United Kingdom Unveils Breathtaking Coastal Gems with St Ives, Robin Hood’s Bay, and Padstow Leading the Way as Top Scenic Destinations for 2025

The United Kingdom’s coastline has long been a haven for travelers seeking stunning natural beauty, and a recent survey has revealed its most breathtaking coastal destinations, with St Ives, Robin Hood’s Bay, and Padstow emerging as the top contenders. These locations are not only renowned for their picturesque views but also for their serene atmosphere, which offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As more travelers opt for domestic holidays, the UK’s coastal regions are proving to be just as captivating, if not more so, than international beach destinations. The survey highlights the growing trend of staycations, with the majority of respondents valuing the tranquility, ease of access, and stunning vistas these iconic seaside spots provide, making them the ultimate destinations for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

A recent survey of 2,000 UK adults has unveiled the most breathtaking coastal views in the country, with St Ives, Robin Hood’s Bay, and Padstow leading the list as some of the most cherished seaside destinations. The stunning views along the UK’s coastline are captivating many travelers, who are increasingly choosing domestic holidays over international trips.

According to the findings, iconic coastal spots like St Ives in Cornwall, Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire, and Padstow in Cornwall are among the top contenders for the most beautiful coastal landscapes in the UK. These locations are admired not only for their picturesque scenery but also for their relaxed atmosphere, making them perfect for those seeking an escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The survey, conducted by holiday company Haven, also highlighted other notable destinations, including the sweeping 100-mile expanse of the South Downs, the refined Georgian seafront of Weymouth, and Pembrokeshire’s dramatic limestone cliffs at Lydstep. Additionally, Devon’s yachting hotspot, Salcombe, and the historic coastal town of Berwick in the North East rounded out the top 30 list of the most scenic coastal destinations.

More than two-thirds of respondents shared the belief that the UK’s coastline offers views that rival the beauty of popular international beach destinations. For many, staying close to home doesn’t mean compromising on breathtaking vistas. The survey revealed that nearly 80% of respondents consider accommodation with a sea view to be essential when booking a staycation, with over a third saying it is absolutely necessary for their getaway.

Holidaymakers are also willing to go the extra mile to enjoy these spectacular coastal views. On average, people are prepared to travel 159 miles to enjoy a seaside break, and many are willing to pay a premium for a room with a view. The main reason for this preference is the sense of relaxation and tranquility that the coastal setting provides. Studies have also shown that time spent by the sea can offer significant mental and physical health benefits, which further contributes to its appeal as a vacation destination.

Moreover, several factors make UK holidays increasingly attractive compared to international travel. Many Brits are opting to stay within the country to avoid the stress and delays often associated with airports and long-haul flights. The flexibility of booking holiday dates and durations without the constraints of overseas travel also plays a significant role in this growing trend. For pet owners, the ability to bring along their furry friends has become another motivating factor to choose local destinations for a break.

While the UK offers a wide variety of coastal landscapes to enjoy, the following are the top 30 most stunning seaside locations, according to the survey:

1. St Ives, Cornwall
2. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire
3. Padstow, Cornwall
4. Portree, Isle of Skye
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire
6. Poole, Dorset
7. Ilfracombe, North Devon
8. Portmeirion, Gwynedd
9. Shanklin, Isle of Wight
10. South Downs
11. Salcombe, Devon
12. Weymouth, Dorset
13. Brighton, East Sussex
14. Llandudno, Conwy
15. Bournemouth, Dorset
16. Hayle, Cornwall
17. Filey, North Yorkshire
18. Porthmadog, Gwynedd
19. Southwold, Suffolk
20. Lydstep, Pembrokeshire
21. Stromness, Orkney
22. Berwick, North East
23. Great Yarmouth Beach
24. Lochinver, Sutherland
25. Tynemouth, Tyne & Wear
26. Hastings, East Sussex
27. Whitstable, Kent
28. Plockton, Ross and Cromarty
29. Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
30. Pwhelli, Gwynedd

The United Kingdom’s coastline offers some of the most breathtaking views, with St Ives, Robin Hood’s Bay, and Padstow topping the list of must-visit destinations. These scenic spots are gaining popularity for their natural beauty, peaceful atmosphere, and accessibility, making them perfect for travelers seeking a serene escape.

These destinations showcase the rich variety of the UK’s coastline, offering everything from tranquil beaches and rugged cliffs to quaint seaside towns and bustling harbourfronts. Whether you’re seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat, the UK’s coastal regions promise to deliver some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world.