Maria Polansky, an expat from Canada who has lived in the UK for seven years, has discovered her favourite beach destination: Weston-super-Mare in Somerset. Amid ongoing debates about the best UK beaches—whether in Bournemouth, Cornwall or Wales—Maria confidently recommends this seaside town as an ideal spot for a day trip.
Initially expecting to spend her weekends exploring London, Maria soon found herself captivated by other parts of the country. She describes Weston-super-Mare as “cheesy in a fun way,” highlighting its lively pier full of diverse food options and arcade games, alongside a long coastal promenade perfect for leisurely walks.
Writing for Business Insider, Maria says, “The sun setting on the beach in Weston-super-Mare, England, is unforgettable. If you’re visiting nearby Bath, a short train trip of roughly an hour will bring you to this authentic beach town, offering a genuinely local staycation experience.”
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Weston-super-Mare boasts over 200 years as a beloved seaside resort, evolving from a modest fishing village in the 18th and 19th centuries into a vibrant destination. Despite setbacks like a major fire in 2008 that destroyed the Grand Pier’s pavilion, the town rebounded with a £39 million rebuild, reopening in 2010 to delight visitors once again.
Maria also praises nearby Bath for its stunning ancient architecture and historical significance as a former Roman settlement famous for its Roman baths. While swimming in the original baths isn’t recommended due to water quality, the city offers plenty of modern spas to enjoy. She adds, “Bath’s city centre is perfect for wandering, filled with specialty shops, cafés, and pubs that give a true sense of place.”
Each year, Weston-super-Mare attracts around four to five million visitors, predominantly day trippers, making it a lively but accessible escape for locals and tourists alike.