7 Stunning UK Beaches and Where to Live to Enjoy Them Every Day
Looking to move closer to the seaside? The UK is home to some of the most breathtaking beaches, where soft sands and crystal-clear waters meet vibrant local life. Whether you’re thinking of buying a house to enjoy daily beach strolls or looking for a peaceful retreat, these seven locations have you covered. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the best UK beaches and nearby towns perfect for beach lovers.
1. Bournemouth Beach, Dorset
Photo by saifullah hafeel
Bournemouth Beach is a buzzing spot with seven miles of golden sand, plenty of activities, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Famous for its clean waters, you’ll often find people relaxing, paddleboarding, or playing beach volleyball.
Local Life: Bournemouth has a resort-town vibe but surprises with its laid-back charm. While the city centre offers a lively experience with restaurants, theatres, and shopping, quieter neighbourhoods like West Cliff and Boscombe give you that relaxed lifestyle.
Accessibility: Most homes in these neighbourhoods are just a short walk or cycle away from the beach, making it ultra-convenient.
House Prices: Expect to pay around £350,000 for a solid three-bedroom house within close proximity to the coast.
For buying advice in nearby areas, explore more about buying a property in coastal towns here.
2. Brighton Beach, East Sussex
Brighton Beach perfectly blends lively energy with Victorian seaside charm. The famous Palace Pier and colourful beach huts make this a dream destination for many. The pebbly beach is iconic, and the nearby Lanes are ideal for boutique shopping and vibrant dining.
Local Life: Brighton offers a bohemian vibe—creatives and families alike enjoy the mix of quirky shops, street art, and a thriving nightlife. Kemptown and Hove present more peaceful residential options while still convenient to the seafront.
Accessibility: Brighton’s compact nature ensures you’re rarely more than a 20-minute bike ride from the beach.
House Prices: The average price here is steeper, with homes in Hove going up to £475,000, reflecting Brighton’s popularity.
3. Porthcurno Beach, Cornwall
Dreaming of turquoise waters and white sand? Porthcurno Beach is a slice of paradise. Its natural beauty is breathtaking, surrounded by cliffs that enhance the secluded feel of this beach.
Local Life: Porthcurno is a small, quiet area, perfect for those looking to escape the bustle. Nearby towns like Penzance offer a better array of amenities but remain within easy reach.
Accessibility: Penzance to Porthcurno is around a 20-minute drive, so a car helps you enjoy its pristine coastline.
House Prices: Surprising for its charm, homes around here are accessible from £240,000, especially in Penzance.
4. Whitby Beach, Yorkshire
Whitby Beach, framed by rugged cliffs, is loved for its dramatic scenery and historic connections to Dracula. Fossil hunting and quaint harbour strolls are just the start of the activities you’ll enjoy.
Local Life: Whitby’s small-town charm is rich with independent shops, pubs serving the nation’s best fish and chips, and an artistic community. For homes, West Cliff and Ruswarp stand out for character and views.
Accessibility: Commuting to the beach is a breeze when you live in West Cliff—it’s mere minutes away!
House Prices: Look for properties averaging £250,000, with quaint cottages being a popular choice.
5. Scarborough Beach, North Yorkshire
Scarborough offers two fantastic beaches—South and North Bay. Perfectly geared for families, they feature sandy shores and modern attractions.
Local Life: Consider South Cliff or North Bay when choosing where to live. These areas hold Scarborough’s Victorian history while also offering proximity to local amenities such as parks, trendy cafes, and even music events.
Accessibility: With efficient public transport and town layouts, everywhere feels connected.
House Prices: Moderately affordable, properties cost around £230,000 for a comfy family home.
6. Blackpool Beach, Lancashire
Blackpool Beach is a classic British pier destination, with high-energy attractions like the Pleasure Beach and annual Illuminations lighting up the seaside. Perfect for traditional seaside fun.
Local Life: Living in areas such as South Shore and North Shore keeps you close to Blackpool’s exciting offerings, without having to deal with overwhelming crowds all the time.
Accessibility: With excellent transport links, including trams, it’s super simple to get to the beach.
House Prices: With averages hovering near £200,000, Blackpool offers fantastic seaside affordability.
7. Tenby Beach, Pembrokeshire
Tenby boasts three picturesque beaches, each offering different perks—family picnics, rock-pooling or long romantic walks. The clear waters and colourful townscape make Tenby a standout.
Local Life: This Welsh gem combines medieval walls with a beach-town feel. Tenby town centre and Penally are top locations to settle, offering historic houses and sea views.
Accessibility: The compact layout means every part of Tenby is close to the beach.
House Prices: Expect to spend around £285,000, which is a bargain considering the postcard-worthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
The UK’s seaside towns aren’t just scenic—they’re incredible places to live. From the family-friendly vibes at Scarborough Beach to the quiet magic of Porthcurno, there’s something for everyone. Living near the beach doesn’t just lift your mood, it’s an investment in lifestyle. If buying a house near the coast appeals to you, why not start your seaside property journey right here? Where will you call home? Let the waves decide!