New research has analysed the cost of a standard vanilla scoop cone across UK seaside destinations, and the results could sway where you'll be spending your summer08:42, 03 Jul 2026As families flock to the British coast this summer, soaking up the scenery along the UK's stunning shoreline, there's one seaside ritual that's practically unavoidable — tucking into an ice cream.‌However, new research has revealed this seemingly simple pleasure could be making a far bigger dent in your wallet than anticipated, with one unexpected coastal gem standing out as a welcome exception.‌Credit card specialists Zable conducted new research analysing the price of a standard vanilla scoop cone across several UK seaside destinations, and the findings could well influence where you decide to spend your summer.‌It turns out that your choice of day trip or weekend getaway can have a significant impact on your budget, with some families shelling out as much as £15.40 for even the most basic round of ice creams.By contrast, the picturesque seaside town of Barton-on-Sea has emerged as the most budget-friendly spot to enjoy an ice cream, with a single scoop costing just £1.95. What's more, a two-scoop cone in the Hampshire coastal village is estimated to average at £3.55.‌The charming clifftop village of Barton-on-Sea not only holds the newly crowned title of the UK's most affordable seaside destination for ice cream, but it also boasts an abundance of stunning natural surroundings. Tucked away within the charming village of New Milton, Hampshire, lies a beach that retains a wonderfully unspoilt character.Pristine, well-maintained and refreshingly free from overcrowding, it's the ideal spot to kick back and soak up the sun.One visitor shared their experience at Barton-on-Sea beach, leaving a Google review which states: "This is a fantastic beach spot for families. It has everything you need for a relaxing and enjoyable day by the sea. The area is very convenient, with clean toilet facilities and several nearby restaurants for food and drinks.‌"At the entrance to the beach there's also a lively ice-cream shop with incredibly friendly staff, which really adds to the welcoming atmosphere."It appears there are two much-loved spots to pick up an affordable ice cream, both recognised on Tripadvisor as the 'Top Ice Cream in Barton-on-Sea'. The first is The Beachcomber, a seaside restaurant that, according to reviews, boasts an attached ice cream shop with stunning views over the water.‌The second is Little Pebbles, a restaurant which doubles as a daytime café, serving up delicious ice cream to locals and visitors alike as the waves lap gently at the shore. Visitors regularly descend on the area to savour a clifftop stroll, soaking up sweeping views stretching as far as the Isle of Wight, or to try their luck at fossil hunting along the shoreline.Far removed from the chaos of busier tourist hotspots, this is a peaceful little gem — and it appears the prices are pretty reasonable too.At the complete opposite end of the scale, the research identifies Porthmadog as the priciest seaside destination for an ice cream, with a single scoop setting you back £3.85.Article continues belowThat means a family of four treating themselves to a round of single scoops can expect to fork out £15.40 on average — and it's difficult to imagine just how much steeper the bill would be with any added extras.