Coastal Property: Experts Recommend Affordable Alternatives to Popular Seaside Towns
For those seeking a seaside retreat without the premium price tag, several lesser-known coastal locations offer significant value and charm.
As spring arrives, the allure of owning a coastal property intensifies for many. However, popular seaside destinations often come with a substantial price premium. Experts are now highlighting several alternative locations across the UK that provide a more affordable entry into coastal living.
North Wales: Criccieth as an alternative to Abersoch
In North Wales, Criccieth is presented as a more budget-friendly option compared to the highly sought-after Abersoch on the Llyn Peninsula. Tom Carter, director at Fine and Country, North Wales, describes Criccieth as a "hidden gem" with a quieter, more traditional atmosphere. The town features Criccieth Castle and beaches that are generally less crowded than those in Abersoch. For commuters, Criccieth's railway station offers a quicker route to Chester than from Abersoch. A Grade II-listed apartment on its High Street is available for £135,000.
Scotland: Eyemouth offers value over East Lothian
For those looking in Scotland, the area around Eyemouth, Coldingham, and St Abbs is recommended as a less populated and more valuable alternative to East Lothian. Andrew Markham, a partner agent at Fine and Country, Scotland, notes the stunning coastlines and remote beaches. The area is commutable to Edinburgh and Newcastle. Notably, comedian Alan Carr recently purchased Ayton Castle in the district. A two-bedroom apartment on Albert Road in Eyemouth is priced from £95,000.
Essex: Westcliff-on-Sea versus Leigh-on-Sea
Within Essex, Westcliff-on-Sea is identified as a more affordable option than its neighboring suburb, Leigh-on-Sea. Hope Frith at Winkworth Leigh-on-Sea states that the average price for a three-bedroom family home in Leigh is around £525,000, while in Westcliff, it is approximately £375,000. Westcliff-on-Sea is attractive to buyers seeking access to local grammar schools and benefits from two railway stations with services to London. A four-bedroom terraced house on Westbourne Grove in Westcliff-on-Sea is listed at £425,000.
Lancashire: Morecambe as a more affordable option
Morecambe in Lancashire is positioned as a more cost-effective choice compared to adjacent areas like Hest Bank and Bolton-le-Sands, where properties average around £340,000. In Morecambe, the average property price is approximately £175,000. Jo Bond, director at Fine and Country, Lakes and North Lancashire, highlights Morecambe's promenade views and proximity to the Lake District and Forest of Bowland. The town is also set to host Eden Project Morecambe. Morecambe railway station provides connections to London Euston and Edinburgh in under two and a half hours. A six-bedroom townhouse in Morecambe is priced at £499,950.
West Sussex: Selsey provides value near the Witterings
Selsey in West Sussex is suggested as an affordable alternative to the more expensive Witterings. Bradley Harris at Hamptons, Chichester, explains that while Selsey's coastline is more exposed, it offers a calmer, more traditional coastal setting and appeals to buyers seeking value. It has a higher proportion of year-round residents compared to second-home owners. A 17th-century thatched house in Selsey is available for £550,000.
East Sussex: Worthing and Eastbourne as Brighton alternatives
Worthing, located west of Brighton, is emerging as a coastal destination with a strong events calendar and a more accessible price point. Keyan Nadim, sales manager at Leaders, Worthing, notes that a three-bedroom property in Worthing typically costs around £350,000. It is also described as being more sheltered from storms than other coastal areas.
Eastbourne is also presented as an attractive option, offering a coastal lifestyle without Brighton's higher price tag. Beverly Wilson at Leaders Eastbourne points to its uncommercialised coastline, new developments, and proximity to the South Downs. The average house price in Eastbourne is around £306,000, compared to £410,000 in Brighton. Stephen Rodgers, branch manager at Fox and Sons Eastbourne, suggests Eastbourne may offer better capital growth potential than a market like Brighton, which may have peaked in value. An imposing six-bedroom townhouse in Eastbourne is listed at £425,000.