A small UK seaside town that boasts a hidden beach might not be under the radar for much longer after it was declared one of the best places to live in the UK.
North Berwick, a 30-minute train journey from Edinburgh, Scotland, is a quiet, pretty town loved by locals who are totally spoiled for choice when it comes to beaches – with West Beach, West Bay Beach and Seacliff Beach being amongst the best spots on the entire coast.
But it gained national attention when The Sunday Times named it as the best place to live in the UK because of its transport links, culture and beautiful environment.
The newspaper also judged various towns on factors such as the quality of schools, broadband speed and green spaces.
Seacliff Beach is known to be a quieter, more peaceful beach.
The Scottish Tourism Board describes it as a “hidden gem” and “largely unspoiled”.
It is also a private beach, meaning visitors have to pay to visit. Despite this, Seacliff Beach remains popular with surfers, dog walkers, and tourists who come to visit.
Birdwatchers will also enjoy North Berwick’s Scottish Seabird Centre. Wildlife here includes a huge puffin colony and gannets.
Another great thing to do in North Berwick is visit the historic Tantallon Castle, which offers spectacular views of the Firth of Forth.
Elsewhere, Berwick Law is an ancient volcanic plug that’s 416ft high and also offers a great view of the surrounding area.
Many of those who visit the town are golf enthusiasts who flock to North Berwick Golf Club and Glen Golf Club. And in the town centre you can find your classic seaside shops, ice cream, fish and chips and other restaurants.
However, North Berwick isn’t the cheapest place to go, with a room costing around £150 a night.
One reviewer on Expedia said: “North Berwick has a beautiful beach and the whole town is compact. Shops, pubs, and amenities are all within walking distance, and two golf courses very close by.”
Another said: “North Berwick is a beautiful small town with lots of interesting shops nice bars and restaurants just a pity that the marine hotel is not maintaining pace with the town centre.”
A third said: “Fabulous seaside town… great for golfers and non-golfers alike. Picturesque, lovely harbour, lovely shops, good restaurant choice.”
