Large cities that never seem to stop provide a completely different lifestyle from the greatest seaside towns in the UK. Imagine independent stores, beautiful beaches, and classic charm that seems to be frozen in time. Savour breathtaking views of the seaside, street life, and a gentler pace with less pressure and stress.
Being an island, there are obviously a lot of places to pick from, both north and south. Even though they are tourist destinations and cultural centres, there are a number of reasonably priced housing possibilities. Therefore, these coastal cities are worth adding to your list, regardless of your retirement goals or your plans to purchase a vacation home now and move out later.
Top Coastal Towns in the UK for Living
1. Salcombe for Sailing and Seaside Charm
Salcombe has a stellar reputation. Salcombe, which is part of the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), is well-known for its sailing and yachting businesses amid the continuous stream of visitors who would rather stay on dry land. But during the summer, people take advantage of the wide variety of stunning beaches, such as Sunny Cove, Cable Cove, and Fisherman’s Cove.
Ferries go to South Sands Beach, which was awarded a blue flag. While the sailing port mostly caters to pleasure sailing, a small fleet of fishing boats maintains historical customs. Salcombe may seem like a dream come true, but the cost of homes there is more than usual. This is a global norm for any location that hosts boats.
Yacht owners, of course, desire a better quality of life. The population is tiny in the winter but skyrockets to 20,000 in the summer if you want to live here year-round and money is no problem. In summer, there is a park-and-ride operation due to the congested streets and growing population.
2. Dartmouth: The British Coast’s Pride
The majority of people living in this little, quaint seaside village are over 50; like any other coastal town, its population grows during the summer months as more people visit. It’s on a river estuary rather than the ocean itself. Coastal feelings are still the best, though. Traditional crafts like shipbuilding and crab fishing were supplanted by tourists, as is frequently the case in coastal areas, yet remnants of cultural history can be found everywhere.
Because Dartmouth, like Salcombe, is about improved standards of life, it was voted the second most serene location in 2023. Don’t expect to find any brand eateries here. London is five hours away by car. If the beach environment gets too familiar, there are plenty of things to do in the surrounding locations. In terms of housing, be prepared for cobblestone streets; steep slopes need driving if mobility is a concern. Additionally, you should anticipate paying more than six figures for beachfront homes.
3. Exmouth: Coastal Living That’s Family-Friendly
As one of the first locations in Devon to embrace tourism in the 18th century, the Victorian and Georgian architecture immediately catches the attention of first-time visitors. The cultural heritage dates back to the Saxton era, when Sir Walter Raleigh embarked on expeditions from Exmouth on the Jurassic coast in the 16th century.
Water sports, such as kayaking, and the surrounding scenery are sources of leisure and enjoyment. It was listed as one of the finest places to live by the Sunday Times in 2023, and crime rate publications claim that it has Devon’s lowest rate. Exmouth’s success in upscale travel throughout the Victorian era led to a namedrop in fashion and style, and this association with the upper class is reflected in home values.
4. The Centre for Creative Communities in Aldeburgh Town
Located in East Suffolk, barely two hours from London, this place couldn’t be more unlike if it tried. It features charming buildings, hilltops, and beach huts where fishermen sell their catch, but in summer you can also anticipate the tastiest fish, chips, and lots of sand to play around in. “Expect lashings of lobster from fish shacks, English wines, and an elegant sailing crowd,” the Independent once stated.
Some homes on the real estate market are second-hand, meaning that their owners only use them during the summer and rent them out during the winter. The charming cottage architecture of the 19th century and the rich literary and cultural heritage are the other noteworthy trends. The inhabitant, English actor Bill Nighy, is the other main claim to fame. The average cost of a property is still lower than in nearby areas in spite of everything.
5: Whitstable: Plenty of Coastal Charm
Up until the middle of the 20th century, Whitstable—formerly known as Whitstable-on-Sea—was well-known for its oysters. Nevertheless, they continue to host the Whitstable Oyster Festival every summer. The Canterbury and Whitstable Railway line, which is now a bike path, was the second main claim to fame.
Whitstable, which is popular for retirement, is located on the northeast Kent coast and has an average population of over 65. Other working locals, on the other hand, frequently travel to Canterbury, which is close by and well-known for its educational institutions. There are no typical Victorian piers on two shingle beaches, so forget about them. This, however, makes them quite tranquil. Whitstable is a desirable place to spend your retirement, in fact.
6. Tynemouth: Magnificent Beaches and Stunning Views
The Sunday Times named this beachfront location in Tyne and Wear’s North Tyneside the greatest place to live in North England in 2018. Like other places, the Golden Sands gained popularity in the 19th century as a result of rich people travelling there from large towns, some for pleasure or health. (The air from the sea has many health benefits, particularly for your lungs.) Tynemouth Long Sands (Blue Flag Beach) and King Edward’s Bay are the two primary beaches that Trip Advisor customers frequently choose as the finest. Kings Priory Primary School is well-liked by families.
7: Cromer: Delectable Crabs and a Lovely Pier
Cromer, which gained notoriety for its Grade II pier and crab aquaculture, frequently draws families and young people seeking a different demography from big cities. The 20-mile Great Barrier Reef in Britain, which is popular with swimmers and snorkelers, is located there. Historians have found footprints from an astounding 850,000 years ago.
Here, the history of the RNLI is more extensive, as evidenced by the Henry Blogg Museum, which bears the name of the lifeguard who, over the course of 53 years, rescued 873 lives. Although there are several supermarkets and marketplaces in the area, including Holt, Sheringham, and Aylsham, fishmongers are of course a major industry. Bus services are available across Suffolk and Norfolk for commuters, and Mundesly, which is nearby, offers lovely seaside walks. The average cost of a house in Cromner is less than that of neighbouring towns and villages.
8. Excellent Schools in North Berwick, East Lothian
Located about 20 miles from Edinburgh’s downtown, this Scottish village began drawing tourists in the 20th century. Today, golf courses on both sides of the bay draw travellers. As one of the few locations having a post office, it also encourages boat cruises for wildlife and marine enthusiasts over the enormous width of the Firth of Forth. The cobblestone streets still have an old-world charm, with breathtaking views and a strong sense of community. Eleven Michelin-starred restaurants may be found in the town and its environs. Although the town is unquestionably lovely, reasonably priced real estate is not its strongest suit.
9. Lymington: Seaside Living and Sailing Clubs
With vehicle ferry services, this Hampshire port town confronts the Isle of Wight. The absence of windswept beaches is the one notable feature, despite the area’s reputation for stunning landscape, excellent transit, and low crime rates. Milford-on-Sea, four miles distant, has the greatest beach.
There are many Georgian and Victorian structures, since the town has been known as a market town since the 13th century, although new construction has altered the landscape in recent years. Visit Lymington Nature Reserve and the gorgeous seaside walk for Blue Waters. There is a great selection of independent and well-known cafés and restaurants.
10. The Yorkshire Coast’s Scarborough
Scarborough has long been a favourite among Britons because of its picturesque cliffs and rock pools. Thanks to facilities and activities, the North and South Bays have excellent beach standards, and the well-known fish market continues to flourish. For a wide selection of boutique stores and name-brand businesses, head to the town centre. Only a small percentage of the population is above 60, according to recent figures. As a result, Scarborough draws young families and couples who have second homes and divide their time between commuting or large cities.
11: North Yorkshire’s Saltburn-by-the-Sea
Due to the abundance of activities and destinations, Saltburn, which is well-known for its golden beach and grade II Victorian pier, is a well-liked day trip destination for people from the surrounding districts. The picturesque attractiveness and reasonably priced real estate in comparison to other coastal attractions have contributed to Saltburn’s recent surge in popularity.
Prices are still rising, though, due to rising demand. Due to vacationers and those looking for weekend getaways, there is a high rental potential. Buying a home in Saltburn could be a smart move if you like living by the sea. It is not the best option, though, if you need to commute to big urban centres or experience the hustle and bustle of the metropolis.
12: The North East Coast’s Bamburgh
Northumberland’s Bamburgh hamlet is home to stunning sandy beaches and the imposing Bamburgh Castle, which towers over the landscape. The Anglo-Saxon-era castle, which faces the North Sea, and Bamburgh Beach, which offers expansive views of the Farne Islands and Holy Island, draw nature lovers, walkers, and photographers. With its classic stone homes, quaint tea rooms, and serene ambiance, Bamburgh is a small yet quaint town. With a museum devoted to her, the association with the well-known Victorian heroine Grace Darling adds still another level of historical relevance.
Given that the town is one of the most gorgeous places in Northumberland, housing prices are often expensive due to its high demand for beauty and exclusivity. Bamburgh could be the perfect place if you want a peaceful coastal getaway with history and a sense of community. But because of its modest size, there aren’t many local facilities. Nevertheless, vacation rentals and second homes are common, drawing tourists all year round who wish to take in the Northumberland coast’s boundless splendour.
13: Brighton, East Sussex: A Well-liked Option
Brighton has always drawn tourists and prospective homebuyers with its famous pebble beach, exciting nightlife, and Royal Pavilion. With several eateries, local stores, and a flourishing arts community, the vibrant ambiance and beachside feel are also well-known for their cultural offerings. There are plenty of options for nightlife, pubs, and clubs during the May Festival, which emphasises music, drama, and visual arts. While the adjacent streets are distinguished by small alleys lined with oddball stores and restaurants, the famous Pier offers entertainment.
Brighton has a lot of outdoor activities in addition to vibrant neighbourhoods. Just a short drive away is South Downs National Park, which offers countless chances for hiking, cycling, and taking in the scenery. Yoga studios, health cafés, and spa vacations are all part of the constantly expanding wellness scenes for wellness fans.
14: North Devon’s Ilfracombe
Dramatic landscapes, Victorian architecture, and maritime history are all promoted by this quaint, attractive location on Devon’s north coast. Ilfracombe connects to the South West Coast Path, which offers breathtaking views from the top of cliffs, while Wilders Mouth Beach and Tunnels Beaches are well-liked beaches for swimming and tanning. There are still fishing and recreational boats in the ancient port, which has a lively, picturesque atmosphere and a number of eateries with a view of the sea.
Accommodations range from spacious villas with views of the sea to charming terraced cottages. Although properties along the shore are more costly, there are reasonably priced possibilities in the city and the neighbouring districts. Despite being more remote than some other towns, Ilfracombe has excellent rail and road links (via the train station at Barnstaple, with further connections to Exeter) and the A361 to Barnstaple and the M5.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Living near the Coast in the UK
Advantages to Anticipate
Health and Well-Being: Both physical and mental health are major benefits. Numerous negative ions found in fresh sea air enhance respiratory health and mood. The healthier lifestyle is a result of people’s increased propensity to enjoy outdoor activities like swimming, cycling, and walking.
Scenery and Calm: From Scotland’s spectacular beaches to Cornwall’s rocky cliffs, the UK’s coastline has breathtaking scenery. Peace and relaxation, beautiful sunrises, calming waves, and a reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city are all benefits of living close to the seaside.
Possibility of Holiday Let Income: Owners can make extra money through short-term rentals because to the strong demand for vacation rentals, especially in picturesque locations like Devon, Cornwall, and Northumberland.
Better Quality of Life: Living by the sea is quite alluring since it’s slower, there’s less pollution, and nature is just outside your door. The majority of families and retirees go to the seaside in search of a tranquil and satisfying lifestyle, as well as towns where local businesses flourish and residents know their neighbours.
Negative Aspects to Consider
Demand and Home Prices: Homes in desirable areas are frequently more expensive. Due to vacationers and second-home purchasers, properties in places like St. Ives and Brighton are highly valued.
Weather Challenges: Although the sea air is cool, winter weather may be severe, with high gusts, a lot of rain, and coastline erosion. Winter storms can cause problems with house upkeep.
Fewer work Opportunities: Because most locations depend on seasonal tourists, there aren’t as many work options outside of hospitality and retail. It could be necessary for those pursuing job progression to work remotely or commute, which not everyone can do.
Crowds and Tourism: During the busiest tourist seasons, popular coastal towns are congested, which has an impact on local services, traffic, and general peace and quiet. Although tourism boosts local economies, it also raises property prices and causes a lack of rental properties.
Coastal Erosion and Flooding Risk: Certain regions are susceptible to erosion and flooding, which affects insurance premiums and house values. Examine coastal protection measures and flood threats prior to purchasing a house.
How to Locate the Perfect Coastal Town
A number of criteria, such as facilities, temperature tolerance, budget, and lifestyle choices, influence which beach town is ideal. Research is crucial. For further reading, check out Coast Magazine’s articles about UK coasts and Which Magazine’s Best Seaside Towns Report, which is based on tourist reviews and quality of life.
Cost of Living: The cost of living varies each coastal community. Use websites such as Rightmove, Zoopla, or On the Market to research rental prices and home values. If you commute to a city for business, make sure to examine local rates and account for commuting expenses since council tax differs by location.
Climate: There are considerable variations in the UK’s climate. In general, the northeast (such as Northumberland) is colder and windier than the south coast (such as Cornwall, Dorset, and Sussex).
Employment & Economy: Some coastal communities rely heavily on tourism, which results in seasonal job openings but less stability throughout the year. Community & Lifestyle: While Brighton is a favourite among young professionals, Eastbourne is a popular destination for pensioners.
- Brighton and Bournemouth have a vibrant culture and way of life.
- Reasonably priced housing in Morecambe and Rhyl
- Calm Retirement: Eastbourne, East Sussex, and Sidmouth, Devon
- Natural Beauty: Whitby and Cornwall’s St Ives
- Digital Nomads & Remote Work: Southwold, Suffolk, and Falmouth, Cornwall People Enquire
Which British seashore town is the most picturesque?
Whether you’re searching for breathtaking cliffs, golden beaches, historic charm, or charming fishing villages, this will depend on your preferences. Cornwall’s St. Ives is notable for its cobblestone alleyways, Porthmeor Beach, and excellent seafood eateries. Whitby, in North Yorkshire, combines the ruins of Whitby Abbey, the setting for Dracula, with spectacular landscapes and historic beauty. Tenby, located in Pembrokeshire, Wales, is well-known for its mediaeval town wall, stunning beaches, and vibrant Georgian houses.
Situated on Scotland’s Isle of Skye, Portree boasts a lovely harbour with breathtaking views of the sea and mountains. With its charming pier and beach houses, Southwold in Suffolk exemplifies traditional British coastal beauty. The Great Orme cliffs and a lengthy promenade may be seen at Llandudno, North Wales, a traditional Victorian coastal resort. Devon’s Riverside Dartmouth is known for its vibrant architecture and marine past. Choose Tenby or St Ives for golden beaches. Pick Whitby or Portree for stunning cliffs, or Southwold or Dartmouth for traditional British charm.
Where in the UK can I afford to live by the sea?
In comparison to well-known, tourist-heavy locations like St. Ives or Brighton, a number of locations provide reasonably priced living expenses if you’re hoping to live by the sea without going over budget.
Lancashire’s Morecambe, with its sense of community, is being revitalised. The cost of homes is less than in other coastal areas. The Tower and Winter Gardens are two of Blackpool, Lancashire’s attractions. Skegness, located in Lincolnshire, provides great value. With lots of parks, beaches, and neighbourhood facilities, it’s a great place for families. In Norfolk, Great Yarmouth is well-liked by pensioners and families alike and provides great value. The average cost of a home is about £170,000, which is significantly less than in southern regions.
In North Wales, Rhyl was revitalised. A vibrant promenade, stunning beaches, and neighbouring Snowdonia for outdoor lovers are all to be expected. Compared to places like Brighton or Canterbury, Margate in Kent provides more inexpensive accommodation while also having a more burgeoning art scene and overall growth.
Compared to other larger beach towns, Whitstable in Kent boasts gentler lives, charming streets, and excellent oysters. Anticipate a vibrant local community, seafood eateries, and lovely sandy beaches. The average price of £250,000 is relatively affordable for the south coast, albeit being a little pricier than in other locations.
Suffolk’s Lowestoft is a nice place for retirees. The average cost of a home is about £160,000, making it ideal for anyone seeking reasonably priced beachfront living. People searching for affordable places might visit Hunstanton in Norfolk, a tiny, serene beach town with laid-back attitudes.
