The Traditional Seaside Holiday

Many images come to mind when remembering our traditional seaside holidays as children, the smell of the sea, playing in the sand, the hot summer days spent on the beach with the family, flying kites and making sandcastles. But is this all seen through rose-tinted spectacles or where they really as good as we remember, and indeed can they ever be obtained today?

The holiday scene for British holidaymakers has seen a number of changes over the years, in the 60’s and 70’s the British seaside holiday was under threat from the promise of guaranteed sunshine in Spain. As the years moved on, more exotic holidays were available and not just for those more wealthy. This in turn changed the make-up of the traditional seaside holiday quite dramatically, and for some destinations there seems no return to the glory days, having been spoilt by the ‘kiss me quick’ hats, bingo halls and pier performances.

However, some coastal areas have survived and in fact those that changed little over the years have seen a greater increase of visitors seeking to return to those halcyon days of their childhood.

One such coastal destination that seems to have changed little and escaped the brash commercialism so often found in other seaside locations is the small town of Aldeburgh on the Suffolk coast. A traditional fishing town, where the local fishing boats can still be seen hauling the catch of the day and the pace of life is relaxed.

The pebbled shoreline of this stunning stretch of Suffolk coast continues as far as the eye can see and is perfect for the whole family. A short walk from the beach and you are in the centre of the small town where everything is to hand, shops, boutiques, art galleries and cinema.

If it’s a seaside hotel you’re looking for, the Brudenell Hotel has the perfect location. A step away from the beach, The Brudenell offers stunning sea views, easy access to the beach and is a perfect family hotel for those looking for a traditional seaside location. With a terrace that’s perfect for dining or just a cup of coffee or afternoon tea, and a restaurant with floor to ceiling windows providing panoramic views of this beautiful Suffolk coastline. By John Shoebotham