There’s much more to the seaside just than fish and chips – although, don’t worry, there’s still plenty of that too. From freshly caught seafood and local produce to sourdough pizza, artisan coffee and inventive small plates, Britain’s coastal towns are becoming increasingly exciting places to eat.
Talented chefs are putting local ingredients and seasonality centre stage, while independent cafés, bakeries, restaurants and street-food traders are bringing fresh energy to the coast. Even the humble chippy has upped its game, with greater attention paid to the quality and provenance of the fish and the perfect crispness of the batter.
In once-faded resorts, old seaside favourites are being joined by farmers’ markets, pop-ups and destination restaurants. Today, a great meal can be just as much a reason to visit the coast as the sea view and salty air itself. Here are seven seaside towns where you’ll find plenty to tempt your tastebuds – as well as jaw-dropping landscapes.
St Mawes, Cornwall
The Hidden Hut in Portscatho is a 15-minute drive from St Mawes (Photo: Ed Schofield)
