The UK’s coastline is among the best in the world and on a sunny day can rival the Mediterranean – so, of course, eyes turn to the seaside
12:31, 04 Aug 2025Updated 17:16, 04 Aug 2025
St Ives is one of Cornwall’s most visited spots(Image: Getty)
The summer holidays are in full swing, and with sizzling weather on the horizon, many people are looking for a quick getaway without the bother of going overseas. Despite often being underestimated, parts of the UK’s coastline are among the best in the world, and on a sunny day, they can give the Mediterranean a run for its money – so naturally, all eyes are on the Cornish coast.
Now, one coastal town tucked away in its own corner of the Cornish coast has wowed visitors, earning it the title of the nation’s top seaside view. According to a recent survey, sunny St Ives has been recognised for its breathtaking natural landscape that you can sit back and enjoy for hours on end.
Haven and OnePoll.com surveyed 2,000 Brits about their favourite sea views, and the crystal clear waters of Cornwall stood out. Of course, St Ives has long been a beloved spot for tourists – and locals, especially when the tourists aren’t around.
As we all know, bordered by golden beaches – some popular with surfers too – and paired with its quaint harbour that houses just a few smaller sailboats, it’s not hard to see why Brits love it so much and flock there in large numbers.
But for anyone planning a visit who doesn’t intend to spend the whole day gazing out at the sea, St Ives offers plenty of activities.
As a cultural hub, the town is home to the Tate’s most westerly gallery branch, whilst Barbara Hepworth’s former home with its sculpture-adorned garden lies just around the corner. The more intimate Porthminster Gallery displays outstanding regional artists, reports Cornwall Live.
With numerous delighted visitors keen to share glowing reviews, one recent holidaymaker wrote on Tripadvisor: “Beautiful place to visit. The beaches are stunning, and not everywhere is overpriced.”
Meanwhile, another observed: “The bay and beaches are clean and have picturesque and dramatic views to chill out just watching from a cafe, restaurant or picnicking.”
A remarkably well-preserved main street – Fore Street – serves as testament to its captivating history and lasting appeal, it’s claimed. Reflecting on the results, Simon Palethorpe, the CEO at Haven, noted: “It goes to prove you don’t need to go far from home to get picture postcard views and scenery.”
England’s southwestern shoreline emerged as a preferred option in the survey which assembled a top 30 ranking, with Padstow claiming third position and Hayle at 16th. Ilfracombe (7th) and Salcombe (11th), in Devon also made the cut.
Here are the top 30 breathtaking UK coastal views.
1. St Ives, Cornwall.
2. Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire.
3. Padstow, Cornwall.
4. Portree, Isle of Skye.
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire.
6. Poole, Dorset.
7. Ilfracombe, North Devon.
8. Portmeirion, Gwynedd.
9. Shanklin, Isle of Wight
10. South Downs.
11. Salcombe, Devon.
12. Weymouth, Dorset.
13. Brighton, East Sussex.
14. Llandudno, Conwy.
15. Bournemouth, Dorset.
16. Hayle, Cornwall.
17. Filey, North Yorkshire.
18. Porthmadog, Gwynedd.
19. Southwold, Suffolk.
20. Lydstep, Pembrokeshire.
21. Stromness, Orkney.
22. Berwick, North East.
23. Great Yarmouth beach.
24. Lochinver, Sutherland.
25. Tynemouth, Tyne and Wear.
26. Hastings, East Sussex.
27. Whitstable, Kent.
28. Plockton, Ross and Cromarty.
29. Aberystwyth, Ceredigion.
30. Pwhelli, North Wales.