Kingsbridge Estuary

Things to do in South Coast England

The South Coast of England is where seaside nostalgia meets breathtaking natural beauty. With dramatic chalk cliffs, sweeping beaches, historic harbour towns, and salty-air charm, this coastal stretch has long captured the hearts of travellers for so many reasons. Whether it’s the Victorian promenades of Eastbourne, the fossil-rich beaches of Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, or the vibrant energy of Brighton, the South Coast is rich in history, nature, and character.

People are drawn here for the promise of slow mornings by the sea, fresh fish and chips on the harbour wall, invigorating cliff walks, and centuries-old stories etched into every coastal village. It’s a destination where life moves at a gentler pace, but still offers plenty to explore.

 

Explore the Beaches of South Coast England

The beaches of England’s South Coast include everything from golden family-friendly sands to secluded coves perfect for quiet contemplation. In South Devon, Bigbury-on-Sea is a standout destination, not just for its sweeping views and safe swimming waters, but also for its iconic tidal connection to the secluded escape of Burgh Island. At low tide, a sandy causeway reveals itself, inviting visitors to walk across to this extraordinary island retreat; at high tide, the journey becomes an adventure aboard the famous sea tractor.

 

Further along the South Coast, the choices expand with timeless favourites like Bournemouth Beach, known for its long promenade and classic pier, and Brighton Beach, where pebbles meet a buzzing atmosphere of art, music, and independent shops. Weymouth and Lyme Regis offer history-rich seaside charm, while the Jurassic Coast stretches eastward with fossil-strewn shores and dramatic cliffscapes.

 

Whether you’re picnicking in a sheltered South Hams cove or soaking up the sun on a lively resort beach, the coastline here invites you to slow down, take a breath, and enjoy the beauty of the British seaside. And with Burgh Island as your base, the best of the South Coast’s beach life is just moments away.

Scenic Coastal Walks & Outdoor Adventures

For lovers of the English outdoors, the South Coast of England promises a landscape shaped by sea and time, perfect for walking, wildlife, and all sorts of water-based adventure. One of the most rewarding ways to experience this natural beauty is on foot via the South West Coast Path, England’s longest waymarked footpath. Stretching over 630 miles, it hugs the coastline from Somerset through Devon and Cornwall to Dorset, revealing ever-changing sea views, hidden beaches, and dramatic cliffs.

 

In South Devon, walkers, ramblers and hikers are spoiled with coastal trails offering panoramic views over Bigbury Bay, hidden inlets, and the rolling countryside of the South Hams. From Burgh Island, you can enjoy a peaceful stroll across the sands at low tide or venture inland towards pretty villages and estuary viewpoints.

 

Adventure-seekers can take to the water with surfing at Bantham, paddleboarding in calm estuaries, or wild swimming in secluded coves. Birdwatchers will find plenty to marvel at, too, from seabirds nesting along the cliffs to seasonal migrations across the skies. Whether you’re walking, watching, or wading in, South Devon’s natural playground is the perfect complement to a serene stay at Burgh Island.

 

Discover Historic Towns & Villages

The South Coast of England is dotted with charming towns and villages that echo centuries of history, maritime heritage, and timeless appeal. From cobbled streets to colourful harbours, each area of Devon truly is a uniquely enchanting place. 

 

Dartmouth is a favourite in South Devon, known for its deep water harbour, historic castle, and medieval streets lined with independent shops and galleries. A little further west lies Salcombe, a picture-perfect estuary town beloved for its sailing culture, sandy beaches, and relaxed, upmarket atmosphere.

 

Heading eastward along the coast, Lyme Regis on the Dorset-Devon border offers a blend of Georgian charm and prehistoric wonder (part of the Jurassic Coast). It’s famous for fossil hunting and literary connections. Further afield, Brighton mixes vibrant seaside energy with Regency architecture, the iconic Brighton Pier, and the opulent Royal Pavilion.

 

Throughout these coastal gems, visitors can explore ancient castles, harbours, and historic landmarks that bring England’s past vividly to life. And at the heart of this storied coastline sits Burgh Island: an Art Deco haven with a rich legacy of its own, making it an ideal base for discovering the historic depth of the South Coast.

Mermaid Pool

Cultural & Heritage Attractions

The South Coast of England is rich with cultural and heritage attractions that offer a deeper connection to the region’s storied past. Here, you can explore grand National Trust houses and gardens, such as Greenway (Agatha Christie’s former holiday home nestled along the River Dart), or Saltram House near Plymouth, with its exquisite interiors and parkland setting. The area also boasts a vibrant arts scene, from contemporary galleries in seaside towns to artisan studios tucked away in the countryside. Maritime heritage plays a central role too, with historic dockyards, old harbours, and museums celebrating the South Coast’s seafaring legacy.

 

And at the heart of it all is Burgh Island, a destination steeped in literary lore and legacy. The island famously inspired Agatha Christie, who penned “And Then There Were None” and “Evil Under the Sun” while staying at the Art Deco hotel. With its atmospheric setting and elegant period charm, Burgh Island continues to captivate culture-lovers and curious minds alike.

 

Food & Drink on the South Coast

Along the South Coast, you’ll find no shortage of fresh seafood, charming local markets, and regional specialities that reflect the character of each coastal town. From hand-picked crab in Salcombe to oysters in Whitstable and fish and chips enjoyed on the promenade, the region serves up flavours that are as memorable as the views.

 

While for those staying on Burgh Island, guests can indulge in true culinary richness without leaving the island. The Nettlefold Restaurant offers refined coastal dining with panoramic sea views, while the Pilchard Inn, one of the oldest pubs in the country, serves up hearty fare in a rustic, storied setting. Together, they showcase the best of South Devon’s produce and hospitality.

 

Of course, no visit would be complete without indulging in afternoon tea, a cherished South Coast tradition. Whether enjoyed on a sunny terrace or in an elegant lounge, it’s the perfect way to slow down and enjoy a timeless taste of the region, digging into the undeniable feast of a cream tea and sweet treats.

Hotel in South Coast Devon

While the Art Deco hotel certainly offers a charming place to stay, the island itself is a destination in its own right. Set on its own private tidal island off the coast of South Devon, the hotel offers a rare blend of seclusion, elegance, and storytelling. With striking Art Deco interiors and rich cultural history, it has long been a magnet for the famous and the formidable, from Agatha Christie and Noël Coward to generations of creatives seeking inspiration beside the sea.

 

The hotel’s location also makes it an exceptional base for exploring the wider South Coast. From beachcombing at Bigbury-on-Sea to discovering historic towns like Dartmouth and Salcombe, the best of South Devon and the South Coast is all within easy reach. Whether you’re here to step back in time, recharge by the waves, or explore the region’s beauty, Burgh Island offers a setting unlike anywhere else in England.

Staying at Burgh Island Hotel

With so much to see and do in the South Coast of the UK, you’ll want to stay locally to experience it all. For a unique stay that allows you to step back in time, book your stay at Burgh Island Hotel and enjoy a one-of-a-kind retreat on the South Devon coast. Romance, relaxation, and adventure all come together on this private tidal island, where Art Deco charm is paired beautifully with the rugged coastal beauty of Burgh. Whether you’re planning a peaceful getaway, a special celebration, or simply time to reconnect with yourself, there’s no better place to experience the charm of the South Coast of Devon than Burgh Island.