With foreign travel still uncertain, staycations in Britain might be the only way forward, but there are plenty of beautiful spots within the UK! Our British shores can be just as relaxing, exciting and picturesque as any holiday location overseas.
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With a plethora of amazing coastlines to explore including dramatic cliffs, coastal villages and picture-perfect bays, maybe now’s the perfect time to discover some of the most beautiful scenery on the planet. Read on to find out more about the best seaside staycations for 2021...
Portrush, County Antrim
The beautiful coastal resort of Portrush is one of Northern Ireland's most popular seaside holiday destinations. Steeped in history, the area has a stunning coastline. If you're looking for an area with a pleasant beach and a touch of heritage, Portrush could be the place for you. The amazing sandy beach is a great spot to relax, enjoy a picnic, paddle in the sea and soak up the summer sun.
The remains of Dunluce Castle are fascinating for both history buffs and the casual explorer alike. While there was evidence of a settlement in the coastal region from the first millennium, the current remains date from the 16th century. Dunluce was one of the most romantic Irish castles, as it was inhabited by the feuding MacDonnell and McQuillan clans over the centuries. Historical exhibits are displayed for public viewing.
Durdle Door, England
This amazing 8,000-year-old coastal village is located on England's Jurassic Coast, near Lulworth, in Dorset. A great place to visit for a relaxing trip to the seaside, there are some stunning coves such as Lulworth Cove; and beautiful beaches, including the Man O’War Beach.
If you enjoy outdoor pursuits, such as walking, take a stroll on the South West Coast Path and walk over to Bat’s Head, or pop to the scenic village of Chaldon Herring, home to rows of stunning cottages, nestling between the picturesque green hills surrounding this area.
Portmeirion, Wales
You could easily imagine you had hopped on a plane to Italy when you visit Portmeirion! In fact, you would be in Wales, where the Italian-style village is located on the coast. It is easily one of the best seaside resorts in Britain, for people of all ages.
Portmeirion village was the backdrop for the famous 1960s classic TV series, The Prisoner, when Patrick McGoohan starred as a character - "Number Six" - who was trying to escape a weird world in which he was just a number. The village where filming took place is unspoiled today and visitors can stroll around and enjoy the Italian heritage.
To this day, fans of The Prisoner hold their annual Prisoner Convention at Portmeirion and host events such as the Tally-Ho Theatre, the Election Parade and Human Chess. There is also a shop, called The Prisoner Shop, featuring merchandise, clothing and other souvenirs.
Regardless of its link to the cult TV series, Portmeirion is well worth a visit, simply because it is such a stunning place. You can take a small ramble to the west and find the most unspoiled, secluded, private beaches in Wales.
Watergate Bay, Cornwall, England
As one of the UK's best beach holiday destinations, Watergate Bay, in Cornwall, is a truly great place to go for all the family. This Cornish gem is near the large town of Newquay, but in terms of its intimate feel, it is worlds apart.
A breathtakingly beautiful beach, it is a great spot for surfing and provides a haven for surfers of all abilities, especially during the summer months. With two miles of soft golden sand, the long beach is also a popular kitesurfing haunt.
St Michael's Mount, England
St Michael’s Mount Island, off the coast of Cornwall, is an amazing destination if you're looking for a seaside break with a difference. A tidal island, it features the most picturesque and charming surroundings, where you can feel at one with nature.
In addition, on a warm summer’s day you can take a dip in the sea at Long Rock Beach, which is only minutes from St Michael's Mount. The highlight of any visit should be a trip to the historic castle, where you can wander through ancient doorways and marvel at the changing faces of the building.
Home to the St Aubyn family since the mid-1600s, it started out as an ancient priory and was later transformed into a fortified castle.
Neist Point, Scotland
Neist Point, on the Isle of Skye, is one of the most beautiful places on earth, let alone in the UK! Nestling off the west coast of Scotland, Neist Point is a must-see if you go to the Highlands. There are so many rugged coastlines to explore, you'll be spoiled for choice. An ideal spot for a barbecue, Varkasaig beach is a real gem.
The Highlands are also an ideal destination for camping!
With so many options for great seaside staycations in the UK, you shouldn’t miss going abroad too much!
With the lockdown restrictions being gradually relaxed, you're free to travel around England, Scotland and Wales if you live in these countries. Travel into and out of Northern Ireland remains limited to "essential" and you are advised to self-isolate for ten days if you go there.
However, the rules are being updated all the time, so keep a lookout for changes. All self-contained accommodation including caravans, holiday homes and boats in England can reopen – applicable to a single household or bubble.
From 17th May, hotels, B&BS and hostels can reopen and six people from multiple households - or any number of people from two households - will be able to stay together. Check on the gov.uk website for the latest information.