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North Wales Live
20-07-2025
- North Wales Live
The UK's top 10 beach bars where you can soak up the rays in style
It's been a sweltering summer so far and with the heat not showing any signs of letting up for long, so travel experts have got together to name the UK's top 10 beach bars. From coastal cocktail spots to laid-back hangouts, these seaside locations promise holiday vibes without the long-haul flight and to help holidaymakers find their ideal accommodation, Sykes Holiday Cottages has also shared standout properties near each bar in the ranking. James Shaw, from Sykes, said: 'With summer well underway, there is no better time to soak up the warm weather than by catching up with friends and family at one of our country's many beach bars. 'Our recent Staycation Index report revealed that nearly two-thirds of Brits are planning a staycation in 2025, so whether it's the coast, countryside or city, this season offers a wealth of chances to make lasting memories close to home.' Top 10 best beach bars in the UK: OHSO Social, Brighton The Beach Deck, Eastbourne Surfside, Polzeath Tavern on the Bay, Benllech The Pier Tavern, Great Yarmouth Revo Kitchen, Weston-super-Mare Jeromes & Pavilion, Bridlington The Watering Hole, Perranporth Hive Beach Café, Burton Bradstock Porthminster Beach Café, Carbis Bay OHSO Social, Brighton Nestled at the base of Brighton's Palace Pier, OHSO Social has a spacious terrace that opens straight onto the sand. It's the perfect pitstop for drinks and food while soaking up sea views and coastal vibes. Open daily and from 10am on weekends, it's great for early beachgoers and it's dog-friendly, meaning holidaymakers can bring their pooches for a day out. Guests looking to explore Brighton with their dog in tow can stay at Cliffe Cottage, a two-bedroom retreat nestled in the heart of Lewes, Sussex. Inside, travellers can discover a cosy living room, modern kitchen-diner, and peaceful rear garden. The Beach Deck, Eastbourne Perched right at the water's edge, The Beach Deck pairs its laid-back atmosphere with its wooden stools, palm-frond decor and floor-to-ceiling windows, making it the ultimate pit-stop in Eastbourne. From 9am till 4:30pm daily, the menu offers everything from hearty brunch bowls and fresh seafood wraps to light bites and gooey cakes. Sip on local ales, crisp ciders or a chilled glass of rosé as you watch the tide roll in before heading back to Portland Cottage, a two-bedroom getaway adjacent to Eastbourne's beaches. Here, visitors can expect a fully equipped kitchen, comfy furnishings and off-road parking. Surfside Nestled on Cornwall's stunning northern coastline, Surfside Polzeath opened in 2017 before expanding in 2022 with adding extra seating, a larger terrace and year-round opening hours. Home to one of the UK's largest rum selections, you'll find over 90 varieties behind the bar and kids and pets are welcome too, with a children's menu packed with bite-sized fish goujons, mini flatbreads and creamy ice-creams. Those looking to stay locally to Polzeath can try Seascape, which has space for up to 12 guests, as well as a utility, games room, and plunge pool. Tavern On The Bay, Benllech Perched on Traeth Benllech's shoreline, Tavern on the Bay boasts panoramic views of North Wales coast - from Llandudno 's Great Orme to the sandy bay right below. Rustic interiors and a spacious terrace make it the ideal spot for sunset cocktails, while floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views. Open until 9:30pm on weekdays, and 10:30pm at weekends, the menu features shareable nibbles, hearty mains and a standout cocktail list, plus craft beers and Welsh ciders. Regular live-music nights mean the party often carries on past dusk for those wanting to stay nearby, Steps Away in the Isle of Anglesey promises an open plan living space and private garden for up to four people. The Pier Tavern, Great Yarmouth Located steps from the golden sands of Great Yarmouth, The Pier Tavern doubles as both a laid-back beach bar by day and one of the town's top nightlife spots by night. Pull up a stool on the open terrace or head inside to neon-lit booths to find arcade classics, a pool table and DJ sets. Open until midnight on weekdays, the bar's drink list covers everything from crisp pilsners and local ciders to inventive cocktails and spritzers. Pop in for a pre-beach pint at 11am or stay on for late-night tipples before heading back to Sandpiper Court. This charming cottage features historic architecture, as well as a snug living room and patio, and is only a short walk to the coastline. Revo Kitchen, Weston-super-Mare One of the largest beach bars on this list, Revo Kitchen sprawls across the shore of Weston-Super-Mare's golden sands and is perfect for families, groups and anyone craving space to stretch out. Open from 9am until 10:30pm (11 pm on weekends), its vibrant, relaxed setting means you can drop in for a breakfast bap, seaside lunch or an evening cocktail with equal ease. Couples looking to stay nearby can visit Acorn, a charming lodge ideal for unwinding from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. With its wood fired hot tub, patio and off-road parking, it offers the perfect home away from home. Jerome's & Pavilion, Bridlington Set in a restored Victorian pavilion just steps from Hornsea's sandy beach, Jerome's & Pavilion pairs seaside café vibes with a laid-back bar atmosphere. Grab Britain's best-voted fish and chips inside or settle on the sun-soaked terrace with a pint of local ale or a classic G&T. Open from breakfast through evening, the menu includes flaky cod, hand-cut chips and hearty grills, and travellers looking to visit the area can stay in Waggoner's Cottage. A two-bedroom bungalow which has a private garden and open-plan living space, it's the ideal spot for families. The Watering Hole, Perranporth The UK's only bar built on sand, The Watering Hole has been a Perranporth favourite since 1978 and now houses its own surf school and year-round live music events, making it a perfect hub for holidaymakers. Open 9am to 10pm daily, with this extending to 1am on Fridays and Saturdays, its seasonal menu features staples like the Catch of the Day, gourmet burgers and a hearty kids' menu, alongside refreshing cocktails, local ales and ciders. Holidaymakers can stay at 3 Spyrys Heyl, which overlooks the beach and has an outside shower for those wanting to get rid of sandy toes before relaxing in the open-plan living area. Hive Beach Café, Burton Bradstock Established in 1991 beside National Trust's Hive Beach on the Jurassic Coast, Hive Beach Café combines a restored beach pavilion with a spacious sea-view terrace and picnic benches on the sand. Dog-friendly and open year-round, it's the perfect pit-stop for takeaway coffees, hearty brunches and homemade cakes before or after a coastal wander. Travellers looking to visit can stay in Apple Tree Cottage, which is located only a short distance away from Hive Beach. With a private garden, two bedrooms and array of amenities, it's a relaxing spot for both families and couples alike. Porthminster Beach Café, Carbis Bay Tucked around the corner from St Ives in the picturesque village of Carbis Bay, Porthminster Beach Café serves Michelin-accredited seafood in a casual, dog-friendly setting. With ingredients fresh from its cliffside garden and local suppliers, it's the perfect spot for a light lunch after a dip in the sea or a sunset supper. Sea Glass, a modern two-bedroom apartment, can be found nearby and has a seaward facing terrace, as well as a communal garden for al fresco dining.
Scottish Sun
24-06-2025
- Scottish Sun
Britain's top staycation destination for food lovers is revealed
Keep scrolling for a list of the top 30 destinations EAT IT UP Britain's top staycation destination for food lovers is revealed Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) BRITAIN'S top staycation destination for food lovers has been revealed. Research of 2,000 adults revealed Cornwall claimed the top three spots on Brits' foodie destination wish list – with St Ives taking first place. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 3 Britain's top staycation destination for food lovers has been revealed Credit: SWNS 3 St Ives, in Cornwall, was ranked in first place Credit: SWNS 3 Brixham, in Devon, came in at fourth on the list Credit: SWNS Padstow and Falmouth followed closely, alongside Devon's coastal town of Brixham, Blackpool – often dubbed the 'Las Vegas of the North', and Norfolk's classic seaside spot, Great Yarmouth. The popularity of traditional seaside fare may help explain St Ives' appeal, as more than half (51 per cent) of UK holidaymakers opt for fish and chips while on a break – and the town even boasts the aptly named Fish Street. Other reasons for visiting these foodie destinations include trying a local delicacy (33 per cent), dining at a specific restaurant (32 per cent) and buying local ingredients (29 per cent). The research was commissioned by Sykes Holiday Cottages as part of its annual Staycation Index report. To compile the locations for the top 30 list, the holiday brand used ONS data on the number of restaurants, cafes and mobile food services in UK towns and Tripadvisor insights on the amount of five star eateries and outlets per square mile. Dorset also featured three times in the top 30 foodie towns list with people wanting to dine in Bournemouth, Lyme Regis and Weymouth. James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: 'Food is an essential part of the staycation experience, whether that's indulging in fresh seafood at the coast, browsing local farmers' markets, or seeking out a pub lunch. 'People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that's great for local businesses across the UK. 'We're seeing more and more holidaymakers prioritise local experiences over abroad escapes, and with so many flavour-packed places to visit in this country, it's no surprise that foodie travel is on the rise.' The research also found holidaymakers are willing to travel an average of 70 miles in the UK to try a certain cuisine or eatery – with one in 10 prepared to trek more than 150 miles. When it comes to eating out during their stay, traditional British pubs remain the top choice for travellers (58 per cent), followed by independent local restaurants (52 per cent) and fish and chip shops (51 per cent). Others enjoy sampling tearooms (50 per cent), farm shops and markets (29 per cent) and eating from street vendors (24 per cent). Nearly one in five (17 per cent) said the enjoyment of their break is heavily influenced by what they eat, while one in 10 have rebooked a destination purely to go back to a favourite eatery. Almost two thirds (63 per cent) of those polled via OnePoll plan to have a UK-based break this year, while 71 per cent of Gen Zs will - suggesting the younger generation are leading the way with staycations. Holidaymakers will typically go on three UK breaks this year, each lasting an average of six days. Reasons for choosing a staycation rather than going abroad include it being easier (38 per cent), less stressful (35 per cent) and cheaper (35 per cent). The most popular types of UK trips were revealed as city breaks (49 per cent), lakes and mountain locations (41 per cent) and beachfront holiday homes (40 per cent). Countryside walks (31 per cent), visiting local attractions (28 per cent) and exploring historical sights (25 per cent) are among the top activities Brits like to experience on a holiday within the UK. And while respondents tend to go away with their partner (67 per cent), children (29 per cent) and friends (23 per cent), almost one in three (29 per cent) say they're more likely to go on a solo break now than they were five years ago. James added: 'Our annual report takes a deep dive into the latest UK travel trends, and it's clear that staycations are continuing to grow in popularity – something that's welcome news to the communities across the country that rely on tourism. 'Now in its seventh year, the index shines a light on the evolving habits and motivations shaping domestic travel – from an apparent Gen Z UK travel boom to a rise in solo staycations and a focus on food while away. 'Brits are seeking more meaningful escapes and fresh adventures, all without needing a passport.'
Daily Mirror
24-06-2025
- Daily Mirror
Best UK staycation destination for foodies with top spots revealed
Cornwall has been revealed as the best UK destination for foodies, as research found the average Brit is willing to travel 70 miles to try a particular cuisine or eatery Research has unveiled the top UK destinations for food lovers, with fish and chips being a major attraction. It turns out that Brits are willing to travel miles to sample a specific cuisine or restaurant – with one in ten ready to travel more than 150 to satisfy their taste buds. The study revealed a fifth of Brits' holiday enjoyment is heavily influenced by their meals, and many have rebooked a destination solely to revisit a favourite restaurant. The main reasons for visiting these foodie hotspots include trying local delicacies, dining at a particular restaurant, or having the chance to purchase local ingredients. Traditional British pubs remain a top choice, followed by independent local restaurants and fish and chip shops. Meanwhile, farm shops and street vendors are gaining popularity. This research was conducted by Sykes Holiday Cottages as part of its annual Staycation Index report, which highlighted just what Brits are looking for in a staycation. When it comes to the top food destinations, the survey of 2,000 adults revealed that Cornwall claimed the top three spots on a list of 30, with St Ives ranked first, followed by Padstow in second place and Falmouth in third. These leading destinations were closely followed by Brixham, Devon's scenic coastal haven, and Great Yarmouth, Norfolk's beloved seaside retreat. Blackpool, often referred to as Britain's 'Las Vegas of the North,' also made the list. Dorset made a notable appearance with three towns in the top 30 foodie destinations, attracting visitors to its culinary delights in Bournemouth, Lyme Regis, and Weymouth. Speaking about the trend, James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, commented: "Food is an essential part of the staycation experience. People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that's great for local businesses across the UK." Nearly two-thirds of people are planning for a UK-based getaway this year. City jaunts, lakes and mountain escapes, and beachfront getaways are set to be the go-to choices. And there's no shortage of activities to enjoy, from countryside strolls to exploring historical sites. Opting for a staycation is seen as less stressful, more affordable and easier than jetting off abroad, according to the study. Moreover, whilst the majority of people tend to holiday with friends or family, staycations have become more popular with solo travellers as one in three reported they're more likely to embark on a solo trip now compared to five years ago. James commented: "Our annual report takes a deep dive into the latest UK travel trends, and it's clear that staycations are continuing to grow in popularity – something that's welcome news to the communities across the country that rely on tourism. "Now in its seventh year, the index shines a light on the evolving habits and motivations shaping domestic travel – from an apparent Gen Z UK travel boom to a rise in solo staycations and a focus on food while away. "Brits are seeking more meaningful escapes and fresh adventures, all without needing a passport." TOP 30 UK LOCATIONS FOR FOOD: St Ives, Cornwall Padstow, Cornwall Falmouth, Cornwall Brixham, Devon Blackpool, Lancashire Bournemouth, Dorset Great Yarmouth, Norfolk Whitley Bay, Tyne and Wear Lyme Regis, Dorset Weymouth, Dorset St Andrews, Fife Windsor, Berkshire Dumfries, Dumfries and Galloway Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk Barnstaple, Devon Barnard Castle, County Durham Warwick, Warwickshire Margate, Kent Folkstone, Kent Tenby, Pembrokeshire Alnwick, Northumberland Hebden Bridge, West Yorkshire Llandudno, Conwy Broadstairs, Kent Southport, Merseyside Loughborough, Leicestershire Rochester, Kent Formby, Merseyside Hereford, Herefordshire Carmarthen, Carmarthenshire
North Wales Live
24-06-2025
- North Wales Live
Win £1,000 Sykes Holiday Cottages voucher for the ultimate UK staycation
Sykes Holiday Cottages is offering one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a UK staycation worth £1,000. The giveaway comes as new research reveals that food is now a key driver behind where Brits choose to holiday. According to the holiday home agency's latest Staycation Index report, more than a third of Brits now choose their UK holiday destinations based on food. In a poll of 2,000 UK adults commissioned for the report, one in five also said that the meals they eat on holiday significantly impact how much they enjoy the overall trip. The research revealed the top 10 foodie towns Brits most want to visit in 2025, with Cornwall dominating the list. The Cornish town of St Ives took first place, closely followed by Padstow and Falmouth in third. Other popular spots named in the list include Brixham on Devon's south coast, northern favourite Blackpool and Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. As we head into summer we've got a fantastic prize up for grabs for anyone who's dreaming of a staycation. To be in with a chance of winning a £1,000 Sykes holiday voucher, entrants simply need to provide their details using the form below. The winner will receive their voucher via email, to be redeemed against a cottage holiday of their choice. Click here if you cannot view the entry form below. The competition closes at 23:45 on 31st July, 2025. Sykes research also revealed that for those seeking out food-inspired breaks, the biggest motivation was trying a local delicacy, followed by visiting a specific restaurant, and purchasing regional ingredients. Dining experiences aren't just shaping where people go – they're also encouraging them to return. The report found that one in 10 travellers have rebooked a destination just to revisit a favourite restaurant, while many are willing to travel up to 70 miles for a specific culinary experience – with one in 10 prepared to travel more than 150 miles. When it comes to eating out during their stay, traditional British pubs remain the top choice for travellers (58%), followed by independent local restaurants (52%) and fish and chip shops (51%). James Shaw, Managing Director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: 'Food is an essential part of the staycation experience, whether that's indulging in fresh seafood at the coast, browsing local farmers' markets, or seeking out a pub lunch. People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that's great for local businesses across the UK. 'We're seeing more and more holidaymakers prioritise local experiences over abroad escapes, and with so many flavour-packed places to visit in this country, it's no surprise that foodie travel is on the rise.' The Index notes that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits plan to take a UK-based holiday this year, increasing to 71% of Gen Z travellers – suggesting the younger generation is leading the charge when it comes to staycations. On average, Brits are expected to take three domestic breaks in 2025, each lasting around six days. Spending is on the rise too, with travellers expecting to spend £1,292 on their main UK holiday – up from £1,070 in 2024 – contributing to a projected £24 billion boost to the domestic tourism economy this summer. While average booking times have shortened to 105 days (compared with 114 in 2024), foodie hotspots like Cornwall and Cumbria are still being snapped up six months in advance, on average. Meanwhile, 24% of holidays are now booked within a month of travel, highlighting a growing trend for more spontaneous getaways.
Wales Online
24-06-2025
- Wales Online
Win £1,000 Sykes Holiday Cottages voucher for the ultimate UK staycation
Win £1,000 Sykes Holiday Cottages voucher for the ultimate UK staycation As we step into summer, Sykes Holiday Cottages is giving away this fantastic prize to one lucky winner who will get to splurge on a fabulous cottage holiday of their choice Porthmadog Harbour, Gwynedd, Wales, UK Sykes Holiday Cottages is offering one lucky winner the chance to enjoy a UK staycation worth £1,000. The giveaway comes as new research reveals that food is now a key driver behind where Brits choose to holiday. According to the holiday home agency's latest Staycation Index report, more than a third of Brits now choose their UK holiday destinations based on food. In a poll of 2,000 UK adults commissioned for the report, one in five also said that the meals they eat on holiday significantly impact how much they enjoy the overall trip. The research revealed the top 10 foodie towns Brits most want to visit in 2025, with Cornwall dominating the list. The Cornish town of St Ives took first place, closely followed by Padstow and Falmouth in third. Other popular spots named in the list include Brixham on Devon's south coast, northern favourite Blackpool and Great Yarmouth in Norfolk. As we head into summer we've got a fantastic prize up for grabs for anyone who's dreaming of a staycation. To be in with a chance of winning a £1,000 Sykes holiday voucher, entrants simply need to provide their details using the form below. The winner will receive their voucher via email, to be redeemed against a cottage holiday of their choice. Click here if you cannot view the entry form below. The competition closes at 23:45 on 31st July, 2025. Sykes research also revealed that for those seeking out food-inspired breaks, the biggest motivation was trying a local delicacy, followed by visiting a specific restaurant, and purchasing regional ingredients. Dining experiences aren't just shaping where people go – they're also encouraging them to return. The report found that one in 10 travellers have rebooked a destination just to revisit a favourite restaurant, while many are willing to travel up to 70 miles for a specific culinary experience – with one in 10 prepared to travel more than 150 miles. When it comes to eating out during their stay, traditional British pubs remain the top choice for travellers (58%), followed by independent local restaurants (52%) and fish and chip shops (51%). James Shaw, Managing Director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: 'Food is an essential part of the staycation experience, whether that's indulging in fresh seafood at the coast, browsing local farmers' markets, or seeking out a pub lunch. People are increasingly planning their holidays with their palates in mind – and that's great for local businesses across the UK. 'We're seeing more and more holidaymakers prioritise local experiences over abroad escapes, and with so many flavour-packed places to visit in this country, it's no surprise that foodie travel is on the rise.' The Index notes that almost two-thirds (63%) of Brits plan to take a UK-based holiday this year, increasing to 71% of Gen Z travellers – suggesting the younger generation is leading the charge when it comes to staycations. On average, Brits are expected to take three domestic breaks in 2025, each lasting around six days. Article continues below Spending is on the rise too, with travellers expecting to spend £1,292 on their main UK holiday – up from £1,070 in 2024 – contributing to a projected £24 billion boost to the domestic tourism economy this summer. While average booking times have shortened to 105 days (compared with 114 in 2024), foodie hotspots like Cornwall and Cumbria are still being snapped up six months in advance, on average. Meanwhile, 24% of holidays are now booked within a month of travel, highlighting a growing trend for more spontaneous getaways.
