11 Lesser-Known Coastal Towns In England Worth A Visit
UNSPLASH/JONNY GIOS
Dungeness
Kent
Close to south-coast hotspot Rye and Camber Sands, Dungeness is perhaps most famous for the late artist, activist and film director Derek Jarman’s Prospect Cottage, a black timber cottage where he managed to grow a garden among the shingles. More than 25 years after his death, the former fisherman’s hut is now a protected building. At the southernmost point of Kent, the Met Office calls the shingle beach that surrounds it ‘Britain’s only desert’. Bring walking boots for a stroll around Dungeness Nature Reserve, a circular trail that takes in wild meadows and the wetlands of Romney Marsh. A lunch of fish and chips is a must – locals rave about The Pilot Inn – followed by a tour of the Grade II-listed Old Lighthouse and a trip along the Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, Kent’s ‘mainline in miniature’.
Bamburgh
Northumberland
Northumberland’s coastline is one the most beautiful in the UK. With quieter and more remote beaches than the south, the area is known for its high sand dunes and wide, sweeping shores – one of the many reasons it’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. There are two nature reserves teeming with wildlife, as well as plenty of historic towns and villages to explore, including Bamburgh. The village has a 19th-century castle which dominates the skyline, and its beach is a beautiful spot for a walk. At weekends, visitors can take a guided tour along the Northumberland Coast Path to explore other must-see beaches like Beadnell Bay and Ross Back Sands, and book horse-riding trips along the beach – Haggerston Riding Centre offers tours along the coast. Plan a sunset trip to spot dolphins and seals, and visit the Holy Island of Lindisfarne, accessible on foot when the tide washes over its causeway.
UNSPLASH/ZOLTAN TASI
Hunstanton
Norfolk
Set along Norfolk’s northeast coast, Hunstanton offers beautiful sunsets over the Wash, a natural rectangular bay that’s popular with photographers and bird watchers. While it’s not as well known as some of its counterparts further south, Hunstanton has a unique charm, with its striped cliffs, sandy beaches and Victorian architecture. The town attracts water-sports enthusiasts, with opportunities for kitesurfing, windsurfing and paddleboarding along its shores. For a more leisurely trip, walk along the promenade or explore the red and white striped Hunstanton Cliffs. Make a day of it and book lunch at The Neptune, one of Norfolk’s only Michelin-starred restaurants. Guests can also stay overnight in one of its cosy cottages.
Portscatho
Cornwall
Set on the Roseland Peninsula, Portscatho is a hidden gem along Cornwall's rugged coastline. This small fishing village is home to whitewashed cottages, colourful fishing boats and a rocky beach. Explore the coastal paths that wind their way along the cliffs, spend a day lounging on the beach, or take the kids to explore the rock pools teeming with marine life. The nearby St Anthony Head, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, is worth a visit to see seals basking on the rocks below. Portscatho is also home to a thriving artistic community, with several galleries showcasing local talent, while plenty of small restaurants serve local seafood.
UNSPLASH/BENJAMIN ELLIOTT
Robin Hoods Bay
Yorkshire
Robin Hood's Bay is a picturesque fishing village steeped in history and legend. On north Yorkshire’s rugged coastline, its cobblestone alleyways lead down to the sandy beach, where you can explore rock pools or soak up the sun against the backdrop of the North Sea. On the small high street, you’ll find whitewashed cottages, independent shops and cafés – The Coffee Shack serves hot drinks, sandwiches and cream teas. For a taste of the village's maritime heritage, visit the Robin Hood's Bay Museum, housed in a former fisherman's cottage, where you can learn about the area's smuggling past and maritime traditions. Bring sturdy footwear if you want to walk along the cliffs to see panoramic views.
Mersea Island
Essex
Essex’s coastline gets a bad rap, but Mersea Island is one spot definitely worth visiting. Accessible via a causeway at low tide, it’s home to unspoiled beaches, salt marshes, and appealing countryside. Spend time exploring the island's villages, where you'll find traditional pubs serving locally brewed ales and fresh seafood caught straight from the surrounding waters. Mersea Island is also a hotspot for wildlife enthusiasts, with opportunities for birdwatching, seal spotting, and even crabbing along the shores. Take a leisurely walk along the Mersea Trail – a scenic walking route that winds its way through the island's diverse landscapes, including woodlands, meadows and coastal habitats – and visit Mersea Island Vineyard, where you can sample award-winning wines made from grapes grown right on the island.
Swanage
Dorset
With its sandy beaches, clear waters and traditional pier, Swanage has been a popular holiday destination since the Victorian era. On the Isle of Purbeck, this seaside town is a great option for little ones and kids thanks to its soft sandy beach and heritage steam railway. If you want to make a weekend of it, drive 40 minutes to Durdle Door along the Jurassic Coast to see dramatic cliffs and discover hidden coves.
UNSPLASH/JUDE MACK
UNSPLASH/ANNIE SPRATT
Bude
Cornwall
For a quieter summer break down south, skip the larger towns of St Ives and Padstow, and head to Bude. This small seaside town is a lesser-known spot on the northeast Cornish coast that’s popular with water-sports enthusiasts. You can book lessons at the Freewave Surf Academy, or if you want to relax, book one of its yoga retreats that take place on several beaches in the area – Summerleaze being one of the top-rated. Other outdoor pursuits on offer include kayaking and rock climbing, while the town has numerous spots for brunch or lunch. Life’s a Beach is a lovely bistro diner that serves comforting seafood like grilled skate, and salt and pepper squid, while Scrummies Café does a mean fish and chips
Sheringham
Norfolk
Another scenic spot along Norfolk’s coastline, Sheringham is a traditional seaside town with a quiet sandy beach. Explore the town's high street, where you'll find independent shops, cafés and galleries selling everything from local crafts to ceramics. You’ll also want to walk along the promenade where you can see colourful beach huts, and watch the fishing boats come and go from the harbour. From here, it’s easy to reach countryside where you'll find scenic walking trails, wildlife reserves, and historic landmarks such as Sheringham Park and the Norfolk Coast Path.
UNSPLASH/MICHAEL CUMMINS
Beer
Devon
Beer is the perfect place to unwind and relax, away from busy beaches in Salcombe and Sidmouth. On the Jurassic Coast, the village is surrounded by towering cliffs and clear waters, so it’s popular with swimmers, surfers and families. Take a boat trip to explore the coves and sea caves that dot the shoreline, or head on a fishing trip to reel in your own catch of the day. Back on dry land, wander through the narrow streets of the village, where you'll find charming cottages, artisan shops, and seafood shacks selling freshly caught fish and chips. Don't miss a visit to the Beer Quarry Caves, where you can delve deep underground to discover ancient limestone quarries.
Scarborough
Yorkshire
With two sweeping bays, sandy beaches and a picturesque harbour, Scarborough has lovely landscapes and a lively seaside atmosphere. This spot on the North Sea coast also has a 12th-century castle with panoramic views of the coastline. Wander the Victorian promenade with its cafés, amusement arcades, and traditional fish and chip shops. Meanwhile, the surrounding area offers walks along the Cleveland Way, or the chance to ride the waves with surfing lessons at North Bay. Don't miss Peasholm Park, a tranquil oasis featuring Japanese gardens and a boating lake, and regular naval battle re-enactments. Scarborough Spa is a grand Victorian venue hosting concerts, theatre shows, and comedy gigs throughout the year.
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