Sea, sand and fish and chips – what we love most about the British seaside

Research by hotel booking platform, Hoo, has revealed that when it comes to the British seaside, holidaymakers are still drawn by the traditional features of sun, sea, sand and fish and chips.

Hoo looked at what the most popular attractions are when it comes to the seaside itself, what we like to eat and the best activities while by the beach.

The research shows that the option of a dip on those sunny summer days was the biggest draw of the seaside (47%), with long days spent lounging on the beach also one of the main attractions (34%).

This probably goes without saying, but perhaps more surprising is that the good old British pier was less of a draw. Just 5% stated that the pier was their favourite thing about a visit to the beach.

In terms of our favourite beachside snacks, fish and chips remain the firm favourite for 72%, with the good old 99 also remaining popular (19%).

However, not all seaside cuisine is as popular with the modern holidaymaker, with the South East delicacy of jellied eels the least favourite of all (0.3%).

In terms of seaside activities, another traditional seaside sight has also fallen out of favour, with just 1% stating that donkey rides were their favourite thing about a trip to the beach.

Social activities such as eating and drinking were the most favourite pastime (39%), while arcades also ranked high (21%) along with sunbathing (19%).

Hoo Co-founder, Adrian Murdock, commented:

“The British seaside seems to suffer from the perhaps unfair opinion that it’s a bit dated and naff, but this seems a little harsh considering it still offers all of the things we love about a trip to the coast.

This hasn’t changed in decades and although coastal resorts do need to adapt with changing times and tastes, the unique character of the British seaside is something that really can’t be beaten.

We’re lucky enough to have some of the most outstanding beaches right on our doorstep and what’s more, they don’t require a flight and a handful of Covid tests to reach them.

Of course, the one thing we can’t guarantee is the weather and this is the biggest factor in why many opt for a holiday abroad. However, by doing so you also miss out on the chance of fish and chips on the beach, proper 99s with a flake, 10p slot machines and all of the other great seaside experiences that simply can’t be found on the Costa del Sol. Or anywhere else in the world, for that matter.”

Survey of 1,151 UK population carried out by Hoo (28th May 2021).