If you are wondering what are the best UK coastal towns to visit in 2026, Bamburgh, Whitby, St Ives, Tenby, Saundersfoot, Tynemouth, Oban and Portrush are among the strongest choices for a memorable seaside trip. Each offers something different, from dramatic beaches and historic castles to seafood, coastal walks, colourful harbours and lively seaside attractions. Current 2026 travel surveys and expert guides particularly highlight northern coastal destinations such as Bamburgh and Tynemouth, while Wales, Cornwall, Scotland and Northern Ireland continue to offer excellent alternatives.

Why Visit UK Coastal Towns in 2026?

The British coastline has always been popular, but 2026 is an especially interesting year for coastal travel. Visitors can choose between traditional seaside resorts, quiet fishing villages, artistic communities and dramatic coastal landscapes.

The newly opened King Charles III England Coast Path also gives walkers another reason to explore Britain’s coastline. Along with the Wales Coast Path and Scotland’s spectacular coastal routes, it is now easier to combine a seaside town with scenic walking adventures.

Whether you are planning a UK coastal holiday, a weekend seaside break or a longer road trip, there is a destination to suit almost every travel style.

1. Bamburgh, Northumberland

If beautiful scenery is your priority, Bamburgh deserves to be near the top of your list.

This small Northumberland village combines a huge sandy beach with the impressive Bamburgh Castle, creating one of the most recognisable coastal landscapes in England. In 2026, Which? once again ranked Bamburgh as the UK’s best seaside destination, giving it an overall score of 84%.

The beach is ideal for long walks, while the surrounding coastline provides excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife watching.

Best for: Beaches, scenery, castles, walking and peaceful breaks.

2. Whitby, North Yorkshire

Whitby is one of the best historic coastal towns in the UK for travellers who want more than just a beach.

Its working harbour, atmospheric old streets, seafood restaurants and famous abbey give the town a distinctive character. The dramatic coastline around Whitby is also ideal for walking.

The town works particularly well for a weekend break because you can combine coastal scenery with history, local food and independent shops.

Best for: History, seafood, photography and coastal walks.

3. St Ives, Cornwall

For many travellers, St Ives represents the classic Cornish seaside escape.

The town is known for its sandy beaches, harbour, narrow streets and strong connection with the arts. It is also an excellent base for exploring other parts of Cornwall.

St Ives can become busy during peak summer periods, so visiting outside the busiest weeks can provide a more relaxed experience.

Best for: Art, beaches, romantic breaks and Cornwall holidays.

4. Tenby, Wales

Tenby is one of the most attractive Welsh coastal towns for a traditional seaside holiday.

Its colourful buildings, harbour, sandy beaches and historic walls make it particularly photogenic. It is also a useful base for exploring Pembrokeshire’s wider coastline.

For travellers who enjoy walking, swimming, photography and relaxed evenings near the sea, Tenby offers a good balance.

Best for: Families, beaches, photography and walking.

5. Saundersfoot, Pembrokeshire

Saundersfoot is another excellent Welsh choice, especially if you prefer a smaller coastal setting.

Time Out selected Saundersfoot as its number-one UK seaside town for 2026, praising its beach and lively village atmosphere.

During summer, the harbour area becomes lively with cafés, restaurants, pubs and shops, while the surrounding Pembrokeshire coastline offers plenty of opportunities for walking.

Best for: Beaches, families, food and relaxed coastal weekends.

6. Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear

Tynemouth is a strong option for travellers who want an attractive beach without giving up easy access to a larger urban area.

Which? ranked Tynemouth second among UK seaside destinations in its 2026 survey, with an overall score of 82%.

Its beaches, promenade and historic atmosphere make it particularly appealing for a short break. You can also combine a visit with time in nearby Newcastle.

Best for: Short breaks, beaches, couples and city-and-coast trips.

7. Oban, Scotland

Oban offers something different from the classic English seaside resort.

Located on Scotland’s west coast, it is known for its harbour, seafood and connections to nearby islands. Time Out included Oban among its best UK seaside towns for 2026, highlighting its seafood scene and lively atmosphere.

It is an excellent choice if your idea of a coastal holiday includes dramatic landscapes, fresh seafood and exploring Scotland beyond the major cities.

Best for: Seafood, island trips, scenic drives and Scottish coastal holidays.

8. Portrush, Northern Ireland

Portrush is one of the best places to consider if you want to explore the Northern Ireland coast.

The town has several beaches, Atlantic views and easy access to some of Northern Ireland’s most famous coastal attractions. Time Out placed Portrush among its leading UK seaside towns for 2026, particularly noting its beaches, dramatic coastal scenery and lively atmosphere.

It also works well as a base for exploring the Causeway Coast.

Best for: Surfing, beaches, road trips and coastal scenery.

9. St Andrews, Scotland

St Andrews may be internationally famous for golf, but its coastal setting makes it much more than a golf destination.

The town combines beaches, historic buildings, university traditions and coastal walks. In Which?’s 2026 seaside survey, St Andrews ranked third overall, scoring 81%.

This makes it a particularly good choice for travellers who want culture and history alongside the sea.

Best for: Golf, history, beaches and couples.

10. Llandudno, Wales

Llandudno is ideal for travellers who love the character of a traditional British seaside resort.

Its Victorian architecture, promenade and Great Orme create a distinctive setting. It also provides easy access to other North Wales attractions.

If you want a coastal town that combines classic seaside charm with mountain scenery, Llandudno is worth considering.

Best for: Families, traditional seaside holidays and sightseeing.

How to Choose the Right UK Coastal Town

The best destination depends largely on the type of holiday you want.

• For the best beaches and scenery: Bamburgh
• For history and atmosphere: Whitby
• For Cornwall: St Ives
• For a Welsh beach holiday: Tenby or Saundersfoot
• For a short city-and-coast break: Tynemouth
• For Scottish scenery and seafood: Oban
• For Northern Ireland: Portrush
• For golf and culture: St Andrews
• For a traditional seaside resort: Llandudno

It is also worth considering the season. Summer is generally the busiest period, while spring and early autumn can be attractive for travellers who prefer quieter beaches and coastal walks.

What Should You Do in UK Coastal Towns?

A coastal trip does not have to mean spending the entire day on the beach.

Depending on where you go, you can enjoy:

• Coastal walking
• Boat trips
• Surfing and paddleboarding
• Historic castles and museums
• Harbour walks
• Local seafood
• Independent cafés and shops
• Wildlife watching
• Photography
• Scenic road trips

Britain’s coastline offers considerable variety, including sandy beaches, cliffs, dunes, harbours and wildlife-rich areas. VisitBritain also highlights activities ranging from surfing and swimming to rockpooling, cycling and seabird watching.

Final Thoughts

So, what are the best UK coastal towns to visit in 2026? There is no single answer for every traveller.

Bamburgh is difficult to beat for scenery and beaches, while Whitby offers history and character. St Ives remains a strong choice for Cornwall, Tenby and Saundersfoot are excellent Welsh options, and Oban provides a memorable Scottish coastal experience.

For a more traditional seaside holiday, Llandudno is worth considering, while Portrush is an excellent choice for exploring Northern Ireland’s Atlantic coastline.

The best approach is to choose a town based on the experience you want rather than simply looking for the most famous beach. In 2026, Britain’s coastal towns offer everything from peaceful walks and historic harbours to outdoor adventures, excellent food and classic seaside entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best coastal town in the UK in 2026?

Bamburgh is one of the strongest choices. Which? ranked it as the UK’s top seaside destination in its 2026 survey, with an overall score of 84%.

What is the best UK coastal town for beaches?

Bamburgh, St Ives, Tenby and Saundersfoot are excellent choices for travellers looking for attractive beaches and coastal scenery.

Which UK coastal town is best for a weekend break?

Tynemouth, Whitby, St Ives and Llandudno are particularly suitable for weekend trips because they combine beaches with restaurants, attractions and things to do nearby.

What is the best coastal town in Wales?

Tenby and Saundersfoot are two of the strongest choices for a Welsh seaside holiday. Saundersfoot was also selected as Time Out’s number-one UK seaside town for 2026.

Which Scottish coastal town should I visit in 2026?

Oban and St Andrews are excellent options. Oban is particularly good for seafood and island connections, while St Andrews combines beaches, history and golf.

Are UK coastal towns worth visiting outside summer?

Yes. Many coastal towns are enjoyable throughout the year, particularly for walking, photography, food, history and wildlife. Spring and autumn can also be quieter than the peak summer season.

What is the best UK coastal town for families?

Tenby, Saundersfoot, Llandudno and Bamburgh are good family-friendly options because they combine beaches with accessible attractions and outdoor activities.