5 beautiful seaside towns to visit around the UK this summer

The summer holidays are upon us, so you might be looking for family-friendly activities that’ll suit your children, grandchildren, and extended family.

What better way to enjoy the summer than by going to the beach? Many UK beaches are rural and difficult to access – luckily, though, there are plenty of attractive beach towns that can offer more than just sun, sea, sand and sky.

Here are five beautiful seaside towns you may never have visited, and why they could make the ideal summer day out.

1. Bude, Cornwall

The town of Bude, situated right on the Devon and Cornwall border, has everything you need for a memorable day in the sunshine.

The breathtaking Atlantic waves rolling in make for great water sports (as long as a lifeguard is present), while the smooth sands allow for idle strolling, dog walking, and beach games.

Step back from the beach, and you’ll discover that the town itself comes with plenty to entertain the whole family. Between the castle heritage centre, sea pool, and amazing coastal walk – plus a selection of lovely eateries and pubs to choose from – you’re sure to have a brilliant day out at this south-western destination.

2. Rhosneigr, Anglesey

Are you a fan of quaint towns that teeter on the edge of beautiful beaches? If so, you’ll love Rhosneigr, nestled in the countryside of Anglesey.

With three beaches in walking distance of the town, all of which possess a unique charm and plenty of walking and sports opportunities, Rhosneigr is an often-overlooked beach paradise you’d never even know was there.

Plus, the town itself is populated with small, family-run businesses, including a quaint ice cream shop, several pubs, and a selection of fish and chips you’re sure to remember. With renowned aquarium, the Sea Zoo, nearby, and lots of additional villages that are just a short drive away, there’s no wonder Rhosneigr is a favourite for local families.

If you’re heading up north for a family adventure, be sure to stop at this coveted beach town which is visited frequently by the Prince and Princess of Wales, to name but two stars who love this hidden gem.

3. Lyme Regis, Dorset

Dorset is home to a number of unforgettable beaches, but one stand-out beach town is Lyme Regis. A well-visited hub of activity for a reason, Lyme Regis gives families the opportunity to spend a day (or two, or three) soaking up the sun and making memories in the town.

Home to the famous Dinosaurland Fossil Museum, there’s much more to do in Lyme Regis than swim and sunbathe – although with a gorgeous white sand beach on your doorstep, it might be hard to tear yourself away.

Although the town can become busy in the summer months, it’s well worth a visit if you’re passing by the south coast during the school holidays. If you’re driving down from the Midlands, it shouldn’t take more than a few hours to reach the sunny shores of Lyme Regis.

4. Wigtown, Scotland

If you’re venturing far afield for some well-earned family time, Wigtown could be the ideal pit stop for a solo, spousal, or family trip.

Known as the Scottish “book town”, Wigtown is an eclectic coastal dwelling full of quaint bookshops, family-owned cafés, and heaps of charm. If you’ve been searching for an off-grid experience near the sea that doesn’t involve wading through crowds of tourists, Wigtown is the place to go.

Just 90 minutes’ drive from the famous Gretna Green, and accessible from Glasgow too, Wigtown could be the escape from the hustle and bustle of life that you need.

5. Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Finally, if you’re heading to the underrated east coast of England, Aldeburgh is a beautiful beach town situated on the coast of Suffolk.

Over the summer there’s plenty to do, with a plethora of eateries, shops, pubs, and family activities (like the town museum), and of course the gorgeous beach. Safe for swimming on calm days, the sea is known for its clarity (and cold!), so come prepared for a breathtaking North Sea swim.

If you’re up for a late summer adventure, the Aldeburgh Food and Drink Festival is taking place this year on 23 and 24 September. Designed to support local farmers and suppliers, you can fill your boots at this unmissable event.