Somerset boasts a variety of seaside towns, each with its own unique appeal. Weston-super-Mare embodies the classic English seaside experience, Brean delights visitors with its outdoor lido and theme park, Portishead offers breathtaking views, and Minehead entertains families with the popular Butlin’s resort.
However, nestled quietly between these well-known spots lies Clevedon, which we believe is Somerset’s best seaside town.
Often overlooked as simply a waypoint on the journey to Weston, Clevedon is, in fact, a hidden gem. It presents a more peaceful and relaxing alternative to the livelier, busier beaches nearby. On a recent midsummer’s day visit, it was possible to walk the full stretch of the beach, gazing towards Wales, without encountering a soul. Yet, the pier and the bustling marine lake revealed a vibrant side of town filled with joyful visitors.
READ MORE: Masterplan Reveals Proposed New Somerset Town of 7,000 Homes Near M5
READ MORE: Somerset Suffers Heavy Defeat to Leicestershire in Metro Bank One-Day Cup
Clevedon never feels overcrowded; instead, it exudes a cheerful and welcoming atmosphere. The town offers rich heritage and a variety of activities, but without the presence of tourist traps. It retains the charm of a classic seaside town while avoiding cliché.
Tranquil, understated, and stunningly beautiful, Clevedon ensures visitors never feel lost in a crowd nor isolated. Whether enjoying a refreshing swim in the marine lake, a relaxing stroll along the Victorian pier, or savouring traditional fish and chips, the town provides all the essentials for a perfect seaside day.
If you share our fondness for Clevedon, you can support it by voting in our poll to find the best seaside town in the UK.
Gastronomically, Clevedon has much to offer just a short walk from the beach along Hill Road. The Tea Veranda serves an exquisite afternoon tea, boasting 22 varieties of tea alongside perfectly English scones. Special mentions go to their Duchess Blend, Balmoral Blend, and cherry and almond teas – all delightful choices.
Nearby, Le French Corner offers continental cuisine, and at Café Clay, visitors can enjoy pottery painting over lunch – a unique dining experience.
For those who prefer a sea view, The Moon & Sixpence is well regarded for its classic pub fare.
Due to the Severn Estuary’s extremely fast-rising tides, swimming safely in the sea around Somerset is not advisable. Nonetheless, Clevedon’s beach remains a captivating sight. Its pebbly shore, Victorian pier, and clear views of Wales provide a dramatic setting that can be evocative on a cloudy day or breathtaking when the sun shines.
For a safe swim, the free marine lake at Clevedon offers a unique alternative. Fed by the sea and overlooking the bay, it provides a memorable swimming experience.
Besides the marine lake, the seafront features a miniature golf course and a wood-fired sauna available for booking any day of the year, with sessions of one hour or thirty minutes. The iconic Victorian pier is another highlight. Fans of One Direction may recognise it from the music video for ‘You and I’, and since Liam Payne’s passing in 2024, it has become a place of tribute. Tickets for the pier offer unlimited returns for the following year, allowing repeated visits.
In the vicinity, Clevedon Court stands as a fairy-tale Medieval manor house open to visitors during select days in summer.
Dining and accommodation prices vary. Cocktails at The Salthouse cost £7.50 each or two for £12, while fish and chips at Scarlett’s Restaurant are priced at £7.50 for regular and £14.50 for large portions. Hotel rooms fluctuate depending on season and availability; Walton Park Hotel rooms can start from £57, and Cavel House offers stays from £87. Popular inns often book up months in advance, so advance planning is recommended.