While many don’t associate the UK with beach holidays, waking up to the sound of rolling waves, sunbathing on golden beaches, and surfing turquoise waters along the 7,700 miles of coastline, is possible on this magnificent island.
The UK boasts some of the most beautiful beaches and breathtaking sea views available in Northern Europe. While in a previous article we focused on some of the best weekend getaways in Europe, this time we’d like to focus on some of the best coastal destinations in the UK.
Torquay, Devon
Sat along the English Riviera, Torquay is in reach of over 20 beaches and an upbeat mix of palm trees, expensive yachts, and celebrity chefs. In the town itself, you’ll be greeted by quaint quays lined with local shops, cafes, and restaurants, harking back to the olden days of 18th and 19th century England. Famous crime novelist Agatha Christie hails from Torquay and every September the Agatha Christie Festival promises a literary adventure for fans of her novels. From historic sites like Torre Abbey to the Babbacombe Model Village, Torquay is a charming destination away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Bournemouth, Dorset
From the magnificent coast to the mystical landscape, you’d be hard-pressed to find a more modest county with so much to offer for the whole family. Bournemouth Jurassic Coast features the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in England and its 11-mile-long golden sand beach was voted one of the best beaches in the UK. Just 2.5 miles from the beach you’ll find King’s Park, home to Premier League club AFC Bournemouth’s Vitality Stadium at Dean Court. King’s Park also hosts a bowling green, a skate park, and pavilion/café to recharge after a busy day. Nestled between the counties of Devon, Wiltshire, and Hampshire, Dorset it a must visit destination.
Ventnor, Isle of Wight
This unique Victorian seaside town is home to colorful municipal bedding and traditional granite villas. A large portion of the architecture from Ventnor’s 19th-century glory days as a health resort has survived to this day. The island attracts top bands to music festivals from March to August and visitors to its beautiful beach can rent beach huts from converted vintage bathing machines. Ventnor’s mellow microclimate allows for subtropical plants to grow in the Botanic Garden, while Blackgang Chine on the edge of Ventnor, claims to be the oldest theme park in the world.
Falmouth, Cornwall
Falmouth is the gateway to the beautiful Fal River and is famous for its creative art scene with galleries displaying contemporary works and venues showcasing independent films and live bands. Among its man attractions are four world-class beaches affording a range of watersports from surfing, sailing, snorkeling and diving.
The town’s maritime heritage can be seen through its magnificent architecture and structures from the Victorian era of Henry VIII and WWII defenses along its coast. For a seaborne adventure, explore the Fal estuary on the ferries that sail the water connecting Falmouth with the harbor towns of St. Mawes and the city of Truro.
Close to Falmouth, you can also visit Port Isaac, Fowey, and Lizard, some of the most beautiful villages in Cornwall.
Image credit 1,2,3,4: Wikipedia
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