Britain’s seaside resorts are experiencing a remarkable revival in 2025. Once symbols of faded grandeur, these coastal towns are now at the heart of a booming domestic tourism industry. From the sandy shores of Margate to the bustling promenades of Scarborough, the UK’s beach destinations are drawing record numbers of visitors, thanks to a combination of nostalgia, investment, and a renewed appetite for staycations.
Staycations Drive a Coastal Boom
A key driver behind this resurgence is the staycation trend. The aftermath of the pandemic, coupled with ongoing concerns about the cost of living and air travel, has encouraged more Britons to holiday at home. In spring 2025, beach hut bookings surged by 79% compared to the previous year, reflecting a major shift in how people choose to unwind. These colourful huts, once seen as relics of a bygone era, now symbolise the simplicity and charm many seek in a holiday.
Families, couples, and solo travellers are rediscovering the joy of British seaside traditions. The appeal lies not only in the beaches themselves but also in the authenticity and comfort of these classic getaways. Local businesses are reaping the benefits, with cafes, shops, and restaurants near popular beaches seeing a significant uptick in trade.
Britain’s Best Beach Towns for 2025
National Geographic and other travel publications have highlighted several UK seaside towns as must-visit destinations this year. Margate in Kent tops many lists, praised for its vibrant arts scene, retro amusements, and classic seaside fun. The Turner Contemporary gallery and Dreamland amusement park have played a key role in the town’s transformation, attracting both culture seekers and families.
Penzance in Cornwall is another standout, celebrated for its food festivals, thriving restaurant scene, and improved transport links. Barmouth in north Wales is gaining attention for its strong sense of community and stunning sunsets, while Scarborough in Yorkshire continues to blend traditional deckchairs with a diverse array of events and attractions.
Other towns making headlines include Weymouth in Dorset, known for its gently shelving beach, Whitley Bay in Tyne and Wear with its award-winning fish and chips, and North Berwick in East Lothian, which was recently named the UK’s top seaside town and crowned the best place to live by the Sunday Times.
Butlin’s and Holiday Park Innovations
Holiday parks like Butlin’s are also contributing to the coastal renaissance. In 2025, Butlin’s launched new family holidays and adult-only Big Weekender breaks across its three resorts, with prices starting as low as £12.25 per person. New attractions include premium Maple Walk lodges in Skegness, a free-to-use SKYPARK playground in Minehead, and the PLAYXPERIENCE indoor activity centre in Bognor Regis.
Butlin’s has also introduced major entertainment upgrades, with star-studded shows and immersive experiences for all ages. The brand’s commitment to value—offering accommodation, pool access, unlimited fairground rides, and live entertainment in one package—has made it a top choice for families and groups seeking a hassle-free seaside escape.
Economic Impact and Local Investment
The economic benefits of this coastal revival are significant. Blackpool, for instance, welcomed nearly 19 million visitors in 2021, generating over £1.4 billion and supporting more than 20,000 jobs. Skegness attracted 21.1 million visitors, with recent government investment projected to boost local spending by an additional £1.9 million.
Margate and Ramsgate have also seen substantial investment, with new galleries and attractions breathing life into their high streets. The government’s £56 million Welcome Back Fund is helping seaside towns prepare for the busy summer, supporting improvements to green spaces, outdoor seating, and festival infrastructure. This funding aims to ensure that coastal resorts remain safe, attractive, and welcoming for the influx of holidaymakers.
Changing Demographics and Visitor Trends
Recent surveys show that the UK’s best-rated seaside towns are often those away from the crowded south-east, with Northumberland’s Bamburgh topping the charts for its unspoilt beaches and dramatic castle views. Welsh towns like Portmeirion, St Davids, and Llandudno also feature prominently, reflecting a broader trend towards quieter, more scenic destinations.
The typical seaside visitor is increasingly diverse, spanning all age groups and backgrounds. While families remain a core market, there is growing interest from younger travellers and international tourists, particularly from North America and Europe. Coastal tourism now supports 15-20% of employment in many areas, rising to over 50% in hotspots like St Ives and Whitby.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite the positive outlook, challenges remain. Coastal tourism is highly seasonal, and many towns still grapple with the legacy of economic decline, limited transport links, and the impacts of climate change. However, new investment, creative marketing, and a focus on sustainable tourism are helping to address these issues.
Local councils are working to extend the season with festivals, cultural events, and improved facilities. The rise in eco-friendly travel and interest in authentic, local experiences is also shaping the future of seaside holidays.
