The 10 Best Coastal Towns in UK to Live Before Everyone Else Does

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Imagine waking up to the gentle breeze, soft sands beneath your feet, and the soothing charm of the ocean greeting you with the promise of a beautiful day. Among the world’s many seaside gems, some of the best coastal towns in the UK truly shine. This idyllic lifestyle is not just a vacation, but an everyday reality.

A List of the Best Coastal Towns in the UK to Live

Citing Country Living, TimeOut, and The Times, this article uncovers the best coastal towns in the UK, where the sea isn’t just a view from your window—it’s the backdrop of your daily life.

1. Margate, Kent

With a delightful blend of old-world charm and seaside allure, it’s easy to see why Margate is one of the best coastal towns in the UK to live in. Not only will the breathtaking ocean views be your daily companion, but a vibrant array of inspiring museums and galleries—including the Turner Contemporary and the quirky Crab Museum—are right at your doorstep to brighten any day. 

If you're a thrill-seeker or just need a weekend fix of excitement, the iconic Dreamland amusement park offers the perfect escape to wrap up your week with fun.

2. Staithes, North Yorkshire

Once one of the region’s busiest fishing villages, Staithes has become a haven for a renowned community of artists and geologists. Picture yourself strolling along its winding cobbled streets, heading toward charming art galleries that echo the town’s creative spirit.

When the mood is to unwind, the village’s few but welcoming cafés bring a warm atmosphere and a comforting cup of coffee. And if it’s nature you crave, you’re spoiled for choice—the dramatic cliffs of the Cleveland Way National Trail or the rugged beauty of the surrounding coastline both make for a perfect escape.

3. Aldeburgh, Suffolk

Aldeburgh is a beloved coastal town in the UK. With its pebble beach and iconic pastel holiday villas, Aldeburgh is the perfect blend of comfort and coastal charm.

Beyond the looks and beaches, Aldeburgh has an undeniable creative pulse as it was home to the composer Benjamin Britten. Its thriving arts scene is celebrated every June at the Aldeburgh Festival, while independent boutiques and antique shops line the high street, ready to surprise you with unique finds.

4. Brighton, East Sussex

Colorful, cosmopolitan, and endlessly energetic—Brighton offers the buzz of a city with the salty kiss of the sea. As one of the best coastal towns in the UK, it is perfect for families craving daily adventures. From the fun-filled Brighton Palace Pier to the iconic beach and the fascinating Sea Life Centre, this vibrant seaside gem has no shortage of excitement.

5. Llansteffan, West Wales

West Wales’ best-kept secret, Llansteffan, is what peace would look like if it took the shape of a place. Tucked between the tranquil shores of the Tywi Estuary and the rolling Carmarthenshire hills, this charming village blends rich Welsh heritage with a quietly cosmopolitan spirit. Beyond the storied walls of Llansteffan Castle, a growing calendar of community events and activities brings fresh energy to its timeless calm.

6. Oban, Argyll and Bute

Known as the “Gateway to the Isles,” Oban is as dramatic as it is welcoming. With ferry access to the Hebrides and a backdrop of misty mountains, this Scottish coastal town is an adventurer’s dream. 

Spend your days island hopping, exploring the region’s rich history through its 13 medieval castles. And for seafood lovers, there’s even more to savor—Oban is often hailed as Scotland’s seafood capital.

 7. Whitby, Yorkshire

Another seafood paradise is Whitby, a coastal gem where the River Esk meets the North Sea. This historic port town is renowned for serving some of the best fish and chips in the country and boasts a lively local fish market at its heart. 

And for things to explore, you’ll never run out of options. From the Captain Cook Memorial Museum to the iconic 199 steps leading to the hauntingly beautiful Whitby Abbey, living here almost feels like stepping into a storybook of history and Gothic romance.

8. Crail, Fife

Crail is simply charming. Located on Scotland’s east coast, a quaint fishing village with cobblestone streets and terra cotta-roofed houses, and a vibrant harbor that feasts the eyes.

Located close to St Andrews, Crail offers peaceful seaside living with access to rich history, golf, and the arts. The town’s regular food festivals and art galleries make it a surprising cultural hub wrapped in traditional Scottish charm.

9. Brixham, Devon

One of the busiest fishing ports in the UK, Brixham is an ideal place to call home if you're looking for a vibrant atmosphere and seaside charm. It’s easy to get swept up in the colorful hillside houses, trawlers gently bobbing in the harbor, and the town’s rich maritime heritage. But the centerpiece is the full-scale replica of the Golden Hind, which offers a unique glimpse into Tudor history and seafaring adventure.

10. North Berwick, Scotland

North Berwick rounds out the list of the best coastal towns in the UK to live in for good reasons. Just a 30-minute train ride from Edinburgh, the city feels worlds away with its sweeping beaches, dramatic cliffs, and charming town centre. Families settling here will find no shortage of space for kids to explore, with playgrounds and nearby islands bringing endless opportunities for adventure.

From the salty-aired serenity of Llansteffan to the bohemian buzz of Brighton, the UK’s coastline is dotted with towns that aren’t just scenic—they’re deeply livable. For a similar discovery, explore the most beautiful places in the UK to visit.

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