Top 5: UK beach holidays

Creative Commons / vintage 1953

Don your sandals and socks, pack the bucket and spade and take the ultimate quirky seaside trip, from the chintzy charm of Frinton-on-Sea to family fun in South Shields.

Ilfracombe, Devon

A plethora of cool and kitsch seaside distractions, including crazy golf and cabaret shows, make Ilfracombe on the North Devon coast a vibrant and fun resort. The buzzing coastal hotspot has all things seaside-y, from vinegar drenched fish and chips to seagulls bobbing above the towering cliffs. Head to the quirky beaches accessed through a tunnel from The Landmark Theatre for sheltered swimming before tucking into a cream tea.

Frinton-on-Sea, Essex

For some old-school beach fun, head to the family resort of Frinton-on-Sea for a dose of traditional seaside antics. Head to the independent shops and tea rooms found along tree-lined Connaught Avenue, with their chintzy charm and bags of character. The beach itself retains much of its former glory and is lined with Victorian style beach huts, reminiscent of the days when the town was a favorite retreat for the aristocracy.

South Shields, Tyne and Wear

South Shields is a little known but attractive coastal spot in the north east of England offering dramatic cliffs and sandy beaches. Explore the beachfront via twisting coastal paths and cycle trails; discover hidden coves and abundant bird life; Marsden Rock is renowned for its seabird colonies. With a traditional seaside pier packed with family amusements; Wet 'N Wild, the UK's largest water park, and a free summer festival, South Shields has buckets of appeal.

Swanage, Devon

Deck chairs, pedalos, chip shops, ice cream, arcades and a Victorian pier provide the quintessential UK seaside experience at this popular beach retreat. Swanage hosts a number of annual festivals, including a carnival week in summer months, a Jazz Festival, a Folk Festival and a Blues Festival. Experience the stretch of coast from aboard the heritage steam railway and take a trip to picturesque Corfe Castle.

Broadstairs, Kent

Kitsch is king at the Kent seaside spot of Broadstairs, where the ice cream parlour is celebrated in all its (knickerbocker) glory, and all ages enjoy sticky cream teas, jolly British bandstand tunes, and an assortment of sandy stretches. Viking Bay is the most popular beach with visitors, but, for quieter surrounds, head to pretty Stone Bay (don't let the name fool you - it is sand). The area also has a lively calendar of wholesome and thoroughly British events, including the Dickens Festival, 19-25 June.

For more information on Britain's beaches go to www.visitbritain.co.uk.