UK seaside town named most expensive with £1m homes and best-rated beaches
The UK's most expensive seaside town has been named and the top spot has been swiped by a place three hours from London where you may bump into a celebrity
If you'd like to see how the other half live, then take a trip to sunny Sandbanks where millionaires live in luxury and high-end restaurants serve up premium feasts.
According to LBC, a survey conducted by Lloyds Bank has named Sandbanks, a peninsular area in Dorset, as the most expensive seaside town. Well-known as the home of footballing legend Harry Redknapp, it has more than a glitzy showbiz community to its name.
Its unique location, stunning natural beauty, world-renowned beach, award-winning waters, and high-end property market puts it firmly on the map. With around 800 households belonging to it, in 2023, the average house price in the area cost around £965,708. Despite this eye-watering price-tag, the bank said the average house price has gone down by 3%, but it still stands at the top of the list.
Lloyds' valuation stands significantly lower than property expert, Rightmove's, which says homes have been fetching, on average, £1,794,043 over the last year. However, the majority of properties selling in Sandbanks during the last year were flats, with an average striking £932,844. "Detached properties sold for an average of £3,906,125, with semi-detached properties fetching £761,667," Rightmove added.
"Overall, the historical sold prices in Sandbanks over the last year were 4% down on the previous year and 23% up on the 2021 peak of £1,459,280."
Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Lloyds, said: 'Coastal living continues to hold a special appeal - whether it's the lure of sea views, sandy beaches, or a slower pace of life. Our latest research shows the most exclusive seaside spots - like Sandbanks - still command premium prices," she added.
Sandbanks has a lot of rich history, going from a hidden gem to a popular tourist destination. It's a great place that offers a variety of attractions and activities, from locals and tourists alike.
From gorgeous beaches to parks, visitors can take in all the sunlight or have a stroll on the golden sands of Sandbanks Beach, as well as Shell Bay. The town is also perfect for those water fanatics, with plenty of space for sailing, jet skiing, paddle boarding and kayaking. You can also take a 70-minute cruise at the Poole Harbour and Islands Circular Cruise around Europe's largest natural harbour, with prices starting at £11.20.
Is eating out expensive?
Eating out in Sandbanks can be expensive, especially since there are a lot of upscale restaurants, such as Rick Stein. The restaurant offers a variety of seafood dishes and set menus, with an average price per person ranging between £30 to £60.
If you're planning to visit Sandbanks, the fastest and easiest way is by taking the M3 or M27 motorway towards Bournemouth. Then, continue on the A31 and drive on the A35 towards Poole. Then, follow the signs to Sandbanks. It should take you around two hours and 45 minutes - but that also depends on the traffic.
Alternatively, there are direct trains from London Waterloo (and other cities in the UK) to Poole Railway Station. From there, you can take a taxi or a local bus towards Sandbanks. The bus stops are at the Poole Bus Station or Bournemouth Square.
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