Everyone in the UK is familiar with a day trip to the seaside. Whether it be eating fish and chips or taking a stroll along the promenade, we all have our own memories of our time at the beach.
However, many seaside towns have become mere shells of what they once were, having lost their charm and character that invited people to visit. YouTube channel Learning Canteen has compiled a list of the 10 worst seaside towns and outlined ways in which they can return to their former glory.
10. Southend-on-Sea
Despite boasting the longest pleasure pier in the world, the town has now fallen victim to crumbling infrastructure and an increasingly desolate high street. To improve both the atmosphere and the economy of the town, Learning Canteen suggests more community-driven efforts to restore its historic appeal.
9. Fleetwood
Located in Lancashire, this town has a rich fishing history, yet unemployment rates are high. Its quiet charm is being interrupted by many closed shops and an unreliable ferry service, according to the channel. To improve, the channel suggests investments in both tourism and job creation.
8. Great Yarmouth
Found in Norfolk, this town still attracts visitors due to its abundance of arcades and landmarks such as the Sea Life Centre. However, the seafront lacks modern appeal, and there have been frequent complaints of uncleanliness and out-of-date facilities. The town could be improved through more focus on bringing life and vibrancy back to it.
7. Blackpool
One of the most famous seaside towns in the country, Blackpool has charmed many over the years with its tower and illuminations. Behind the lights, however, the town suffers greatly from drug addiction and poverty. Learning Canteen says that: “If Blackpool can match its tourism efforts with real socio-economic investment, it might yet shake off the title of one of the worst places to live in the United Kingdom.”
6. Clacton
It is home to a lovely beach and the Clacton air show, which has no problem drawing in tourists. Yet the town has an underlying crime problem, according to the channel, which is putting a huge stain on its reputation. The potential for improvement could be seen in more investment in youth services and a successful improvement of housing.
5. Cleethorpes
Located in Lincolnshire, the town draws visitors through its long, sandy beach and miniature railway. However, the high street is dominated by betting shops, and there is little to do in the winter months. Learning Canteen says the town could be greatly improved with better investments and transport.
4. Bognor Regis
Crime rates in this West Sussex town are low, and the beach and promenade are well-kept. Where Bognor Regis struggles is in entertainment, with few things to do and scarce nightlife. Even the nearby Butlin’s is feeling outdated to many. Modernisation and more houses than just holiday homes could give this town the boost it needs.
3. Burnham-on-Sea
This Somerset town is picturesque, with its pier and historic lighthouse. Yet many visitors leave disappointed due to its muddy beach and lack of decent entertainment. According to Learning Canteen, ecotourism initiatives and better leisure infrastructure could make the most of its peaceful charm.
2. Mablethorpe
The second town on this list, in Lincolnshire, Mablethorpe has a laid-back pace of life, and its old-fashioned nature still appeals to many to this day. Yet this means that the town is stuck in the past, and limited shopping and outdated arcades are a huge issue. Transport improvements and digital infrastructure could allow the town to stand out from the rest.
1. Skegness
Despite its funfair atmosphere and wide beach, antisocial behaviour is rife, the channel says, and it needs a vision and a purpose for the future.