England’s ‘cheapest and underrated’ seaside town has £3.60 beer and pretty beach
There are dozens of gorgeous beaches to visit right here within the UK. While the UK isn't always considered as pretty as exotic shores, some in Cornwall have been compared to Hawaii while a Devon town was likened to Turkey.
But, if you’re on a budget you may be looking for a seaside hotspot where the cost of an ice cream or a pint won’t break the bank. If so, then look towards Northumberland.
Newbiggin-by-the-Sea has been voted the cheapest seaside town to visit, according to a survey by Halifax. But, not only is it kind to the wallet – it’s kind on the eyes too.
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The beach town was ranked the most "underrated" location in the UK with tourists even moving there after they visit, reports the Express. It’s filled with pocket-friendly drinking spots, fish and chip shops and accommodation.
For those planning an overnight stay, you can find rooms from as little as £25 per person per night. Booking.com has a handy guide to some of the best hotels in Newbiggin-by-the-Sea, with prices starting from £60 a night.
That’s a massive saving compared to Salcombe, the UK's most expensive seaside town, where rooms can cost up to £500. But, it’s not just hotels you’ll save on.
When on holiday by the sea here in Blighty, it’s practically a requirement to indulge in fish and chips at least once while you’re there. Whether you prefer to eat them at a restaurant or while sitting on the beach is up to you.
But, the price of this famous dish has seemed to sky rocket in recent years. Luckily, at Newbiggin-by-the-Sea a portion comes in at around £9.40. Who doesn’t love change from a tenner?
Those who want to sip on a cold one while away will also be happy. Those heading to the pub can expect to pay around £3.60 for a pint of lager – a massive difference from London’s average of £5.99.
Hazel Steel, 64, grew up in the small town and has a shop called Sew Quilted by the Sea. She said that the town has seen an influx of tourists who are attracted to the cheaper prices, which could see you enjoying a meal out with wine for around £20-£25.
She said: "It's one of the most underrated places in the UK. The bay is south facing so you get sunlight from the crack of dawn until sunset. There's lots of lovely places to eat out and we have events on all the time. All the shops are independent except for the Co-op."
She added: "There's a really nice community here and people visit the caravan parks two or three times a year. House prices have doubled in four or five years. It's really down to earth but really creative, house prices are rising because everyone wants to be here.
"People come here because of the fact it's a little bit cheaper here. We get a lot of tourists from all over the world. In the time I have been here, there's a lot more going on now."
As for the beaches, Newbiggin-by-the-Sea has proven a hit with visitors who have left glowing reviews on Tripadvisor.
One person wrote: "A cute little place we visited on our way up to Northumberland a few years ago and returned last week to collect an item from eBay. Its just a simple lovely beach yes no dogs allowed on the North part in summer but still plenty of space for them at the south end. Haven't been round the corner more north .
"Great for kids as sand is clean water shallow and at low tide lots of rock pools to explore . If you are looking for slots funfairs and pound shops then go elsewhere, this is more a small residential village with a nice beach, a few pubs and cafes the ' couple ' statue on the sea but best of all free parking!"
You may even be able to spot wildlife, as one person added:"Whilst watching Bottle-nosed Dolphins from the shore at Newbiggin, on 3rd November, a local told me that they often see pods of up to 50 animals at once from this shoreline during the summer months; some venturing close inshore – which his nice."
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