Top 10 Beach Houses in the UK

Brits have a new-found (or maybe rediscovered) love for staycations. Gone are the days when holidaying in the UK meant drab caravan accommodation, miserable weather, and bored children. Holidays in the UK are now about outdoor adventures, culture-filled weekends, pretty scenery, and downright stylish places to stay – and yes, even beach breaks. The UK coastline is punctuated by all manner of sandy stretches, cute bays and fun-filled promenades, so we thought we’d list our top 10 beach houses in the UK. You don’t need to hop on a plane and go abroad for a beach holiday, explore what’s on your doorstep instead and check out these places right on the coast!

1. Marine House, Hampshire

Sleeps 15-22 | Dog friendly
Nearest beach: Southsea (100m)
Best for: Multi-generational holidays

This holiday home is in the perfect location within the bustling seaside resort of Southsea, only 10 10-minute drive from Portsmouth, and super close to the beach! Everyone’s tastes will be catered for here, kids will enjoy the proximity to the beach (and the PS4 in the house!), and adults will appreciate the bar, sauna and hot tub! The whole family can snuggle down for movie nights in the cinema room and come together for sunny barbecues on the garden terrace.
P.S. You can even organise additional drinks and a cocktail package if you wish!

2. Beach Bay Cottage, Devon

Sleeps 8 | Dog friendly
Nearest beach: Croyde Beach (1.5km)
Best for: Beach hopping and outdoor adventures

This bright and airy cottage is set in the heart of the village of Croyde, so perfectly placed if you don’t want to venture far, as there are pubs, shops, restaurants, and beaches all within walking distance. The inside of the cottage is contemporary and lovingly decorated, giving it a homely feel and the outdoor terrace is perfect for alfresco dining and a good old soak in the hot tub. The sandy beaches of Croyde, Saunton Sands and Putsborough are all nearby, offering great surf (Croyde has been voted one of the best surfing beaches in the world), kayaking, SUP and beach yoga. Alternatively, there’s the Tarka Trail, which is great for avid cyclists, and a variety of walking trails with stunning coastal views.

3. Seafront Haven, Sussex

Sleeps 10 | Dog friendly
Nearest beach: Middleton-on-Sea Beach (0km)
Best for: A classy seaside holiday

You get the best of both worlds from this chic retreat – you can stay close to home and enjoy the unrivalled coastal views from the comfort of your own terrace (hot tub or dining area… your choice!). Or stroll to the nearby village of Middleton, with its lively character, quaint shops, and seaside town atmosphere. Visit the local butcher shop to stock up on ingredients for an at-home feast to cook on your very own BBQ. And if you’re craving a taste of seaside tradition, ring in your order for fish and chips, a local favourite crafted with love by the same team as the butcher’s.

4. St Ives Cottage, Cornwall

Sleeps 8
Nearest beach: Carbis Bay (800m)
Best for: Taking it easy/grown-up fun

If you’re looking for somewhere to dial back the pace and enjoy a slower style of living, then look no further than this gem in charming Carbis Bay. Being in an elevated position, the cottage commands breathtaking views of the bay, Godrevy lighthouse and the North Cornwall coastline, and the panoramic full-length windows frame it perfectly. The open-plan living area opens out to the spacious sun deck and garden, with a BBQ area to make the most of those sunny summer days. Being situated in a seaside town means beach days are easy, and if you want to turn it up a notch, St Ives is only a stone’s throw away with all of its activities, attractions and art.

5. Sandcrest Cottage, Cornwall

Sleeps 6 | Dog friendly
Nearest beach: Sits on Mawgan Porth
Best for: Surf-lovers and foodies

Forget everything you thought you knew about cottages because this light and airy showstopper only a few yards from the beach blows any idea you had about them out of the water! Instagrammable interiors are the backdrop to your chill-out spaces, and you’ve got the choice between two places to have a soak and admire the views: the hot tub overlooking the beach, and – unusually – a roll-top bath on the terrace! The beach on your doorstep is well-known for its surfing, with its own surf school… and neighbouring Watergate Bay is a famous surf spot! Foodies will enjoy the great selection of high-quality eateries such as Jamie Oliver’s Fifteen Restaurant, Rick Stein’s Seafood Restaurant and the award-winning Blue Ribbon Bay restaurant, all nearby. Those looking to truly disconnect from the outside world will be pleased to hear there’s no mobile signal at the cottage – the perfect spot for a coastal detox!

6. The Breakers Beach House, Kent

Sleeps 7-11
On the beach
Best for: Enjoying the sunrise over the beach

The Breakers Beach House is a stunning seaside retreat on the Kent Coast. Nestled on an exclusive private road in Sandgate, this stylish home offers direct beach access, panoramic sea views, and even a glimpse of France on clear days! Just minutes from local gastropubs and Folkestone Harbour, it’s the perfect base for exploring Kent’s charming villages and attractions. The location is unbeatable, with a quiet pebble beach at your doorstep and Sandgate’s antique shops, pubs, and cafés just a stroll away. Walk the coastal path to Folkestone’s Creative Quarter or explore nearby gems like Dover Castle, Rye, and Whitstable. Wake up to breathtaking sunrises from the beachfront terrace, perfect for morning coffee or evening BBQs, and soak in the seaside charm. 

7. Ope Lodge, Dorset

Sleeps 4
Nearest beach: Church Ope Cove
Best for: A romantic getaway

Set in the Dorset Castle Estate this idyllic lodge is perched on rugged clifftops, with remarkable sea views out to Church Ope Cove and beyond. Cosy up indoors while soaking up the coastal views, or take it outside and bask in the sun while alfresco dining. The modern, minimalist interiors give off a sophisticated vibe, and you can easily go for a romantic stroll down the beach – or if you’re looking for a longer walk, the island (Ope Lodge is located on the Isle of Portland) has plenty of walking trails on offer. Whether you’re a couple of couples or just the two of you, it’s the perfect coastal escape.

8. Tuath Na Mara, Northern Ireland

Sleeps 7-9 | Dog friendly
On the beach
Best for: Rugged wilderness and raw coastal beauty

This villa is striking in every sense of the word – from the design of the villa (by the award-winning MacGabhann Architects) to its scenic backdrop and surrounding wilderness. The open-plan living spaces are great for socialising, and the panoramic views from the floor-to-ceiling windows are simply next level. You’re spoiled for choice when it comes to the outdoors: direct beach access is great for those wanting to stay closer to home, and even the gorgeous Ballymastocker Beach is only a 15-minute walk away. Alternatively, the enchanting Glenveagh National Park, with its lakes, mountains and waterfalls, is only 45 minutes away… the ultimate day out for the outdoor explorer!

9. Sunshine House, Sussex

Sleeps 10-11
Nearest beach: Norman’s Bay
Best for: Family fun in the British sun

10. Pebbeline House, Cornwall

Sleeps 10
Nearest beach: 30 metres away
Best for: Group getaways 

Just because you’re going on a staycation doesn’t mean you have to forgo the beach aspect of your holiday, these beach houses in the UK are our favourite places to stay if you’re looking for that beachside break. But they’re not our only ones – have a look at the rest of our UK coastal collection to see what tickles your fancy. If you need help, our friendly concierge team are just an email away.

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