Bognor Regis, a seaside town in West Sussex, has been ranked the worst UK seaside destination for the second year in a row, according to consumer group Which?. The town achieved a destination score of just 41% in a survey of over 5,300 people regarding 11,999 experiences at UK seaside locations.
Survey results and visitor feedback
Which? asked respondents to rate destinations on criteria including beach quality, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, tourist attractions, shopping, and value for money. Bognor Regis received low ratings across the board, including one-star scores for its seafront, pier, food and drink, tourist attractions, scenery, shopping, value for money, and beach, as well as two stars for peace and quiet. Visitors described the town as “tired” and in need of “major rejuvenation,” according to the consumer champion.
Other seaside towns that performed poorly include Burnham-on-Sea in Somerset (48%), Southend-on-Sea in Essex (47%), Lowestoft in Suffolk (46%), Great Yarmouth in Norfolk (46%), Bangor in Wales (46%), Blackpool in Lancashire (46%), and Fleetwood in Lancashire (46%).
Local response and defence
Local representatives and businesses have pushed back against the ranking. Jason Passingham, owner of Heygate Books at Bognor Regis train station, told Express.co.uk last year: “I think the problem is the demographic of the people who are being asked. Unless a destination has fancy establishments selling champagne with the fish and chips, they're never going to give us a high rating.”
Former Bognor Regis Mayor, Cllr Gill Yeates, highlighted the town’s traditional seaside appeal: “Bognor Regis offers a traditional seaside experience with its family-friendly beach, historic pier, and enjoys repeat visits from holidaymakers who come back year after year. It is in a great location nestled between the sea and the South Downs National Park, providing a base for visitors to explore the wider area or enjoy the tranquil coastline. Bognor Regis is consistently rated in the top two sunniest UK destinations. We are open for business and you can be sure of a warm welcome.”
Council highlights improvements
Arun District Council also contested the survey results, stating: “We disagree as Bognor Regis has so much to offer, and a relatively small survey sample cannot capture the views of the many residents, visitors and businesses who know, support and value the town.” The council acknowledged challenges but pointed to numerous assets and ongoing investments.
Among the attractions cited are Green Flag award-winning Hotham Park, which offers a miniature railway, café, and adventure golf. The Alexandra Arts Centre, formerly the Alexandra Theatre, is undergoing regeneration and is set to open next year. The nearby Arcade is also being revitalised, and the Esplanade has received a fresh look with roadway and public realm improvements. New facilities such as “Beach on the Beach” and “Play on the Beach” provide safe play areas for children.
The council also noted the opening of a new 116-bedroom Premier Inn, the town’s status as home to Butlin’s, and its rich literary history. “So, what truly sets Bognor Regis apart is its strong sense of community, its ongoing investment and improvement, and the people who care deeply about the town,” the council added. “We’d encourage those surveyed to come back and spend a little more time here before making up their minds – they might be surprised by just how much Bognor Regis has to offer!”
