Don’t get us wrong, Britain’s seaside towns are worth a visit any time of the year. But it’s during these warmer months that they start to really come into their own – when the spring sun reflects off the sand and sea to reveal them in all their shining glory, and we can comfortably spend all day outside walking down their promenades, exploring their cobbled streets and bathing on their beaches.
As an island nation, we’re spoiled with picture-perfect coastal towns. But there are some which, thanks to artsy credentials, pristine beaches, old-school entertainment or a particularly stand-out food scene, we think are particular must-visits this year. So, we’ve put them all together and ranked them in one big list.
Number one in Time Out’s guide to the best seaside towns to visit in 2026 is the Welsh village of Saundersfoot. Though far smaller than its popular neighbour Tenby, Saundersfoot is one of Pembrokeshire’s most energetic spots. Its centrepiece is its gorgeous golden Blue Flag beach, but lining that beach is a brilliant host of shops, caffs and pubs that give Saundersfoot its lively spirit.
On the harbour Catch Beach Club has a fab cocktail menu and fresh seafood to graze on. Further along the shoreline, you’ve got to stop by MamGu’s Kitchen for coffee, Welsh cakes and Welsh soul food. For pints, there are pubs aplenty (the Royal Oak and The Old Chemist Inn both have great atmospheres) or for fine dining, book a table at Lan Y Môr, a Michelin Guide restaurant directly overlooking the stunning Coppet Hall Beach on the eastern side of town. And if you’d like a little break from the buzz, we’d recommend a session in Hwyl Outdoor Sauna or a day relaxing at St Bride’s Spa Hotel.
This August will be a particularly exciting time to visit the village. From August 1 to August 8, Pembrokeshire is hosting the 850th edition of the National Eisteddfod. That means that all across the region there’ll be comedy, traditional dance performances, live music , literature recitals and poetry competitions, highlighting the best of Welsh language and heritage (with live English translation available too).
ICYMI: This nature paradise will be the most popular UK travel destination for Brits this summer.
Plus: The best pier in Britain has been crowned for 2026.
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