Top News

Best seaside town in the UK named with Blue Flag beach and independent shops
Reach Daily Express | May 6, 2026 10:39 AM CST

Nestled along the Pembrokeshire Coast National Park, this delightful village is easily overlooked. With so much to discover along this stunning stretch of coastline, from the classic seaside town of Tenby to the family-friendly Pendine Sands, it's hardly surprising.

Saundersfoot has long been overshadowed by its neighbours as a coastal destination, yet it has now claimed the top spot on Time Out's list of the 16 best seaside towns in the UK. The publication described it as "an energetic village with one of Wales' best-looking beaches", highlighting its beachfront saunas, independent eateries, and Blue Flag beach.

Its expansive sandy beach is patrolled by lifeguards throughout the summer, allowing visitors to take a refreshing dip in the shallow waters. Adjacent to the beach lies a picturesque harbour where you can watch small fishing vessels returning to shore, while browsing an array of surf shops, charming cafés and snack shacks serving ice cream.

While leisurely strolls along the promenade are a must, the sea views are far from the only attraction. A series of historic tunnels, formerly part of a railway line, are open to walkers, guiding you directly through the cliff face. The coastal walk from the town to Wisemans Bridge offers numerous opportunities to stop for a cup of tea on the beach, or to explore rock pools at low tide.

Away from the seafront, Saundersfoot boasts a compact high street featuring typical seaside shops, with a strong emphasis on independent businesses, making it the perfect spot to pick up artisanal souvenirs and arts and crafts. Nearby, you'll find the delightfully old-fashioned Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, a holiday park boasting its own fairground complete with vintage rides including carousels and dodgems. There's also a charming small zoo with a barn where children can get up close and interact with a variety of friendly animals, reports the Mirror.

Manor Wildlife Park is equally just a short drive away. This open-air zoo features a number of trails where visitors can spot exotic creatures from across the globe, and offers both an indoor soft play area and outdoor playground, catering for all weather conditions.

Along the seafront, there are several accommodation options, including the St Brides Spa Hotel, renowned for its breathtaking clifftop views across the harbour and beach. The Gower Hotel provides classic seaside hotel charm, offering three-star accommodation alongside a bar and restaurant serving freshly-caught fish from the sea just moments away.

Despite its newly acquired accolade, Saundersfoot remains a relatively affordable coastal property destination. According to Zoopla, the average house price last year stood at £279,000, making it a more budget-friendly option for seaside living compared to many other towns featured on the Time Out list.

Have a story you want to share? Email us at webtravel@reachplc.com


READ NEXT
Cancel OK