If you live, work, or spend a lot of time in cities, chances are, you’re looking for a bit of a break. Cities can be great. Many of us love them and aspire to live in the biggest cities in the world – London, Paris, New York, Rome… the list goes on.
Those of us who don’t live in the cities often plan to visit them on our holidays, taking city breaks and exploring the local sites. Of course, cities have a lot to offer. They tend to come hand in hand with a busy social life and social schedule. They tend to be packed with entertainment and activities, such as theatre, museums and art galleries. They have some of the finest dining in the world, with most Michelin star restaurants being located in major destinations. They also tend to be home to some of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum, Big Ben, the Statue of Liberty and more.
But what about when you want a break from the hustle and bustle, cities of lights, the big smoke and the city that never sleeps? This is when you might want to consider a different type of getaway – a beach break. Now, you can jet off overseas to all inclusive resorts and beach destinations, but why not consider something alternative? Something a little closer to home. Seaside towns around the coast can offer a great break for so many reasons. Here’s some more on the topic!
Why Head to the Seaside?
Many of us associate the seaside with childhood, family holidays. We remember jumping in the car and heading off to campsites or B&Bs to spend some quality time with our nearest and dearest. Seaside breaks can whip up a sense of nostalgia and see you revisit some of your favourite destinations. If you’ve not been on a seaside break before, they still offer a lot of benefits for first timers. Seaside breaks tend to be low budget. They often cost a lot less than going overseas and spending high costs on flights, hotels and activities. Instead, you can often get there in your own car or on public transport services. They also often don’t take as long to get to, as you don’t have to factor in airport check in, security, travel time, luggage collection, transfers and more. This is an eco and budget friendly alternative. On top of this, the seaside can be charming. It poses all sorts of benefits year round. From building sandcastles with little ones on the beach and rockpooling in the summer to cosy, adult cabin breaks with hot drinks around a log fire in the winter. This is just a great way to disconnect and enjoy yourself.
Cornwall
Of course, if you’re planning a seaside break, you may be wondering which seaside to go to. One option, and perhaps one of the first destinations to spring to mind when planning a seaside break, is Cornwall. Cornwall, or Kernow, is a historic county and ceremonial county in the most South Western part of England. It is recognised as one of the Celtic nations. It is bordered to the north and west by the Atlantic Ocean and to the south by the English Channel. It lies below the county of Devon, with the border between the two being formed by the River Tamar. This location has plenty of beaches to enjoy and some of the most beautiful coastline in Britain. Here, you can enjoy cornwall holiday parks, traditional cream teas, a well known Cornish pastie, fish and chips by the sea and a whole host of traditional pubs and coffee shops. Popular attractions include the Eden Project, the Lost Gardens of Heligan, Trebah Gardens, St Michael’s Mount, Bodmin Jail, Tate St Ives and Land’s End.
Devon
Briefly mentioned above, Devon lies just north of Cornwall. If you’re travelling from most places, Devon is more easily accessible and faster to get to. Like Cornwall, it is home to many beautiful beaches and, here, you can get traditional cream teas. Just note that the order of cream and jam differs between Devon and Cornwall and has been the subject of arguments between the two places for years! While in Devon, you might like to visit Dartmoor National Park, Exeter Cathedral, Saunton Sands, Powderham Castle or take a ride on the Dartmouth Steam Railway.
Brighton
If you’re looking for a cross between city and seaside, Brighton could be a good option for you. Brighton is renowned for its pebble beach and Brighton Pier – packed with amusement arcades and other fun activities to enjoy. It is a seaside resort and one of the two main areas of the City of Brighton and Hove in the county of East Sussex, England. Just 48 miles South of London, this is a popular destination for those seeking a seaside break without wanting to travel for hours and hours on end to get there. Visit the Brighton Palace Pier, the Pavillion or take in great views from Brighton i360. You could also take some time to visit the Brighton Museum and Art Gallery.
Blackpool
If you’re looking for a more Northern seaside break that doesn’t require you to travel down south, Blackpool could be an option. Blackpool Pleasure Beach has been famous for decades, bringing in toursits from all around the UK and even the world. This may not be the prettiest beach in and of itself, but there’s so much to enjoy in the area. This seaside resort is located on the northwest coast of England in Lancashire. Its seafront is packed with fish and chip shops, amusement arcades and fun additions, such as Ripley’s Believe it or Not museum. You can also enjoy Blackpool Tower, which stands out above the skyline of the area.
These are just a few options, with there being many more seaside towns and resorts out there that you might enjoy. But hopefully, they’ll get the ball rolling when it comes to getting away to the coast!
Full time I'm an ambitious Head of Marketing and Communications in the luxury industry. Part time, I'm an enthusiastic British Fashion, Beauty and Lifestyle blogger and YouTuber from Manchester, UK. This blog has been my outlet for the past 7+ years, and as a longstanding, Award-winning blogger I take the most enjoyment from creating content I truly love and believe in. All authentic. Always.