Coastal Towns
There is something in the water and in the air of our coastal towns. Historically retreats for artists and the rich who came in search of inspiration, to take the sea air and enjoy restorative walks along the promenade, nowadays our English coastal towns appeal to all of us in search of an expanse of big sky and afternoon tea in a grand hotel. Bustling marinas and coastal villages offer a place to moor up or the opportunity to cast off in search of a day on the waves. The artists are still here for the special light and many seaside towns host year-round cultural events and festivals.
Discover the coastal charm of Felixstowe Ferry
This beautiful village at the mouth of the river Debden is an idyllic place to while away the hours.
Location: Felixstowe Ferry, Suffolk
Wander Blackpool’s small but perfectly formed Model Village
See English rural life through a microscope and marvel at the exquisite detail of these handmade figurines, at Blackpool’s Model Village.
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
Rainy Day Activities: Make a splash at Sandcastle Waterpark
The Sandcastle Waterpark is home to Masterblaster - the world’s longest indoor rollercoaster waterslide - and so much more to keep everyone entertained on a rainy day.
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
Say hello to pampered pups in Skegness
Visit Natureland to see how washed-up seal pups are nursed back to health and prepared for a life back in the wild.
Location: Skegness, Lincolnshire
July events: Penzance Literary Festival
A literary festival on the Cornish coast with a distinctly local flavour and a relaxed atmosphere that’s ideal for book lovers.
Location: Penzance, Cornwall
Wake up early for a totally worth it tour of Brixham Fish Market
An early morning visit to Brixham's famous fish market is the most authentic way to experience coastal life in the southwest of England.
Location: Brixham, Devon
July events: Whitstable Oyster Festival
One of the biggest events in Kent’s calendar, the annual oyster festival in trendy Whitstable is far more than a foodie’s fiesta.
Location: Whitstable, Kent
September events: Bournemouth Air Festival
The world's biggest airshow brings together the thrill of gravity-defying plane displays and an abundance of family entertainment on the ground - all for free!
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Escape modern life with a stay at Skipper’s Cabin
Enjoy the splendid isolation and dramatic sea views in the rustic retreat that is Cornwall’s Skipper’s Cabin.
Location: Padstow, Cornwall
Learn, enjoy and discover at Blackpool Zoo
There’s something here to tickle everyone’s creepy crawly fancy, from crocodiles and rattlesnakes, to sea lions and emus.
Location: Blackpool, Lancashire
Family summer holidays at Oulton Broad
If you’re looking for inspiration about where to go with the family this summer, might we suggest the rather lovely town of Oulton Broad.
Location: Oulton Broad, Suffolk
Head to The Cary Arms for a luxurious dog friendly getaway
The Cary Arms is the perfect location for a dog friendly getaway, and with one of the UK’s dog friendly beaches on its door step, dogs can enjoy a paddle all year round.
Location: Babbacombe, Devon
Take a walk through Tresco Abbey Garden
Tresco Abbey Garden has unique climate conditions that allow for the growth of exotic and unique plant life.
Location: Isles of Scilly, Cornwall
Experience a spiritual side to Bournemouth's history
Visit St. Peter's Church for the stunning architecture, the famous final resting places or simply the atmosphere.
Location: Bournemouth, Dorset
Cycle and canoe in the iconic Seven Sisters Country Park
Explore the South Downs Way, near Eastbourne, discovering Seven Sisters Country Park by bicycle and the Cuckmere Valley by canoe.
Location: Eastbourne, East Sussex
Embark on a beginners cycle tour on The Red Squirrel Trail
Looking for your first car free, overnight cycle tour on a beginner’s route? The Red Squirrel Trail is the perfect multi day family cycle adventure, and is mostly on car free rail trail.
Location: Isle Of Wight
Stunning sea views and fine wines at a hip Dorset clifftop hotel
Enjoy a romantic summer break to the luxurious Seaside Boarding House in Dorset.
Location: Burton Bradstock, Dorset
Discover sharks, seals and summer fun in Great Yarmouth
From mysterious creatures of the deep to sandcastles and donkey rides, Great Yarmouth’s Golden Mile has it all.
Location: Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
Go all One Direction in North Somerset
Visit Clevedon Pier where boy band One Direction filmed their ‘You and I’ video and cruise on the last sea-going paddle steamer in the world.
Location: Clevedon, North Somerset
Enjoy Hampshire’s coast from the privacy of your very own fort
Experience something different with a stay at the newly refurbished No Man’s Land Fort near Gosport.
Location: Gosport, Hampshire
Art Deco chic and coastal fun
Discover Morecambe Bay’s stunning sunsets and natural landscapes, and unearth your adventurous side with a range of exhilarating outdoor activities.
Location: Morecambe Bay, Lancashire
