Our top 10 coastal destinations in Britain

The UK is not necessarily known for its sandy beaches, but there are some stunning coastlines and charming seaside towns to discover. Check out our countdown of the top 10 destinations in the UK.

1. Great Yarmouth

Great Yarmouth is famous as a family holiday destination, bursting with fun things to do, activities for all, shows and attractions stretching along the fabled Golden Mile and the huge expanse of pristine beach. Visit the Nelson Museum to discover unique facts about Norfolk-born Lord Horatio Nelson and his life and times. Alternatively, there are penguins and sharks at the Sea Life aquarium on the sea front and a model village and mini golf to enjoy.

Visit Great Yarmouth by steam on Saturday 31 August this year. Click here to find out more or book online.

2. Llandudno

With its unique combination of Victorian style and Edwardian elegance, with a stunning location on a peninsula jutting out into the Irish Sea, between the twin headlands of the Great Orme and Little Orme, Llandudno is a must-see.

The town boasts two beaches – the North Shore, backed by an imposing crescent of large Victorian hotels, with its graceful pier (at 2,220ft it’s one of the longest in Britain) and the West shore backed by the mountains of Snowdonia and wonderful sunsets.

Visit Llandudno by steam on Thursday 6 June this year. Click here to find out more and book online.

3. Hastings

This cosmopolitan town is home to the largest beach-launched fishing fleet in Europe, the remains of the first castle in England to be built by William the Conqueror, a preserved Old Town and a strong local arts community.

Visit Hastings by steam on Saturday 22 June. Click here to find out more and book online.

4. Paignton

The town of Paignton, once a Celtic settlement and fishing village, is now a popular resort with award winning sandy beaches and a colourful, bustling pier.

Also home to the Paignton and Dartmouth Steam Railway, medieval Kirkham House, and Oldway Mansion, built in the 1870s for Isacc Singer, there is a lot to see and do.

Visit Paignton on Saturday 4 May this year. Click here to find out more and book online.

5. Weymouth

The seafront is connected by over three miles of level promenade which provides access to the beach, rejuvenated town centre, historic harbour and Lodmoor Country Park to create a very special place to visit.

Visit Weymouth by steam on Thursday 4 April and Thursday 15 August this year. Click here to find out more and book online.

6. Bournemouth

Famous for its 7 miles of sandy beach, Bournemouth’s coast also boasts a pier, beautiful gardens and a vast array of shops and restaurants.

Visit Bournemouth by steam on Thursday 4 April, Thursday 15 August or Thursday 26 September this year. Click here to find out more and book online.

7. Minehead (The West Somerset Railway)

Usually associated with Darts fixtures and the Butlins resort – Minehead has a lot more to offer! Aside from relaxing on the long sandy beach, you can enjoy views of the historic harbour from friendly tearooms and pubs. Watch the steam trains come and go from the West Somerset Railway terminus or take a walk around the gardens.

Visit Minehead by steam on Tuesday 16 April this year. Click here to find out more and book.

8. Portsmouth

From the navaland maritime heritage, to towering world-class visitor attractions, museums andgalleries, unique shopping destinations, great places to eat and miles ofbeautiful waterfront, Portsmouth offers something for everyone.

Visit Portsmouth by steam on Saturday 20 July this year. Click here to find out more or book.

9. Isle of Wight

Isle of Wight beaches are recognised as being some of the best in Europe. With 57 miles of varied coastline, the Island yields a fantastic array of beaches, rugged cliffs, hidden coves and clear waters. A trip to the beach is an essential part of any visit to the Island.

Visit the Isle of Wight on Saturday 20 July this year. Click here to find out more and book online.

10. Swanage

Forever our favourite destination! With a long, sandy beach, steam trains and beautiful views of the Jurassic Coast, what more could you want in a seaside resort?

Visit Swanage on Thursday 26 September this year. Click here to find out more and book.

We hope you’ve found something to interest you in this list of our favourites. After all, who does not like to be beside the seaside?