I've been to 3,000 pubs to find the perfect seaside pint spot – here are the country's best you MUST visit

Importance Score: 30 / 100 🔵


Discovering Britain’s Finest Seaside Pubs: A Coastal Tour

For aficionados of **British pub culture**, few experiences rival the pleasure of enjoying a refreshing drink in a traditional pub with a stunning sea view. Across the UK, **seaside pubs** offer a unique charm, perfectly blending the nation’s love for convivial atmospheres with breathtaking **coastal scenery**. From beachfront inns to harbour taverns and cliff-top retreats, these **coastal havens** provide the ideal setting to savour local ales and embrace the maritime spirit. Embark on a journey to explore some of the most exceptional **waterfront pubs** in Britain.

South East Coastal Pubs

Ye Olde White Harte, Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex

Nestled in the attractive yachting town of Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex, Ye Olde White Harte is a historic inn dating back to the 1650s. This red brick and timber pub exudes character and atmosphere, overlooking the River Crouch as it expands into the sea. Situated on the Dengie peninsula, near the town’s marina, it provides a captivating setting, whether under sunny skies or amidst a dramatic storm.

The Rose and Crown, Wivenhoe, Essex

Despite appearing inland on maps, Wivenhoe is a long-established port town shielded from North Sea gales by Mersea Island. The Rose and Crown, a favoured local pub in this picturesque corner of Essex, boasts a superb location. Patrons can relax at outdoor tables and watch yachts glide by, making its brewery affiliation a minor drawback outweighed by the idyllic setting.

The Crooked Billet, Leigh-on-Sea, Essex

Leigh-on-Sea’s seaside area retains the charm of a former fishing village, bordered by a railway line and nestled beside larger suburban developments. The Crooked Billet, a 16th-century wood-panelled pub, stands out among several local establishments. It captures a nostalgic ambiance reminiscent of day trips, with the Thames Estuary meeting the North Sea just behind it, adding to its allure.

The Queen’s Head, Maldon, Essex

Another noteworthy Essex pub situated on a river estuary, The Queen’s Head overlooks the tidal mudflats of Maldon, specifically the River Chelmer before it merges with the sea. This lively and popular venue provides views of the unique annual mud race and the expansive estuary landscape.

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The Tudor Rose, Upnor, Kent

In the charming village of Upnor, Kent, positioned on the Medway estuary, The Tudor Rose offers a delightful pub experience. This appealing pub, with nautical-themed dĂŠcor and a selection of good beers, is ideally located in a village overlooking Chatham and Rochester with a castle and several pubs. It serves as a welcoming stop after a scenic walk, particularly for dog owners.

The Old Neptune, Whitstable, Kent

The Old Neptune is perhaps the most renowned pub in Whitstable, a town popular with London day-trippers and known for its numerous pubs. This quintessential beachside pub, located directly on the shingle beach, is esteemed for its well-managed service and enduring popularity.

Zetland Arms, Kingsdown, Kent

The Zetland Arms boasts an exceptional setting where its beer garden seamlessly blends into the shingle beach. Offering views of the iconic white cliffs of Dover, this pub is repeatedly recommended. Affiliated with the local Shepherd Neame brewery, it is a destination that visitors eagerly suggest to others after experiencing its unique seaside charm.

The Albion, Hastings, East Sussex

Hastings and its neighbouring St Leonards are home to numerous excellent pubs, but The Albion stands out for its proximity to the seafront. Its location proved particularly comforting during a powerful gale, offering a cosy refuge and a delightful afternoon despite tempestuous weather.

Britannia Inn, Dungeness, Kent

While its architecture may divide opinion, the Britannia Inn in Dungeness remains a highly regarded and enduringly popular pub. Located on the fringes of a unique and atmospheric beach, it offers a distinctive experience despite its unconventional aesthetic, attracting patrons to the haunting landscapes of Dungeness.

The Tiger Inn, East Dean, East Sussex

Perched on the Sussex Downs near Birling Gap, The Tiger Inn is situated above one of the region’s finest beaches. While the sea is not directly visible, its presence is palpable in this picturesque flint cottage village. Reputed to date from the 12th century, this pub provides a wonderfully cosy ambiance and serves local Harvey’s ale on tap.

Crown and Anchor, Chichester, West Sussex

The Crown and Anchor, a distinguished 16th-century inn, is situated on Chichester Harbour, a historic boating haven since Roman times. This often-bustling pub features mudflats at the edge of its beer garden and offers spectacular sunset views over the scenic harbour and its boating activity.

The Anchor Bleu, Bosham, West Sussex

Located in the boating enclave of Bosham, one of the south-east’s most charming historic villages, The Anchor Bleu can become crowded in peak season. However, it remains a worthwhile destination, offering a well-run pub experience. Visitors are advised to note parking areas, as high tide may submerge certain spots.

The Lord Raglan, Emsworth, Hampshire

Completing the trio of pubs around Chichester Harbour, The Lord Raglan is positioned at the harbour’s northern end in Emsworth. This handsome, flint-fronted inn features a rear beer garden that overlooks a collection of yachts, hinting at the open sea beyond, providing a classically British pub setting.

The Ship Inn, Lymington, Hampshire

With the bustling Solent waterway in front and the New Forest behind, The Ship Inn in Lymington is an ideal pub stop. Its proximity to a ferry port for the Isle of Wight makes it a convenient and pleasant location for a pint, whether en route to or returning from the island.

The Old Fort, Seaview, Isle of Wight

The Isle of Wight’s geography blesses it with numerous seaside pubs. While contenders for the best exist, including the Waterfront Bar in Totland Bay, The Old Fort on the island’s east coast stands out. Offering panoramic views of the Solent, it serves both food and drinks, completing the seaside pub experience.

South West Coastal Pubs

Cove House Inn, Portland, Dorset

Perched directly on a shingle beach, the Cove House Inn overlooks the remarkable Chesil Beach. Simple in its ambiance, both inside and out, its location beneath the imposing Portland Bill provides a magnificent and elemental coastal setting.

Smuggler’s Inn, Osmington Mills, Dorset

This venerable inn sits above a small cove along the Jurassic Coast, removed from the bustle of Weymouth. While sea views may be partially obscured due to original design prioritizing shelter over vistas, its delightful location and garden path leading to the beach remain appealing.

The Square and Compass, Worth Matravers, Dorset

A legendary pub, The Square and Compass is esteemed not only in Dorset but across the UK. Situated above the Channel at Dancing Ledge, it authentically blends history without becoming contrived. Its boutique fossil museum adds a unique touch, enhancing its charm and appeal.

The Masons Arms, Branscombe, Devon

The Masons Arms, a handsome 14th-century pub, offers a well-run establishment with quality beers in a charming valley setting above a good beach in Branscombe, Devon. It provides an exceptional and delightful pub experience in a picturesque location.

The Blue Anchor, Brixham, Devon

Located on the waterfront of Brixham, a scenic working fishing port, The Blue Anchor is a 400-year-old pub at the heart of the town. Surrounded by ascending tiers of colourful houses, it provides a perfect setting for enjoying a pint amidst the vibrant harbour atmosphere.

The Pilchard Inn, Burgh Island, Devon

The Pilchard Inn, situated on Burgh Island – famed for its Art Deco hotel associated with Agatha Christie – is a memorable destination. Despite the island’s chic hotel, this pub offered a more compelling draw. Its unique setting and cosy atmosphere provided a perfect retreat regardless of the unpredictable seaside weather.

Cadgwith Cove Inn, Cadgwith, Cornwall

At the core of Cadgwith, considered one of Cornwall’s prettiest villages, the Cadgwith Cove Inn is ideally placed. Overlooking a small, sandy cove where fishing boats moor on the beach, the pub perfectly complements the picture-postcard setting.

The Devonport Inn, Kingsand, Cornwall

Just across the River Tamar in Cornwall, The Devonport Inn in Kingsand offers a beautiful and well-managed pub experience. Set in a stunning location on Rame Head, it embodies Cornish charm and hospitality.

Ferry Boat Inn, Helford, Cornwall

Perfectly located on the sheltered Helford River, the Ferry Boat Inn is a 300-year-old inn that has been tastefully modernised. With whitewashed cottages overlooking the waterfront, patrons can enjoy a pint watching boats gently bobbing in front of this scenic and historic pub.

The Star and Garter, Falmouth, Cornwall

While increasingly focused on cuisine, The Star and Garter in Falmouth remains a welcoming pub, especially for those wanting drinks only. Its well-chosen beverage selection and enticing views across Falmouth harbour towards St Mawes enhance its appeal, making it a notable gastro-accented pub.

The Ship Inn, Mousehole, Cornwall

The Ship Inn in Mousehole is an unspoiled gem located directly on the harbour in this famously picturesque fishing port. It’s a wonderful spot to relax and observe the charming harbour activities and village life.

Pandora Inn, Restronguet Creek, Cornwall

Another strikingly attractive Cornish pub, the Pandora Inn is a thatched, creekside inn on Restronguet Creek, dating back to the 13th century. Its interior features a maze of small rooms and welcoming open fires during winter, creating a uniquely historical and cosy pub atmosphere.

The Watering Hole, Perranporth, Cornwall

The Watering Hole in Perranporth deviates from the traditional pub style, resembling a Bondi Beach establishment more than a classic Cornish inn. Situated directly on the sandy beach, it’s extremely popular, particularly in summer. Its unconventional beach setting ensures a fun and lively atmosphere.

Port Gaverne Inn, Port Isaac, Cornwall

The Port Gaverne Inn, a textbook smugglers’ cove pub, is located in the idyllic Cornish village of Port Isaac. This secluded and historic village on the north coast provides a perfect setting for this lovely pub, known for its good beers and well worth a detour.

The Mariners, Rock, Cornwall

Located in Rock, an affluent area often called ‘Chelsea-on-sea’, The Mariners is more of a high-end restaurant than a traditional pub. Frequently listed among the UK’s best gastropubs, it offers a refined experience, with amazing views over the Camel estuary, welcoming both diners and drinkers alike.

The Wreckers Retreat, Hartland Quay Hotel, Hartland, Devon

The Wreckers Retreat within Hartland Quay Hotel occupies an astonishing location on a windswept headland overlooking dramatic seas. Once a site for customs officers, its current purpose offers a rich historical irony, making it a unique and compelling destination regardless of its precise pub or hotel classification.

Red Lion, Clovelly, Devon

The Red Lion in Clovelly, a grand pub hotel, presents an 18th-century ambiance reminiscent of a French chateau. Situated directly on the picturesque harbour with a sandy beach, its thoughtfully designed location avoids visual disruption from cars, enhancing the serene views.

The Bottom Ship Inn, Porlock Weir, Somerset

The Bottom Ship Inn, a historic thatched inn, is situated in Porlock Weir, a town known for its selection of pubs. Overlooking the Bristol Channel and perched just above a small beach, it provides a quintessential English seaside pub experience.

Welsh Coastal Pubs

The Old Point House, Angle, Pembrokeshire

The Old Point House, a classic Welsh longhouse pub with white walls, is located near a lifeboat station in Milford Haven, a vast natural harbour. Reopened after a five-year closure, this historic pub maintains its traditional charm and appeal, becoming a renewed favourite.

The Sloop, Porthgain, Pembrokeshire

The coastal path passes directly by The Sloop in Porthgain, a delightful harbour-front inn. Close to dramatic cliffs and beautiful beaches, alongside the unique ‘Blue Lagoon’ quarry, The Sloop enhances its already stunning coastal location.

Teifi Waterside Hotel, St Dogmaels, Ceredigion

The Teifi Waterside Hotel’s classification as pub or hotel is secondary to its prime location. Offering stunning views over Poppit Sands where the River Teifi meets the Irish Sea, its pub garden becomes a delight in sunny weather, capturing the area’s ever-changing coastal atmosphere.

The Ship, Aberporth, Ceredigion

The Ship in Aberporth offers charming views and a selection of beers. This substantial and likeable pub, located centrally in an attractive town, stands just above a rocky cove with a sandy beach, enhancing its appeal.

The Ship at Tresaith, Ceredigion

Located further along the coast from Aberporth, The Ship at Tresaith offers even more expansive views of Cardigan Bay. Its commanding position allows patrons to appreciate the vastness of the bay, establishing it as a distinguished coastal pub.

The Pentre Arms, Llangrannog, Ceredigion

Among a trio of excellent seaside pubs along this stretch of coast, The Pentre Arms in Llangrannog stands out. Its large window overlooking the beach provides a captivating atmosphere, offering stunning sunny views or a cosy refuge during storms, making it a truly terrific pub experience.

The Black Lion, New Quay, Ceredigion

The Black Lion in New Quay, with its historic literary associations, is prominently located in the heart of this charming harbour town, next to the lifeboat station. Often visited by porpoises just off the beach, it provides a compelling reason to stop by and soak in the coastal ambiance.

Inn at the Sticks, Llansteffan, Carmarthenshire

Inn at the Sticks in Llansteffan benefits from proximity to both a castle and a fine beach, typical of many Welsh pubs. Recently revitalised and well-managed, it focuses on local produce, good beer, and excellent food, complementing its glorious beach setting.

Brown’s Hotel, Laugharne, Carmarthenshire

Brown’s Hotel in Laugharne may not be a traditional seaside pub, but its connection to poet Dylan Thomas enhances its appeal. Located near the Taf Estuary, a short walk from the ‘heron priested shore’ Thomas described, it’s a classic pub in a lovely town, close to both the shore and a castle.

Ty Coch Inn, Pwllheli Gwynedd, Wales

Ty Coch Inn, positioned directly on a beach on the Llšn Peninsula, is renowned for its unforgettable character. Accessible via a walk past a golf course, its unique beachside setting, particularly vibrant during sunny days or major sporting events, offers an extraordinary pub experience.

Oyster Catcher, Rhosneigr, Anglesey

Anglesey, similar to the Isle of Wight, boasts several strong contenders for best seaside pub. The Oyster Catcher in Rhosneigr stands out with its modern, chalet-style building offering 360-degree views of the sandy dunes of Tywyn Llyn, providing a distinctive and appealing pub experience.

The Worms Head Hotel, Rhossili, The Gower

The Worms Head Hotel, spectacularly situated on a rocky headland above Rhossili Bay, is an excellent place to relax after surfing or simply enjoy panoramic views of the famous beach and coastline. Its elevated location enhances the coastal atmosphere, making it a memorable destination.

The Rhos Fynach, Rhos-on-Sea, Conwy

Nestled in a quieter area on the peninsula between Llandudno and Colwyn Bay, The Rhos Fynach began as a 12th-century monastery. Now a pub known for its seafood offerings, it sits directly on a fine sandy beach, making it a popular summer destination with a rich history.

North West Coastal Pubs

The Sir Henry Segrave, Southport

The Sir Henry Segrave in Southport is a notable Wetherspoons branch, a classic inclusion for any pub list seeking breadth. Separated from the golden beach by a Victorian pleasure gardens, this pub offers affordability, a prime beachside location, and recent improvements to its facilities.

The Pier Inn, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire

The Pier Inn, a newer micropub in Lytham St Annes, is located just behind the Promenade. Although not directly seafront, it’s a charming establishment very close to a fine town beach. Its focus on quality and local appeal makes it a worthwhile addition to the coastal pub list.

The Bourne Arms, Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire

The Bourne Arms, a decent and unpretentious pub, occupies a splendid location along the River Wyre as it flows into Morecambe Bay. Offering views of the Lakeland Fells, it represents a particularly scenic and enjoyable corner of Lancashire’s coast.

The Midland, Morecambe, Lancashire

Technically a hotel bar, The Midland in Morecambe deserves inclusion due to its exceptional Art Deco building and renowned beachfront setting. Overlooking Morecambe Sands, this gorgeous hotel bar retains the convivial atmosphere of a great British pub, blending architectural beauty with a welcoming ambiance.

The Lifeboat Inn, Maryport, Cumbria

While Cumbria is more famed for inland Lake District pubs, The Lifeboat Inn in Maryport provides a notable coastal option. Situated above a working harbour on the Solway Firth, it offers honest pub fare and coastal views towards the Isle of Man, highlighting the region’s maritime character.

North East Coastal Pubs

The Crown and Anchor, Lindisfarne, Northumberland

Lindisfarne, or Holy Island, features two excellent pubs, The Crown and Anchor and The Ship. The Crown and Anchor is favored for its magical location with the ancient priory nearby and its slightly closer proximity to the sea, making either a must-visit on this extraordinary tidal island.

The Old Ship Inn, Seahouses, Northumberland

The Old Ship Inn in Seahouses, a harbour pub in a charming fishing village near Bamburgh, is a true gem. Its aged patina, earned over 200 years facing harsh weather, provides perfect shelter and a cosy atmosphere, whether seeking refuge from storms or enjoying the occasional sunshine.

The Ship Inn, Low Newton, Northumberland

A recent discovery and instant favourite, The Ship Inn at Low Newton, is a whitewashed old inn overlooking sands and a castle. Its unspoiled, unhurried atmosphere, coupled with excellent beer from its microbrewery and perfect crab sandwiches, defines pub perfection.

The Jolly Fisherman, Craster, Northumberland

The Jolly Fisherman in Craster is famed for its crab sandwiches, enhancing its seafood-centric ambiance with a neighbouring smokehouse aroma. This popular pub, often crowded due to its reputation, deserves its acclaim, offering genuine coastal charm and culinary appeal.

The Tynemouth Castle Inn, Tynemouth, North Tyneside

Similar to The Midland, The Tynemouth Castle Inn is a beautiful Art Deco building in the seaside town of Tynemouth. Overlooking a glorious town beach and recently refurbished, it offers a perfect beach bar feel and a more pub-like interior, contrasting with hotel bar ambiance.

The Sand Dancer, South Shields, South Tyneside

The Sand Dancer in South Shields is another appealing pub located right on a town beach. Popular with locals and visitors alike, its beachside location and enduring appeal make it well worth a visit.

The Cod and Lobster, Staithes, North Yorkshire

The Cod and Lobster in Staithes, nestled right on the harbour of this pretty northern harbour town, is visually striking. Its picturesque setting, with rows of colourful houses and a dramatic history of being rebuilt after a storm, provides a harmonious and atmospheric pub experience.

The Ship Inn, Saltburn-by-the-Sea, North Yorkshire

The Ship Inn, located above the sands of Saltburn-by-the-Sea, offers a desirable coastal setting despite being part of a brewery chain. Its comprehensive offering and pleasant ambiance overcome any potential drawbacks, delivering a satisfying pub experience.

The White House Inn, Whitby, North Yorkshire

Whitby, a definitive northern seaside town, is full of pubs, but The White House Inn stands out geographically on the edge of town. Well-managed and welcoming, its location above a terrific beach, especially suited for dog walkers, makes it unrivalled among Whitby’s pubs.

The Laurel Inn, Robin Hood’s Bay, North Yorkshire

The Laurel Inn, a 300-year-old pub in Robin Hood’s Bay, requires a walk down from cliff-top parking, enhancing its charm. A popular stop for coastal path walkers, it provides a cosy and atmospheric retreat after any length of coastal exploration in this bijou fishing village.

Old Scalby Mills, Scarborough, Yorkshire

Scarborough, with its stunning beaches and numerous pubs, includes Old Scalby Mills as a top choice. Situated in an old watermill on the town’s edge, it offers excellent sea views, a lively atmosphere, and user-friendly service.

The Three B’s, Bridlington, Yorkshire

Similar to The Pier Inn, The Three B’s in Bridlington is a newer pub located a short distance from the beach. Recognised for its award-winning beers and vibrant atmosphere, its proximity to the lovely town beach makes it a notable modern pub in the coastal landscape.

East Coastal Pubs

Old BoatShed, Withernsea, Yorkshire

The Old BoatShed, a unique micro pub in Withernsea, occupies a converted Victorian lifeboat station. Charming and well-executed, it highlights a less-known but gorgeous stretch of Yorkshire coastline, offering a distinctive pub experience.

Crown and Anchor, Kilnsea, Hull

While Hull boasts many pubs, the Crown and Anchor in Kilnsea is the destination for coastal drinking enthusiasts. Dramatically situated on Spurn Point overlooking the Humber estuary, it’s ideal for refreshment after birdwatching, dog walking, or fishing in this remote scenic spit.

The Admiral Benbow, Chapel St Leonards, Lincolnshire

Named after a naval hero, The Admiral Benbow in Chapel St Leonards evokes the feeling of being aboard a moored ship. With wooden interiors and a beachside setting, its beer garden, fashioned from a sailing ship, particularly delights younger visitors.

The White Horse, Brancaster, Norfolk

The White Horse in Brancaster, a rather upscale pub/restaurant, overlooks salt marshes on the atmospheric north Norfolk coast. Attracting a diverse clientele from paddleboarders to bird watchers, it offers wonderful views and an upmarket coastal experience.

The Hero, Burnham Overy Staithe, Norfolk

The Hero in Burnham Overy Staithe, located in a village setting known from children’s literature and animation, offers a magical pub experience. This lovely pub, in a village attracting international tourists, provides a charming and unique destination.

The Victoria, Holkham, Norfolk

The Victoria in Holkham, though not directly on the sea, sits just uphill from Holkham Sands, one of Britain’s finest beaches. As a popular post-beach refreshment stop, this beautiful and unusually upmarket pub reportedly occasionally hosts royal visitors.

The Two Lifeboats, Sheringham, Norfolk

The Two Lifeboats in Sheringham, a more down-to-earth town compared to Holkham, offers a charming pub experience. Located directly above the water with outdoor tables, it provides good beers and a pleasing atmosphere, though perhaps without royal patronage.

The Harbour Inn, Southwold, Suffolk

Southwold, home to Adnams brewery, is rich in pubs, with The Harbour Inn standing out. Situated where the river meets the sea outside town, it features nautical decor and a family-friendly atmosphere with children crabbing among fishing boats, making it a joyful place to spend time.

The Butt and Oyster, Pin Mill, Suffolk

The Butt and Oyster in Pin Mill boasts a beautifully atmospheric location near the Orwell Bridge and historic Pin Mill. With mud flats and houseboats creating a picturesque shore in front, this gorgeous and dog-friendly pub offers a quintessentially scenic and welcoming experience.

The Ramsholt Arms, Ramsholt, Suffolk

The Ramsholt Arms, beautifully situated and bustling with boat enthusiasts, offers a charming pub experience. Enhanced by natural beauty, such as nightingales singing nearby, it combines a picturesque setting with a welcoming pub atmosphere.


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