Looking for the perfect seaside escape this Easter? Brighton has just been crowned the best family-friendly beach in England and Wales, making it the top spot for a sunny, stress-free day out.
In a new ranking by Shoezone, 52 beaches across England and Wales were scored on everything that matters to families — from parking and transport links to toilet availability, beach food, and water cleanliness. Brighton beach came out on top with a score of 75 out of 100, thanks to its impressive parking options (over 800 spaces) and easy access from the train station, just 0.6km away.
Though Brighton’s beach is pebbled (so pack some comfy footwear!), it’s the only platinum-ranked pebble beach, making it a standout for both convenience and amenities.
With the Easter holidays in full swing and temperatures climbing, now’s the perfect time to explore family-friendly coastal spots. The study also revealed that East Sussex and Dorset are the top regions for family beaches. East Sussex shines with Brighton (platinum), Hastings, and Eastbourne (both gold). Dorset, meanwhile, boasts four top-rated destinations: Bournemouth (platinum), Poole and Weymouth (gold), and Lyme Regis (bronze).
Whether you’re after a classic fish and chips by the sea, easy access, or clean water for the kids to splash around in, these beaches deliver.
England & Wales’ Best Ranked Beaches:
- Brighton, East Sussex
- Scarborough, North Yorkshire
- Plymouth, Devon
- Bournemouth, Dorset
- Great Yarmouth, Norfolk
Devon’s Lynmouth is the closest beach to a train station at just 0.2km away and to add to the family fun it is accessed via the highest and steepest water powered railway in the world.
There’s no need to pack a lunch if you visit Yorkshire’s Scarborough as it is home to the most fish and chip shops (43) and ice cream vendors (26), despite its beach being just 2.5km long.
On the other end of the scale, Norfolk’s Hunstanton scores just 12.5/100 on the index for its beaches with limited parking opportunities, a 26.8km trek to the nearest train station, a lack of family amenities and the lowest ocean water quality score.
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.”