England’s Top 5 Family Beach Destinations for Summer 2025 Promise Budget-Friendly Fun and Coastal Charm
As British families prepare for the summer holidays, a newly released study has revealed the top five beach destinations across England where parents can enjoy budget-friendly getaways without sacrificing fun, accessibility, or amenities. For Summer 2025, Brighton, Scarborough, Plymouth, Bournemouth, and Great Yarmouth have been recognized as the best family-friendly beach escapes, offering the ideal mix of affordability, adventure, and convenience.
With an average family expected to spend nearly £1,000 per week entertaining children during the school holidays, these coastal towns have emerged as smart solutions for parents looking to stretch their budget while delivering memorable seaside experiences. Backed by a study from Shoe Zone, the ranking is based on factors such as accessibility by road and rail, water quality, parking availability, public restrooms, and food options.
Brighton – A Seaside Staple with Urban Convenience
Topping the list is Brighton, East Sussex’s iconic coastal town that scored 75 out of 100. Known for its energetic vibe, pebbled beaches, and iconic Brighton Pier, the town stands out for its accessibility. With more than 800 parking spots and a railway station just 0.6 km from the beach, Brighton is perfectly placed for both drivers and public transport users.
While its shore may not be sandy, Brighton compensates with classic British seaside attractions, clean waters, a buzzing boardwalk, and eateries offering everything from fish and chips to sweet donuts. Families can enjoy a stroll along the promenade, visit the SEA LIFE Centre, or ride the i360 observation tower—all within walking distance of the beach.
Scarborough – Tradition Meets Family Fun in North Yorkshire
In second place is Scarborough, scoring 73.4, and famed for combining heritage with holiday fun. Located just one kilometre from the train station, the beach is easy to reach for rail travellers. With a sprawling sandy coastline split between North and South Bays, Scarborough offers ample room for kids to build sandcastles, play games, or enjoy donkey rides.
The town is also known for its abundance of public toilets, convenient parking, and wide range of food outlets. Overlooking the beach is the historic Scarborough Castle, a must-see attraction that gives families a chance to blend history with play. The seafront arcades and mini-fairs add a nostalgic touch to this classic English resort.
Plymouth – Devon’s Natural Retreat with Varied Beach Experiences
Ranked third with a score of 73.1, Plymouth in Devon is an excellent choice for families who enjoy nature along with seaside fun. Though its main train station is about 10 km from its most scenic beaches, its 500+ parking spaces make it ideal for those travelling by car.
Plymouth offers diverse beach settings—from the sandy Bovisand Bay, perfect for sunbathing and sandcastle building, to the rugged and adventurous Jennycliff Beach, ideal for rock pooling and family walks. The city also boasts clean waters and reliable public amenities, enhancing its appeal as a family destination.
Bournemouth – Barbecue Beaches and Panoramic Views
Coming in fourth is Bournemouth, one of southern England’s most popular beach resorts. Just 1.7 km from the train station, this beach is famous for its clear waters and panoramic views of the Isle of Wight and Purbeck Hills.
What sets Bournemouth apart is its public barbecue stations available through the summer months, allowing families to enjoy seaside picnics while saving on food expenses. With numerous cafes and kiosks lining the promenade, it’s easy to spend a full day here without having to leave the sand.
The pier offers amusement arcades and ziplining, while Bournemouth Oceanarium gives families an exciting indoor option during overcast days.
Great Yarmouth – Norfolk’s Expansive and Entertaining Escape
Rounding out the top five is Great Yarmouth, Norfolk’s beloved resort town offering 15 miles of golden sandy beaches. Just 1.7 km from the railway station, the beach is easily accessible and scored high for parking and water quality.
Great Yarmouth is particularly popular with families for its space and wide range of activities—from inflatable castles and fairground rides to donkey rides and arcades. The historic promenade, along with classic fish and chips and candy floss vendors, offers a true British seaside experience.
Kids can enjoy exploring the dunes or visiting nearby attractions like the SEA LIFE Centre Great Yarmouth and Joyland amusement park, making it a fun-filled yet affordable destination.
A Budget-Savvy Summer Break for British Families
The research behind this ranking was designed to simplify family holiday planning. A Shoe Zone spokesperson explained, “We wanted to eliminate the guesswork for families. By measuring essential criteria like toilet availability, water cleanliness, and proximity to transport, parents can confidently choose the right beach for their needs.”
The spokesperson also gave practical footwear advice, recommending trainers for pebbled beaches like Brighton, and flip-flops for sandy areas like Great Yarmouth.
Final Thoughts
With the cost of living continuing to affect travel decisions in the UK, these top-rated family beaches prove that unforgettable holidays don’t have to come with hefty price tags. From Brighton’s bustling pier to Scarborough’s historic charm, Plymouth’s diverse coastline, Bournemouth’s culinary flexibility, and Great Yarmouth’s vast recreational space, each destination offers families an excellent mix of fun, affordability, and convenience.
This summer, England’s coastline is not just a scenic getaway—it’s a practical choice for families aiming to create lasting memories on a manageable budget.
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