Our 7 Favourite British Seasides
Come rain or (unexpected) shine, we love the Great British Seaside! These are 7 of our favourite British beach holiday destinations - in no particular order:
1. St Ives, Cornwall
Chocolate box beautiful St Ives not only has stunning white beaches, azure skies and higgledy piggledy cobbled streets, it's also the home to a whole array of galleries including the Barbara Hepworth Museum and the Tate.
2. Whitstable, Kent
A beautiful little seaside town, one of the major attractions are the local oysters. In fact, head there in July and you'll be able to participate in the annual oyster eating competition.
3. Blackpool, Lancaster
Blackpool may have fallen out of fashion over the past few decades, however, it holds a retro charm that is hard to contend with. The Pleasure Beach rollercoaster, yearly Illuminations and old-fashioned entertainment (now including Strictly Come Dancing at the glittering Tower Ballroom) all hold a special place in many British hearts.
4. Portree (Skye), Inner Hebrides
This cliff edged harbour is one of the most attractive ports in North Scotland, home to striking multicoloured houses and highly acclaimed restaurants. It's also home to the eclectic Skye Live festival.
5. Brighton, Sussex
Brighton Pier, the Royal Pavillion and the labyrinth of lanes are all iconic Brighton attractions that draw hundreds of thousands every year. The relaxed, inclusive, progressive attitude also make it a very relaxed and welcoming holiday location - with great, varied nightlife!
6. Carrickfergus, Northern Ireland
Derived from the Gaelic Carriage Fhearghais 'Fergus's Rock', this ancient town is rich in history with the 12th century Carrickfergus Castle drawing thousands of tourists annually.
7. Llandudno, Conwy County Borough
Long sandy beaches, Victorian architecture, numerous chic hotels and bars and a two-mile promenade - Llandudno has a lot to recommend itself. In fact one of its best attractions is the fantastic Great Orme next door, with trams and cable cars to take you up the whole 680ft for the stunning views of Snowdiana.