Round Up | Great British Coastal Breaks

Whitby

Best for - families

Runswick Bay Beach @The Richardson Fosters

Whitby is one of those classic British seaside towns that has everything families need for a fun summer break - good beaches, museums for when it inevitably rains, ice cream and fish and chips. Want to find out more? Check out our beach lover's guide for the best beaches in Whitby and these 9 big family days out.

Where to stay

Sanders Yard B&B in Whitby is a charming guest house in the Old Town, so it’s easy to walk from here to all the restaurants and attractions. Back at the B&B, great facilities are provided for families – including travel cots, toys and and even a babysitting service – and the family rooms start at just £85 per night.

Penzance

Best for - couples and romance

Sennen Cove at Sunset @Tom Harding

This picturesque town has all the elements for a summer romance - art galleries, cobbled streets and tropical palms. The stunning North Cornwall coast is a haven of secluded beaches and tiny harbor towns and you can't fail to feel romantic as the sun sets.

Where to stay

A few miles outside of Penzance, Higher Faugan is a hideaway that's perfect for UK coastal breaks for couples. With elegant rooms and stunning views over the house and acres of private gardens, this classy B&B is an idyllic place to unwind. Each morning, breakfast is served in your room for a romantic breakfast in bed.

Torquay

Best for - friends

@syauqee

On the English Riviera, Torquay is a stylish playground for short breaks on the English coast. Mixing beach culture with nightclubs, it has everything you need for a beach break in England with your friends. Looking for girls weekend away ideas? Read our girls weekend guide to Torquay.

Where to stay

For sun splashed short breaks in Torquay, The Cimon has it all – a touch of Mediterranean style, palm trees and a heated outdoor pool. Relax with your mates on the sunny patio and indulge in lazy afternoons with a drink from the poolside bar, or head down to Torre Abbey beach which is just yards away.

Blackpool

Best for - students

The Illuminations @Andrew D Hurley

Blackpool has entertainment by the bucket (and spade) load. From bars with cheap drinks to buzzing nightlife, it's a haven for party lovers, but also those looking for cheap UK coastal breaks. Save your cash with this budget guide to Blackpool and these 8 free things to do.

Where to stay

Get a warm welcome at Oakleigh House B&B in Blackpool in the popular South Shore area. A short walk from South Pier and Pleasure Beach, the 3 star guest house is ideally situated for a weekend getaway and cheap breaks in Blackpool. Inside, the rooms are simple but clean, with accommodation for groups and rooms that start at just £14pppn.

Dartmouth

Best for - treating yourself

Quaint Dartmouth is the ideal choice for luxury UK coastal breaks. Surrounded by the beautiful Devon countryside and coastline, it feels much more private and intimate than nearby resorts such as Torquay and has a number of great restaurants and cosy pubs where you can unwind and enjoy yourself.

Where to stay

If you're looking for an indulgent place to stay by the sea in England, the lavish 5 star Strete Barton House B&B in Dartmouth is the perfect coastal retreat.  From the moment you arrive, everything about Strete Barton House is pure luxury, starting with homemade cakes and tea served on the terrace whilst you admire the views. Massage and spa treatments are also available to help you unwind. Double rooms start from £100 per night.

Cover image of Scottish coast @B Campbell