Ever since the spread of the passenger railway network in Victorian times, the seaside has held an attraction for British people. As the rail tracks made the coast more accessible it was tradition for the wealthy, and then later the working class, to make day trips to the seaside, and later when resorts grew, they took holidays as well.
It wasn’t just the fish and chips, variety style entertainment shows, or walks along the promenade that appealed, it was the health benefits of being by the coast, and experiencing the salty and fresh sea air. Sea bathing was very popular, and even recommended by doctors. Fast forward to 2012, and there was a new media influx of articles proclaiming the benefits of seaside living. Surveys conducted by the European Centre For Environment And Human Health, examined census data, and conducted a survey of 2,750 people, looking at the effects on them, of different outdoor environments such as the countryside, urban parks, and the seaside. The seaside came out on top for a sense of well-being, being a favourite place to exercise, and in terms of the census data conclusions made, people were more likely to declare themselves happy and healthy living by the coast.
There are many other reports suggesting that as Brits, we really do love to be beside the seaside, something that’s celebrated in Coast Magazine. This is a whole publication celebrating the UK coastline, from its history, to things to do, places to see, and the people and communities that live alongside the sea. Their website and magazine contains lots of useful travel reviews, and features on recipes, interior design, and lots of information on living by the sea, and the types of seaside properties that come up for sale.
But Coast Magazine isn’t the only place you can find information on homes by the sea. This site will take a journey around the UK, filling you in on some of the best coastal destinations, from small fishing villages like St Mawes in Cornwall, to the coastal town of Whitby in North Yorkshire, and the historical maritime town of Rye in East Sussex. Also look out for features on North Berwick in Lothian, Aldeburgh in Suffolk, and Olban in Argyll. Each has its own interesting story to tell, an interesting history, and lots to recommend it to those thinking of moving to the coast.
If you’re thinking of buying a home by the sea, here are a few tips that Prime Location offered to its readers.
Some seaview homes may have higher maintenance charges because of sea and saltwater damage
You shouldn’t impulsively think about buying a home with great sea views, without having a survey done first.
When researching coastal destinations, visit any possibilities out of season, so you can experience what a seaside town or village is like in the (sometimes quieter and bleaker) winter months.
Also check local tidal conditions and flood prevention methods in the area you are considering moving to, as this may affect your decisions.
If you’re partly buying a property for a sea view, then check to see if there are any development plans in the future which may obscure it.