England’s coastline is packed with seaside towns, each offering something different. Some are known for long sandy beaches and traditional piers, while others are quieter places with independent shops, coastal walks, historic streets, and excellent seafood.
The best seaside towns in England depend on what you want from a coastal trip. Families may prefer places with classic attractions and safe beaches, while couples might enjoy smaller towns with scenic walks and relaxed restaurants. If you’re thinking about moving, some of the best seaside towns to live in in England also combine attractive surroundings with everyday amenities.
From Cornwall and Devon to Yorkshire, Norfolk, and Sussex, there are plenty of seaside towns in England worth exploring.
Why Do We Love Seaside England?
There is something particularly appealing about seaside England. A coastal town can offer a change of pace without requiring a long journey or complicated itinerary.
You can spend a morning walking along the beach, explore the town center in the afternoon, and finish the day watching the sunset beside the sea.
England’s seaside towns are also remarkably varied. You can find lively resort towns filled with traditional attractions, elegant coastal destinations, fishing communities, and quieter places where the landscape is the main attraction.
That variety means there is a seaside destination for almost every type of traveler.
Best Seaside Towns in England
1. Brighton
Best for culture, nightlife and a lively coast
Brighton is one of the most recognizable seaside destinations in England.
Its seafront combines the famous Brighton Palace Pier with the beach, while the Lanes provide independent shops, cafés, restaurants, and a distinctive city atmosphere.
Brighton works particularly well for visitors who want more than a traditional beach holiday. You can combine time beside the sea with art, shopping, food, music, and nightlife.
It is also relatively easy to reach from London, making it popular for short breaks.
Best for: couples, young travelers, food lovers, and weekend trips.
2. Whitby
Best for history, seafood and dramatic coastal scenery
Whitby has a character that sets it apart from many English seaside towns.
The town sits beside the River Esk and is dominated by the ruins of Whitby Abbey on the headland. Its historic streets, harbor, seafood restaurants, and connection with Bram Stoker’s Dracula give it a distinctive atmosphere.
The surrounding coastline is equally appealing, particularly for walkers and photographers.
Whitby is an excellent choice if you want a seaside break with plenty of history alongside the beach.
Best for: history lovers, couples, walkers, and seafood fans.
3. St Ives
Best for beaches, art and Cornwall scenery
St. Ives is one of Cornwall’s most attractive coastal towns.
Its narrow streets, sandy beaches, galleries, and harbor create a setting that feels distinctly Cornish. The town has a strong connection with artists, and the Tate St Ives adds to its cultural appeal.
The beaches are a major attraction, but there is plenty to do beyond the sand. Coastal walks and nearby viewpoints make it easy to experience the wider landscape.
Best for: families, couples, art lovers, and beach holidays.
4. Lyme Regis
Best for fossils and the Jurassic Coast
Lyme Regis sits on the Dorset and Devon border and is famous for its connection with the Jurassic Coast.
The seafront, harbor, beach, and historic streets make it an enjoyable coastal destination, while the surrounding coastline attracts visitors interested in geology and fossils.
The town is also a good base for exploring nearby coastal scenery.
Best for: families, fossil hunters, walkers, and relaxed coastal breaks.
5. Salcombe
Best for sailing and a stylish coastal escape
Salcombe is set around a beautiful estuary in South Devon.
The town is known for sailing, boating, beaches, and its attractive waterfront. Its independent shops, cafés, and restaurants give it a more upmarket feel than some traditional seaside resorts.
The surrounding coastline provides opportunities for walking and exploring quieter beaches.
Best for: couples, sailing enthusiasts, families, and scenic holidays.
6. Southwold
Best for traditional seaside charm
Southwold offers a classic English seaside experience without feeling overly large.
Its beach, colorful beach huts, pier, lighthouse, and attractive town center make it one of Suffolk’s most appealing coastal destinations.
The town is compact enough to explore on foot, while the surrounding Suffolk coast provides plenty of opportunities for longer walks.
Best for: couples, families, traditional seaside holidays, and relaxed breaks.
7. Deal
Best for history and a quieter coast
Deal is a good option if you want a seaside town with a more relaxed atmosphere.
The town has a long waterfront, a pebble beach, historic buildings, independent shops, and a distinctive pier. Its location in Kent also makes it useful for exploring other coastal and historic destinations.
Deal can be particularly appealing to visitors who prefer a quieter alternative to larger resorts.
Best for: couples, history lovers, walkers, and weekend breaks.
8. Tenby
Best for colourful streets and beaches
Tenby is technically in Wales rather than England, so it is not included in the ranking of the best seaside towns in England. However, it is worth mentioning for travelers considering a wider UK coastal trip.
Its colorful harbor, sandy beaches, and historic town walls make it one of Britain’s best-known coastal destinations.
If your trip is focused strictly on England, however, consider nearby coastal alternatives instead.
Best for: beach lovers, families, photographers, and UK coastal trips.
9. Scarborough
Best for a traditional seaside resort
Scarborough is one of England’s classic seaside resorts.
The town has two beaches, a long seafront, traditional attractions, and the remains of Scarborough Castle overlooking the coast.
There is enough to keep visitors occupied beyond the beach, making it particularly suitable for families and travelers who enjoy the atmosphere of a traditional resort.
Best for: families, traditional seaside holidays, and first-time visitors.
10. Cromer
Best for Norfolk’s coast and seafood
Cromer is one of the most recognizable seaside towns in Norfolk.
Its Victorian pier, beach, cliffs, and traditional town center give it plenty of character. Cromer is also closely associated with its famous crab, making seafood part of the local experience.
The town provides a useful base for exploring more of the North Norfolk coast.
Best for: families, seafood lovers, walkers, and traditional seaside breaks.
Tips for Visiting Seaside Towns in England
Check the tide times.
Tides can significantly change beaches and coastal walking conditions. Check them before planning walks or activities.
Pack for Changeable Weather
Even in summer, coastal weather can change quickly. Bring a light waterproof layer and suitable footwear.
Visit Beyond the Main Beach
Many seaside towns have historic streets, markets, museums, viewpoints, and walking routes that are easy to miss if you stay only on the seafront.
Book Busy Summer Weekends Early
Popular coastal destinations can become extremely busy during school holidays and warm weekends.
Consider Public Transport
Some towns are easier to reach by train or bus than others. Check connections before deciding where to stay.
Explore the Coast Nearby
Don’t limit yourself to one town. Coastal paths and nearby villages can often provide quieter beaches and different views.
Check Parking Before Driving
Parking can be limited or expensive near popular seafronts, particularly during peak periods.
Final Thoughts
The best seaside towns in England are not necessarily the biggest or most famous. Brighton offers energy and culture; Whitby combines history with dramatic scenery; St. Ives brings together beaches and art, while Southwold, Deal, Cromer, and Lyme Regis provide their own versions of classic coastal England.
If you’re planning a wider UK trip, our guide to UNESCO sites UK can help you find historic and culturally important places to add to your itinerary. For a countryside escape, see our guide to the best places to stay in the Lake District, UK, and use the best hikes in the UK to plan some walking routes.
And if you’re planning a summer trip, things to do in August can help you find more seasonal ideas across the country.
Whether you’re looking for a family beach holiday, a romantic weekend, a walking break, or somewhere that could eventually become home, England’s coastline has plenty of options worth exploring.
FAQs
What are the best seaside towns in England?
Some of the best seaside towns in England include Brighton, Whitby, St Ives, Lyme Regis, Salcombe, Southwold, Deal, Scarborough, and Cromer. Each offers a different combination of beaches, attractions, scenery, history, and atmosphere.
What is the nicest seaside town in England?
There is no single answer because it depends on personal preference. St Ives is popular for beaches and scenery, Brighton for culture and entertainment, Whitby for history, and Southwold for traditional seaside charm.
What are the best seaside towns to live in England?
Brighton, Deal, Southwold, Whitby, Cromer, and Lyme Regis can all appeal to people considering coastal living. The best choice depends on property costs, transport, employment, services, and the lifestyle you want.
What is the best seaside town in England for families?
Scarborough, Cromer, and St Ives are strong choices for families because they combine beaches with attractions and activities suitable for different ages.
Which seaside towns in England are good for a weekend break?
Brighton, Deal, Whitby, Southwold, and Lyme Regis are all suitable for weekend breaks, depending on where you are travelling from and whether you prefer a lively or quieter atmosphere.
What is the prettiest seaside town in England?
St Ives, Southwold, Salcombe, and Lyme Regis are often appealing to visitors looking for attractive coastal scenery, colorful streets, beaches, and historic surroundings.
Which seaside town in England has the best beaches?
St Ives is particularly well known for its sandy beaches, while Scarborough, Cromer, and Lyme Regis also offer attractive coastal areas.
What is the best seaside town in England for walking?
Whitby and Lyme Regis are excellent choices for coastal walking, with access to dramatic cliffs, beaches, and sections of long-distance coastal routes.
Are seaside towns in England expensive to visit?
Costs vary considerably. Popular destinations can become expensive during summer and school holidays, while traveling outside peak periods and staying slightly away from the main seafront can help reduce costs.
Is seaside England worth visiting outside of summer?
Yes. Autumn and spring can be excellent for coastal walks, quieter streets, historic attractions, and scenic views. Winter can also offer a peaceful seaside experience, although some seasonal businesses may have reduced opening hours.
