Underrated UK seaside town with 'trendy vibe' named among Britain's best
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A pretty town by the sea is fast becoming the place to be thanks to its incredible scenery, abundance of independent shops and commutable distance from a nearby city. Having the seaside on your doorstep is a dream come true for many and in one coastal town, that’s the reality for its lucky residents. For those that can work from home, they get to spend lunch breaks enjoying a spot of paddle boarding or wandering around the numerous thriving local shops. It is also perfectly feasible to commute to the nearby city of Edinburgh though too with a speedy 30 minute train ride making it the perfect place to settle. Visitors to North Berwick on the coast of East Lothian in central Scotland will also find plenty to do for the day or for an extended break.
Such are its attractions for both tourists and locals it was named as the best place to live in the UK last year by the Sunday Times. You are never far from the ocean in North Berwick so naturally water sports such as surfing, sailing, kayaking and paddle boarding are hugely popular. The miles of stunning sandy beaches are also ideal for sunbathing, for children to play on and paddle or take long blustery walks on.
There are plenty of traditional cafes serving all the usual seaside fare of fish and chips and ice cream but also more trendy and quirky restaurants and coffee shops to seek refreshment and enjoy the views from. There’s even a lobster shack at the harbour serving seafood straight off the local fishing boats.
Bass rock is an island just off the shore which is home to the world’s largest northern gannet colony, which along with the Scottish Seabird Centre, makes it an ideal place for birdwatchers. Boat trips are available around the local islands for nature lovers and those who want to enjoy the crystal waters. One of the volcanic islands, Lamb, was bought by illusionist Uri Gellar, who believes there is ancient Egyptian treasure hidden there.
