Planning a summer staycation? Well, the best British seaside towns to visit in 2021 have been revealed – and the coastal village of Bamburgh, Northumberland, has scooped the winning spot.

Annual research conducted by Which? surveyed more than 4,000 holidaymakers about their recent trips to seaside towns, villages and resorts around the UK. As well as rating beach quality, visitors were asked to judge each destination based on attractions, value for money, peace and quiet, and scenery.

Bamburgh — which also topped the list in 2019 — came first thanks to its glorious stretch of sandy beaches, tussock dune system, famous castle and five-star feel. Dartmouth and Tynemouth came in second and third spots, respectively, also praised for their wonderful attractions.

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Peter Cade//Getty Images
Dartmouth, Devon

"Many of us discovered the joy of a British summer holiday last year and the trend looks set to continue well into this summer. The results of our survey show that bigger is rarely better, with smaller and less crowded resorts taking the top spots over better-known destinations," Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, told The Metro.

st davids, pembrokeshire, walespinterest
Ffoto Keith Morris Aber//Getty Images
St Davids, Pembrokeshire

Whether you're seeking a family holiday, a romantic break or a special celebration, these brilliant British spots are perfect for exploring new parts of the country once it's safe to do so. With more of us opting for holidays closer to home, there's no greater time to find a unique location away from the crowds.

Take a look at the best seaside towns to visit below...

20 best seaside towns to visit in the UK

  1. Bamburgh, Northumberland
  2. Dartmouth, Devon
  3. Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear
  4. St Andrews, Fife
  5. Aberaeron, Ceredigion
  6. North Berwick, East Lothian
  7. Rye, East Sussex
  8. Filey, North Yorkshire
  9. Southwold, Suffolk
  10. St Davids, Pembrokeshire
  11. Swanage, Dorset
  12. Beer, Devon
  13. Conwy, Wales
  14. Criccieth, Gwynedd, Wales
  15. Sidmouth, Devon
  16. Tenby, Pembrokshire
  17. Aldeburgh, Suffolk
  18. Mevagissey, Cornwall
  19. Saltburn-by-the-sea, Yorkshire
  20. Ullapool, Ross and Cromarty

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Lisa Joyner
Deputy Daily Editor, Country Living and House Beautiful

 Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.