The town in Wales has been hailed as one of the UK's best seaside spots praised for its natural beauty, beach and vintage shopping and exceptional food scene08:28, 02 Jul 2026This historic coastal gem tucked along the Welsh shoreline boasts a thriving cultural and culinary scene, according to travel enthusiasts who hold it in the highest regard.‌The UK's coastline is capturing people's attention now more than ever, thanks to the launch of the much-anticipated King Charles III Coastal Path, which makes the entirety of the UK completely walkable. From secluded coastal villages to iconic seaside resorts, people are beginning to discover destinations they might never have otherwise encountered.‌With that in mind, Time Out has compiled its list of 14 unmissable seaside destinations to visit in 2026, with their number five pick nestled along the Welsh coast.‌Perched where Ceredigion meets Pembrokeshire lies the charming town of Cardigan, which features at number eight on Time Out's list. Its stunning natural beauty played a significant part in securing its lofty ranking, complemented by its mouth-watering dining options and vibrant venues that bring a youthful, energetic spirit to this historic town.Though it may appear traditional at first glance, once you settle in, it quickly becomes apparent that Cardigan has far more to offer than initially meets the eye. Seamlessly blending the old with the new, Cardigan is a thriving hub for food lovers and independent shoppers alike, all set against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery and fascinating historic landmarks.‌Eating out and shoppingCardigan boasts a wonderful mix of independent retailers, both established and newly opened, with a wealth of vintage and antique shops perfect for a spot of treasure hunting.One particularly well-loved destination is The Projects, nestled along Middle Mwldan — hard to miss thanks to a stunning oversized mural adorning its doors — where homeware and second-hand furniture offer an ever-changing array of household finds.Those after a proper rummage can also uncover vintage gems at DJK Collectables and Keith's Antiques in the market.‌Mundos is another must-visit, stocking a charming selection of gifts and clothing, while fashion enthusiasts simply cannot skip the iconic Hiut Denim factory. Visitors can witness first-hand where the celebrated Hiut jeans are crafted — famously spotted on Meghan Markle.When it comes to dining, Cardigan punches well above its weight for such a compact town, offering a diverse range of cuisines across a variety of settings, with Time Out highlighting several standout venues. The publication singled out Crwst for its "sickeningly good brunch", a spot that has featured on numerous lists of Britain's finest bakeries.Grain also earned a mention for delivering "impeccable pizza and pints" alongside a laid-back riverside courtyard setting. Meanwhile, the traditional boozer the Castle Inn keeps the good times rolling with a packed calendar of pub quizzes, live music and comedy nights for those reluctant to call it a night.‌Historic and natural spotsAt the centre of this charming town stands the impressive Cardigan Castle, perched above the river and steeped in over 800 years of Welsh literary and musical heritage. Throughout the year, it plays host to a diverse calendar of events, activities and experiences suitable for all ages, ranging from festivals to workshops and exhibitions.A mere 10-minute drive from the town centre brings you to Mwnt Beach, where you'll discover not only stunning vistas across the sea from a tranquil bay but also the opportunity to spot bottlenose dolphins. The beach draws visitors year-round and remains a cherished destination for locals seeking a swim or a stroll up to the quaint church nestled at the foot of the hill.Article continues belowOne TripAdvisor review reads: "We have been here many times, and we never get tired with the Beaty of Mwnt. The church is lovely and quaint, but the beach is just wonderful."We have been paddleboarding in the past only to be joined by seals, which is so pleasurable. Mwnt is so beautiful any time of the year."It's clear to see why, with its delightful mix of heritage and modern appeal, this coastal town deserves a place on your must-visit list for 2026.