The United Kingdom’s coastline, stretching over 7,700 miles, offers a diverse array of seaside destinations ideal for family adventures. In 2023, domestic tourism saw a significant resurgence, with 77% of Brits planning at least one UK holiday, and the average adult booking three domestic breaks.
Coastal regions like Cornwall, the Scottish Highlands, and Devon topped the list of preferred destinations, reflecting a growing trend towards staycations.
This renewed interest in local travel underscores the appeal of the UK’s seaside towns, which provide a blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and family-friendly activities.
Top Family-Friendly Seaside Destinations In The Uk And How To Find Accommodation
The UK’s coastline presents a stunning range of family-friendly destinations, from sandy beaches to coastal towns rich in history and natural beauty. Each location offers unique experiences for families to enjoy, whether it’s exploring ancient castles, searching for fossils, or simply relaxing by the sea.
Northumberland: Historic Castles And Pristine Beaches
Northumberland’s coastline, located in the northeast of England, is celebrated for its unspoiled landscapes, dramatic beaches, and a wealth of historic sites. Northumberland offers a perfect blend of nature and history, with sites like Alnwick Castle, featured in the Harry Potter films, and the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, which can be reached by a scenic tidal causeway.
Bamburgh Beach, with its striking sands overlooked by the iconic Bamburgh Castle, is ideal for young adventurers to explore with their families to enjoy a peaceful day by the shore.
Finding Accommodation
For seaside accommodation options in Northumberland, Simply Sea Views provides an excellent selection of cottages, many of which offer breathtaking views of the coast. These cottages range from cozy, historic homes to spacious modern properties, catering to families of all sizes.
The website allows families to filter by specific needs, such as pet-friendly options, proximity to the beach, and amenities like Wi-Fi. Staying in a Northumberland cottage offers families the chance to enjoy a homely base for exploring castles, coastal paths, and nearby quaint villages.
Cornwall: Sandy Beaches And Surfing Adventures
Cornwall, situated in the southwest of England, is known for its golden beaches, picturesque fishing villages, and world-class surfing spots. Towns like Newquay and St Ives offer family-friendly activities that cater to all interests. In Newquay, surfing schools welcome kids and beginners, making it a fantastic opportunity for a family surf adventure.
Meanwhile, St Ives is known for its artistic heritage, with the Tate St Ives gallery and the Barbara Hepworth Museum providing cultural outings for families. Cornwall is also home to the famous Eden Project, a unique attraction with vast biomes, tropical plants, and interactive exhibits for children.
Finding Accommodation
Cornwall offers a diverse selection of accommodations, from holiday parks and family-run bed and breakfasts to beachfront hotels and campsites. Families interested in staying close to the beach may find excellent options through Visit Cornwall, which provides listings tailored to family needs.
Parents can browse for properties offering amenities such as kitchens for self-catering, play areas, and nearby beach access. Many Cornish accommodations also include special offers during off-peak seasons, making it an affordable choice for families looking to explore the scenic southwest.
Dorset: Jurassic Coast And Fossil Hunting
Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a dream destination for families interested in geology and paleontology. The coastline spans 95 miles and features unique rock formations that reveal 185 million years of Earth’s history. Lyme Regis is a favorite for fossil hunting, where children and adults alike can discover fossils on the beach or take guided fossil walks led by experts.
For a memorable sight, the natural limestone arch of Durdle Door makes a fantastic backdrop for family photos and exploration. Additionally, Dorset’s museums, such as the Dinosaur Museum in Dorchester, provide engaging educational experiences for children.
Finding Accommodation
In Dorset, families can choose from a range of seaside accommodations that cater to different preferences and budgets. For self-catering cottages and family-friendly resorts, platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com offer filters that allow parents to specify amenities such as extra bedrooms, play areas, and proximity to beaches.
Traditional holiday parks are popular among families due to their variety of activities, including pools, children’s entertainment, and organized family events. Many Dorset accommodations emphasize sustainability, allowing families to enjoy eco-friendly stays along this beautiful stretch of coastline.
Photo by Chris Meads on Unsplash
Devon: Rugged Cliffs And Sandy Shores
Devon’s coastline, located in southwest England, is renowned for its scenic diversity, with a mix of sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lush countryside. Woolacombe Beach is one of Devon’s premier family-friendly beaches, boasting wide stretches of sand and lifeguard-patrolled areas for safe swimming.
The town of Ilfracombe combines natural beauty with cultural charm, offering art galleries, restaurants, and picturesque coastal paths. For families who enjoy hiking, the South West Coast Path provides gentle walks with breathtaking views of the sea and countryside.
Finding Accommodation
Devon offers a range of family-friendly accommodation options, from luxury beachside hotels to quaint cottages and bustling holiday parks. Sykes Cottages, for instance, provides a variety of options with detailed descriptions and photos, making it easy for families to select properties with child-friendly amenities such as enclosed gardens, bunk beds, and high chairs.
Holiday parks in Devon are also a popular choice, providing activities for all ages, such as mini-golf, indoor pools, and kids’ clubs, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Norfolk: Tranquil Beaches And Wildlife Reserves
Norfolk’s coastline offers a quiet escape for families, with its serene beaches, historic towns, and opportunities for wildlife spotting. Cromer is a delightful seaside town where families can explore a traditional Victorian pier, try famous Cromer crabs, and stroll along sandy shores. For a more secluded experience, Holkham Beach is backed by scenic pinewoods and expansive dunes, making it ideal for picnics and outdoor play.
The Norfolk Broads, a series of rivers and lakes, provide a family-friendly environment for boating, birdwatching, and nature walks.
Finding Accommodation
Norfolk’s accommodation options are as varied as its landscapes, with choices that include charming holiday parks, self-catering cottages, and eco-friendly lodges. Norfolk Hideaways, for example, specializes in family-friendly cottages that allow parents to book properties with spacious gardens, proximity to beaches, and pet-friendly options.
Holiday parks in the area also offer family entertainment, such as adventure playgrounds, evening shows, and organized outdoor activities. Families staying in Norfolk can expect a relaxed, nature-filled retreat with easy access to both beaches and wildlife reserves.
Photo by Different Resonance on Unsplash
Wrapping Up
Exploring the UK’s coastline is more than just a holiday; it’s an opportunity for families to connect with nature, learn local history, and create lasting memories together.
Beyond the beaches, many of these destinations offer unique wildlife experiences, historic landmarks, and scenic trails that encourage both adventure and relaxation. For a truly enriching escape, a coastal family adventure in the UK promises something memorable for everyone.
