Northern England may not reach the balmy summer temperatures of the south (well, at least not every day).
But if you’re looking for an atmospheric beach break with astounding natural beauty and bucketloads of characterful charm – not to mention chips with gravy! – then set your compass north.
Defined by compelling historic tales, iconic architecture and breath-taking landscapes, the northern English coast is also peppered with pretty towns and villages to explore, complete with narrow cobbled streets and rugged cliff backdrops.
When you combine this incredible setting with an extraordinary place to stay, you’ve found holiday heaven. So here’s our rundown of the best northern seaside holiday hotspots, together with a few of our favourite unusual places to stay in each location.
You’ll find each of the retreats we’ve picked is less than an hour’s drive from the town, so you can soak up that distinctive, warmly-welcoming north coast atmosphere with ease.
Author: Nina Jervis
Main image: Galatea, Whitby
Scarborough
Searching for a northern English seaside resort that truly has it all? Look no further than Scarborough.
Boasting not one but four beautiful beaches, there’s something here for every seaside holiday taste. South Bay Beach is a sun-trap that’s close to the harbour, eateries and vibrant arcades, while North Bay has Blue Flag status that makes it perfect for families. Head for the deliciously hidden Cornelian Bay if you like a more secluded setting, or to Cayton Bay if you prefer a lush rural backdrop to go with your sandy sandwiches!
Dale Farm Holidays
The Windmill Scarborough
The Follies Low Lodge
The Tack Room Ruston
Pinewood Park
Whitby
A picture-postcard town in Yorkshire, Whitby is a bustling creative haven that also boasts intriguing Gothic ruins and magnificent sea views. Bordered by the North Sea and mesmerising views of both Whitby Abbey and the soaring East Cliff, the beach is a haven for Instagram enthusiasts!
Heading to Whitby beach also means you’ll get to swim in Blue Flag waters and stretch out on soft golden sand… or build epic sandcastles with your loved ones. Beach huts are available to hire if you’re making a day of it, while during the summer months the kids can enjoy a traditional donkey ride.
Galatea
Evening Star @ Engine Shed
Burnsyde Beach House
Golden Hill Farm
The Gatehouse
Blackpool
The UK’s answer to Las Vegas, Blackpool is officially the country’s busiest resort.
Boasting not one but three ornate piers – all built during the Victorian era when the railway was introduced and tourist numbers surged – there are six miles of promenade to stroll along, a pier-side shopping arcade and theatre, and of course, a Pleasure Beach that features thrilling white-knuckle rides and live entertainment. Not forgetting Blackpool Tower, of course… a must-visit for any Strictly Come Dancing fans!
Windmill On The Farm
Bowland Escapes Iron Age Roundhouse
Lynx Helicopter at Ream Hills
Little Oakhurst
Lantern & Larks Bleasdale
Morecambe
A quintessentially English coastal town, Morecambe is delightfully nestled around its award-winning seafront promenade that overlooks five blissful miles of sandy coast.
The Lancashire hotspot also showcases the Lakeland Fells in the distance, for awe-inspiring scenery that’s well worth capturing. As is the abundant bird life, which you’ll find beautifully illustrated by a series of public art installations known as The Tern Project. Oh, and don’t forget to pay a visit to the iconic statue of the much-loved comedian Eric Morecambe, looking joyfully out across the promenade.
Kelker Well Roundhouse
Stable Stays
Jackdaw Quarry Lodges
Whitley Bay
Not to be confused with Whitby (such confusion led Whitley to change its name to Whitley Bay in 1901), the golden sands of Whitley Bay are home to dreamy North Sea views, award-winning ice-cream, mini-golf, and a fun water park… amongst many other attractions!
The newly-refurbished Spanish City is a historic, jaw-dropping venue that hosts everything from Christmas markets to indulgent afternoon teas, and the romantic St. Mary’s Lighthouse features a nature reserve and wetland habitat that’s ideal for rock-pooling and seal-spotting.
The Water Castle
Beacon Hill Farm Luxury Treehouse
Beacon Hill Hideaways
Hillside Huts & Cabins
