THE BEACH BECKONS
With the lure of the English coast more popular than ever, we highlight five hotspots for those seeking a home by the sea
Five hotspots luring househunters to the coast
THE PROSPECT of a future of staycations combined with remote working has sparked a buying frenzy in popular and accessible coastal towns. These enticing locations offer idyllic beaches, good pubs, a strong community feel and fantastic water sports.
WINCHELSEA, EAST SUSSEX
This medieval town sits atop cliffs overlooking the Channel, with views of France when the light allows. It is perfectly situated for accessing a number of beaches, as well as the twin charms of buzzy Hastings and literary Rye. Camber Sands and its kitesurfing school are big draws, as is sailing in Rye Harbour.
Budget: £900,000 buys a large period house with a separate cottage in Winchelsea, while a bungalow on Winchelsea Beach with sea views is £750,000.
ROCK, CORNWALL
Nowhere along the coveted north Cornish coast has yet to steal Rock’s crown. ‘The sailing clubs, golf at St Enodoc and sandy beaches, along with restaurants are big attractions,’ says Josephine Ashby of John Bray & Partners. The gateway to the Camel Estuary, it also enjoys easy access to Padstow via water taxi and ferry.
Budget: Two- or three-bedroom properties in the village start at around £250,000, but you’ll need £4m and up for a larger waterfront house, Josephine says.
WELLS-NEXT-THE-SEA, NORFOLK
Once thought of as the poor cousin of the betterknown north hotspot, this location has significant appeal. ‘Alongside vast stretches of sandy beach and the fact that it remains an authentic fishing town, it now offers that café culture buyers look for,’ says Ben Rivett of Savills. The Wells Maltings arts centre, with a cinema and theatre, opened in 2018.
Budget: From £700,000 to £1m for a small family house; £1m to £2m for a larger home with a garden.
ORFORD, SUFFOLK
While there are other stars along the Suffolk Heritage Coast, the ancient fishing village of Orford is worth considering, especially if you’re looking for excellent food. Restaurants such as Pinney’s (known for smoked fish) and the Butley Oysterage jostle with the Kings Head pub and Pump Street Bakery. The beach is shingle – not the best for families seeking expanses of sand – but the area is rich in history and the arts, with Aldeburgh, Snape and Southwold nearby.
Budget: From around £300,000 for a pretty house in the village with no views, rising to over £1m for a house overlooking the river or Orford Ness.
NEWTON FERRERS/NOSS MAYO,
SOUTH DEVON
These twin villages on the Yealm Estuary are among the best-kept secrets of the South Hams. Closer to the M5 than better-known Salcombe, they offer a vibrant village life year round. ‘I’ve seen many trends come and go, but the overwhelming desire for uncongested South Devon coastal areas over the past year stands out,’ says Roger Punch of Marchand Petit.
Budget: £275,000 for a one-bedroom cottage within half a mile of the coast, rising to over a £1m for a house with water views.