Britain's best and worst seaside towns
Known for its coastal promenade, quaint beach huts and traditional arcade games, Bognor Regis has been a favourite among families and beachgoers since its establishment in 1784. But the West Sussex resort has been named the worst seaside town in the UK in an annual poll. Bognor, one of the sunniest spots in England, finished in last place in Which?'s poll of the UK's best and worst seaside towns. The survey asked 3,800 participants about their experience of 118 British coastal spots.
The resort earned a paltry one-star rating in most categories, including 'Food and drink', 'Value for money' and 'Scenery'. It was described by one visitor as being simply: 'a run-down seaside town' and received a destination score of just 36 per cent. Just ahead of Bognor was Bangor in Gwynedd – up one spot from its bottom place result in 2024's survey. Perhaps on account of its lack of proper beach, Bangor earned a destination score of only 38 per cent and was described as 'shabby' by one visitor.
Clacton-on-Sea in Essex was also poorly received by holidaymakers in the past year. Despite being home to the largest pleasure pier in Europe, measuring 6.5 acres, the seaside resort was awarded only one star for its tourist attractions as well as food and drink and scenery. Indeed, many of the UK's better-known seaside towns performed poorly in this year's survey; Skegness and Blackpool earned 54 per cent and 48 per cent destination ratings respectively, both winning only one-star for their scenery. Even more 'fashionable' seaside hotspots failed to win the hearts of the British public, with artsy Margate scoring 56 per cent, and upmarket Brighton 61.
It was better news further north of the country, however, where Bamburgh in Northumberland retained its place as the nation's favourite coastal destination for the fifth year in a row. Bamburgh scored an overall destination score of 84 per cent and was awarded five stars for its seafront and scenery. One visitor declared Bamburgh a 'gem', praising its 'sandy, clean beaches'. The town was also rewarded for its good value for money; according to Kayak.com, an average night's stay in Bamburgh costs £130.
While Bamburgh has once again maintained its top spot, second place saw a massive jump in rankings. Despite finishing 18th last year, Beer on the Jurassic coast was given this year's silver medal. Visitors were impressed by its five-star scenery, as well as its 'peace and quiet' and 'value for money', for which it earned four stars in both categories.
Several towns in Wales also proved popular with visitors. Known for its Italian-inspired architecture, Portmeirion in Gwynedd, north Wales, came in third and was pronounced by one seaside-goer as 'superb in every way'. It scored five stars for its scenery and seafront, and 79 per cent overall.
St David's in Pembrokeshire came in fourth place and was similarly praised for its 'excellent facilities, lovely seafront, nice walks and excellent hotels'. The UK's smallest city also earned a 79 per cent destination score. Reflecting on the results of this year's survey, Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel said: 'From beautiful coastlines to peaceful walks and charming traditional bucket and spade resorts, the UK seaside offers something for everyone – whatever the weather. 'While you may have your own favourite destination, as well as the top spots in Devon and Wales, our survey shows there are still plenty of beautiful hidden gems across the UK to explore.'
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