As summer finally hits its sticky stride, the allure of a coastal retreat beckons to many, promising salty breezes, sandy shores, and the soothing sound of the waves. Yet, the popularity of some seaside destinations can mean heaving crowds, inflated prices, and a lack of tranquillity. And that’s putting things mildly…
While the concept of the travel “dupe” is not new, it has found renewed interest through social media platforms like TikTok, where travellers share their (comparatively speaking) hidden gems of alternative destinations offering similar charms to their more crowded coastal cousins.
So, if you’re seeking a serene coastal escape away from the masses, with the help of our friends at Leisure Lakes Bikes, here’s 7 UK coastal break dupes to beat the crowds this summer.
Swap Brighton for Whitstable
Brighton’s eclectic, inclusive atmosphere, welcoming communities, and iconic pier have long made it a favourite among UK holidaymakers. However, its popularity means that finding a quiet spot on the beach can be a challenge, especially during peak season.
Whitstable is a charming seaside town nestled on the northeast coast of Kent that offers much of what you’re looking for from a coastal escape. With its picturesque harbour, colourful beach huts, and renowned oysters (so renowned they even have their own festival!), Whitstable offers a more laid-back alternative to Brighton’s hustle and bustle. Stroll along the pebbled beach, explore the quirky independent shops, and indulge in fresh seafood at one of the local restaurants, all with a few less people to contend with than the so-called ‘London By-The Sea’.
Best Restaurant: The Sportsman – A beautiful hour’s walk along the beach from Whitstable, The Sportsman is a Michelin-starred pub offering deceptively simple dishes made from locally sourced ingredients.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Ossie’s Fish and Chips – Named one of the best chip shops in the UK by BBC Good Food, Ossie’s is a half hour walk from Whitstable beach on Tankerton Road. It’s well worth making the journey.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Bears Ice Cream Imaginarium – A small, independent, family-run ice cream parlour which first opened in London back in 2016. It’s still one of the capital’s key icecream players. Whitstable is its first foray outside of London.
Best Pub Garden: The Old Neptune – This pub, right on the beach, offers a fantastic garden with sea views. The chips aren’t half bad, either!
Must-Try Delicacy: Whitstable oysters – Freshly harvested from the local waters, these oysters are a must-try, especially during the Whitstable Oyster Festival.
Best Hotel: Hotel Continental – A charming hotel with sea views, offering comfortable rooms and excellent service.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Kent Cycle Hire – Offers a range of bikes for hire, perfect for exploring the coastal paths and surrounding areas.
Best Public Loo: Whitstable Harbour Toilets – Located near the harbour, these facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Where to Park: Gorrell Tank Car Park – Located near the harbour, this car park is convenient for exploring the town.
Read: The best restaurants in Whitstable
Substitute Blackpool for Morecambe
Blackpool’s iconic tower, lively promenade, and mile-a-minute amusement arcades have made it a perennial favourite for British holidaymakers seeking classic seaside fun. However, during the height of summer, you’re likely to find yourself trapped in crowds and struggling for space.
For a quieter coastal retreat in the North-West of England, consider Morecambe. Just a short distance from Blackpool, Morecambe offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still retaining its own unique charm.
Ben Mercer from Leisure Lakes Bikes, one of the UK’s leading suppliers of mountain bikes, is an expert in the North West and the local area: “There’s plenty to do in Morecambe that often gets overlooked for other areas of the North West. Whether it’s strolling or cycling along the renovated promenade, admiring the breathtaking views across Morecambe Bay, or exploring the town’s vibrant arts scene. This includes the iconic Midland Hotel, a masterpiece of Art Deco architecture”, he says.
He continues; “With its wide sandy beach, stunning sunsets, and laid-back vibe, Morecambe provides a refreshing alternative to the hustle and bustle of nearby Blackpool, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a tranquil coastal escape.”
Best Restaurant: The Midland Hotel Restaurant – Offering stunning views of Morecambe Bay, this Art Deco hotel serves delicious, locally sourced cuisine.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Atkinson’s Fish & Chip Restaurant – A local favourite known for its crispy batter and fresh fish.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Brucciani’s – A historic ice cream parlour known for its delicious, traditional ice creams.
Best Pub Garden: Owls Nest – Lots of outdoor seating including lovely wooden booths.
Must-Try Delicacy: Morecambe Bay shrimps – These tiny, sweet shrimps are a local delicacy, often served potted in butter.
Best Hotel: The Midland Hotel – An iconic Art Deco hotel offering luxurious rooms and stunning views of Morecambe Bay (yes, we realise we’re getting a little repetitive here).
Best Public Loo: Morecambe Promenade Toilets – Located along the promenade, these facilities are easily accessible and well-kept.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Bays Bikes – Offers bike hire and guided tours along the scenic Bay Cycle Way.
Where to Park: Morecambe Central Car Park – Conveniently located near the promenade and main attractions.
Choose Padstow over St. Ives
St. Ives may be Cornwall’s crown jewel, but to avoid the hustle and bustle of crowds particularly during the summer months, Padstow is a great choice for a quieter coastal retreat in Cornwall.
Situated on the north coast, Padstow exudes charm with its quaint harbour, narrow streets, and scenic coastal walks. Foodies will delight in the town’s culinary offerings, including the famous seafood restaurants owned by celebrity chef Rick Stein (the town is, somewhat disparagingly – nicknamed Pad-Stein by locals). With its relaxed vibe and stunning scenery, Padstow offers a refreshing alternative to the hustle and bustle of St Ives.
Best Restaurant: Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant – Famous for its fresh seafood and stunning harbour views.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Stein’s Fish & Chips – Again, owned by Rick Stein, this place offers some of the best fish and chips in Cornwall.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Roskilly’s Ice Cream – Known for its creamy, locally made ice creams with a variety of flavours.
Best Pub Garden: BinTwo – Technically this is more of a wine merchant’s, but it has a gorgeous outdoor seating area that seats up to 24 people.
Must-Try Delicacy: Cornish pasties – While seafood is of course a highlight, don’t miss out on trying a traditional Cornish pasty.
Best Hotel: The Old Custom House – A historic hotel located on the quayside, offering comfortable rooms and excellent dining options.
Best Public Loo: Padstow Harbour Toilets – Conveniently located near the harbour, these facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Trail Bike Hire – Located near the Camel Trail, offering a range of bikes for exploring the scenic route.
Where to Park: Padstow Harbour Car Park – Located right by the harbour, it’s perfect for easy access to the town.
Opt for Seahouses instead of Whitby
Whitby’s Gothic charm and association with Dracula make it a magnet for tourists seeking a dose of history and mystery. But for a quieter seaside escape in Northumberland, head to Seahouses.
This picturesque fishing village offers sweeping views of the North Sea, a bustling harbour filled with colourful boats, and easy access to the nearby Farne Islands. Explore the village’s quaint shops and enjoy freshly caught fish and chips heralded as some of the best in the North East while watching the sunset over the sea.
Best Restaurant: The Olde Ship Inn – A historic pub offering hearty meals and a great selection of local ales.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Lewis’s Fish Restaurant – Known for its fresh fish and crispy chips, it’s a local favourite. It’s been named as one of best fish and chip restaurants in the country by The Times.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Neptune Fish Restaurant & Ice Cream Parlour – Offers delicious ice creams in a variety of flavours.
Best Pub Garden: The Bamburgh Castle Inn – Offers a spacious garden with stunning sea views.
Must-Try Delicacy: Craster kippers – Smoked herring from nearby Craster, these kippers are a Northumberland specialty.
Best Hotel: The Bamburgh Castle Inn – The aforementioned place with the best pub garden, The Bamburgh Castle Inn is also a comfortable hotel with sea views and dining options.
Best Public Loo: Seahouses Harbour Toilets – Located near the harbour, these facilities are clean and easily accessible.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Pedal Power Cycles – Offers bike hire for exploring the beautiful Northumberland coast.
Where to Park: Seahouses Main Car Park – Centrally located, it’s ideal for exploring the village and harbour.
Explore Southwold instead of Aldeburgh
Aldeburgh’s pebble beach and pastel-coloured houses have attracted visitors seeking a quintessential British seaside experience for generations. However, its popularity can result in crowded beaches and busy streets, particularly during the summer holidays. For a more tranquil coastal getaway in Suffolk, consider Southwold.
With its iconic lighthouse, charming pier, and rows of colourful beach huts, Southwold exudes old-world charm and understated elegance. Spend your days lounging on the sandy beach, browsing the independent shops along the High Street, and sampling fresh seafood at one of the town’s renowned restaurants.
Best Restaurant: Sole Bay Fish Company – Located at the harbour, this restaurant offers fresh seafood and stunning views.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: The Little Fish and Chip Shop – A popular spot for traditional fish and chips.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Harris & James – Known for its artisanal ice creams made with high-quality ingredients. It was recently included in a list of the country’s best-loved ice cream parlours by The Guardian.
Best Pub Garden: The Red Lion – Offers a lovely garden with views of the sea and the lighthouse.
Must-Try Delicacy: Adnams beer – Brewed locally, Adnams beer is a must-try, especially when paired with fresh seafood.
Best Hotel: The Swan Hotel – A historic hotel offering luxurious rooms and excellent dining options, located in the heart of Southwold.
Best Public Loo: Southwold Pier Toilets – Located on the pier, these facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Southwold Cycle Hire – Offers a range of bikes for exploring the scenic Suffolk coast.
Where to Park: Southwold Pier Car Park – Conveniently located near the pier and beach.
Visit Llandudno instead of Tenby
Tenby’s picturesque harbour, medieval walls, and golden beaches make it one of Wales’s most popular seaside destinations. However, its popularity means that finding a quiet spot to relax can be a challenge, especially during the peak summer season. For a less crowded coastal escape in Wales, venture to Llandudno.
On the north coast of Wales, Llandudno boasts a stunning Victorian promenade, a picturesque pier, and sweeping views of the Great Orme headland. Take a ride on the historic tramway to the summit of the Great Orme, stroll along the promenade, and admire the town’s elegant architecture.
Best Restaurant: Dylan’s Restaurant – Situated towards the end of Llandudno promenade, the mussels are particularly good.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: The Cottage Loaf – While primarily a pub, it serves excellent fish and chips in a cosy setting.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Parisella’s Ice Cream Parlour – A local favourite known for its wide variety of delicious ice creams.
Best Pub Garden: The Snowdon – Offers a charming garden area with views of the Great Orme.
Must-Try Delicacy: Welsh cakes – These traditional cakes are a delightful treat, often enjoyed with a cup of tea.
Best Hotel: St. George’s Hotel – A luxurious hotel located on the seafront, offering elegant rooms and excellent service.
Best Public Loo: Llandudno Promenade Toilets – Located along the promenade, these facilities are clean and easily accessible.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Llandudno Bike Hire – Offers a range of bikes for exploring the scenic coastal paths and the Great Orme.
Where to Park: Mostyn Champneys Retail Park – Offers ample parking and is a short walk from the main attractions.
Choose Aberdovey over Aberystwyth
Aberystwyth, with its historic university, bustling promenade, and cultural attractions, is a popular destination on the Welsh coast. However, its popularity can lead to crowded beaches and busy streets, especially during the summer months. For a quieter coastal retreat in Wales, consider Aberdovey.
Nestled on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, Aberdovey offers stunning sandy beaches, charming streets, and a relaxed atmosphere. This picturesque village is perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural beauty of the Welsh coast.
Best Restaurant: Seabreeze Restaurant with Rooms – Offers delicious, locally sourced seafood and stunning views of the estuary.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Walkers Quality Fish & Chips – Known for its fresh fish and crispy chips, a local favourite.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: The Sweet Shop – Offers a variety of traditional and unique ice cream flavours.
Best Pub Garden: Penhelig Arms – A historic pub with a lovely garden overlooking the estuary.
Must-Try Delicacy: Aberdovey crab – Freshly caught local crab, often served in salads or sandwiches.
Best Hotel: Trefeddian Hotel – A family-run hotel offering comfortable rooms and stunning sea views.
Best Public Loo: Aberdovey Harbour Toilets – Located near the harbour, these facilities are clean and well-maintained.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Dyfi Bike Park – Offers a range of bikes to hire to explore the park’s challenging mountain trails. Less of a leisurely one, this!
Where to Park: Aberdovey Car Park – Conveniently located near the beach and main attractions.
Opt for Lyme Regis instead of Bournemouth
Bournemouth’s golden beaches, nightlife, and extensive shopping options make it a popular destination on the south coast of England. However, its popularity can result in crowded beaches and busy streets, particularly during the summer holidays. For a more tranquil coastal getaway, consider Lyme Regis.
Located on the Jurassic Coast, Lyme Regis is known for its fossil-rich beaches, historic harbour, and charming streets. This picturesque town offers a more relaxed atmosphere while still providing plenty of activities and attractions.
Best Restaurant: Hix Oyster & Fish House – Offers stunning views of the harbour and delicious seafood dishes.
Best Fish and Chip Shop: Lyme’s Fish Bar – A local favourite known for its fresh fish and crispy chips.
Best Place to Get an Ice Cream: Baboo Gelato – Known for its artisanal gelato made with locally sourced ingredients.
Best Pub Garden: The Rock Point Inn – Offers a lovely garden with views of the sea and the Cobb.
Must-Try Delicacy: Dorset apple cake – A traditional cake made with local apples, often served with clotted cream.
Best Hotel: The Alexandra Hotel – A luxurious hotel offering elegant rooms and stunning sea views.
Best Public Loo: Lyme Regis Marine Parade Toilets – Located along the promenade, these facilities are clean and easily accessible.
Best Place to Hire a Bike: Jurassic Trails Cycle Hire – Offers a range of bikes for exploring the scenic coastal paths and the Jurassic Coast.
Where to Park: Holmbush Car Park – Conveniently located near the town centre and main attractions.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking to escape the crowds this summer and discover some of the UK’s quieter coastal retreats, these alternative destinations offer the perfect blend of charm, nostalgia, and unique local experiences.
Whether you’re a foodie, a history buff, or simply in need of a serene seaside retreat, these dupe destinations provide all the allure of their more famous counterparts, but with fewer tourists and a more relaxed atmosphere. Cheers to that!