One of the many benefits of living in the UK is its 7000 miles of diverse coastline. Every town, village and city is at most, a few hours drive to a beach. And 195 of these have been awarded the internationally recognised Blue Flag. Many coastal resorts also boast world-class fine dining, watersports and plenty of culture. We’ve travelled the length and breadth of the country to find the most divine seaside spots for a top-quality break away closer to home.
Raithwaite Sandsend, Whitby
Covering 100 acres, the grand Raithwaite Estate in Whitby offers rooms in its Hall, its Keep and a six bedded luxury Lake House. It’s situated directly on the North Yorkshire coast, but the famed Moors are within easy reach too. The historic hotel offers the town’s only high-end spa, as well as three excellent dining options on-site and its very own surf school. You can also try stand-up paddleboarding and some beachside yoga while staying at Raithwaite.
Malmaison, Brighton
The glitzy four-star boutique hotel chain takes a prime position in Brighton’s exclusive Marina Village. It houses 73 bedrooms, along with a French brasserie and chic cocktail bar serving inventive house cocktails. The beach itself is but a short stroll away at the end of the marina. And as Brighton has such swift transport links to the capital, this is an ideal getaway for city slickers in search of some sun-soaked sophistication.
Fistral Beach Hotel and Spa, Newquay
Newquay, and specifically Fistral beach, is one of the most sought after coastal destinations in the country and is globally recognised as a hotspot for surfing. Cornwall’s laid back vibe, epic scenery and culinary delights make it a popular choice for a southern escape. Fistral Beach Hotel is at the heart of the action, close to Rick Stein’s restaurant and overlooking the bay itself. The hotel has its own contemporary eatery with sea views and fresh seafood, along with 71 rooms and suites in calming soft coastal shades and a spa.
Bike and Boot, Scarborough
This exciting new concept hotel in Scarborough likens itself to an Alpine resort – but in place of snow and skis, you’ll find bikes, surfboards and dogs. Bike and Boot is more than just pooch-friendly – your pets are guests of honour here. Funky modern rooms, with bright retro posters and splashes of bold colour, are perched right on the seafront. You can also enjoy all-day Mediterranean dining at Bareca, including flame-grilled meats and iced cocktails perfect for a hot day by the sea. And later into the night, you can watch movies at the hotel’s private screening room.
Hotel Alexandra, Lyme Regis
This 15 room hotel is found on Dorset’s UNESCO Heritage site – the Jurassic Coast. Located in
Lyme Regis, it combines up to date aesthetics with period features, in addition to romantic views of the bay and manicured gardens. Spoil your loved one with champagne and flowers in the room, some pampering treatments, traditional afternoon tea on the terrace and a meal at the award-winning restaurant. And if you fancy a potter around the quaint town, it’s just a couple of minutes away on foot.
Boskerris Hotel, St Ives
The pretty and trendy Cornish town of St Ives is home to the intimate Boskerris Hotel. With just 15 rooms this exclusive hotel is the antidote to larger sprawling resorts. And with a stylish Mediterranean theme along with glittering blue vistas, you could be forgiven for thinking you’d arrived on the continent when you step inside. The restaurant follows this thread in its cuisine and menu choices. Holistic in-room treatments are available, along with White Company toiletries and plush cosy bathrobes.
Artist Residence, Penzance
The bohemian town of Penzance at the UK’s far south-westerly tip is an appropriate location for an Artist Residence property (the team behind this one also have residences in London and Brighton). Each of the 22 bedrooms in the Georgian building has been individually styled by local creatives and makers, while its Cornish Barn restaurant serves up fare created from locally sourced ingredients for a genuine taste of Cornwall. The charming terrace garden is slung with hammock chairs, perfect for a lazy afternoon, post-swim or surf. Artist Residence is funky, eco-friendly and welcomes children and dogs.