Classic Seaside British Escapes To Make The Most Of Summer

The Great British seaside in summer is a unique experience: from the grandeur and fun of popular Victorian resorts to charming hidden gems. As the weather hots up, so do those unmistakable happy seaside vibes. Here are some of the best places to enjoy fish and chips on the prom, games on the sand and a stroll along the pier this summer. 

If you are planning a group trip, coach hire is one of the easiest, safest and most cost-effective ways to travel. Here’s a round up of some classic seaside destinations that are sure to be crowd pleasers this summer. 

Brighton

With its lively and inclusive atmosphere and iconic Palace Pier, Brighton is one of the UK’s favourite seaside destinations. If you love the buzz of a vibrant city combined with old-fashioned donkeys on the beach charm, then Brighton is the perfect place for you. 

There are always plenty of events going on throughout the summer, such as the Comedy Garden at Preston Park (2-6 July) and the Love Supreme music festival (4-6 July). There’s also the popular On The Beach festival that takes place across two weekends from 18-20 and 25-27 July. 

Even on a regular basis, there’s plenty to see and explore, including the famous 18th century Royal Pavillion, traditional piers and seaside amusements, and the cool vintage shops of The Lanes. It’s also a short hop from the South Downs National Park, and there’s miles of coastal and countryside walks to access. 

Blackpool

Blackpool is Brighton’s bold and brash northern cousin, and it’s a guaranteed fun day out. The famous Pleasure Beach was founded in 1896, and it’s full of thrills and spills for children of all ages, with iconic rides such as Revolution and the Big One. At the famous Winter Gardens, there’s West End Musicals, festivals and more all year round.

The iconic Blackpool Tower was built in 1894 and there’s a glass viewing platform near the top. It even houses a circus and a ballroom. The joyful Showtown Museum is one of the newer attractions, and it has already been nominated for a host of awards, including the Children in Museums Award and Kids in Museums Family Friendly Museum Award.

Whitby

If you are based nearer to the other side of the country, then Whitby is a quirky alternative to the classic seaside resorts. It’s instantly recognisable by the dramatic ruins of the Gothic abbey perched on the clifftop that was the inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula, and today it’s the location for the biannual Whitby Goth Weekends that take place in April and October. 

The town is built around a working harbour, and you’ll be able to enjoy some of the freshest fish and chips in the country. Explore the charming cobbled streets and independent shops, and climb the famous 99 steps to St Mary’s Church and get a birds’ eye view of the red-roofed houses below. 

St Ives

St Ives in Cornwall is a longer journey for most, but if you are planning a coach tour, it’s well worth putting on the itinerary. It can get busy at the height of the tourist season, so plan to get there early if you can. The beautiful turquoise waters and white sandy bay by the harbour are utterly picturesque, and it’s easy to see why the region is a mecca for artists.

The town is the perfect place for art lovers, as it’s packed with small galleries, and there’s the opportunity to pick up an original piece of art at an affordable price. It’s also home to the prestigious Tate St Ives, which encompasses the Barbara Hepworth Museum and Sculpture Garden. There’s also a world-class collection of modern and contemporary art.