Blackpool is officially the nation’s all-time favourite seaside resort, according to new research from consumer champion Which? Holiday. The North-West resort has been voted number one in an independent survey of over 4,000 members of the general public. Fans love the special atmosphere in the town, as well as the spectacular annual illuminations which were described by one respondent as “simply breathtaking”.
Brighton comes a close second, with the promenade, pier and its proximity to open countryside receiving high praise. Whitby, Bournemouth and Scarborough complete the top five. Bournemouth’s beaches are its main draw, while the other two have been singled out for their scenery and surrounding countryside.
40% of UK adults took a trip to the seaside in 2009, but this is set to increase in 2010. 20% of adults surveyed by Which? Holiday said they will be more likely to visit a UK seaside resort in 2010 than in 2009.
Rochelle Turner, Head of Research for Which? Holiday, says: “Millions of Brits will be taking holidays at home this year, and it’s certainly one way to ensure you don’t fall victim to volcanic ash. While Blackpool may not be able to guarantee the weather, with its host of theatres, fairgrounds and every conceivable promenade entertainment, it’s easy to see why the granddaddy of seaside towns still manages to draw the crowds.”
The Which? Holiday Top Ten seaside resorts are as follows:
1. Blackpool
2. Brighton
3. Whitby
4. Bournemouth
5. Scarborough
6. Newquay
7. Torquay
8. St Ives
9. Skegness
10. Great Yarmouth

7 Comments
Doesnt surprise me that Blackpool is No 1 – its one of our popular bed and breakfast destinations, thought Cornwall would have been higher though.
Can’t disagree with Blackpool at number one, but I’m surprised Great Yarmouth is only number 10. All top resorts though.
Yes I agree, thought it would be highter on the list!
Hi, i think yarmouth should be higher on the list as it is and all time favourite and was featured on dr who.
Waaa Where’s Weymouth ?
Blackpool for whatever reason still seems to attract people, although with the new multi million £ revamp it might just about become more worthy IMO.
Weymouth – ask Which? readers. Might be they need to do a bit more advertising as I’ve never really heard much about Weymouth except it’s supposed to get more sunshine than anywhere else in Britain.