List of seaside resorts in the United Kingdom facts for kids

A seaside resort is a special type of town or village found right by the sea. These places are set up to welcome visitors who want to enjoy holidays and relax. People travel to seaside resorts to spend time on the beach, swim in the ocean, and take part in lots of fun activities. The United Kingdom has many well-known seaside resorts, from busy towns with piers and arcades to quiet villages perfect for a peaceful break.

Scarborough, North Yorkshire is an English seaside resort

What is a Seaside Resort?

A seaside resort is more than just a town near the coast. It has special features built for tourists. These often include hotels, guest houses, and places to eat. You'll also find entertainment like arcades, theatres, and sometimes even theme parks. The main attraction is usually the beach, where people can sunbathe, build sandcastles, or play in the waves.

A Look Back: History of Resorts

Seaside resorts became very popular in the United Kingdom during the 18th and 19th centuries. At first, wealthy people visited them because doctors believed sea air and bathing in the sea were good for your health. Later, with the invention of railways, it became much easier and cheaper for everyone to travel to the coast.

This led to a boom in seaside holidays. Towns like Blackpool, Brighton, and Great Yarmouth grew rapidly. They built grand piers, promenades, and entertainment venues to attract families. People loved escaping city life for fresh air and fun by the sea.

Popular UK Seaside Towns

The United Kingdom is an island nation, so it has a very long coastline with many different types of seaside resorts.

England's Coastal Gems

England has some of the most famous seaside resorts.

• Blackpool in Lancashire is known for its famous Tower, Pleasure Beach theme park, and lively nightlife. It's one of the biggest and busiest resorts.
• Brighton in East Sussex is famous for its pier, pebble beach, and unique shops. It's a very vibrant and artistic city.
• Scarborough in North Yorkshire is one of the oldest resorts. It has two bays, a castle, and a traditional feel.
• Bournemouth in Dorset offers sandy beaches, beautiful gardens, and a busy town centre.
• Torquay in Devon is part of the "English Riviera," known for its mild climate and palm trees.

Wales: Beaches and Castles

Wales also has many beautiful seaside towns, often with stunning scenery and historic castles.

• Llandudno in North Wales is a classic Victorian resort with a long pier and two sandy beaches.
• Tenby in Pembrokeshire is a charming walled town with colourful houses and lovely beaches.
• Barry in the Vale of Glamorgan has a popular island amusement park and sandy coves.

Scotland: Coastal Beauty

Scotland's coastline is rugged and beautiful, with many smaller, picturesque resorts.

• Oban in Argyll and Bute is a busy ferry port and a popular base for exploring the Scottish islands.
• North Berwick in East Lothian offers stunning views of the Bass Rock and is great for birdwatching.
• Rothesay on the Isle of Bute is a traditional resort with a Victorian pier and gardens.

Northern Ireland: Scenic Shores

Northern Ireland has dramatic coastlines and lovely seaside towns.

• Portrush in County Antrim is a popular resort with sandy beaches and golf courses.
• Newcastle in County Down sits at the foot of the Mourne Mountains, offering both beach and mountain activities.

Famous Features of Resorts

Many seaside resorts share common features that make them special:

• Piers: These long structures stretch out into the sea, often with arcades, rides, and cafes. They were originally built for boats to dock.
• Promenades: Wide walkways along the seafront, perfect for a stroll, cycling, or enjoying the views.
• Arcades: Full of coin-operated games, these are a favourite for families, offering prizes and fun.
• Beaches: The main reason people visit, whether they are sandy for building castles or pebbly for collecting stones.
• Fish and Chips: A classic British seaside meal, best enjoyed wrapped in paper by the sea.

Seaside resorts continue to be popular holiday destinations in the UK, offering a mix of history, entertainment, and natural beauty.

See also

• Coastline of the United Kingdom
• List of beaches in the United Kingdom
• Tourism in the United Kingdom