Holidaying in the UK does not, at first listen, sound like the ideal way to spend the summer. While we have been getting some unreal weather lately, it can feel like there is little glamour in staycationing. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth! The UK boasts some coastal destinations that rival even the most famous Mediterranean beaches – but where are they?
St. Ives, Cornwall
Panoramic view of St Ives Old town, a popular seaside resort on atlantic coast, Cornwall, United Kingdom
Photo by depositphotos.com
St. Ives can be found on the northern horn of the South-East Peninsula, and is one of a great many amazing coastal destinations in the Cornwall. What sets St. Ives apart, though, is its character. St. Ives Bay is a glorious coastal corner of Britain, and St. Ives itself something of a mecca for the surf scene – making it a versatile place perfect for safely exploring water-sports.
St. Ives is also an eminently cultural destination. Its art scene is well-renowned across the country, and it is a real draw for creative types of all kinds. This could well be the creative weekend you’ve been waiting for.
Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
Scenic View over of Robin Hoods Bay in Ravenscar, North Yorkshire, England
Photo by depositphotos.com
Robin Hood’s Bay is an unassuming and relatively isolated inlet on the North-East coast. But its remoteness is a gift, as travel there reveals the quaintest of seaside villages and one of the best-kept secrets in the north. It is a place full of charm and tradition, and its coastline is impressive to say the least.
North Yorkshire is a county chock-full of stunning landscapes and landmark destinations, as we will discover once more in these words. As such, it is the perfect contender for an extended road trip. There’s some additional administration to organising such a trip – not only will you need to organise a recreational vehicle and supplies, but also motorhome insurance to protect your vehicle and yourselves on the road – but this extra work is well worth it for a staycation experience like no other.
Isle of Wight
Shanklin is a traditional seaside town located on the south-east coast of the Isle of Wight. Photo by depositphotos.com
The Isle of Wight lies just off the South coast, by Portsmouth. It is an extremely popular summer staycation destination, owing in large part to the incredible weather it enjoys. Being on the English Channel, it receives near-Mediterranean weather in the summertime – the perfect companion to its beautiful beaches. This is the spot to visit if you’re after a sunny getaway without the international flights.
Whitby, North Yorkshire
Whitby Abby on West Cliff in Whitby, England.
Photo by depositphotos.com
Lastly, we come to Whitby – one of the most charming coastal towns on the North-East coast, and one with a charmingly ‘gothic’ past. Whitby is famously the birthplace of Dracula, with Bram Stoker taking a great deal of inspiration from the imposing form of Whitby Abbey – and the narrow, crooked streets and alleys in its shadow. As such, Whitby attracts Dracula fans and the goth-adjacent alike, but is much more than its gothic affiliations. The seaside is quintessential, and its arcades excellent family fun.