A new ranking of “quintessentially British” seaside resorts has been published by insurance provider GJW Direct, which puts Bournemouth in the top spot above Brighton and Southend thanks to its profusion of pubs, arcades, chippies and ice cream stands, as well as its famous pier and balmy temperatures.

Bournemouth has been crowned the most “quintessentially British” seaside resort in a new poll from insurance provider GJW Direct, which took into account factors such as the number of pubs, amusement arcades and fish and chip shops on offer.

The Dorset town was given a “Britishness score” of 73.8 out of 100, placing it above Brighton, Southend and Great Yarmouth, thanks to its 19 arcades, 16 ice cream stands and 52 chippies, and an average annual temperature of 11.4°C.

“British staycation demand has boomed over the last six months, reaching levels not seen since the post-pandemic travel surge, as more people choose to holiday closer to home,” said GJW underwriter Karen Wallis.

“Many are seeking traditional seaside escapes, complete with all the classic attractions we know and love, from ice cream parlours and fish and chip shops to arcades and water sports activities. These are the experiences that make a staycation truly British.”

Brighton placed second with a score of 67.5 despite offering 84 fish and chip shops, as the much-loved East Sussex town was let down by having just 12 arcades, while Southend and Great Yarmouth scored 66.3 and 63.6 respectively.

“Beloved coastal destinations such as Blackpool and Scarborough also ranked highly, placing fifth and seventh, highlighting why these locations remain favourites during the summer months,” added Wallis. 

“These locations are attracting a new wave of holidaymakers looking to embrace nostalgia and enjoy a getaway that offers something for everyone.”