Beach and harbour, St. Ives, Cornwall, England.

Coastal Towns

There is something in the water and in the air of our coastal towns. Historically retreats for artists and the rich who came in search of inspiration, to take the sea air and enjoy restorative walks along the promenade, nowadays our English coastal towns appeal to all of us in search of an expanse of big sky and afternoon tea in a grand hotel. Bustling marinas and coastal villages offer a place to moor up or the opportunity to cast off in search of a day on the waves. The artists are still here for the special light and many seaside towns host year-round cultural events and festivals.

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Head to Salcombe for butterscotch beaches and bright blue waters

A haven for yachties and those who prefer to keep their deck shoes firmly on dry land.

Location: Salcombe, Devon

 

Bask in the traditional charm of Shanklin Seafront

Shanklin Seafront is one of the Isle of Wight's most popular seaside resorts, with loads to keep the kids quiet and plenty of places for adults to take it easy.

Location: Shanklin, Isle of Wight

 

Explore The Grand Pier of Weston-super-Mare

Relive happy childhood memories of eating ice creams, skimming stones and skipping along piers in Weston-super-Mare.

Location: Weston-super-Mare, Somerset

 

Leap into the surf at some of Cornwall’s most spectacular beaches

Surfing is every bit as much fun as it looks and the true Cornish experience is not complete without riding the waves at one of Cornwall’s golden beaches, with well-trained instructors.

Location: Across Cornwall

 

Hawker's Cove in Cornwall

A real Cornish hidden gem.

Location: Padstow, Cornwall

 
A close up of a man shucking an oyster

July events: Whitstable Oyster Festival

One of the biggest events in Kent’s calendar, the annual oyster festival in trendy Whitstable is far more than a foodie’s fiesta.

Location: Whitstable, Kent

 

Discover sharks, seals and summer fun in Great Yarmouth

From mysterious creatures of the deep to sandcastles and donkey rides, Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile has it all.

Location: Great Yarmouth, Norfolk

 

Go all One Direction in North Somerset

Visit Clevedon Pier where boy band One Direction filmed their ‘You and I’ video and cruise on the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world.

Location: Clevedon, North Somerset

 

Enjoy a contemporary beach stay at the Watergate Bay Hotel

The Watergate Bay Hotel irresistibly combines dramatic coastline, adrenaline-fuelled sports, gorgeous accommodation and brilliant places to dine.

Location: Watergate Bay, Cornwall

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