The UK coastline is home to some of the world's most beautiful seaside villages, from colourful fishing communities and sandy coves to cliffside escapes with postcard-worthy harbour views. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend by the sea or somewhere packed with character, these 17 gorgeous coastal villages are well worth adding to your UK travel list.
Robin Hood's Bay and Staithes, North Yorkshire
Tucked beneath the cliffs of the North Yorkshire coast, Robin Hood's Bay is a maze of narrow lanes, stone cottages and spectacular sea views. Its steep streets tumble down towards the beach, making it one of the most atmospheric villages on the Yorkshire coast and a particularly striking spot for photographs.
Staithes is a picture-perfect fishing village tucked between dramatic cliffs on the Yorkshire coast. Its narrow cobbled streets wind between stone cottages before reaching the small harbour, where fishing boats bob on the water. The village's rugged setting and traditional character make it one of the most atmospheric seaside spots in northern England.
Aldeburgh and Blakeney on the East Coast
Aldeburgh offers a different take on the traditional British seaside village, combining an elegant waterfront with Suffolk's distinctive coastal landscape. Colourful fishing boats sit on the shingle beach, while pastel-coloured houses and independent shops line the streets behind it. It is an especially charming spot for a leisurely stroll beside the North Sea.
Blakeney is a beautiful coastal village on the North Norfolk coast, surrounded by salt marshes and waterways. Its historic harbour is a particularly scenic spot, with boats heading out towards Blakeney Point and the surrounding nature reserve. It is also an excellent place to explore the area's famous seal colonies.
