Bognor Regis has been named Britain's worst seaside town for the second year running, according to an annual survey by consumer organization Which?. The West Sussex town received a customer satisfaction score of only 41%, with respondents awarding it a single star in most assessed categories, including 'Seafront/Pier,' 'Tourist Attractions,' and 'Value for Money.'

Visitors have expressed significant dissatisfaction, with online reviews citing poor quality fish and chips. One Google reviewer described a meal at Fish & Chips Café as the ‘worst fish and chips I have ever tasted,’ while another called the establishment ‘foul.’ The Butlin's resort in Bognor Regis was also criticized, with one Tripadvisor user labeling it the ‘worst place on earth.’ The town did manage to score two stars for 'Peace and quiet,' its best-performing category.

Data indicates a decline in the town's fortunes, contrasting with its past as a favored retreat for King George V in 1929. Current statistics reveal a crime rate of 133 crimes per 1,000 people. Beaches in the area have also been deemed unsuitable for swimming.

Bognor Regis is not alone in its low ranking. Blackpool, once a premier seaside destination, scored 46% and received only one star in categories such as 'Food and drink,' 'Scenery,' and 'Peace and quiet.' Its 'Tourist attractions' category earned three stars. Accommodation in Blackpool also faces criticism, with many hotels described negatively on Tripadvisor, including one reviewer calling the Norbeck Castle Hotel a 'dungeon.'

Margate, a town that has recently attracted attention from celebrities and artists, also ranked poorly with a score of 53%. Visitors noted that its town center remains 'run down,' contributing to a one-star rating for 'Shopping.'

In contrast, towns in the North of England performed well. Bamburgh in Northumberland topped the rankings for the second consecutive year with an 84% score, receiving five stars for its beach, seafront, and scenery. Tynemouth in Tyne and Wear secured second place with 82%, praised for its beaches and fish and chip offerings.

Rory Boland, editor of Which? Travel, commented that the success of the North East reflects its "outstanding beaches and the fact that holidays here can be fantastic value for money." He added that the survey results show a good geographical spread, offering options for various traveler preferences.