This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK).

At the turn of the century, numerous micro and macro factors converged, ranging from diminished transport links to the rise of affordable foreign holidays, leading to the decline of Britains once-thriving seaside towns. The fallout from this economic retreat was devastating, and few coastal communities managed to escape its harsh effects.

Fast forward to 2025, and the landscape has transformed remarkably. Much like the decline was multi-faceted, the resurgence of these towns is also a product of an intricate web of influences. Factors such as the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, skepticism towards air travel, and the attraction of the great outdoors are playing pivotal roles. Additionally, the pandemic has spurred a boom in staycations, drawing tourists back to local shores.

While its evident that remnants of decline still lingerboarded-up shops and buildings with peeling paintwork can still be foundthe vibrancy of these towns is undeniable. New galleries and cutting-edge art installations have emerged, complementing a rich array of cultural and culinary offerings. Many towns now boast thriving creative quarters and a renewed sense of community spirit.

With iconic attractions like Tate St Ives and the forthcoming 100 million Eden Project in Morecambe contributing to the momentum, these once-glittering jewels of the UK tourism sector are beginning to reclaim their former glory. Here are seven remarkable destinations to visit this summer.

Margate

Margate, located on the eastern tip of Kent, serves as an exemplary model for how a seaside town can overcome seasonality challenges. When inclement weather sends visitors fleeing from its expansive 656ft sandy beaches, this town offers a near-endless array of distractionsfrom artistic experiences to vintage shopping, and traditional seaside fun. The cultural renaissance spearheaded by the Turner Contemporary gallery has been a catalyst for change, but its the towns strong sense of community that has truly ignited its revival.

Why visit? Dreamland, a historic amusement park and outdoor events venue rejuvenated in 2015, continues to thrive, featuring a stellar lineup of performers this summer, including The Libertines and Basement Jaxx.

Where to eat: Dont miss the open days at The Perfect Place to Grow, a training kitchen designed for underprivileged youth adjacent to Tracey Emins TKE Studios. Angelas, nestled in the charming Old Town, is a tiny seafood restaurant and hotel that enjoys a stellar reputation among locals.

Where to stay: No 42 by GuestHouse, which opened in the summer of 2023, boasts an enviable beachfront location and stylish accommodations, including the brands signature Pearly Cow surf-and-turf restaurant.

Penzance

The renaissance of Cornwalls western hub, Penzance, has been gradual rather than abrupt, marked by various projects, revivals, and openings over the past decade. Festivals have played a crucial role in this revitalization, with events like the Golowana 10-day celebration featuring parades and art displaysand the revived Montol festival drawing crowds. The culinary scene has flourished, and visitors now arrive via the Night Riviera sleeper train from London. Additionally, enhanced helicopter and ferry services to the Isles of Scilly make Penzance an appealing twin-centre holiday destination.

Why visit? The refreshed Penlee House Gallery & Museum not only hosts art exhibitions but also offers workshops and film screenings amid its picturesque semi-tropical gardens, where visitors can indulge in Cornish cream teas.

Where to eat: Barbican Bistro, a stone's throw from Penzance harbor, serves delectable seafood dishes, including scallops with chorizo and salt and pepper squid with harissa mayo.

Where to stay: The Artist Residence Cornwall, situated within a historic Georgian inn, offers charming accommodations featuring exposed brick work and stunning sea views from its 22 rooms.

Barmouth

Often overshadowed by its more famous North Welsh neighbors such as Eryri (Snowdonia) and the Lln Peninsula, Barmouth lies gracefully along the edge of the Mawddach estuary. Known for its tagline, For mountain, sand, and sea, this coastal town boasts a scenic west-facing beach and majestic peaks that provide a stunning backdrop. The community is characterized by an influx of visitors-turned-residents, a testament to the pride and camaraderie that fuel its revitalization.

Why visit? The ongoing battle to maintain the 2,690ft-long Barmouth Viaduct is an engineering marvel recently restored at a cost of 30 million, making it a perfect time to stroll across its picturesque spans. For the more adventurous, the annual 10k run in June is often dubbed the countrys most scenic race, traversing the length of the viaduct.

Where to eat: The Lobster Pot, located by the Quay, is famous for its dressed crab and seafood linguine, all enjoyed in a casual atmosphere with views of the surrounding hills.

Where to stay: The town features numerous striking properties crafted from local grey dolerite and slate, with Aber House standing out for its robust design and prime location between the harbor, beach, and shops.

Scarborough

Scarborough, a North Yorkshire town, can lay claim to being Britains first seaside resort, with health-giving springs drawing visitors since the early 17th century. However, its decline was prolonged, and while its recovery is ongoing, the town is making strides toward a brighter future. The strategy to attract a diverse clientele hinges on offering an eclectic blend of events and attractions, ranging from poetry recitals to punk festivals, while still catering to traditional beachgoers on the sun-trap beaches of South Bay and the Blue Flag North Bay Beach.

Why visit? Nostalgic visitors will relish strolling through the revamped Esplanade and Italian gardens, as well as taking in the imposing Grand Hotel, which was once the largest hotel in Europe upon its completion in 1867. The century-old Open Air Theatre, reopened in 2010, now draws some of the biggest names in music, often showcasing nostalgic revivals. A 20 million transformation of the historic West Pier is also underway, promising to inject new life into the waterfront.

Where to eat: BellyRub, an informal, dog-friendly craft beer bar, specializes in inventive comfort food, including a unique twist on black pudding, chorizo, and bacon fries.

Where to stay: Bike & Boot, aptly named, caters to outdoor enthusiasts with its lively atmosphere and no-nonsense pizza and burger offerings in its hybrid bar/restaurant/caf.

Weymouth

Weymouth has experienced a notable revival since hosting the sailing events for the 2012 Olympics, although the journey hasnt been entirely smooth. However, the town is now riding a wave of success. Its gently shelving beach, which is meticulously maintained during the summer months, features new drinking fountains and free showers. Coupled with the town's elegant Regency townhouses and well-kept parks and gardens, Weymouth functions excellently as both a standalone holiday destination and a convenient stop for hikers tackling the adjacent Chesil Beach or the South West Coast Path.

Why visit? The towns reputation for deckchairs and donkey rides belies a wealth of historical attractions, including the melancholic ruins of Henry VIIIs Sandsfoot Castle and the award-winning Nothe Fort, which recently unveiled its nuclear bunker.

Where to eat: Situated on the harbor, Catch at the Old Fish Market serves innovative seafood dishes crafted from the freshest ingredients, boasting a Michelin Guide mention that draws crowdsso its advisable to book well in advance.

Where to stay: The Gresham, a four-star hotel housed in a listed townhouse, is just an eight-second dash from the beach, offering a dozen rooms and a hearty breakfast to fuel your day.

Whitley Bay

Whitley Bay encapsulates a spirit of regeneration that has not gone unnoticedthe Sunday Times recognized it as one of the best places to live in the UK in 2024. With a vibrant schedule of summer events, two miles of golden sandy beaches, and some of the North Easts best indie shopping in the trendy Park View area, the town makes for an excellent visit.

Why visit? When the invigorating wind sweeps in from the North Sea, visitors should head for the domed Spanish City, a scaled-down version of Brightons Royal Pavilion. Since its reopening after a 10 million restoration, the venue boasts award-winning fish and chips, lavish afternoon teas, and top-tier restaurants. The towns next target for revitalization is the century-old Empress Ballroom, which is set to become an entertainment hub featuring food stalls, a spacious roof terrace, and live entertainment.

Where to eat: Horticulture Coastal promises a delightful atmosphere and locally sourced cuisine, and its the sister restaurant of the acclaimed Coastal, located just 30 minutes away by Metro in Newcastle.

Where to stay: The York House Hotel is a boutique property featuring 14 well-appointed rooms, conveniently located near Whitley Park and just a five-minute walk from the beach.