When the sun shines, few things beat a trip to the British seaside. Whether a day on the beach with a bucket and spade, catching a wave or a clifftop stroll, these are simple yet rewarding pastimes.
It is no wonder properties by the sea command such high prices.
Homes in fashionable Salcombe, Sandbanks and Padstow have become eye-wateringly expensive, but across Britain the average detached home within a mile of the coast has gone up 35pc since 2019, according to the estate agent Hamptons using Land Registry figures.
Even flats, which have typically performed less well during the pandemic race for space, within a mile of the coast grew on average by 11pc over the same period, compared to the 2pc for those further away.
Whether you seek a house or a flat, some locations still offer value. Of the British towns where the average second-hand property purchased last year cost below £350,000, according to Savills Research, here are eight….
Tenby, Pembrokeshire (offers affordability of Wales’ southern coast)
Average price: £337,502
Pembrokeshire can be pricey these days but try Tenby for its mix of golden sandy beaches, historic charm and affordability. Its medieval town walls and winding streets are full of tempting cafes such as the Loafley Bakery & Deli or there is the food and craft beer hub of Hwb in nearby Narberth.
No longer a “stag night” town, it hosts a blues festival, street food festival, as well as art exhibitions, concerts and outdoor theatre (try nearby Carew Castle).
While properties within the city walls or sea views are more expensive, a lot of smaller terraced houses keep their value lower, says Carol Peett of West Wales Property Finders http://www.westwalespropertyfinders.co.uk
“It’s a vibrant year-round town popular with families and retirees alike,” she says. You can get a three-bedroom terraced house for less than £350,000, or a two-bed flat without sea views for £275,000. A pretty five-bedroom house within the city walls is on sale at £475,000 through separate agents West Wales Properties, or your money goes further if you dive inland.
The Daily Telegraph – Saturday 3rd June 2023 –The last seaside towns where you can bag a bargain property (telegraph.co.uk)
