Swanage named the best seaside town in Dorset - see the full list

Swanage took the top spot in Dorset in a Which? survey of the UK’s best seaside destinations.

The town scored 80% in the customer score category, making it the top rated of five Dorset seaside towns included in the top 100 in the UK.

Lyme Regis was the second Dorset location on the list, with a customer score of 74%.

Swanage Beach

While Weymouth, Bournemouth and Poole also featured in the list.

The list was compiled by reviews from more than 4,000 visitors who gave feedback on their recent trips to seaside towns, villages and resorts.

Destinations were rated on their beaches, attractions, value for money, peace and quiet, and scenery.

Top of the pile, however, was Bamburgh in Northumberland. It won visitors over with its stunning scenery, beach and peaceful surroundings.

The Which? summary of the top rated destination said: “The former 2019 winner is back on top thanks to its five-star beach.

“This glorious stretch of golden sand runs for three miles, backed by a vast, tussock dune system and dominated by the epic Bamburgh castle.

“The beach is big enough that it’s rarely crowded, which may suit those looking to socially distance this summer.

“The bracing wind off the North Sea also helps to keep mass tourism at bay and the beach pristine and free of litter. 

“This is the British seaside at its low-key best: nothing to do here except walk, run, let the dog off the lead, or sit behind a windbreak with a Thermos and watch the waves roll in.”

You can see the full list here.