The UK is home to a plethora of beautiful coastal towns, each one offering its own unique appeal. From the iconic Brighton Pier to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, there’s something for everyone to explore. If you’re looking for a fun and memorable holiday, why not plan a 10-day itinerary that takes in some of the UK’s best coastal towns? Here’s a comprehensive guide to make the most of your time.
Day 1: Start With Brighton
No trip to the UK’s coast would be complete without a visit to the vibrant city of Brighton. Here, you can explore the famous Brighton Pier, take in the stunning architecture of the Royal Pavilion, and go for a stroll along the beachfront promenade. Once you’ve soaked up the atmosphere, head over to The Lanes for some shopping and to check out the plethora of street art. To top off the day, why not enjoy a traditional fish and chips dinner at one of the many seafront restaurants?
Day 2: Move On to Eastbourne
From Brighton, take a short drive to Eastbourne. This charming seaside resort offers a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. While here, you can take a stroll along the pier, explore the Victorian-era buildings, and visit the spectacular Eastbourne Redoubt, an old fort built to protect the town from Napoleonic invasions. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go for a hike in the nearby South Downs National Park.
Day 3: Take a Detour to Hastings
On your third day, take a detour to Hastings, a small fishing town tucked away on the south coast of England. Here, you can take a stroll along the shingle beach, visit the ruins of the 11th-century Hastings Castle, and explore the unique 1066 Country Walk. If you’re an art lover, you can also visit the Jerwood Gallery, which houses a wide collection of modern and contemporary art.
Day 4: Visit the Isle of Wight
On day four, take a ferry to the Isle of Wight, a small island off the south coast of England. Here, you can explore the island’s many attractions, including the picturesque Needles Lighthouse, the iconic Carisbrooke Castle, and the stunning botanical gardens at Ventnor. If you’re feeling active, you can also go for a hike in the island’s rolling hills or take a bike ride along the coastal paths.
Day 5: Journey to Cornwall
On day five, take a journey to the wild and rugged county of Cornwall. Here, you can explore the dramatic coastline, visit the iconic St. Michaels Mount, go for a surf at one of the many beaches, and take a walk along the iconic South West Coast Path. To top off the day, why not take a stroll through the cobbled streets of the quaint fishing village of Mousehole?
Day 6: Explore Devon
On day six, explore Devon, a county known for its rolling hills and stunning coastline. Here, you can visit the picturesque fishing village of Clovelly, explore the rugged beauty of Dartmoor National Park, and take a boat trip along the River Dart. If you’re looking for a bit of culture, you can also visit the historic town of Exeter or take a tour of the Royal Albert Memorial Museum.
Day 7: Discover the Welsh Coast
On day seven, make your way to the rugged Welsh coast. Here, you can explore the stunning Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, take a boat trip to the tiny island of Skomer, and visit the iconic medieval castle of Conwy. To top off the day, why not sample some of the local delicacies at a traditional Welsh pub?
Day 8: Visit Isle of Man
On day eight, journey to the picturesque Isle of Man. Here, you can explore the rugged coastline and take a boat trip to the secluded Calf of Man. If you’re looking for a bit of culture, you can also visit the island’s many historic sites, such as Peel Castle, Castle Rushen, and the Isle of Man Museum. To top off the day, why not take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy a traditional fish and chips dinner?
Day 9: Explore Scotland
On day nine, take a journey to Scotland and explore the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands. Here, you can take a boat trip to the remote island of Islay, explore the iconic castles of Stirling and Edinburgh, and visit the ancient standing stones of Callanish. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also go for a hike in the area’s wild and rugged landscape.
Day 10: End Your Trip in Northern Ireland
On your last day, take a journey to the stunning north coast of Northern Ireland. Here, you can explore the iconic Giant’s Causeway, take a boat trip to Rathlin Island, and visit the ruins of Dunluce Castle. To top off the day, why not take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy a traditional Ulster fry?
Conclusion
The UK’s coast is a treasure trove of natural beauty and culture. With this 10-day itinerary, you can explore some of the country’s best coastal towns and discover their unique charms. From Brighton Pier to the Isle of Man, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your perfect UK coastal getaway today!