Bamburgh crowned UK's Best Seaside Destination for sixth consecutive year
Last updated 7 hours ago
Bamburgh has been crowned the UK's favourite seaside destination - for the sixth year in a row.
The Northumberland coastal village topped the latest Which? Travel rankings after visitors rated it highly for its stunning coastline, historic character and overall visitor experience.
More than 5,300 people took part in the survey, sharing their experiences of seaside trips made across the UK during the past year.
Achieving an overall destination score of 84 per cent, Bamburgh received five-star ratings for its beach, seafront and scenery.
Survey respondents singled out the village's sweeping sands and the dramatic backdrop of Bamburgh Castle as standout features.
One visitor praised the "lovely beach overlooking Bamburgh Castle", which featured in the opening scenes of last Indiana Jones movie; while another highlighted the area's "spectacular coastal scenery".
The result reinforces Northumberland's growing reputation as a leading staycation destination and reflects a strong performance for the wider North East.
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Bamburgh councillor Guy Renner-Thompson told Greatest Hits Radio: "Of course it's great news for local businesses.
"It does come with its challenges. We're looking at what we can do with car parking in the centre of the village.
"And I'm working with landowners in the area to see if we can get more car parks.
"But, generally, all good news."
Across the UK, smaller coastal destinations continued to outperform many traditional seaside resorts, with visitors placing a premium on natural beauty, attractive waterfronts and a relaxed atmosphere.
St Andrews in Fife finished third with a score of 81 per cent, followed by Crail, Aldeburgh, Frinton-on-Sea and Portmeirion, all of which featured among the highest-ranked destinations.
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Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, said the findings reflected the appeal of the region's coastline.
"The North East has emerged as this year's favourite seaside spot, a reflection of its outstanding beaches and the fact that holidays here can be fantastic value for money," he said.
"It also shows that there are special seaside towns in every corner of the UK. From Swanage to Plockton, Southwold to Conwy, you'll have a great time in many of the country's lesser-known destinations, and should save some money too."
Elsewhere, Berwick Town Council says it’s “disappointed” its bid to be crowned Town of Culture has not been successful.
Galashiels and Selkirk also missed out.
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