Friday, June 13, 2025
As the school summer holidays approach, UK parents are projected to spend around £1,000 per week on activities to keep their children entertained. A popular choice for families looking for a budget-friendly day out is the beach, where kids can enjoy endless hours of fun. With hundreds of family-friendly beaches across the UK, it can be tough to know which ones offer the best facilities and accessibility.
A recent study by Shoezone has evaluated the most family-friendly beaches in England and Wales, based on key factors like ease of access, parking availability, nearby amenities, and the cleanliness of the water. Here are the top five beaches that are perfect for families looking for a stress-free day by the sea.
1. Brighton – The Ultimate Family Destination
Brighton takes the top spot with a score of 75/100, making it the most family-friendly beach in England and Wales. With over 800 parking spaces, it’s incredibly convenient for families arriving by car. The beach is also just 0.6 km from the train station, making it an easy option for those traveling by public transport.
Brighton beach offers a fantastic selection of classic beachside food like fish and chips, as well as ice cream and snack vendors. Families can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the beach, while the water quality is excellent, making it a safe environment for kids to swim. Although the pebbly beach might not be ideal for some, the many nearby attractions, such as the iconic Brighton Pier and seafront cafes, ensure that there’s always something to keep everyone entertained.
2. Scarborough – A Seaside Classic
Ranked second with a score of 73.4/100, Scarborough is the best northern beach for families. This historic coastal town offers two large sandy bays that are perfect for children to play, build sandcastles, or simply relax by the sea. Located just 1 km from the train station, Scarborough is easily accessible for families traveling by public transport.
Scarborough excels in parking availability, toilet facilities, and food options, with plenty of traditional beach fare like fish and chips. Families can also enjoy attractions like amusement arcades and donkey rides, making it a classic seaside experience. The stunning views of Scarborough Castle only add to the beach’s appeal, offering both relaxation and exploration for the whole family.
3. Plymouth – Scenic and Family-Friendly
Plymouth ranks third with a score of 73.1/100. Although its nearest beach is a 10 km drive from the train station, Plymouth offers excellent parking with over 500 spaces and high-quality water for swimming. The beach has plenty of toilets and nearby food vendors, ensuring that families can spend the whole day at the beach without worrying about essentials.
The area boasts a variety of beaches, from the sandy Bovisand Bay to the pebbled Jennycliff Beach, providing a range of options for different preferences. With stunning coastal views and access to historical landmarks, Plymouth offers families a great combination of beach fun and cultural exploration.
4. Bournemouth – Warm Waters and Relaxing Atmosphere
Bournemouth takes fourth place, earning high marks for its accessibility and family-friendly amenities. The beach is located just 1.7 km from the train station, making it easy to reach. It’s also known for its warm waters, ideal for families with young children. With excellent water quality and a wide range of food options, Bournemouth provides a great environment for family outings.
One unique feature of Bournemouth is the availability of four communal beach BBQs, which are available to families from early summer through October. This makes it an affordable and enjoyable way to enjoy a meal by the beach. The stunning views of the Isle of Wight and the Purbecks add to the charm of this popular beach destination.
5. Great Yarmouth – A Spacious Beach for Families
Great Yarmouth rounds out the top five, scoring 72.4/100. This beach offers an expansive 15 miles of sandy coastline, giving families plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a peaceful beach day. It’s just 1.7 km from the train station and offers convenient parking for visitors.
Great Yarmouth is known for its clean water and ample provision of classic beach foods, such as fish and chips. The beach is ideal for families who want to enjoy activities like sandcastle building, playing in the surf, or exploring the sand dunes. The addition of bouncy castles and other beachside attractions make it an exciting option for kids.
The UK boasts numerous family-friendly beaches that cater to every need, whether it’s ease of access, good facilities, or pristine water quality. From Brighton’s iconic seafront to Great Yarmouth’s expansive sandy shores, these beaches ensure a memorable and enjoyable day out for families of all sizes. With ample amenities, beautiful views, and plenty of activities, these beaches provide the perfect setting for making lasting summer memories.
A spokesperson for shoezone said:
“We created this index to take the stress out of what should be a fun family day out. Parents can identify their nearest beach, know exactly what it offers and what they do or don’t need to pack. It’s advised to wear trainers or boots when navigating pebble beaches to help reduce any potential injuries. Whereas on sandy beaches flip-flops can be worn without any worries of stubbed toes.”
