Seaside town named one of UK’s best that visitors ‘never get tired of’ | UK | Travel

This historic destination nestled along the Welsh coast boasts a thriving cultural and culinary landscape, according to travel experts who rate it exceptionally highly.

The UK’s shoreline is capturing attention now more than ever, following the launch of the much-anticipated King Charles III Coastal Path that renders the entire UK completely accessible on foot. From the lesser-known coastal hamlets to the iconic seaside resorts, visitors are starting to discover locations they would never have encountered previously.

With this in mind, Time Out has compiled their 14 essential seaside destinations to explore in 2026, and their number five selection is nestled along the Welsh coastline.

Positioned at the junction where Ceredigion meets Pembrokeshire is the tranquil town of Cardigan, featured at number eight on Time Out’s list. Its picturesque natural surroundings helped secure its elevated position, combined with its outstanding dining establishments and contemporary venues that foster a youthful and vibrant energy throughout the historic town.

While it appears traditional from first glance, once you immerse yourself, it becomes clear the town offers far more than initially apparent. Merging the conventional with the contemporary, Cardigan serves as a destination for cuisine and diverse retail experiences, positioned perfectly between discovering the countryside and heritage attractions it provides.

Dining and shopping

Cardigan boasts a wonderful array of independent retailers, both established and newly opened, with a wealth of vintage and antique outlets perfect for treasure hunters.

One particularly sought-after destination is The Projects, nestled along Middle Mwldan — though it’s difficult to overlook thanks to a striking, large mural adorning its entrance — offering homeware and second-hand furniture with an ever-changing selection of household finds.

Further vintage treasures can be unearthed at DJK Collectables and Keith’s Antiques in the market, ideal for those who enjoy a thorough rummage.

Mundos is another gem, boasting a charming range of gifts and clothing, while fashion enthusiasts simply must pay a visit to the iconic Hiut Denim factory. Here, visitors can witness first-hand where the celebrated Hiut jeans are crafted — famously worn by Meghan Markle.

On the culinary front, despite its modest size, Cardigan punches well above its weight with a diverse range of cuisines across a variety of settings, with Time Out highlighting several standout establishments. Their feature singled out Crwst for their “sickeningly good brunch”, which has earned its place on numerous lists of Britain’s finest bakeries.

Grain also received a nod for serving “impeccable pizza and pints” in a laid-back riverside courtyard setting. Meanwhile, the traditional local pub, the Castle Inn, keeps the evening alive with a steady programme of pub quizzes, live music and comedy nights.

Historic and natural spots

At the centre of this charming town stands the impressive Cardigan Castle, which dominates the riverside and boasts a heritage steeped in Welsh literature and music stretching back over 800 years. The venue presents a year-round calendar of events, activities and experiences suitable for all ages, ranging from festivals to workshops and exhibitions.

A mere 10-minute journey from the town centre brings you to Mwnt Beach, which not only provides picturesque vistas across the sea from a tranquil bay but also presents opportunities to spot bottlenose dolphins. It draws numerous visitors throughout the year and remains a cherished destination for residents seeking a swim or a stroll up to the modest church at the base of the hill.

A TripAdvisor review reads: “We have been here many times, and we never get tired with the Beaty of Mwnt. The church is lovely and quaint, but the beach is just wonderful.

“We have been paddleboarding in the past only to be joined by seals, which is so pleasurable. Mwnt is so beautiful any time of the year.”

It’s simple to understand why, with its marvellous combination of heritage and modernity, this coastal town deserves a place on your list of destinations to explore in 2026.