasive mystery pong drifting across the channel from France.

Do you agree with Bognor’s place on the list? Let us know in the comments below or email webtravel@reachplc.com

Levi Winchester, the Mirror’s money editor, grew up in Bognor. While Levi has now moved on to sunnier pastures, she holds an enduring love for a seaside town etched into Britain’s coastal consciousness, yet one that has fallen on hard times.

“I remember many happy summers playing down the beach in Bognor Regis. At low tide, you could see sand for miles, as the smell of fish and chips wafted through the air,” Levi recalled when asked for her thoughts on a town that once served as a home to George V for three months.

“The town was always buzzing with families enjoying their trip to Butlin’s—and while the seaside resort still attracts large crowds every year, the town itself has lost its heart. The promenade lacks love and is in need of a serious revamp.

“Even under the lights of the pier, it still just feels grey and miserable. Like many other UK high streets, the main town centre is empty now with hardly any shops left.”

One unhappy local wrote on Reddit: “Yes, it’s a dead town. Pretty much just pound shops, charity shops, Polish shops, banks, and chain coffee places. I think Macari’s is still there, but there’s nothing I would call charming about the town, nor has there been for quite a while.”

Another chimed in: “Bognor’s pretty much a depressing hole. I didn’t live here when it was nice, but it was destroyed by cheap holidays in Spain. It’s pretty sad, actually–you can tell the town is in the process of a slow death.”

Not everyone is quite so down on Bognor, however.

Freya and Matthew Reynolds run the independent furniture store on the high street that shares their family name. When Bognor came last in 2025’s survey, they told The Argus how much they loved the town.

Matthew, who moved to London and then returned, said it is a “lovely place to raise a family by the seaside.”

“I think Bognor has done quite well. There are not that many boarded-up shops. In other places, half the town centre seems to be boarded up,” he said.

Julia Smith, a 59-year-old carer, reacted strongly to the news of Bognor’s lowly ranking. “I think it’s a bit of snobbery. You need to come down and see it for yourself—don’t rely on so-called reports,” she told The Guardian. “There’s so much here. The sea is amazing. There are loads of places to eat as well, whether you’ve got a tenner or 100 quid to spend.”

She added: “We live here, and we never get sick of it. I’m going on 60, but I love it.”

Despite grappling with its reputation, there’s no denying Bognor Regis’ unwavering popularity. Each year, it attracts a whopping four million tourists – a number likely to keep growing thanks to the likes of Butlin’s.

Boasting a Victorian pier originally built in 1865, a slew of golden sandy beaches, rows of arcades, and plenty of fish and chip shops – Bognor Regis still possesses all of the quintessential coastal must-haves. One recent visitor argued they loved the ‘lights along the pier at night’, while other respondents suggested that Bognor Regis could recover its glory days with the right investment.

TOP 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Bamburgh — 84%
2. Tynemouth — 82%
3. St Andrews — 81%
4. Aldeburgh — 80%
5. Crail — 80%
6. Frinton-on-Sea — 80%
7. Portmeirion — 80%
8. St Davids — 79%
9. Bude — 78%
10. Southwold — 78%
11. North Berwick — 77%
12. Plockton — 77%
13. St Ives — 77%
14. Swanage — 77%
15. Lyme Regis — 76%
16. Lytham St Annes — 76%
17. Portstewart — 76%
18. Conwy — 75%
19. Dornoch — 75%
20. Filey — 75%
21. Lynmouth — 75%
22. Sidmouth — 75%
23. St Mawes — 75%
24. Tenby — 75%
25. Tobermory — 75%
26. Wells-next-the-Sea — 75%
27. Whitley Bay — 75%
28. Broadstairs — 74%
29. Falmouth — 74%
30. Llandudno — 74%

BOTTOM 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Ilfracombe — 57%
2. Minehead — 57%
3. Bridlington — 56%
4. Cleethorpes — 56%
5. Fishguard — 56%
6. Seaton — 56%
7. Torquay — 56%
8. Abersoch — 55%
9. Colwyn Bay — 55%
10. Morecambe — 55%
11. Newquay — 55%
12. Barry Island — 54%
13. Skegness — 54%
14. Mablethorpe — 53%
15. Margate — 53%
16. Paignton — 53%
17. Southport — 53%
18. Herne Bay — 52%
19. Littlehampton — 51%
20. New Brighton — 51%
21. Weston-super-Mare — 50%
22. Burnham-on-Sea — 48%
23. Clacton-on-Sea — 48%
24. Southend-on-Sea — 47%
25. Bangor — 46%
26. Blackpool — 46%
27. Fleetwood — 46%
28. Great Yarmouth — 46%
29. Lowestoft — 46%
30. Bognor Regis — 41%

Results are based on an online survey conducted in January-February 2026 of 5,320 Which? Connect panel members who spoke about 11,999 experiences of visiting a UK seaside town for leisure purposes in the previous 12 months.

Which? has released the results of its best and worst seaside towns and villages in the UK survey, with Bamburgh, Bognor Regis, Tynemouth, St Andrews and Clacton on Sea all making notable entries

The greatest and most miserable seaside towns and villages on our fair island have been named.

Once again, coastal big hitters Cornwall and Devon have found themselves some way off the top of the list, while a pretty northern village has made it to the number spot for a sixth year in a row.

At the other end of the scale, a southern town known for its Butlin’s and for being one of the sunniest destinations in the UK has been condemned as the worst of the worst.

Which? surveyed over 5,300 people about their experiences of UK seaside destinations in the last year, asking their views on a range of criteria including the quality of the beaches, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, tourist attractions, shopping and value for money.

Bamburgh in Northumberland took the top spot in Which?’s survey for the sixth year running. With an overall destination score of 84 per cent, Bamburgh was given five stars for its beach, seafront and scenery. Visitors praised the “lovely beach overlooking Bamburgh Castle” and the “spectacular coastal scenery.”

Do you agree with the rankings? Email webtravel@reachplc.com or let us know in the comments below

It’s easy to see why Bamburgh is so loved. Situated not far from the mysterious Holy Island, it’s got a village feel, replete with chippies and well-manicured lawns. At the same time, it sits in the shadows of one of the most magnificent and intact castles in the country.

The North East cleaned up at the top of the charts, with Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear coming second and scoring an impressive 82 per cent. Tynemouth scored five stars for its seafront/pier and food and drink, with one visitor praising its “wonderful fish and chips.” Another visitor praised the “magnificent” golden sand beaches.

While it may not be blessed with the same intensity of sunshine and lack of rain as other parts of the UK, Scotland also did well, claiming places in the top ten. St Andrews came third with a score of 81 percent and scored five stars for its beach, tourist attractions, scenery, and seafront/pier.

Crail, in Fife, scored the number five spot, thanks to its whitewashed walls, cobbled streets, and charming fishing harbor.

The highest scorer down south was the Essex seaside town of Frinton-on-Sea, which charmed visitors with its lovely seafront and the general peaceful vibe of the place. One visitor called it the “perfect place for those who just want a day at the seaside with no frills and no noise.”

On the other end of the spectrum, Bognor Regis was named as the UK’s worst. It’s the second year in a row that the West Sussex settlement has come in last. The Mirror’s money editor Levi Winchester grew up in the town and has seen it slowly fall apart over the years.

“I remember many happy summers playing down the beach in Bognor Regis. At low tide, you could see sand for miles, as the smell of fish and chips wafted through the air,” Levi recalled when asked for her thoughts on a town that once served as a home to George V for three months.

“The town was always buzzing with families enjoying their trip to Butlin’s—and while the seaside resort still attracts large crowds every year, the town itself has lost its heart. The promenade lacks love and is in need of a serious revamp.

“Even under the lights of the pier, it still just feels grey and miserable. Like many other UK high streets, the main town centre is empty now with hardly any shops left. I barely recognised it when I last visited.”

Having been thrust into the spotlight this week thanks to its somewhat absent MP Nigel Farage, Clacton-on-Sea found itself with a low score this year. It was judged to be the eighth worst. Despite low scores, including one star for peace and quiet and scenery, the classic seaside resort has the largest pier in Europe, and visitors praised its “excellent amusement facilities.”

In the survey, many popular seaside towns had middling scores. Despite their reputation as trendy destinations, Margate (53%) and Newquay (55%) received just one star for peace and quiet and two stars for value for money.

Visitors commented that Margate’s town centre was ‘run down’, but many praised its independent shops and famous Turner Gallery, while even Madonna has declared herself a fan of the seaside town. One visitor said: “Margate is quirky and not overly commercialised. It’s got some great events and places to eat and shop. It’s still a bit rough around the edges but it knows it.” Margate’s event space, Dreamland, is especially busy with summer events which may put people off going for a quiet break.

Popular surfing spot Newquay scored 55 per cent, receiving just one star for peace and quiet. The beach town is popular for stag and hen parties and young surfers. One visitor said it was “great for youngsters and surfers but not so good for older visitors”. Another said: “Newquay is a brash and overly busy seaside town. There are better beaches and towns nearby which are quieter.” Despite this, visitors praised the “wonderful beaches” in Newquay and they received four stars for this category.

Made famous by the TV sitcom Gavin & Stacey, Barry Island received a destination score of 54 per cent. One visitor said: “Unless you are a big Gavin and Stacey fan I’d give it a miss.” Visitors described the seafront as “a bit tacky”; however, the beach scored three stars, and one visitor said it is an “old-fashioned and lively seaside town, great beaches and interesting walks.”

TOP 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Bamburgh — 84%
2. Tynemouth — 82%
3. St Andrews — 81%
4. Aldeburgh — 80%
5. Crail — 80%
6. Frinton-on-Sea — 80%
7. Portmeirion — 80%
8. St Davids — 79%
9. Bude — 78%
10. Southwold — 78%
11. North Berwick — 77%
12. Plockton — 77%
13. St Ives — 77%
14. Swanage — 77%
15. Lyme Regis — 76%
16. Lytham St Annes — 76%
17. Portstewart — 76%
18. Conwy — 75%
19. Dornoch — 75%
20. Filey — 75%
21. Lynmouth — 75%
22. Sidmouth — 75%
23. St Mawes — 75%
24. Tenby — 75%
25. Tobermory — 75%
26. Wells-next-the-Sea — 75%
27. Whitley Bay — 75%
28. Broadstairs — 74%
29. Falmouth — 74%
30. Llandudno — 74%

BOTTOM 30 SEASIDE TOWNS & VILLAGES

1. Ilfracombe — 57%
2. Minehead — 57%
3. Bridlington — 56%
4. Cleethorpes — 56%
5. Fishguard — 56%
6. Seaton — 56%
7. Torquay — 56%
8. Abersoch — 55%
9. Colwyn Bay — 55%
10. Morecambe — 55%
11. Newquay — 55%
12. Barry Island — 54%
13. Skegness — 54%
14. Mablethorpe — 53%
15. Margate — 53%
16. Paignton — 53%
17. Southport — 53%
18. Herne Bay — 52%
19. Littlehampton — 51%
20. New Brighton — 51%
21. Weston-super-Mare — 50%
22. Burnham-on-Sea — 48%
23. Clacton-on-Sea — 48%
24. Southend-on-Sea — 47%
25. Bangor — 46%
26. Blackpool — 46%
27. Fleetwood — 46%
28. Great Yarmouth — 46%
29. Lowestoft — 46%
30. Bognor Regis — 41%

Results are based on an online survey conducted in January-February 2026 of 5,320 Which? Connect panel members who spoke about 11,999 experiences of visiting a UK seaside town for leisure purposes in the previous 12 months.

A new study has named one place as the most expensive seaside destination in the UK, with a day trip costing £38.20 – meaning £100 lasts just over two days

From parking fees to the price of fish and chips or an ice cream — a classic day trip or a longer stay at a UK coastal destination could leave a serious dent in your wallet.

New research has looked at some of Britain’s most popular summer hotspots, calculating the cost of deckchair hire, a ’99’ ice cream, and a fish and chips meal — and one city has come out on top as the priciest of the lot.

The study revealed that £100 in this particular seaside spot will ‘only last just over 2 days’, according to figures drawn from the new UK Seaside Affordability Index. The data has laid bare significant differences around the British coastline in terms of how far your hard-earned cash will actually go.

When taking into account everything you’d need for a perfect day at the beach, all the must-have essentials add up to £38.20 per day in this particular city.

Brand new research from NoDepositRewards.org breaks down the cost of a traditional beach day out at locations across the UK, reports the Express.

The study looked at all-day parking charges (based on current local council rates), the average price of a ’99’ ice cream, a large fish and chips meal (using local chippy prices) and full-day deckchair hire.

The research was carried out with the aim of establishing how long £100 would last on a seaside outing.

Brighton was named the most expensive coastal destination in the country, according to the findings. All-day parking came in at £18, while the classic ice cream was priced at £2.70.

By comparison, in the most affordable spot, Swansea, parking for the day costs just £3 and an ice cream is £1.65. A fish and chip supper in Brighton will set you back £11.50, though it’s not the priciest location for the classic British takeaway — in Bamburgh, Northumberland, the same meal will cost you £14.88.

Renting a deckchair in Brighton will generally cost around £6 for the day — meaning the total ‘seaside basket’ for a day at this popular coastal destination comes to a whopping £38.20 per day for all the essential sunny day basics.

Coming in second was the Cornish town of St Ives, labelled the ‘second priciest seaside destination in the UK’. St Ives was ranked as the second most expensive spot, with visitors forking out an average of £25.30 per day.

In St Ives, holidaymakers can expect to pay around £10 for all-day parking, £12.50 for a large fish and chips, and just over £2.50 for an ice cream.

Swansea was named as the most budget-friendly seaside destination, with the same selection of items totalling approximately £16.71 per day.

Mason Jones, data expert at NoDepositRewards.org, said: “Families are budgeting harder than ever for summer 2025.

“Our Seaside Index shows you can triple the number of beach days simply by choosing a different stretch of coast.

“With parking now topping local cost charts, the North and Wales clearly win on value.”

On The Beach’s Rob Brooks has highlighted a city he claims is the ‘Barcelona of Eastern Europe’ that boasts a stunning beach, vibrant streets and architecture, and restaurants that don’t require you to spend a fortune

If you’re yet a to book a trip abroad this summer, a holiday expert highly recommends the “best hidden gem beach holiday” in Europe, claiming it comes at a fraction of the price of the most popular resorts on the continent. Rob Brooks, who works for travel agent, On The Beach, took to TikTok with advice for those who’d appreciate all the perks of Barcelona, but without the cost.

“I’ve just found Eastern Europe’s Barcelona, and you’ve definitely never heard of it,” he began in a video. “So here’s some clues – it’s half the price, around a two-hour flight from the UK, it’s brilliant for families and it can even feel like proper luxury if you book smart.”

For anyone wondering where Rob could be referring to, he went on to tease that it’s not in Spain, Portugal, Turkey, Italy or France.

“One destination has suddenly landed on my desk after a sudden explosion in holiday searches,” he continued. “So I went away and did my research, crunched the numbers and dug through the data – and now I’m genuinely convinced this could be one of Europe’s biggest hotspots in a few years.”

Rob admitted that he had previosuly considered the destination a “rogue place” for a beach holiday, but that all changed when he saw the photos of it.

“It’s got a huge, golden sandy beach, it’s got loads of beachfront bars and restaurants… colourful streets, beautiful architecture and there’s loads of luxury hotels and a massive pier that stretches out right into the sea,” he enthused.

Rob said he then realised why comparisons are being made to Barcelona – only this location is “nowhere near as busy or expensive”, and hardly anyone is talking about it.

Direct flights from UK airports take as little as two hours and five minutes, with Rob finding one for as little as £36.

“It sounds much further away than it actually is, but what really caught my eye is how much variety there is there,” he explained. “You can spend the morning on the beach, wander around beautiful old streets in the afternoon, eat ridiculously well and eat gorgeous food without spending a fortune – and because spending money goes such a long way here, it feels way more luxury than it probably should.”

So where is Rob talking about? “Summer temperatures are sitting at up to 26 degrees… I really don’t think this place will stay a secret for much longer,” he said. “The more I looked into it, the more I realised that this location is only going to get bigger and bigger over the next few years.

“It’s Sopot – a gorgeous seaside town on Poland’s Baltic coast. I even found a deal here I genuinely might book myself.”

Rob closed by highlighting one particular deal – five nights at the Hotel Aqua beside the beach for just £265 per person – which includes flights from London Stansted Airport this September.

“You’re getting Barcelona’s beach culture, but for Poland’s prices,” he declared.

Sopot’s tourism website boasts online: “Sopot is one of the most charming places in Poland and a hugely popular Baltic resort. Here you’ll find not only abundant greenery, beautiful sandy beaches, and the soothing sound of waves, but also a rich history, spa architecture, and top-class hotels and restaurants.”

Writing in response to Rob’s video, one TikTok user exclaimed: “It’s a beautiful place, I was there in May. Gdansk is just along the way which is even better. Definitely worth a visit.”

A second person added: “Sopot is a beautiful town and so is neighbouring Gdynia. Both towns are within a short commute of the larger city of Gdansk, which is also a marvel. Very clean environment, moderate prices to eat out and drink and very well worth a visit.”

While a third wrote: “Sopot is stunning, we had a great time earlier this year. We stayed in Gdansk which is about 15 minutes by train. I couldn’t recommend both places enough.”

As parts of the UK are set to get warmer again this weekend, Brits should be aware of little-known beach rules

England’s south-west coastline is famed for boasting an abundance of beautiful beaches to discover. From breathtaking coves that can hold their own against Greece’s white sand shores, to Blue Flag-awarded stretches, the UK’s magnificent coast is difficult to surpass.

Blue Flag beaches are acknowledged for their exceptional levels of cleanliness and dedication to safeguarding the natural environment, but this is no simple achievement. Keeping the coastline in immaculate condition can prove quite demanding, particularly during the busy summer months when parts of the UK welcome a great number of visitors to its shores.

While some regulations are relatively straightforward to observe, and anticipated of those visiting the beach, particularly regarding staying safe on the shore, other regulations are enforced more rigorously.

Standard beach etiquette involves noting which flags are flying and refraining from entering the water in hazardous conditions, as well as not disturbing local wildlife during your visit.

It can also involve being considerate of fellow beachgoers by keeping music at a reasonable volume and remembering to collect your litter, but some regulations are, in reality, legally enforceable and could get you into trouble if breached, reports Devon Live.

For those with dogs, the Public Spaces Protection Order (PSPO) enables numerous local councils to implement seasonal limitations on dogs on beaches during peak periods, but other laws may take you by surprise.

Understanding the laws can prevent a relaxing day at the seaside from becoming a stressful, and expensive, outing. One seemingly innocent activity is in fact prohibited on British beaches and could result in a penalty of up to £1,000.

With the warmer weather this weekend and holiday season rapidly approaching, ecology specialists at Arbtech are urging beachgoers to bear in mind that taking pebbles, seashells or sand from British beaches is actually against the law.

Many visitors to the seaside might be tempted to slip a pebble into their pocket as a keepsake after a glorious day by the sea, yet what most people don’t realise is that this is illegal under the Coast Protection Act 1949.

Stones, shells and even items such as driftwood all play a vital role in maintaining coastal ecosystems, and removing them risks causing serious damage to these environments.

Arbtech’s Andrew Ward commented: “One person taking a pebble or shell may not seem like much, but when thousands of visitors are doing the same, it can have drastic impacts on the coastal environment. Over time, we could start to see increased erosion, the loss of natural sea defences, and disruption to habitats that many species rely on.”

Local councils are responsible for enforcing this rule, particularly at popular tourist destinations where the problem has previously occurred.

Andrew added: “The law is clear and it’s not just there to spoil any fun. It’s a reminder that beaches are protected for a reason. We all have a role to play in preserving the environment so that it can continue to thrive for generations to come.”

While gathering seashells may bring back fond childhood memories and look charming on a windowsill, these natural treasures are essential for providing microhabitats to a wealth of local wildlife. Capturing a photo of the beach on your phone or camera is a far safer, and most likely more affordable, way to preserve the memory of the UK’s stunning coastline.

Travellers can save money on the popular onboard drink if they place their order at the right time

Jet2 says passengers can save money onboard of they order their drinks early. Customers often love to make the most of the onboard refreshments when they’re jetting off on holiday.

The airline enables passengers to pre-order their in-flight meals, which typically include a hot dish, snacks, and a drink (Costa Coffee, Yorkshire Tea, hot chocolate or water). For those who enjoy a celebratory tipple, Jet2 also serves a selection of alcoholic drinks. According to the website, customers who order ahead could save money on one of the most popular alcoholic drinks.

Jet2 said: “To make your holiday extra special, you can pre-order champagne to enjoy on board. Plus, when you pre-order, you’ll save £5 on the onboard price!” Many passengers bring their own food and drink on board to save money, packing snacks such as sandwiches, salads, wraps, and pasta dishes.

However, there are some restrictions that people should be aware of. For instance, customers can’t bring hot food or drink onto planes for safety reasons, and they cannot bring their own alcohol onboard to drink during the flight. This means passengers cannot drink any duty-free alcohol onboard their flight.

Jet2’s website explains: “No, you can’t bring your own alcohol onboard to drink while on the plane. Only alcoholic drinks bought onboard can be consumed during your flight. And we reserve the right to serve alcoholic drinks at our absolute discretion.”

The airline’s current menu includes spirits, cocktails, wines, and beers, including Grey Goose Vodka, Aperol Spritz, and Heineken. There’s also a range of soft drinks, including Harrogate Spring Water and Robinsons Fruit Shoot.

Remember to drink responsibly (18+) and be Drinkaware. For advice and support on alcohol, visit the Drinkaware website here. Drinkaware warns that the risk of developing a range of health problems, including cancers of the mouth, throat and breast, increases the more you drink regularly.

To keep health risks from alcohol low, you should drink no more than 14 units a week, ensure you have several drink-free days, and avoid binge drinking. The NHS website offers information about alcohol support.

Passengers should be aware that being drunk on a plane is a criminal offence.

Gov.uk explains: “It is an offence under the Air Navigation Order to be drunk on an aircraft and airlines have the authority to prevent passengers they believe are intoxicated from boarding aircraft.”

The little-known spot has been crowned the UK’s ‘best hidden gem beach’ and boasts over two miles of golden sand, ‘excellent’ azure water, unmatched views — and no crowds.

As temperatures continue to soar across the UK, thousands of Brits are gearing up to flock to the coast over the coming months. In an ideal world, that beach would boast a sandy shoreline, crystal-clear waters and not a crowd in sight. And while it might sound like a pipe dream, one UK beach apparently delivers all of that and more.

A little-known beach has claimed the top spot in new research compiled by outdoor specialists at Millets, who analysed average sunshine hours, typical temperatures and water quality at UK beaches with fewer than 500 reviews, in order to uncover the nation’s finest ‘hidden gem’ beaches.

For those looking to dodge the masses while also being treated to spectacular scenery, stunning landscapes and turquoise waters, there’s one UK beach that reigns supreme, reports the Express.

Warkworth Beach, Northumberland

Warkworth Beach has been named the UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beach. Tucked away in Northumberland, Warkworth Beach lies less than a mile from the picturesque medieval village of Warkworth, nestled between Birling Carrs and Amble Breakwater.

Visitors to the village often overlook the nearby breathtaking beach, but those who do make the trip are rewarded with a sweeping stretch of pristine golden sand that seems to stretch on endlessly. Warkworth Beach extends more than two miles and sits in the shadow of the magnificent Warkworth Castle.

The beach has been described as boasting ‘excellent’ water quality, and is celebrated for its ‘unspoilt’ scenery. Visitors can nip into nearby pubs and cafés, all just a short stroll from the beach’s free car park.

Whether you fancy sunbathing, playing games on the sand or simply taking a long, leisurely walk — particularly with your four-legged companion — amid stunning surroundings, Warkworth Beach consistently provides plenty of space and a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle, all while offering unrivalled views.

One glowing visitor review on TripAdvisor reads: “Stunning Beach. This is a dog walker’s must. Beautiful views across the headland. A sandy beach, with some interesting rocky pools. A peaceful place most of the year. Reasonable parking, a bit of a steep walk to the dunes. If you tire of the beach, some great walks by the sand dunes and salt marshes.”

While another delighted visitor adds: “I agree with most of the other reviews here: seriously stunning beach, unspoilt, vast and with very few people. Gorgeous sand and beautiful views. Parking is free and, as well as toilets, the day we were there, there was also a food trailer in the car park offering what looked like brilliant dishes. If I lived here, I would be on this beach every day!”

Highcliffe Beach, Dorset

Taking second place is Highcliffe Beach, located in Dorset. The sand-and-shingle stretch sits close to the Hampshire border and is flanked by dramatic cliffs and Highcliffe Castle.

The beach provides paid parking, as well as a café boasting sea views, and is RNLI lifeguarded throughout July and August. Highcliffe Beach is held in high esteem, with visitors singing the praises of its coastal walking trails, as well as swimming and bodyboarding opportunities.

East Strand Beach, County Antrim

Rounding off the top three is East Strand Beach, which notches up an impressive score of 8.89/10. Located in Portrush, the beach is flanked by sweeping sand dunes and the world-famous Portrush golf club.

It’s a firm favourite for watersports all year round, including surfing, and has RNLI lifeguards on duty throughout the summer months. Visitors wax lyrical about the spectacular white sand, with one reviewer likening it to the Sahara: “A glorious stretch of sand so long and golden it could make the Sahara blush.”

Calum Jones, author and outdoor enthusiast at Millets, has shared his top tips on how to get the very best out of your summer beach trip this season, saying: “Summer is the perfect time to explore the stunning coastlines across the UK, from Achmelvich Beach in the Scottish Highlands to Broadstairs in Kent. There are breathtaking beaches to be found across the UK.

“When planning your summer beach trip, it is important to remember sun-protective clothing. The sea breeze can often make the air feel cooler, but UV rays can still be harmful. Apply a generous layer of suncream before you head out, and don’t forget a cap and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun.

“You should also keep in mind that British weather can still be unpredictable. Bring a waterproof jacket to stay dry in case of sudden showers, choose supportive, waterproof footwear for any slippery sand or rocks, and layer your clothing so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.

“Visitors should always leave beaches in the condition they found them. Make sure you take any rubbish, clothing or equipment home with you to keep UK beaches as clean as possible.”

UK’s best ‘hidden gem’ beaches

1. Warkworth Beach, Northumberland
2. Highcliffe Beach, Dorset
3. East Strand, County Antrim
4. Joss Bay, Kent
5. Seacliff Beach, East Lothian
6. Mossyard Beach, Dumfries and Galloway
7. Flamborough South Landing, East Riding of Yorkshire
8. Caister-on-Sea Beach, Norfolk
9. Treyarnon Bay Beach, Cornwall
10. Cayton Bay Beach, North Yorkshire and Beadnell Bay Beach, Northumberland

Beaches in the UK are set to be busier than ever during the summer months, but there’s one hidden gem without any crowds that has unspoilt golden sand and pristine blue waters

Beaches can become overwhelmed with holidaymakers, particularly during the summer months, but there’s one hidden gem boasting golden sands that I return to time and again.

The sight of densely packed umbrellas, desperately searching for somewhere to settle down for the day, weaving through swimmers while drifting on a lilo and fighting over the last Cornetto at the ice cream stand, is hardly what you’d call a relaxing day in the sunshine. And with the UK basking in balmy temperatures, British beaches are anticipated to be more crowded than ever.

To be fair, you can hardly blame anyone for descending on their nearest stretch of coastline when the UK is blessed with glorious sunshine. After all, there’s nothing quite as refreshing as a dip in the rolling waves with a gentle sea breeze on your face.

Yet there are plenty of alternatives, well away from the heaving masses. So, for that perfect coastal day out, there’s one breathtaking shoreline in Wales that I cannot recommend highly enough.

Tucked away on the south-western tip of the Pembrokeshire coast in West Wales lies the spectacular Marloes Sands Beach. Just a 30-minute drive from the town of Haverfordwest and sitting on the boundary of the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, you’ll be welcomed by miles of unspoilt golden sand and inviting blue waters set against dramatic, rugged landscapes.

Framed by towering coastal cliffs with unique rock formations, it not only offers a stunning backdrop for a seaside outing but also keeps it somewhat under the radar. So for my family and me, who visit regularly, we’re treated to plenty of room and expanses of golden sand.

We’ve never had to battle for that coveted patch on the beach or fretted about accidentally splashing into someone in the crystal-clear waters — it truly is a haven away from the crowds. What’s more, dogs are permitted on the beach throughout the year, so they’re free to race about, plunge into the surf and dig for gold until their hearts’ content.

And that’s not all. Marloes Beach has even been graced by Hollywood, as scenes from the film ‘Snow White and the Huntsman’, starring Kristen Stewart and Charlize Theron, were filmed there in September 2011.

Yet with any hidden gem destinations, there can be drawbacks.

There are no amenities on the beach, so you’ll need to come prepared and bring your own provisions. The walk down can also be somewhat demanding.

I mean, I’ve always relished the 0.5-mile winding path down from the National Trust car park, passing through meadow fields, but understandably, when you’ve got children and picnic hampers in tow, it’s more of an ordeal. But after the trek down, armed with a sun umbrella and bodyboard, it’s absolutely worth it for a day on this pristine stretch of coastline.

What’s more, on your way back up, you can treat yourself to an ice cream from the van that’s occasionally parked close by, or just a short distance from the car park, there’s the café, Runwayskiln, serving up sweet treats and chilled drinks.

Just make sure to plan your visit and check the tide times beforehand. At high tide, sections of the beach can become cut off, so provided you plan ahead and keep track of the time, you’ll be basking in the sunshine in your own little slice of paradise.

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The UK seaside town, which is perfect for a staycation this summer, is renowned for its golden sandy beaches, striking sandstone cliffs, and the historic thatched-roof Old Village

As the UK continues to bask in a spell of scorching weather, droves of Britons are swapping their office chairs for deckchairs and heading off on a well-deserved coastal staycation.

If you’re among them, you’ll want to pay attention, as one seaside gem has been hailed as nothing short of ‘like a fairytale’. Nestled on the southeast coast of the Isle of Wight, Shanklin is a picturesque, traditional seaside town renowned for its golden sandy beaches, striking sandstone cliffs, and the quaint thatched-roof Old Village, making it one of the island’s most beloved holiday hotspots. The town strikes a wonderful balance between coastal fun and rich heritage. Shanklin Beach and The Esplanade is a vast, family-friendly expanse of golden sand.

The Esplanade is brimming with seaside entertainment, classic fish and chip shops, water sports, and several crazy golf courses (including pirate and dinosaur themes).

The Cliff Lift is another must-see attraction. Those staying atop the sandstone cliffs can skip the gruelling descent to the beach by hopping aboard the historic Cliff Lift, which has been ferrying visitors down to the Esplanade since 1957.

The island’s oldest visitor attraction, meanwhile, is Shanklin Chine, which first opened its doors in 1817. This verdant, wooded coastal ravine boasts spectacular waterfalls, winding jungle-like pathways, and a breathtaking illuminated evening light display.

Situated directly above the Chine, the Old Village is renowned for its charming, centuries-old thatched cottages, welcoming tearooms, and independent craft boutiques.

Visitors might also explore Shanklin theatre, a lively year-round entertainment venue hosting over 150 performances annually, encompassing comedy and music through to drama and pantomimes.

Digital travel influencer Reiko, posting as @heyreiko on Instagram, recently used her platform to champion the town to her 39,100 followers.

She posted footage of the breathtaking town, writing: “Why does no one talk about this fairytale town tucked away on the Isle of Wight?

“Shanklin… or as it feels when you’re here, somewhere between a dream and a postcard you swear you’ve stepped inside.”

She continued: “If you ever needed a sign to disappear for a while and find a little pocket of peace that feels unreal… this is it.”

Followers were loving the post, with it accumulating more than 4,900 likes.

One commenter described it as “so beautiful”, while another declared: “What a cool spot.”

A third who had visited previously added: “Stayed there while at the Isle of Wight festival – such a lovely little place and the beach is lush.”

This beautiful seaside town has become a popular staycation destination in recent years

The French Riviera is an enormously sought-after holiday destination, renowned for its breathtaking coastal scenery and magnificent cities. But you don’t necessarily have to travel abroad to find turquoise waters and sandy beaches, as one charming town right here in the UK has been likened to France’s most glamorous stretch of coastline.

Salcombe in Devon has been hailed as a spectacular alternative to heading off to France by one lucky visitor. Taking to Instagram, UK travel content creator Hannah, who shares guides and reviews under @postcardsbyhannah, posted a video of the gorgeous seaside spot.

Questioning why Brits are always quick to moan about living in the UK when “it’s home to places like this,” she drew comparisons between the town and the stunning vistas of the French Riviera region, which takes in Nice, Cannes, Saint-Tropez, Antibes and Monaco.

She wrote: “Welcome to South Devon… Salcombe to be exact! Once a quiet fishing village, it’s now one of England’s most sought-after seaside escapes, where pastel-coloured cottages sprawl down the hillside towards bobbing sailboats on turquoise waters.”

Hannah went on to say that Salcombe boasts a relaxed and understated sense of luxury that feels almost effortless, with family-run boutiques, art galleries, ice cream parlours, and waterside pubs dishing up oysters freshly harvested straight from the estuary.

She continued: “Salcombe’s estuary is stunning, surrounded by rolling green hills and sandy coves reached only by foot or boat. Have a wander round town and visit Cranch’s Sweet Shop, one of the most iconic establishments in the town, selling sweets since the 1800s.”

Salcombe boasts numerous breathtaking beaches, including Salcombe North Sands, with its rockpools and panoramic views of the ruins of the nearby Salcombe Castle, and Salcombe South Sands Beach, regarded by many as one of the most pristine beaches in South Devon.

Another well-loved beach in the vicinity is Hope Cove Bay, where watersports enthusiasts can hire kayaks and paddleboards to venture out onto the water.

One visitor to Salcombe North Sands expressed their affection for the beach on TripAdvisor, writing: “Love this little place.

“Tide was in when we arrived but after a stroll around town and lunch at The Winking Prawn, it had started to go out revealing a beautiful sandy bay with low shallow water for paddling in. Dog friendly too!”

Meanwhile, another visitor to South Sands penned: “A lovely day to spend the day as a couple or with the family. Beautiful beach, especially when the tide goes out. Spectacular scenery from the beach.

“A small kiosk sells sandwiches and salads along with wine and tin beer and of course tea and coffees and soft drinks. You need to bring your own chairs (no deck chairs) A great place to visit!”

Once you’ve soaked up the stunning beaches, why not pay a visit to Overbecks Garden — a Grade II registered garden dating back to the Edwardian Era, brimming with tender and exotic sub-tropical plants that are well worth exploring at a leisurely pace.

One visitor wrote: “Stunning gardens with absolutely fabulous views. Couldn’t believe the size of the tropical plants! Nice route around the garden.”

There are several Jet2 rules to note when planning your trip

Jet2 has clarified its baggage allowances after an enquiry from a holidaymaker. The customer asked for help as they got ready for their summer getaway.

The person contacted the provider over social media on June 23. The traveller had booked their journey through Jet2holidays, and was due to jet off the following week.

They posed a question about their luggage entitlement. The customer wrote: “We have 3 x 22kg baggage allowance. Assume we are good to check in just two bags provided weight doesn’t exceed allowance?”

They went on to ask if they could check in one suitcase weighing 23kg and another at 25kg while remaining within their total allocation. Jet2 replied to set out the options available to the customer.

Combining your baggage allowance

The airline confirmed: “You can pool your luggage into two suitcases as opposed to three, as long as this doesn’t exceed your combined allowance of 66kg, and that no single article of luggage exceeds 32kg. I hope this helps.”

According to Jet2’s official guidance: “Any baggage that exceeds your total weight allowance will be carried subject to availability and at our discretion. You’ll also need to pay an excess baggage fee, which is £12 per kg. Please note that no single item of baggage can weigh more than 32kg.”

You can add extra luggage when you book or through the Manage My Booking facility. Simply enter your booking reference, surname and departure date, then navigate to ‘Add Holiday Essentials’.

Query over 10kg allowance

Jet2 was also recently asked another question about its baggage weight rules after a passenger reported receiving contradictory information. The person had a booking for two adults and a six-month-old infant.

They explained: “Told we get two extra carry ons such as a buggy and travel cot that will be checked into the hold at the gate.”

They said they had two 22kg checked bags and that on a prior Jet2 holiday they had been told they qualified for “an extra 10kg for the baby”. According to Jet2’s official website guidance for bookings with children, passengers receive “an extra 10kg allowance for infants” plus “up to two items per child or infant free of charge”.

The passenger asked whether the additional 10kg could be combined with one of the 22kg cases, creating a 32kg allowance. They described receiving mixed messages on their last Jet2 journey. The customer recalled: “On the way out with you we were told it’s fine to have a 32kg case (22kg + the 10kg).

“On the way back we were told the 10kg should be a separate small checked case. Please can you clarify which it is and what the rules are because on our last holiday with you we were told different things.”

Setting the record straight, Jet2 responded to the passenger: “The additional 10kg is applied to one adult’s baggage, allowing for a total of one bag at 32kg and one bag at 22kg.”

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week. Now seems like the perfect time to head to the beach for a little cooling dip

As everyone who’s been to Ibiza likes to tell you, the Balearic island is more than just Pacha, 50 euro glasses of Prosecco, and ecstasy tabs. It’s also very pretty.

Ibiza’s coast is defined by turquoise waters, dramatic pine-forested cliffs and hidden sandy coves. The most visually stunning spots are scattered across the island, with top-rated options including the sunset views at Cala Comte, the lush nature of Cala Saladeta, and the iconic rock formations at Cala d’Hort.

Right now, the White Island is 30C, whereas parts of the UK could reach 40C this week.

In Cornwall, the thermometer is bopping around the mark, making a trip to the coast a tempting prospect. Happily, there is a beach that shares many of the qualities of those on the comparatively chilly Ibiza.

OPINION

It sits beneath towering cliffs that shield it from the wind, with stunningly clear waters that prove ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Porthcurno has pure white sand with gorgeous turquoise waters to match. It has the ability to transport you to paradise.

The sand is made up of seashells pounded to powder by the sea over millions of years, which is partly responsible for the beautiful colour of the water. Porthcurno’s south-facing direction, flanked by high headlands, provides natural shelter from the wind and weather, giving the beach its own near-microclimate. The towering cliffs on either side make it easy to find a sheltered spot even on the most blustery of days.

The renowned open-air Minack Theatre is carved into the cliffs above, meaning you can enjoy a Shakespeare play with a sea view.

The theatre was the vision of one woman who decided to carve a clifftop theatre at the bottom of her garden. It’s well worth the climb up the cliff path, if only for the view back down over the bay. You need to book tickets in advance for performances.

The best time to visit is mid to low tide. At low tide the beach widens dramatically, and you can walk to nearby Pedn Vounder. As the tide retreats from Pedn Vounder, a golden sandbar rises out of the turquoise sea creating a shallow lagoon pool. It’s visible for around two hours either side of low tide, according to Cornish Secrets Anywhere We Roam

In the late nineteenth century, Porthcurno became the British connection point of the world’s very first international telegraph cable, stretching all the way to India. In the inter-war period, the cable office briefly became the busiest telegraph station in the world, capable of transmitting up to two million words a day. The Porthcurno Telegraph Museum is right there and well worth a visit.

Driving is by far the easiest way to get to the beach, with public transport options sadly limited. It takes about 25 minutes from Penzance or 45 minutes from St Ives. The car park fills up quickly on peak days, so arrive early or late.

Dogs are banned from the beach between 15 May and 30 September, between 10am–6pm. RNLI lifeguards patrol from mid-May to the last weekend of September.

One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor the beach was “absolutely breathtaking. The most amazing beach beautiful white sand and turquoise sea. Breathtaking views and definitely one of the best beaches you will ever find.”

Another said: “Spent the day here, it’s just like being abroad, clear blue skies water, perfect sandy beach and so peaceful. No arcades, no boats, no noise, just gorgeous.”

Travellers are being urged not to get caught out and ways to avoid fees

Millions of people across the UK fly with well-known airlines, such as Jet2, easyJet, Ryanair and TUI, and with the peak summer travel season mere weeks away, travellers are being issued handy luggage guidance. With Brits continuing to prioritise travel in 2026, particularly short-haul trips, city breaks and budget airline holidays, the way people pack is evolving.

More travellers are opting for hand luggage only to save time and avoid extra fees. Yet many are still being caught out by oversized cabin bags or overweight suitcases, facing charges of up to £60 at the gate or £65 for exceeding hold luggage limits, which can add up to £125.

As a result, travellers are increasingly looking for smarter, more organised ways to maximise space while staying within airline restrictions. In response to this shift, Nick Gaskin, Sales and Marketing Director at IT Luggage has shared practical advice to help travellers pack more efficiently, whether they’re travelling light with cabin bags or checking in a full suitcase.

Nick Gaskin said: “Packing well isn’t about fitting more in; it’s about travelling smarter. With more people choosing flexible, shorter trips and hand-luggage-only options, organisation and preparation can make a huge difference to the overall travel experience. A few simple habits can save time, reduce stress and help travellers feel more in control from departure to arrival.”

As hand-luggage-only travel becomes increasingly common, making every inch of space count is key. Nick recommends creating a micro essentials kit.

He explains: “Treat your cabin bag as a safety net. Include essentials like underwear, key toiletries – remembering liquid limits – medication and a charger. That way, you’re covered for delays or lost luggage without relying on airport shops.”

He added: “Pack one complete spare outfit”. Rather than throwing in random extras, pack a full outfit using crease-resistant fabrics. This ensures you stay comfortable and presentable if plans change or bags are delayed.

The specialist also suggests carrying a boarding pass backup. “Technology fails more often than people expect”, Nick explains. “Keeping a screenshot or printed boarding pass avoids stress if airport Wi-Fi or apps stop working at a critical moment.”

Keep in-flight items within reach, Nick says. Store items like headphones, snacks and lip balm in a small pouch that fits under the seat, so you don’t need to access the overhead locker mid-flight.

For longer trips or checked bags, organisation is key to avoiding overpacking and keeping belongings in good condition, Nick says. “Pack by outfit, not by item. Grouping complete outfits together — including accessories — makes getting ready easier and prevents packing combinations that don’t work,” he added.

Weigh as you go with packing cubes. “Packing cubes aren’t just for organisation — they’re great for managing weight,” says Nick. “Weigh each cube as you pack it. It’s much easier to adjust before everything goes in the suitcase than deal with excess baggage at the airport.”

Nick also recommends positioning shoes strategically. Place shoes heel-to-toe around the edges of your suitcase and fill them with socks or smaller items to maximise space and help them keep their shape, he said.

Separate clean and worn clothes. A lightweight laundry bag keeps worn clothes contained, helping maintain freshness and making unpacking simpler when you return home, Nick adds.

Combine rolling and folding. He said: “Rolling softer items like T-shirts saves space, while structured garments such as jackets should be folded to reduce creasing. A mixed approach delivers the best results.”

Photograph your packed suitcase. “Taking a quick photo before you travel is a simple but effective step,” Nick adds. “It can support insurance claims if luggage is lost and acts as a reminder of what you’ve packed.”