A recent ranking by TimeOut has named Saundersfoot in Pembrokeshire as the UK's finest seaside town to visit in 2026, surpassing popular destinations like Brighton and Hastings. The accolade highlights the town's vibrant atmosphere, independent shopping scene, and stunning natural beauty.
Why Saundersfoot Stands Out
TimeOut described Saundersfoot as "an energetic village with one of Wales' best-looking beaches." The town boasts a bustling parade of surf shops, bistros, and pubs during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy a broad expanse of blonde, Blue Flag-designated sand and a compact village centre filled with dining and drinking establishments.
Independent Shops and Harbour Transformation
Saundersfoot is home to more than 20 independent retailers, alongside its harbourfront eateries and cafés. The harbour has recently undergone a remarkable transformation and is now proudly billed as a "Marine Centre of Excellence." This bustling hub attracts visitors who come to watch fishing vessels, try crabbing during the summer, or book a sea safari in search of local seals.
Beaches and Coastal Walks
Saundersfoot Beach is widely regarded as the jewel in the town's crown, with broad, sandy shores and shallow waters ideal for families and swimmers. At low tide, the sands extend dramatically towards the surrounding clifftops. A short walk east leads to Coppet Hall Beach, a quieter spot known for its historic railway tunnels along the coastal path. Beyond Coppet Hall, two additional tunnels and a broad, level track wind towards Wiseman's Bridge. This paved route, accessible to wheelchairs, prams, and cyclists, follows the old dramway—a 19th-century industrial horse-drawn railway—through woodland towards Stepaside.
Nearby Attractions
For those keen to explore further, Colby Woodland Garden, a National Trust estate, nestles in a peaceful valley just a short drive away. Spanning eight acres, it features wildflowers, specimen trees, and winding woodland trails. Families may also visit Folly Farm Adventure Park and Zoo, about 10 minutes inland, which is home to lions and rhinos alongside an indoor vintage funfair.
A Relaxed Alternative to Tenby
Saundersfoot is a modest coastal resort situated between Tenby and Amroth and is often regarded as a more intimate and laid-back alternative to its renowned neighbour. With the King Charles III Coastal Path now making the coastlines of England, Wales, and Scotland fully accessible on foot, more tourists are turning their attention seaward in 2026.
