Top-rated UK seaside town is under two hours from Cambs

Clacton-on-Sea being included on the list of the best beaches in the UK might raise some eyebrows—and rightly so. It does not spring to mind when picturesque seaside breaks are talked about. The town has been the butt of jokes for years, with a name that's more tacky amusement parks and old-fashioned amusements than typical British seaside gems. And yet there it is, being lauded for its beach. Okay, then, the beach itself is pretty good. It's clean, the sand is soft enough for the children to play on, and the water—if it's a good day—is ideal to have a paddle in. And it's also reasonably accessible, easy enough to get to from Cambridge or whatever, and doesn't cost an arm and a leg to park up or buy an ice cream. Clacton's all right for families on a budget or those who simply want a hassle-free beach holiday. All that aside, let's not attempt to make it to Southwold. Southwold is swimming with personality with its beach huts in pastel colors, shining pier, and gastro pubs. It's where you go for Insta-friendly weekend getaways and boutique B&Bs. Clacton's where you go when you just want your children to have somewhere to exhaust themselves for a couple of hours without an overdraft. And yet, it's nice to see somewhere like Clacton get a bit of publicity. Not every day at the beach has to involve oysters and artisanal coffee. Now and then, though, a bit of rock and a working 2p machine is just the ticket. Resources News: https://www.cambridge-news.co.uk/whats-on/family-kids-news/seaside-town-named-one-best-31633250