Bamburgh in Northumberland has once again claimed the title of the UK’s favourite seaside destination, topping the list for the fifth year running, according to consumer group Which?.
The village earned a stellar 84% overall score, with five-star ratings for its beaches, seafront, tranquillity, and scenery. One visitor described Bamburgh as “a gem,” praising its vast sandy beaches, rich history, and high-quality food. The average cost of an overnight stay is around £130.
Located along the scenic Northumberland Heritage Coast, Bamburgh continues to charm travellers year after year.
In a surprise climb, the Devon village of Beer jumped from 18th place to second. Nestled on the Jurassic Coast, Beer is loved for its shingle beach, traditional fishing boats, and dramatic chalk cliffs. It scored five stars for its scenery and four for both tranquillity and value. “Charming, with beautiful coastal scenery,” said one fan.
Wales also performed strongly, with Portmeirion in Gwynedd standing out. Known for its Italianate design and role in the TV series The Prisoner, it achieved a 79% score. Visitors praised its setting, food, and accommodations, with an average night costing £134.
St Davids, the UK’s smallest city, also earned a 79% score, praised for its “excellent facilities, lovely seafront, and beautiful walks.”
Sidmouth, another Devon gem near Beer, was also a hit. The Regency town impressed with its cliffs, Jacob’s Ladder beach, and top marks for food, scenery, and accommodation. “A thoroughly charming, thriving English seaside town,” said one visitor. A night there typically costs £160.
Other highly rated destinations included:
Tynemouth (79%)
Dungeness (78%)
Tenby (78%)
Aldeburgh (77%)
Wells-next-the-Sea (77%)
Whitby (77%)
“From stunning coastlines to peaceful walks and classic bucket-and-spade resorts, the UK’s seaside has something for everyone — rain or shine,” said Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel.
However, not all popular resorts fared well. Despite their fame, St Ives scored 68%, Brighton 61%, and Margate just 56%, with value and peace and quiet cited as common issues.
Which? advised budget-conscious travellers to consider nearby towns for better value. For example, while Whitstable costs around £136 per night, neighbouring Margate (£96), Ramsgate (£99), and Herne Bay (£106) can be more affordable.
At the bottom of the rankings was Bognor Regis in West Sussex, scoring just 36%. One visitor didn’t mince words, calling it a “run-down seaside town.” Bangor (38%), Skegness (54%), Great Yarmouth (50%), Blackpool (48%), Southend-on-Sea (43%), and Clacton-on-Sea (42%) also ranked poorly.
“There are still many beautiful, lesser-known seaside gems across the UK,” Boland noted. “And often, the best value can be found just outside the tourist hotspots.” Photo by Gemma Longman, Wikimedia commons.