Just as we thought the British staycation hype had died down, the Cost of Living crisis has got us in search of a holiday closer to home. There’s never been a better time to explore the beautiful spots that are right on our doorstep. From Cornwall and Blackpool to Whitstable and the Isle of Skye, these are the UK’s most beautiful beach bars and restaurants.
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Newquay: Lusty Glaze/The Fistral Beach Stable
Not your average beach café, Lusty Glaze is a dog-friendly bar, restaurant and events space nestled within a privately-owned cove. Delve down 133 steps for lunch, drinks and seaside suppers. For incredible sunset scenes, head to The Fistral Beach Stable for sourdough pizza and ciders with a view.
The North Cornish coast never looked better.
Brighton: i360/The Seahorse/Palm Court
Attracting both tourists and locals like flies to honey, Brighton beach is one of the best places for a coastal retreat in the South. Alongside all the usuals like chippie teas and beachfront clubs, there’s some gorgeous sea view bars. The Seahorse is ideal for seafood and spritzes, while Palm Court offers pierside vibes and the British Airways i360 brings you something a little more luxe with a glass viewing pod that combines panoramic scenes with glasses of fizz.
These seaside bars in Brighton bring you cafe vibes, futuristic scenes, and then some.
Whitstable: The Lobster Shack
From Dreamland in Margate to the cliffs of Broadstairs, Kent is brimming with gorgeous scenes. But for foodies, Whitstable has to be on your agenda. There’s Wheeler’s Oyster Bar for Insta-worthy exteriors and The Forge where fuss-free oysters are king, while The Lobster Shack takes things up a notch with a beachside location, local beers and daily seafood specials.
Get your seafood fix here.
Exmouth: Rockfish/The Grove
Head to Rockfish for panoramic sights across the River Exe. You'll find it on the bay at the beaut Devon town, with huge windows that offer views of the water. If that's not enough, then The Grove's menu of pub classics is paired with tranquil seaside views for the perfect summer escape.
Rockfish is all about fresh seafood.
Bournemouth: Key West
Perched on the end of Bournemouth’s iconic pier, Key West is the beach restaurant that matches gorgeous scenery with burgers, pizza and sharing plates. When you’re not making the most of the sandy beach and clubs as one of the top beach towns with nightlife in the UK, head here for a taste of the Florida Keys via American-inspired dishes mixed with British favourites.
A restaurant on the pier? Yes, please.
Cornwall: Surfside
Home to some seriously pretty UK beaches, Cornwall is well worth a summer staycation. When you’re done paddleboarding, exploring harbour villages and snapping away at the Eden Project, make your way to beachside bar Surfside. Located in Polzeath, the popular surfing spot, this Cornish pick leans towards fresh food and all things rum. You can even stay the night at the 3-bedroom apartment that’s available via Airbnb.
Things get seriously tiki at this waterside rum bar.
Cardigan: The Ship Inn
If you’re looking for beach bars and restaurants in Wales, then Tresaith should be on the list. Not only does The Ship Inn boast an idyllic location by the beach and a cliffside waterfall, but it’s also got bookable rooms and a sea-facing beer garden and terrace. Check in for the night before checking out the coast as you chow down on fish and chips with beers, wines and cocktails to wash it all down.
With such a picturesque backdrop, it’s no wonder The Ship Inn is so popular.
Isle of Skye: Stein Inn
With a history that dates all the way back to 1790, the Stein Inn is officially the oldest inn on the island. If you’re visiting Scotland’s Inner Hebrides, then no trip is complete without stopping off here for rustic interiors, fresh produce and award-winning ales. You’ll probably want to stay the night too because the coastal pub has quite the whisky selection to get through.
From summer through to winter, this Scottish gem is always a great shout.
Blackpool: Beach House Bistro & Bar
Thought Blackpool was just ballroom dancing, seaside nightlife and slot machines? Think again. Lancashire’s seaside town is also home to a sprawling sandy beach, coastal restaurants and sea view bars. Touting all that under one roof, Beach House Bistro & Bar is situated right on the famous promenade and serves everything from pornstar martinis and G&Ts to pastrami burgers and sushi.
Expect ocean scenes in Blackpool.
For more summer ideas, check out our guides to affordable staycations and sign up to our UK newsletter.
