18 Sleepy Seaside Villages You Should Runaway To
1. Tobermory, Scotland
Lovely Tobermory on the Isle of Mull grew out of an 18th century fishing port. Popular for everything from weddings to wildlife watching, Tobermory may be the isle’s largest town, but it’s never lost its colourful small town charm. Plan a visit in springtime to see White-tailed eagles, and eat like a local at the award-winning Chip Van.
2. Looe, England
Cornwall has no shortage of lovely beach towns, but Looe is definitely a standout entry. The coastal resort town is nested into a lush green slope and offers stunning views of the beach, not to mention Looe is home to the largest fishing fleet in Cornwall, so foodies will love the abundant selection of truly fresh sea food. For a real treat, book a dinner at Squid Ink then take a stroll along the harbour.
3. Staithes, England
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Enjoy the Yorkshire coast from the quaint streets of Staithes, a picturesque fishing village just a short trip from busier Whitby. The village is steeped in history and has a thriving arts culture, so don’t miss a chance to visit local artisans or the Staithes Gallery. For a bite, check out the fresh options at Whitby Seafood’s Staithes Smokehouse.
4. Portmeirion, Wales
This folly village on the Welsh coast is a bucket-list must. The stylised village calls the Italian Riviera to mind, and offers a true escape from reality. For a really stunning experience, head to Portmeirion in September for the picturesque literary and music festival, Number 6.
5. Plockton, Scotland
Along the edge of the Scottish Highlands sits the sleepy fishing village of Plockton. The National Trust site is a relaxing and easygoing place to spend a weekend away from the city, and is known for its local artists. Duncraig Castle is just a quick trip across the bay, and don’t miss the chance to enjoy fresh seafood and a seaside view at the Plockton Shores restaurant.
6. Beaumaris, Wales
Beaumaris is best known for its stunning castle, but the charming coastal town has its own quaint charm apart from the imposing gothic shadow it rests in. The colourful Anglesey village is full of artisan and antique shops, and when you’re done browsing the rainbow buildings that line the shore, take a boat excursion to catch your own fish or explore Puffin Island. Finish the day up with a pint at the lovely Castle Court and a walk down the pier to watch the sunset.
7. Portnahaven, Scotland
This cosy 19th century fishing village on the Isle of Islay makes for a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. The quiet town’s secluded harbour is reportedly a great spot for seal watching, and if you’d prefer to stay dry you can hike inland for stunning panoramic views. The local pub, An Tigh Seinnse is the place to go for food, drink, and harbourside views.More about Portnahaven.
8. Polperro, England
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Lovely and bright, Polperro is another gem along the Cornwall coast. The resort village is a great place to browse for local artwork, unravel the area’s history of pirates and smugglers, or to just sit along the seaside and admire the striking blue water and friendly coastal cottages. When you get hungry, pop into the charming Plantation Tea Rooms.
9. Pittenweem, Scotland
Nestled along the coast in Fife, this picturesque Scottish village is a lovely spot to explore and watch the tide roll in. The busy harbour village has plenty of vantage points for stellar views of the sea, while the High Street offers local foodie treats, arts, and historical buildings dating back to the 16th century. Don’t leave without a visit to the Pittenweem Chocolate Company.
For a bustling seaside break, head to Whitstable, a coastal town that combines the best of trendy and quaint for a unique and relaxing atmosphere. With rich history and thriving local culture, the town is always cosy but never boring. Open markets and atmospheric eateries abound to make it an unmissable trip for foodies, and the sprawling Tankerton beach is a perfect picnic sport. For a serious foodie holiday, head to Whitstable during the Oyster Festival.
11. Stromness, Scotland
Tucked along the west shores of the Orkney islands, the picturesque village of Stromness is a historic and charming spot to escape to. The harbour village saw its peak in the 17th and 18th century, and walking through its winding streets can feel like stepping back in time. For dramatic views of the islands and sea, follow the town inland on a hike up Brinkie’s Brae, and be sure to checkout the Orkney Brewery for a top pint.More about Stromness.
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This colourful Welsh coastal town is a bright and cheery place to spend a seaside weekend. The harbour town was once a medieval stronghold, and has since transformed into a lovely and relaxed resort village. Enjoy views of the ocean from Tenby’s sloping streets, wander the villages’ array of art galleries and local shops, or walk along the Coastal Path and take in the fresh sea air and gorgeous natural landscapes of the Welsh coast. When you’re ready to get out of the sun, pop into the positively charming Stowaway Coffee Company.
13. Crail, Scotland
The lovely and sleepy village of Crail is situated along the eastern coast of Fife. The harbour village dates back to the 12th century, and remains a thriving spot for fishing and food. The village is well known for its annual food festival, as well as its community and arts festival. When it’s time for a break from walking the coast and hiking Crail’s steep streets for views of the harbour, grab a drink at the Balcomie Hotel.
14. Bamburgh, England
Nested in the shadow of the formidable Bamburgh Castle, Bamburgh village in Northumberland dates back to the the 13th century. The site is steeped in legend and history, and boasts stunning and sandy beaches, so whether you’re keen to admire the shoreline from the turrets of the castle or to splash in the tide, the tiny village had a lot to offer. For a bite, head to the adorable and tasty Wyndenwell.
15. Portree, Scotland
Skye’s largest town is thriving and cosy, making it the perfect place to go to escape but stay on the grid. The coastal town is a great home base for heading in to explore the rest of the island, and offers loads of cultural attractions, including its well known Aros Centre for catching theatre and comedy. For a tasty and affordable meal in the colourful island town, check out The Red Brick Cafe.
Admire the North Sea from the shores of this Suffolk seaside town. Situated at the tip of a narrow peninsula, Southwold can only be reached by one road, making it an ideal secluded spot to getaway from it all and rest on the beach. Stroll down the town’s unique pier for shopping and uninterrupted views of the sea, and don’t miss a visit to the Adnam’s Brewery.
17. Tarbert, Scotland
Perched on the coast of the Kintyre Peninsula, on an inlet of Loch Fyne before it opens up into the ocean, Tarbert may just barely qualify as a seaside town, but you couldn’t find a more idyllic waterfront sport to spend your holiday. The last stop on the Islay ferry and the gateway to the Whisky Isle, Tarbert is a must for travellers of Scotland’s west, offering a relaxing and quiet breath of fresh air and stunning view of the loch. The town sees a number of festival events throughout the year, from its annual seafood festival in July to the Scottish Series Regatta’s yearly stop-in. For a lovely quayside meal, try Scott’s Bistro.
18. Crovie, Scotland
If you want to really get away from it all, head to the remote cliffside village of Crovie in Aberdeenshire. Dating back to the 18th century, Crovie was once a thriving fishing town but has since developed into a quiet and perfectly secluded holiday spot. The village is built along the shore in such a way that motor vehicles are unable to access it. So once you’ve parked on the town’s outskirts, you’ll find the heart of the village to be a pedestrian-only zone, creating an air of separation from the outside world. To eat and drink out, you’ll have to head back to your car and away from the village, so best to pack groceries in advance and enjoy a picnic at the beach’s edge.
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