Top Five British Seaside Towns That Are Even Better in September
- jamiecrow2
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
September might mark the end of summer, but that doesn't mean it's the end of seaside season.
In fact, for anyone who prefers coastal walks without the height-of-summer crowds, lingering sunshine without the peak-season prices and fish and chips without having to queue for half an hour, September can be one of the best times to visit Britain's seaside towns.
The weather can still be surprisingly warm, the sea remains inviting and the atmosphere becomes noticeably more relaxed as the school-holiday crowds disappear.
Here are five British seaside towns that are particularly appealing in September.
1. Whitby, North Yorkshire, England
Whitby is atmospheric at any time of year, but September gives you a chance to enjoy its winding streets, harbour and famous clifftop abbey without quite as many people squeezing through them.
The town has everything you'd want from a traditional British seaside destination: sandy beaches, fish and chips, independent shops and plenty of places to stop for a cup of tea while watching the boats come and go.
September is also an excellent month for exploring the surrounding coastline. The temperatures are often comfortable enough for a walk along the cliffs, while the changing light can make the views across the North Sea particularly spectacular.
And, of course, there's the town's connection with Dracula. Whitby Abbey looming above the rooftops gives the place an unmistakable gothic atmosphere – particularly as the evenings begin to draw in.
For a seaside break that combines traditional charm with dramatic scenery, Whitby is hard to beat.
2. St Ives, Cornwall, England
St Ives can become extremely busy during the height of summer, which makes September an appealing time to experience the town at a slightly slower pace.
The turquoise waters and sandy beaches can still look distinctly summery, while the cooler evenings provide a reminder that autumn isn't far away.
There's plenty to do beyond simply sitting on the beach, too. St Ives is famous for its artistic heritage, with galleries and studios dotted around the town, while the harbour is surrounded by cafés, restaurants and independent shops.
September is also a great month for exploring the South West Coast Path. The summer heat has eased, but there can still be plenty of sunshine for a walk along the Cornish coastline.
And if you are lucky enough to get a warm September day, it can feel remarkably like summer never ended.
3. Southwold, Suffolk, England
Southwold has the sort of old-fashioned seaside charm that makes it feel as though someone designed the perfect British coastal town and then refused to modernise it too much.
Its colourful beach huts, long promenade and iconic pier make it instantly recognisable, while the town itself is packed with independent shops, cafés and traditional pubs.
September is particularly appealing because the atmosphere becomes much calmer once the main summer rush has disappeared.
There's still plenty of time to enjoy a walk along the beach or a stroll out along the pier, while the surrounding Suffolk coast offers plenty of opportunities for exploring.
The changing season also adds something to Southwold's character. The crowds thin out, the evenings become cooler and the town takes on a more peaceful atmosphere without completely losing its summer appeal.
It's the sort of place where September encourages you to slow down rather than rush from one attraction to another.
4. Lyme Regis, Dorset, England
Lyme Regis is one of those seaside towns where the coastline is just as much a part of the attraction as the town itself.
The famous Cobb harbour stretches into the sea, while the beach and surrounding Jurassic Coast provide plenty of opportunities for walking, exploring and enjoying the views.
September is an especially good month for making the most of the coastline. The temperatures are generally more comfortable for walking than during the hottest summer days, while the crowds tend to be smaller.
The town itself is full of independent shops, cafés and restaurants, making it easy to spend a relaxed day wandering around before heading down to the waterfront.
And for anyone interested in fossils and geology, Lyme Regis is particularly special. The surrounding Jurassic Coast is famous for its fossils, meaning a trip here can be part traditional seaside holiday and part prehistoric treasure hunt.
It's a destination that proves a British seaside break doesn't have to be all about buckets, spades and arcades.
5. Tenby, Pembrokeshire, Wales
With its colourful buildings, medieval walls and beautiful beaches, Tenby is one of the most picturesque seaside towns in Wales.
The town can be busy during the school holidays, making September an ideal time to visit. The summer crowds have started to disappear, but the beaches and waterfront can still feel distinctly summery when the weather cooperates.
There are several beaches to choose from, while the harbour provides one of Tenby's most recognisable views. The narrow streets and pastel-coloured buildings are also perfect for a leisurely wander once the busiest part of the season is over.
September is particularly well suited to exploring Pembrokeshire beyond the town itself. The coast is filled with spectacular walking routes, and the cooler temperatures can make a long coastal walk much more enjoyable.
Add in an ice cream if the sun comes out and you've got everything you need for a late-summer seaside escape.
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