Hyphen’s UK seaside getaway guide
From bohemian Folkestone to the Victorian charm of Whitby, the nation’s coastal resorts have something to offer everyone
With recent heatwaves and the school summer holidays around the corner, a British seaside break is an ideal getaway. Enjoying fish and chips and ice cream on the pier or soaking up the sun on sandy beaches, day trips and staycations are a great way for many Muslim families to make the most of the UK without breaking the bank. From the artistic vibes of Folkestone to the peaceful charm of Llandudno, here are Hyphen’s recommendations for your next seaside visit.
Llandudno
Overlooking the Irish Sea, this north Wales resort offers a nostalgic seaside atmosphere and beautiful natural scenery. Visitors have plenty to explore, from walking along the two-mile promenade lined with Victorian terraces to a ride on the Great Orme Tramway — the UK’s only remaining cable-hauled street tramway, which takes passengers on a scenic journey from Victoria station to the summit of the Great Orme, a limestone headland with breathtaking sea views. The Great Orme Mines, believed to be the oldest copper mines open to the public anywhere in the world, are also worth a visit.
There are plenty of activities for kids, too, including Punch and Judy shows, traditional donkey rides and the Alice in Wonderland Town Trail — Llandudno was a holiday favourite of Alice Liddell, the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s fictional character — which brings the famous story to life with interactive stops around the town. Looking for a traditional seaside dinner? Head to The Orme Traditional Fish and Chips, which offers a halal menu.
Crosby
Rated one of the top beaches in the UK in 2025, according to Tripadvisor users, Crosby is renowned for its impressive sand dunes. Just a short drive from Liverpool and an hour away from Manchester, the town’s extensive shoreline features a striking art work by sculptor Antony Gormley, Another Place. The installation consists of 100 life-size cast-iron figures spread out across the sand and into the sea. Although it’s not widely used as a bathing beach, Crosby is great for family-friendly activities, such as building sandcastles, seal spotting and exploring the dunes. Further along the coast the Formby National Trust coastal reserve, home to pine forests and red squirrels, is perfect for relaxing nature walks.
Folkestone
Just 55 minutes from London by train, this Kent town is a great destination if you are looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city for a day. Once known for its ferry port and — gradually faded — seaside charm, Folkestone has transformed into one of the UK’s most creative cultural hubs. The Old High Street is a highlight, hosting independent shops, art galleries and a wide variety of restaurants. A quiet spot with stunning beaches, including Sunny Sands, it is perfect for a weekend of winding down.
For a family day out, add a visit to the Port Lympne Reserve, just a short drive away, where you can enjoy a safari experience and get up close to a wide range of animals, including grey wolves, giraffes and spectacled bears. While halal options are limited, the Harbour Fish Bar does offer a full halal menu. If you want to extend your trip, head to nearby Dover, which is only a 20-minute drive or 10-minute train ride away.
Whitby
With its cobbled streets and scenic harbour, Whitby is a historic seaside town that has everything you’re looking for in a coastal getaway. Sitting on the north Yorkshire coast, this Victorian town offers a mix of dramatic cliff views, sandy beaches and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can stop by the ruins of Whitby Abbey, which is indelibly associated with Bram Stoker’s Dracula, enjoy bracing sea air and coastal walks, all while munching on award-winning fish and chips. Whitby Beach, which holds a Blue Flag award — the highest recognition given to beaches for standards of cleanliness, safety, and environmental care — is perfect for a day by the sea. It’s also close to the North York Moors National Park, ideal for exploring its woodland trails and having a picnic in the sun.
Largs
Tucked away on the west coast of Scotland, Largs is a beautiful seaside town overlooking the Firth of Clyde. Just an hour’s drive from Glasgow, this Victorian-era resort boasts a palm-lined promenade, ice cream parlours and plenty of independent shops. Visitors can also hop on a 10-minute ferry ride to the Isle of Cumbrae for walks, cycling and exploring the town of Millport. There’s plenty to keep kids entertained, including Kelburn Castle with its mural-covered walls and adventure playground, and the funfair in Millport, which offers classic rides and games.
If you’re visiting at the end of August, don’t miss the Largs Viking Festival, where historical re-enactments and displays bring the town’s Norse heritage to life. A trip to Largs isn’t complete without stopping at Nardini’s cafe, restaurant and ice cream parlour, or grabbing a bite at The Fish Works, recently hailed Scotland’s best fish and chip shop at the National Fish and Chip awards.
Eastbourne
With its pebble beaches and traditional pier, Eastbourne is a charming destination, just an hour and 15 minutes away from London by train. Often overshadowed by nearby Brighton, it is perfect if you want a calmer getaway. The palm-lined promenade stretches for miles, making it great for bike rides or long walks with an ice cream in hand. If panoramic views are your thing, head up to Beachy Head or the Seven Sisters cliffs, both a short drive away. Meanwhile, nature lovers can walk through the nearby South Downs National Park. There are also plenty of family friendly activities, such as the pirate-themed mini golf course and the mini steam train ride along the seafront. Looking to stay the night? The Majestic Hotel offers a halal menu on request.
