Relocation specialist and coastal property expert Nigel Bishop casts his expert eye over the coastal property scene.
Staycation – a word that evolved from the Covid epidemic when the world shrunk. After lockdown people were desperate to get out from the four walls that encased them. International travel hadn’t opened up so everyone headed for the UK coast and country destinations.
As it was summertime families headed for the coast so children could play on the beaches or sail in the waterways. Many counties – Devon and Cornwall in particular – were overwhelmed with visitors but welcomed the revenue streams.
Fast forward two years and many people have opted for holidaying in the UK, realising just how varied the opportunities are and with an ever-warmer climate the necessity to hit the Mediterranean isn’t the only option. Climate change is a serious concern but here at least there has been a small benefit to local economies.
Alongside staycations Airbnb has evolved. Self-catering on short term breaks has boosted the rental investment market in cities and coastal towns, encouraging a growth in an alternative property investment.
The varied coastline of the UK provides opportunities for all tastes – beaches, walking and just relaxing away from everyday life – or maybe a romantic weekend in a cosy cottage by the sea. Destination locations will be dictated by access from a home base, opening all parts of the coastline. For those willing to travel, the more remote areas should be explored, unearthing the secrets they hold.
What better antidote to the frenetic pace of life than to seek a coastal break? There are few places that mean distance is a barrier to travel for a weekend break – or hopefully longer. As an island race we are drawn to the sea, whether the dramatic Atlantic rolling waves or the more gentle lapping of waves along the South Coast.
For romantic breaks by the sea the choices are infinite, so pick a destination and explore.
Beachcomber is an immaculate terraced cottage close to the beach. Credit: Bedford estate agents
Here’s my pick this month of two properties for sale which offer the prospect of owning a romantic coastal home permanently.
In Aldeburgh, Suffolk, Bedford estate agents (bedfords.co.uk) are selling Beachcomber in the High Street. This is an immaculate terraced cottage close to the beach, shops et al!
Aldeburgh is a charming seafront town – a place for all tastes – with a yacht club, golf course, beach and a choice of restaurants along the pretty High Street. The renowned Aldeburgh Music Festival at Snape Maltings is just four miles along the coast, for wildlife lovers the Dunwich Heath and Minsmere Bird Reserve should be visited. A wonderful region to explore for culture, fresh air and good food.
Staithes in Cleveland, on the aptly named Dinosaur Coast abutting the North Yorkshire Moors, is a quaint fishing village known for its infamous resident explorer Captain James Cook.
This is another mecca for artists so a visit to the Staithes Art Gallery is a must. The ancient cobbled streets and alleyways need exploring, including one for those slim enough to wander through Doug Loup Alley at just 18 inches wide – maybe best before visiting one of the excellent pubs in the village!
In Staithes, Hendersons (myhendersons.co.uk) are selling Seahaven Cottage. There are cheeky views to the harbour from this delightful cottage – modern comfort in a character setting.
It’s easy to see why we love our coastline – it may be an escape for some but for others it is home – because, after all: “It’s all about coming home.”
For more expert advice from the property expert, check out another one of Nigel’s columns here.
