Beautiful UK seaside town is so well rated it keeps winning awards

If you are looking for classic, there is no shortage of that will fit the bill. However, if you are looking for the best of the best, then there is one destination that should be at the top of your list.

This seaside town in the historic North Riding of is home to one of the most impressive stretches of the English coastline. (commonly referred to as Saltburn) is well known for its distinct Victorian character.

Once a quiet fishing hamlet, Saltburn became a hub for smuggling activities in the 18th century. Luckily, the introduction of a railway and investment from Sir Henry Pease in the mid 1800s remarketed the town as a bathing resort.

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According to local lore, Saltburn only came to be because of a prophetic vision of Sir Henry Pease. Sir Pease envisioned a nameless town rising from the clifftop, where a quiet glen swept into beautiful gardens. Saltburn stands as that vision realised.

Perched on a cliff overlooking the and a golden sand beach, Saltburn has become a beloved staycation destination in recent years. The town still maintains its allure, aided by the historic funicular railway that carries locals and tourists to and from the beach.

Constructed in 1884, the is the oldest cliff lift of its kind in the UK and an iconic feat of Victorian engineering. The cliff lift—or the 173 adjacent steps—will take you straight down to the pier, another iconic Victorian landmark of the area.

One of the best ways to enjoy Saltburn's picturesque views is by taking the Cliff Lift from Marine Parade. Those more athletically inclined can reach the pier below by taking the 173-step staircase adjacent to the railway.

Another remnant of its Victorian past, the Saltburn pier extends out into the North Sea for 200 metres and first opened in 1869. Today, the pier is one of the last remaining pleasure piers on the North East coast of England and a great place to try and spot dolphins and seals.

While near the pier, head to the Seaview Restaurant for a bite of fish and chips. Not only will you be enjoying the best fare in town, but you'll be helping support local fishermen as part of the Responsible Scheme to protect marine life.

After a visit to the , head to Saltburn beach which you may be surprised to learn is a hotspot for surfers. Saltburn beach is said to be one of the best surf destinations along this stretch of the North Sea coast. The beach's north-facing orientation allows it to pick up more swell than neighbouring beaches.

The sand and shingle has a lifeguard service and is largely protected from wind by the Huntcliff headland. Another key characteristic is the Saltburn Miniature Railway which runs from the beach through a woodland valley to offer views of the town's natural beauty.

The beach is enjoyable all through summer but you may want to plan your visit around the town's international Food Festival. The event has drawn crowds of up to 20,000 people in its heyday and is set to take place next Sunday, July 27, 2025.

The 3-day Saltburn Folk Festival is another event to keep on your radar this summer. Boasting an incredible line-up of live music performances, dance workshops and musician sessions, the festival will run from August 8 to August 10, 2025.