Ah, the summer holidays – long, sunshine-streaked days are made for spending at the beach, whether you’re armed with a deckchair and a good book, building sandcastles with the kids, or strolling along the promenade with a delicious ice cream.
(On that note…why does ice cream taste so much better by the sea?)
So if you do like to be beside the seaside, then wouldn’t it be nice if you had somewhere you could pitch up to, laden with all your essential beach gear, right there on the sand?
Somewhere you could use to change in and out of your swimming costume, switch on the kettle for a well-deserved cuppa, store those sandwiches you’ve packed for your day out, and take shelter in if those summer showers begin to fall.
Well, by hiring a day-use beach hut, all those coastal gifts can be yours!
We’re speaking from experience here, as we recently tried out @CoolCoastalHuts‘ Beach Hut 213 in West Mersea, Essex…and never looked back.
So we decided to chat with beach hut owner (and confirmed beach hut connoisseur) Jo Lowery, to get her top tips on finding and booking your dream day hire hut.
Here’s what Jo had to say:
1. Check the contents
“You shouldn’t feel like you’re moving your entire house into the car when planning a day at the beach, with stress levels reaching boiling point before you’ve even left.
A good hut should have everything – including a clear, extensive list of contents – so all you need to do is rock up with no more than towels, sun cream, a picnic, and milk for tea (or maybe upgrade that tea to a bottle of wine!)”
2. Location, location, location!
“Check the exact position of your beach hut. Most people will be looking for a front row hut to hire, so make sure you’re not disappointed. Also, look at the position of the hut with regards to amenities, such as parking, loos, shops, and a water tap.”
3. Know what you’re getting
“Try and find a beach hut with lots of clear, updated photos, so you know what you’re getting. Instagram and Facebook are great for this!
It’s always good to look for reviews, too – that way you can see what previous visitors have said, and take note of any advice.”
So now you’re armed with all that essential information…just where do you begin your search for the ideal beach hut?
We’ve got a few suggestions for you right here, along with some Host Unusual places to stay in the local area, just in case you decide to extend that lovely beach break a little.
(Don’t say we aren’t good to you!)
1. Scarborough Beach Chalets, Yorkshire
Not only are the beach huts you’ll find here wonderfully traditional in style, they’re lined along the promenade in Scarborough’s magnificent North Bay – where the beach has been awarded European Blue Flag status, year after year.
So as you dip your toes in the sea, you can be assured of clean, fresh surroundings, along with easy access to the local facilities.
If you’re heading to the beach in aid of a special occasion, why not upgrade your hut hire to a Celebration Chalet – equipped with deckchairs, kettle and a sink to make life easier. You’ll even have a dedicated area for sunbathing and barbecues!
Then stay at:
The Old Station Allerston
Three vintage railway carriages, styled and furnished for up to six guests, beautifully secluded at the edge of the North Yorkshire Moors.
Pinewood Park
Yee-ha! A family-friendly, 4-star rated, Wild West-themed holiday park that’s bursting with quirky accommodation to suit every taste.
2. St Anne’s Beach Huts, Lytham St Annes, Lancs
The beach huts at Lytham St Annes are part of a long tradition of family fun by the sea, lining the Fylde coast for hundreds of years.
In the 21st century, you’ll find each hut equipped with mains electricity, a fitted kitchen with a microwave, kettle, fridge, and fresh water (not to mention cups, glasses, plates and cutlery for everyone!) – and there’s even a “ship’s table” to enjoy those seafaring feasts around.
(What more could any beachgoer ask for?)
Then stay at:
Lynx Helicopter at Ream Hills
A true heli-day with a difference! Stay in a converted Lynx helicopter, cosily renovated and cleverly remodelled to sleep a family of four.
Lantern & Larks, Bleasdale
Glamping with all the comforts and luxuries of home, set on Lancashire’s grand Bleasdale Estate, beside the soothing Forest of Bowdale.
3. Beach Hut 213, West Mersea, Essex
A visit to West Mersea Beach feels like you’ve discovered a well-kept secret. Located within a small island that’s cut off at high spring tide, you can pretend you’ve cast yourselves blissfully away on the sandy, pebbly beach.
Close to the local café and car park, Beach Hut 213 is a vibrant seaside haven that features a gas stove, kitchen equipment, and reclining chairs to relax outside on.
Two small, well-behaved dogs are permitted, and there are even body boards, inflatable rings, and plenty of toys supplied, so the whole family can enjoy the seaside fun!
Then stay at:
Browning Bros Teybrook Orchard
A heavenly glamping spot with an exquisite range of storybook-themed dwellings, nestled between an apple orchard and sprawling woodland.
4. Beach Hut 343, Frinton, Essex
Take your places in the front row!
Beach Hut 343 is a gorgeous, kitchen-equipped Victorian-style hut, positioned right at the front of Frinton’s golden-sand beach…so you can guarantee spectacular views.
This is definitely a beach break for the traditionalists amongst you, as although there’s a promenade to stroll along, there are no amusements or games – just that stunning stretch of sand to enjoy in its entirety.
When you’re ready, simply grab a fish and chip supper (there’s salt and vinegar inside the hut especially!)…and just in case the weather turns bad, there are even indoor games and playing cards provided, too.
Then stay at:
Lushna Suites at Lee Wick Farm
Eco-friendly, luxury rustic glamping on a working potato farm, you say? Complete with spectacular sea views? Even better!
5. Best of Suffolk Beach Huts (weekly hire only)
With evocative names like Windrush, Escapade – and Jabba the Beach Hut (above) – these cheery, colourful huts line Southwold’s seafront, full of charm and interest with its working lighthouse and award-winning pier.
Enjoy this quintessential English seaside town from the comfort of your chosen hut, which you’ll find equipped with hot drink-making facilities, and plenty of space to change after that invigorating sea-swim!
Then stay at:
Seahorse Cottage
Featured on the magical children’s TV series ‘Grandpa In My Pocket’, this iconic family cottage is imbued with fresh style, and plenty of coastal cheer.
The Seed Store
An award-winning Suffolk holiday cottage for two, perfectly blending the past with the design-led present, and overlooking six acres of fresh farm grounds.
Of course, if you’re in search of an even longer break, there’s always the option of trading in that day hire beach hut for a beach house or hut you can actually sleep in!
So why not browse our dedicated ‘Beach Huts and Houses‘ category, and find a new seaside favourite?
Main image: Beach Hut 213 | West Mersea, Essex
