Britain’s best homes by the sea

The British seaside is a nostalgic affair for any Brit, and for the lucky few who live right on the shore, it’s also a part of everyday life. Imagine lazy mornings, tea in bed and views of the water from your living room.

From the rugged Scottish shoreline to the pretty Cornish coast, the snug bed & breakfasts and welcoming guest houses dotted around will afford you all the home comforts you’re used to, while keeping you close to the sea. According to our travellers, these are some of Britain’s best.

Washington House, Nairn

Enter the duck egg blue door of Washington House and you’ll quickly see why guests rate the property so highly. In keeping with its grand stone facade, a muted grey palette runs through the home showcasing its period features in full, and the dark ornate staircase, tartan flooring pattern and arched entrance all bring out the glamour in this Victorian villa.

Head upstairs to your room and you’ll be greeted with a king-size bed (or twin should you choose), a dark blue feature wall and most importantly, a sea view. All rooms are ensuite, and the bathrooms are decorated in metro and patterned tiles.

Tuck into a homemade breakfast in the morning, before a walk down to arguably one of the UK’s top beaches – only four minutes away.

Ty Carthen Town House, Llandudno

You’ll find Ty Carthen Town House in the seaside town of Llandudno, up in northern Wales. Only a 6-minute walk from the beach, it’s a late Georgian property that boasts a lot of original character alongside its modern facilities.

Soft yellows and blues give the home some contemporary appeal, but neutral cream furnishings and local Welsh artwork help maintain the country look. All rooms come with a private bathroom, so freshen up before taking advantage of the property’s bike hire, as you glide down to the pebble and sand beaches of Llandudno.

Holywell Bay B&B, Newquay

With views of the rolling hills surrounding it, Holywell Bay B&B has more than just proximity to the ocean to boast about. Built in 2015, its modern, open-plan kitchen and dining area is an ideal spot to indulge in both the gorgeous Cornish countryside and the continental breakfast on offer.
The views don’t end there however – the double room and ensuite has its own outdoor dining area too. Sit out there and rest up, or head down to the beach, which is just a picturesque 9-minute walk away.

The Langbury, Blue Anchor

Just north of the beautiful Exmoor National Park, The Langbury provides you with an idyllic English countryside escape, while also keeping you within walking distance of the sea. Hidden away in the sleepy coastal village of Blue Anchor, this salmon pink Edwardian home stands on its own grounds, but expect to be hypnotised by the views beyond them. Rugged and undulating Exmoor stands tall on one side, while on the other, the Bristol Channel shimmers, with Wales just about visible in the distance.

Luckily, all the rooms come with sea views and the property even has a swimming pool for guests who want a soak without the sand. Breakfasts are a generous affair, so when you’re fed and watered, take a short 2-minute walk to the beach for a quick dip or dive straight into the pool before lunch.

Tyndale B&B, Torquay

While Torquay might have made a name for itself due a certain hotel-themed show, Tyndale B&B is proof that top-notch hospitality and amicable hosts are never far away. A large Victorian house just 12 minutes from the beach, inside, bright teal walls and accents compliment the plush armchairs and contemporary arc lamps, bring this period property into the present.

However, it’s the hosts who will make your stay truly worthwhile. Cheesecake and tea on arrival, gluten-free and vegetarian breakfast options, and chocolates in your room are just a few touches that will steal your heart (and stomach).

Glandwr Mill, Barmouth

A house, granary and mill, Glandwr Mill is an elegant 17th-century style bed and breakfast and close to two bodies of water – the river Mawddach and Cardigan Bay. Pairing country style and coastal location, it’s the kind of home away from home you go looking for.

Stroll through the manicured garden before afternoon tea in the south-facing lounge, where the bay window provides you with views overlooking the estuary and the rugged Cader Idris ridge.
The luxurious farmhouse-style bedrooms have gorgeous vistas as well – taking in the view while bathing in the morning light will make getting up even more difficult. A slightly longer walk down to Barmouth Beach or an 8-minute drive will have you relaxing on its long, golden sands before you know it.