Coastal Cities, Towns, Villages A – Z

Coastal Cities, Towns, Villages A - Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y
There are currently 105 locations in this directory beginning with the letter P.
Padstow, Cornwall

Pagham, West Sussex
Situated around 5 km (3 miles) to the southwest of Bognor Regis, Pagham is a coastal village flanked by a large shingle beach. Much of Pagham was built during the 20th century, with a row of beach houses that face onto the beach, and a large cluster of bungalows and suburban-style homes away from the shore. An amusement arcade, a café and an ice cream parlour are located close to the beach, near the main car park – a parade of shops is also placed close by. Pagham Harbour, a large natural inlet, is situated to the west of the village – its large tidal saltmarshes attract many different animal species.

Paignton, Devon
Paignton is a traditional resort town that borders Tor Bay, a wide coastal inlet on the coast of South Devon. It is a rather relaxing and scenic seaside town, with a large promenade that is made up of a park and a cinema. The town centre consists mainly of grand Victorian townhouses and hotels, with many shops, bars and restaurants to choose from, most of which are located on Torbay Road. Paignton Pier extends from the seafront, hosting an amusement arcade and a small funfair, providing views across Tor Bay. A beach filled with golden sand borders the town. The 18th Century-built Paignton Harbour is situated at the south of the seafront, filled with numerous small boats. Meanwhile, the Dartmouth Steam Railway carries passengers between Paignton and Kingswear, just opposite the town of Dartmouth – this is a very scenic route that passes the bays and cliffs of South Devon, and runs through the area’s rolling countryside.

Par, Cornwall
Located only a stone’s throw away from the sea, Par is a large village that expanded in the 19th century due to the area’s China Clay industry. Although docks make up part of the coastal landscape near the village, there is also a fine stretch of sand and dunes that is within easy reach of Par. The village itself is a collection of terraced cottages, with a pub, a restaurant and a few shops scattered in and around the settlement. Par is also within easy reach of the Eden Project, an internationally-famous botanical garden and greenhouse complex, which is located around 3 km (2 miles) to the north-west.

Parkgate, Cheshire
Situated in the far north-western corner of Cheshire, Parkgate is a rather pretty village that overlooks the River Dee estuary. Many of the buildings are painted in a distinctive black-and-white style, with the beams painted black and the walls in white. This includes the grand building that housed Mostyn House School up until its closure in 2010, and a selection of its large townhouses that face onto the estuary. A pub named The Ship is also located in the village. Interestingly, the tidal waters of the Dee do not lap up against the waterfront – a large salt marsh separates Parkgate from the estuary by about a mile, a result of the silting of the estuary over the past 100 years.

Parton, Cumbria
Previously an industrial village, the Parton of today is largely residential, with terraced cottages that curve around a small bay. A railway line divides the village from the pebbly beach that borders Parton, with several passageways linking the two. Fossils are sometimes found on the beach, with plant remains, fish scales and corals being collected from here in the past.

Paull, East Riding of Yorkshire
The village of Paull sits on the northern banks of the Humber Estuary, around 7 km (4 miles) to the south-east of the city of Hull. Once a vibrant fishing village, it is a rather compact settlement, with a collection of buildings, a pub named the Humber Tavern, and the 14th Century-built Church of St. Andrew. Paull has acted as a large coastal defence for centuries; the most significant of its defences is Fort Paull, a large Victorian-era fortress and gun battery built a stone’s throw away from the village. Paull Lighthouse, built in 1870, sits in the centre of the village, along the bank of the estuary.

Peacehaven, East Sussex
Perched above the chalk cliffs around 10 km (6 miles) to the east of Brighton, Peacehaven is a rather pleasant suburban-style town that appeared during the 20th century. Designed using an American-style grid system, bungalows and family-sized homes make up much of the town, with several shops, a pub, and a few cafes and restaurants located here. A few paths and walkways connect the town with the shore, a rocky beach that is separated from the chalk cliffs by a large sea defence. The Greenwich Median crosses Peacehaven, where it intersects the south coast of England.

Peinchorran, Isle of Skye
Peinchorran is a small linear village that stretches from the north shore of Loch Sligachan, and runs past Balmeanach Bay. Its position at the end of a country road (the B883) means that it is a rather remote and serene settlement – not only is it rather quiet, but also provides great views across the sea to the island of Raasay. Although the shore near the village is mainly pebbly, there are two small splashes of sand close to the village.

Pembroke Dock, Pembrokeshire
Located on the southern side of the Daugleddau estuary, Pembroke Dock is most known for its dockyard, which includes a series of warehouses and a ferry terminal that links Wales with the Irish port of Rosslare. However, the town includes a promenade, flanked by a row of cottages that overlook the estuary, and a great viewpoint at the western end of Fort Road, which provides a wide vista across the outer reaches of the Daugledday estuary. A Martello tower is also located here, placed next to the shore, a remnant of the town’s 19th-Century naval history. A heritage centre is situated on a street named Commercial Row, which features exhibitions relating to the town’s maritime, military and social history.

Pembroke, Pembrokeshire
Placed right at the tip of a small estuary, Pembroke is a thoroughly beautiful market town that slopes down to the sides of a large millpond. Pembroke Castle, a huge 12th-Century fortress, dominates the town’s skyline, overlooking the millpond and the adjacent townhouses. A Grade I listed building, the castle was the birthplace of Henry VII, the first monarch of the House of Tudor. The town itself is incredibly picturesque; it centres on a long high street that is flanked by large townhouses and quaint cottages, many of which house independent shops, cafes and restaurants. A few pubs are located in and around the town, including the Waterman’s Arms, which is placed on the bank of the millpond.

Pen-clawdd, Gower Peninsula
Perched on the side of the Loughor estuary, Pen-clawdd is a village located in the north-eastern corner of the Gower Peninsula. The greatest views of the estuary can be enjoyed from the western part of the village, where the extensive mudflats and marshlands unfold, and the hills of Carmarthenshire can be spotted on the other side. The village itself includes a collection of terraced cottages, along with a fish and chip takeaway, a cosy pub, restaurant and hotel, and a convenience store.

Pen-maen, Gower Peninsula
Surrounded by a great variety of Gower’s scenery, the small village of Pen-maen is located less than a mile away from the shore. A scattered village that mainly consists of stone-built cottages, it is perched above the cliffs of southern Gower. Several footpaths link the village to the sheltered sandy beach of Three Cliffs Bay, and the dunes at Nicholaston Burrows, which are nestled beneath the cliff. Pen-maen itself is placed below the eastern slopes of Cefn Bryn, a large hill that extends across the heart of Gower. Archaeological remains have been discovered in the area, including a Neolithic burial chamber just to the south of the village. Many footpaths link the village with the surrounding landscape, including the coast and Cefn Bryn.

Penally, Pembrokeshire
Located almost 2 km (1.2 miles) to the south-west of Tenby, Penally is a rather pleasant village that is built on the side of a hill. It overlooks, and has access to, a lovely sandy beach that extends southwards from Tenby, and is backed by a large row of sand dunes. The village includes a few large country houses, one of which has been converted into a boutique hotel named Penally Abbey. A cosy pub named the Cross Inn, along with several holiday cottages and a holiday park, can also be found in and around the village.

Penarth, South Glamorgan

Pendeen, Cornwall
The village of Pendeen is placed on top of a large coastal hill, sandwiched between rugged cliffs to the north and west, and moorland to the south and east. A former mining settlement, Pendeen is made up of numerous granite-built cottages, many of which were once used to house miners and their families. The village is located within the Cornish Mining World Heritage Site, a part of Cornwall that is famous for once extracting tin from deep underground. Geevor Tin Mine is located next to the village, and is open as a museum, with exhibitions and tours down into the mines. Levant Mine and Beam Engine, a disused engine house, can be found on top of the cliffs, and is run by the National Trust as a tourist attraction.

Pendine, Carmarthenshire
Nestled beside the rocky cliffs of Dolwen Point, the village of Pendine is a rather pleasant location that is placed on a lovely sandy beach. A selection of cottages and other buildings, including a couple of pubs, a beach café and a surf shop, overlook the shore. With a series of holiday caravan parks located around Pendine, the village is popular with visitors during holiday season. Many people like the long sandy beach which borders part of Carmarthen Bay, but also the cliffs of Dolwen and Gilman Point to the south-west of the village.

Peninver, Argyll
The hamlet of Peninver is placed on the side of Ardnacross Bay, a small sandy inlet set amongst the wild coastline of eastern Kintyre. It is a quiet settlement, with a few houses that face onto Kilbrannan Sound. From the sandy beach, the peaks of Arran can be seen in the distance. A small caravan site is located in the village.

Penmaenmawr, Conwy
Situated on the coast of North Wales, Penmaenmawr is a small coastal town that is surrounded by beautiful scenery. Its charming town centre is located a stone’s throw away from the beach – its high street is flanked by stone-clad buildings, and a selection of inviting shops and cafes. The town has a lovely Victorian feel to it, with iron porches running along part of the high street. The beach can be found on the other side of the railway and the A55 road – it is a sheltered stretch of pebbles and golden sand. The beach provides great views of the giant Penmaen-bach and Penmaen Mawr headlands, which flank the town to the east and west respectively – the latter gives the town its name, and is known for its large quarry. Penmaenmawr is surrounded by hills on three of its four sides, with the hills of Snowdonia National Park brushing up against the south of the town. The North Wales Path, a long-distance footpath, overlooks the town and the surrounding coastal landscape, with spectacular views across Conwy Bay.

Pennan, Aberdeenshire
The village of Pennan is nestled within a rugged cove, hugging the shore as it arches between two headlands. A row of small cottages makes up the village, including a couple of guesthouses. Pennan is famous for being used as a location in the 1983 film Local Hero, which attracts visitors from around the world.

Penryn, Cornwall
Penryn is a picturesque market town located at the head of the Penryn River, a large flooded valley that reaches into Cornwall’s interior. It is a town of lovely granite townhouses and cottages that flank a number of winding streets and alleyways. A beautiful high street runs through the middle of the town – separated in two at one point by the town hall, which is where the local heritage museum is located. Several independent stores, pubs, cafes and restaurants can be found in Penryn. The upper reaches of the Penryn River are mainly flanked by warehouses, boathouses and other small-scale industrial activity, but a quayside is situated next to Eastwood Road, and past Jubilee Wharf, a modern building that includes a nice café.

Pentewan, Cornwall
Built around a freshwater basin, Pentewan is a charming village of terraced cottages surrounded by lush woodland. Two cosy pubs, the Ship Inn and Into The Woods, are located in and around the village, along with a couple of cafes. A freshwater basin lies between much of the village and the shore – this is a remnant of Pentewan’s once thriving industry, which involved shipping China Clay. A short walk links the village with a lovely beach of sand, which provides great views of the Cornish coast on either side.

Penzance, Cornwall
The port town of Penzance is a rather charming Cornish seaside resort. Its harbour is one of the first that boats reach when entering the English Channel from the Atlantic Ocean. Once a town with a thriving fishing industry, the harbour is mainly used for recreational sailing activities. The harbour walls provide great views of the surrounding area – of the town and across Mount’s Bay, with Saint Michael’s Mount to the east. The town centre is filled with narrow streets and alleyways that wind their way around many granite buildings – a large number of independent shops are situated in Penzance, and there are plenty of pubs and restaurants. Chapel Street stands out, with many buildings (including shops and hotels that date back to at least the 18th Century). On the southern side of the town lies a promenade and a large outdoor swimming pool. Named Jubilee Pool, this is the largest lido (outdoor swimming pool) in the country – it is built in the 1930s Art Deco style and is geothermically heated. Penzance also includes Morrab Gardens, with its large range of exotic plants, and the Exchange, a large art gallery.

Perranporth, Cornwall
Perranporth is the ideal seaside resort town, with a lovely sandy beach, some scenic cliffs and a selection of shops, tea rooms, pubs and restaurants. The town is located at the southern end of Perran Beach, a 3 km (2 mile) long stretch of beautiful golden sand, backed by a large patch of dunes. The South West Coast Path runs through the dunes, along with a network of other footpaths. A large holiday park named The Perran Sands Holiday Centre is situated close to the beach, and is an ideal place for families to stay. The landscape to the west of Perranporth is rather different, with a series of tall cliffs that link to Cligga Head, a rocky promontory. The town itself is rather pleasant, with a range of pubs including the Tywarnhayle Inn, and a selection of different takeaways and restaurants to choose from. A boating lake is located just south of the town centre, surrounded by a small park.

Perranuthnoe, Cornwall
The village of Perranuthnoe is located on the southern side of Cornwall, just over a mile to the southeast of the town of Marazion. A rather pretty and quiet Cornish village, a short country lane links it with a lovely sandy beach that is popular with surfers. A beach café named The Cabin is located just above the shore, with another café and an art gallery situated in the village.

Peterhead, Aberdeenshire
Peterhead is a port town that sits on the eastern coast of Aberdeen, overlooking the North Sea. It is home to one of the busiest fishing ports in Europe, with a vibrant harbour flanked by a large fish market. The town centres on Broad Street, a large high street flanked by stone-built townhouses and shops. Peterhead is chiefly a residential town, with many terraced cottages lining its streets, but some guest houses and bed-and-breakfasts are also located here. The Arbuthnot Museum is placed on Saint Peter Street, and showcases displays of Peterhead’s maritime history, including its fishing, shipping and whaling heritage. Peterhead Bay lies to the south of the town centre, and is flanked by a small sandy beach – from here, one can see the large boats of the fishing harbour to the north, and the sailboats in the marina to the south. To the north of Peterhead, more extensive sandy beaches line the coast, bordered by sand dunes.

Peterstone Wentlooge, Gwent
Although the hamlet of Peterstone Wentlooge is located only 9 km (5.5 miles) to the west of central Cardiff, it is placed within a quiet rural landscape. The hamlet is surrounded by many acres of farmland, reclaimed from extensive marshland that was once part of the Bristol Channel. Salt marshes lie just to the south of Peterstone, bordering the side of the channel, connected to the hamlet via a footpath.

Pettycur, Fife
Forming the south-western part of Kinghorn, Pettycur is a small village, made up mostly of a row of houses that curves around a small bay. Nestled between two rocky outcrops, the golden sands of Pettycur beach are popular with visitors.

Pevensey Bay, East Sussex
Founded in the 17th Century as a fishing village, Pevensey Bay stretches for over a mile along the pebble shoreline, which acts as a natural sea defence. A high street flanked with local shops and pubs, as well as the glamorous Bay Hotel, runs through the centre of the village. A traditional pub named the Castle Inn is also located here. To the north of the village sits the Pevensey Levels, a vast area of marshland that is home to a large nature reserve.

Pierowall, Westray, Orkney Islands
The village of Pierowall is the largest settlement on the island of Westray. Here, a row of bungalows and traditional stone-built cottages curves around the head of a rocky bay. It also contains a few independent shops and a hotel, whereas a pleasant sliver of sand is placed in the north-western corner of the bay. Westray Heritage Centre, which features exhibitions showcasing the island’s history, including archaeological information, is located in the village.

Pin Mill, Suffolk
Pin Mill is a rather pleasant hamlet that sits on the southern side of the Orwell Estuary, surrounded by luscious woodlands and tidal marshland. It is made up of a small collection of cottages – some of these are painted in attractive colours, while many have rather well-kept traditional English gardens. The Butt and Oyster pub is placed along the small waterfront, with many barges lined up on the tidal mudflats that flank the hamlet.

Pin Mill Suffolk
Photo: GBC

Pirnmill, Isle of Arran
Pirnmill is a small linear village located on the north-western side of Arran. Pinned in by the sea to its west, and by a raised sea cliff to its east, Pirnmill is surrounded by some attractive scenery. As well as rolling hills and woodland, the village offers pleasant views of the Kintyre Peninsula on the other side of the Kilbrannan Sound. Pirnmill is home to a village shop, a post office and The Lighthouse, a small restaurant.

Pittenweem, Fife
Pittenweem is a rather scenic seaside village, with its picturesque buildings constructed around a traditional harbour. A row of townhouses, some stone-built and some painted, face onto a small port that is still used today by fishing boats. A series of charming shops, cafes and a pub named the Larachmor Tavern are located in the village. Pittenweem also holds an arts festival every August. More info here.

Plockton
Plockton is a rather beautiful Scottish Highland village, placed on the side of a small inlet that is flanked by luscious coastal woodland. It is mostly made up of white-painted terraced cottages, many of which line the waterfront, looking out towards the shear crags that make up Càrn a’ Bhealaich Mhòir, which dominates the landscape. Its location on the western side of Scotland, and close to the warm waters of the Gulf Stream, mean that a number of palm trees line the shore, planted to give the waterfront a rather tropical twist. A number of hotels and guest houses, as well as a pub and a café, are located in the village. It also hosts a fortnight-long regatta in the summer. More here.

Plymouth, Devon
The port city of Plymouth is located in south-west Devon, along the northern edge of the Plymouth Sound. The city has a rich maritime heritage spanning at least 200 years, with commercial shipping and military activity forming a large part of Plymouth’s history. The city is also famous for being the last departure point of the Mayflower, which set off from Plymouth in 1620. The University of Plymouth, great shopping areas and a couple of large marinas are also located in the city.

Plymouth has a great seafront, with a series of low limestone cliffs interspersed by smooth tidal inlets, with stunning buildings and parks that overlook the Plymouth Sound. One of these inlets, Sutton Harbour, is the original port of the city, and is a bustling marina of yachts and sailboats flanked by a stone quayside. Many boats have departed from the harbour over time, including the Mayflower, the ship which carried the Pilgrims to the New World in 1620. A mixture of old wharves, townhouses and modern apartments surround the harbour, along with a selection of restaurants, cafes and traditional pubs. The National Marine Aquarium is also perched on the edge of the harbour, just opposite the Mayflower Museum.

Plymouth Hoe, a large public space, is perched on the southern side of the city, just above a row of limestone cliffs. It provides great views across the Plymouth Sound, with Drake’s Island straight ahead, the hills of the Rame peninsula to the southwest, and Mount Batten Point and Staddon Heights to the southeast. Rows of grand Georgian terraces overlook the Sound, with an Art Deco lido placed along the shore. Plymouth Hoe is home to a statue of Sir Francis Drake, who defeated the Spanish Armada in 1588, and Smeaton’s Tower, a former lighthouse. The Royal Citadel, a huge 17th century fortress, is located next to Plymouth Hoe, and part of it is still used by the military today.

Plymouth has a rich naval history. Royal William Yard, a stunning early 19th century Royal Navy complex is located on a promontory to the southwest of the city centre. Today, it is open to the public, with a splendid waterfront and marina. Many of the buildings have been converted into apartments, with a range of restaurants are located here – however, the complex still maintains its late Georgian character. A newer Navy base is located at Devonport, on the western side of the city, and is the largest naval base in Western Europe.

Point Clear, Essex
On the eastern side of the mouth of the River Colne sits the village of Point Clear. Much of the village was built during the last 60 years, meaning that it has a fairly modern feel. A small beach of shingle and sand makes up the shore; being south-westerly facing, beautiful sunsets are commonplace. Several holiday parks border the northern and western sides of the village, bringing many visitors and holidaymakers into Point Clear during holiday season.

Point, Cornwall
Although Point has some industrial heritage from the 18th and 19th centuries, the village of today is a rather quiet and serene place. The village’s waterfront – a patch of grass along the side of the water – provides great sweeping views across the Restronguet Creek, with rolling tree-lined hillslopes sloping down to the channel, and many boats bobbing up and down on the waves. A part of the village crowds arounds a much smaller inlet, itself also lined with coastal woodland.

Polbain
Built on the edge of a coastal hill, the hamlet of Polbain looks out over the tranquil waters of Badentarbet Bay. It is a rather scenic place, with the Summer Islands located just off the coast, and the grey peaks of the Scottish Highlands to the south-east.

Polkerris, Cornwall
Tucked away at the bottom of a steep valley, Polkerris is a small village placed at the head of a sandy cove. An old fishing village, Polkerris is mostly made up of stone-built cottages, with a breakwater forming a harbour. The Rashleigh Inn, a traditional pub with a cosy atmosphere, and a modern-style bistro named Sams On The Beach, are situated on the side of the shore. Being west-facing, the beach provides some great sunsets.

Polperro, Cornwall
Arguably one of Cornwall’s most beautiful coastal villages, Polperro is a traditional fishing village nestled at the head of a rocky cove. Narrow streets, lovely white-painted cottages and a range of quaint shops make Polperro a great place to visit, made even better by the lack of cars – most traffic is banned from entering the village. Polperro is a bustling place, with cafes, several pubs and a heritage museum located here – an arts festival is also held every June. Over centuries, the village has grown around a lovely harbour that is it is flanked by stone quaysides and a breakwater – Polperro still maintains its fishing industry to this day, with a number of small trawlers parked in the harbour. The breakwater provides the best view of the village, with the cottages built up on the sides of the valley, the lovely stone buildings lining the edge of the water, and the boats gently bobbing up and down in the harbour.

Polruan, Cornwall
Located opposite from the port town of Fowey is the charming village of Polruan. Built along the side of a steep hill, Polruan is made up of picturesque stone-built cottages and narrow streets that sweep down to the edge of the River Fowey. The shore is flanked by many buildings – old wharves, boathouses and seaside cottages – that overlook the river. A quay juts out into the channel, providing a great view of the village, the town of Fowey to the north, and the river valley. An old pub named The Lugger Inn is placed on the seafront. The highest parts of Polruan sit atop the cliffs, providing great views of the English Channel to the south.

Polzeath, Cornwall
Polzeath is a lively village that is known for its beautiful beach, a stretch of golden sand that is flanked by rocks on either side. A few beach cafes, a pub and restaurant named The Waterfront and a collection of shops are located in the village, along with a couple of large camping and caravan parks. Being west-facing, Polzeath attracts many surfers to the beach, with surf shops and a surfing school situated in the village. To the north of Polzeath lies Pentireglaze Haven, a smaller and more sheltered cove, whereas another beach can be found at Daymer Bay, to the south of Polzeath.

Poolewe
The village of Poolewe sits at the head of Loch Ewe; the view from the shore is rather beautiful, with wild craggy peaks on the southern side of the loch, and luscious woodland flanking its northern coast. Despite being located on the A832 road, it is a rather quiet village, although it does become quite busy during the summer holiday season. Inverewe Gardens – a lovely botanic garden filled with many exotic species – is located just to the north of the village.

Porlock Weir, Somerset
Around 2.5 km (1.5 miles) to the west of Porlock, the hamlet of Porlock Weir is built around a small port that is nestled against the coastal slopes of Exmoor. It includes a row of lovely 17th-Century thatched cottages, a cosy pub named The Ship Inn, and a hotel that overlooks the Bristol Channel. Porlock Weir was a fairly busy trade port during the 18th and 19th Centuries – however, it is mainly used today for recreational purposes, particularly by small sailboats.

Porlock, Somerset
Located a stone’s throw away from the shore, Porlock is an incredibly picturesque village of terraced cottages, quaint independent shops and a couple of cosy taverns. A lovely hotel named The Lorna Doone, along with a few traditional-style tea rooms and cafes, are situated on the high street. If you are looking to visit a quintessentially English village, Porlock is definitely the place to visit. The village is also surrounded by some stunning scenery, with the beautiful tree-lined slopes of north-eastern Exmoor brushing up against the village, whereas Selworthy Beacon, another large hill, is located to the west of Porlock. A couple of short footpaths link the village to the shore, a pebbly beach that offers great views of the surrounding hills, and of the meandering coast of northern Exmoor to the west.

Port Appin, Argyll and Bute
The pretty fishing village of Port Appin is surrounded by some pleasant and tranquil scenery, with large patches of woodland bordering the village, and an array of rocky islands placed just off from the coast. The much larger Isle of Lismore is also located to the south-west of the village – a passenger ferry runs from Port Appin to the island. It is a quiet settlement, with a row of houses that faces onto the loch. The Pierhouse Hotel is placed next to the village’s quay, with the giant mountain peaks of Kingairloch easily visible on the other side of Loch Linnhe.

Port Askaig,  Isle of Islay 
The small village of Port Askaig is perched on the eastern side of Islay, overlooking a narrow sound that separates the island from Jura. It serves as one of Islay’s ports, with year-round ferry links to the Scottish mainland and Jura, and summer ferries to Colonsay. A few traditional white-washed buildings surround the port, including a general store and post office, and the pleasant Port Askaig Hotel. Caol Ila distillery, which is well-known for producing its single malt whisky, is located only a short distance to the north of Askaig.

Port Bannatyne, Isle of Bute
The village of Port Bannatyne is placed on the southern side of Kames Bay, on Bute’s eastern side. It is a rather picturesque village, with a row of terraced cottages and townhouses overlooking a small harbour, and a promenade that provides views across the bay. The coastal hillslopes of Bute can be seen to the north, along with the peaks of the Cowal Peninsula. A range of guest houses and holiday lettings are available in both Port Bannatyne and Ardbeg, its neighbour which provides similar views across the water.

Port Carlisle, Cumbria
The small village of Port Carlisle owes its name to its industrial heritage – from 1823 to 1853, it served as the western terminus of a canal linking the Solway Firth with the town of Carlisle, located around 16 km (10 miles) to the east. A series of terraced cottages make up much of the village, with a nautical-themed pub named The Hope & Anchor located here. The long-distance Hadrian’s Wall Path passes through the village, bordering the shore – the course of the ancient wall would have run through part of where Port Carlisle stands today.

Port Charlotte,  Isle of Islay 
Built in 1828 to house workers at a distillery which closed many years ago, Port Charlotte is a beautiful village of white-painted cottages, many of which overlook a rocky shoreline. Placed on the western side of Loch Indaal, the village is considered to be one of the highlights when visiting the island. The Museum of Islay life, a local heritage museum, and the Islay Natural History Trust, which showcases the island’s geology and rich wildlife, are situated in the village. A youth hostel is also located in Port Charlotte.

Port Ellen,  Isle of Islay 
Much of the picturesque village of Port Ellen is curved around a small and scenic bay. Rows of white-painted cottages and townhouses overlook the sandy beach that arches around the head of the inlet, facing onto the coastal hills of Islay’s Oa Peninsula in the distance. Port Ellen is home to a ferry terminal, one of two that links Islay to the Scottish mainland, a small marina, and a selection of charming guesthouses, holiday lettings and hotels to choose from. A series of shops, including two convenience stores, are located in the village.

Port Eynon, Gower Peninsula
The southern side of the Gower Peninsula contrasts greatly against its northern edge, with a far more wild landscape of cliffs and sandy bays. Port Eynon is placed at the western end of one of these bays, where it enjoys a lovely beach of golden sand. However, a short walk to the south of the village leads to a rocky headland, past a derelict a 16th Century salt house, where salt was extracted from the seawater. Port Eynon is a pleasant village of cottages and narrow streets, with a fine fish and chips restaurant and a couple of lovely pubs – the Smugglers Haunt and the Ship Inn – located in the village. A few guest houses and holiday cottages can be found in Port Eynon, with several large caravan sites and a youth hostel situated next to the village.

Port Glasgow, Inverclyde
The town of Port Glasgow is placed on the southern bank of the Clyde estuary, around 5 km (3 miles) to the east of Greenock. Due to larger ships not being able to navigate further up the Clyde, the town was one of Glasgow’s dockland areas between the mid-16th and mid-18th centuries, until technological advancements allowed large ships to travel further up the Clyde. However, Port Glasgow remained a centre of shipbuilding until this, too, declined – Ferguson Shipbuilders are the last example of this industry remaining in the town. Port Glasgow is a town of red-hued stone-clad buildings, with a compact centre that includes townhouses, apartments and an array of shops. An Indian restaurant, Chinese takeaway and a fish-and-chip shop can be found here – a large retail park overlooks the Clyde, and is home to many larger chain stores. However, Coronation Park also lines part of the estuary, providing sweeping views across to Argyll, whereas the well-reserved 15th-century Newark Castle lies to the east of the town.

Port Isaac, Cornwall
Port Isaac is a quintessentially Cornish village, with a collection of charming stone-built cottages built on a hillslope, facing onto a rocky cove. A series of narrow streets and alleyways wind their way through the village, including the appropriately-named Squeezy Belly Alley, which is so tight that two people would not be able to pass each other. The village is home to the Mote Bar, a charming pub and restaurant built on the waterfront, another pub, a seafood restaurant and a few cafes. A hotel named The Old School overlooks the cove. Port Gaverne is located just to the east of Port Isaac, and is made up of traditional fisherman’s cottages that sit at the head of another rocky cove – some consider Port Gaverne to be a hamlet in its own right, while others see it as a part of Port Isaac. More info here.

Port Logan, Dumfries and Galloway
Placed on the southern edge of a large and sandy bay, Port Logan is a small village on the western side of the Rhinns of Galloway. Much of the village is made up of a row of terraced cottages, which have a traditional charm to them. A small harbour lies in front of the village – an early 19th-Century bell tower, designed by engineer Thomas Telford, is placed at the tip of its breakwater.

Port of Ness, Lewis, Outer Hebrides
The Port of Ness is a village that is located close to Lewis’ northernmost point. It lies on a small rocky headland, forming one side of a lovely sandy beach. Since the area was settled by the Norse many hundreds of years ago, the settlement has closely been tied to seafaring – a harbour borders the village, still used to this day by small boats. The village itself is made up of a collection of rather old and traditional cottages, with the Harbour View art gallery overlooking the harbour.

Port Quin, Cornwall
At some point in the 19th Century, much of Port Quin’s fishing fleet was wiped out due to a winter storm, forcing the once-roaring fishing port to be abandoned. Today, only four cottages exist here, all of which are owned by the National Trust as holiday lettings. A quiet hamlet, Port Quin is placed at the head of a rugged cove, with grassy hillslopes that slope down to the rock shore. As with much of Cornwall, the South West Coast Path passes through the hamlet, winding along the tops of the cliffs on either side.

Port Seton, East Lothian
The linked towns of Cockenzie and Port Seton are located on the south side of the Firth of Forth, about 9 km east of the center of Edinburgh. The settlement consists mainly of terraced houses and small townhouses, with an older part near the sea; this is particularly the case along High Street, which runs perpendicular to the shore. There are two harbors along the coast - one at the Cockenzie end and one at Port Seton. The latter is larger and houses fishing boats, many of which are still in use today. Like many coastal towns in Scotland, the town has pubs, cafes, stores, and a handful of bed-and-breakfast hotels. Cockenzie House and Garden is in the west of town - built in the 17th century as a manor house, it houses a tea room, craft stores and art studios. It is surrounded by a beautiful and well-maintained flower garden.

 

Port Talbot, Vale of Glamorgan
Located on the eastern side of Swansea Bay, Port Talbot is well-known for its large steel works, which borders much of the coastline along the southern half of the town. However, the northern half is rather different, with a pleasant beach of golden sand that is flanked by a large promenade and a stretch of greenery. A couple of cafes and restaurants, along with a small adventure park, are scattered along the seafront.

Port William. Dumfries and Galloway
Situated on the eastern side of Luce Bay, the village of Port William was founded in 1770 as a fishing port. Stone-built terraced cottages make up much of the settlement, many of which face directly onto the rocky shore that borders the village. However, Port William also has a small centre, where a general store, a Post Office and a café can be found close to the village’s harbour. Rocky coastlines and a beautiful rural landscape of rolling hills surround the village, providing plenty of walking and hiking opportunities.

Portavadie, Argyll and Bute
Portavadie is made up of a hamlet-sized row of cottages, which are placed next to a large marina, leisure and hotel apartment complex that has been built over the past 10 years. Located on the side of Loch Fyne, and surrounded by the wild scenery of Argyll, Portavadie is definitely worth visiting. The coastline flanking the village is rather rugged, with quiet bays and small rocky headlands that are backed by a large forest. A web of footpaths including the Cowal Way cover the landscape, which present a variety of great walking and hiking opportunities.

Portchester, Hampshire
Portchester is a suburban-style town located on the northern shore of Portsmouth Harbour. It is well-known for Portchester Castle, a well-preserved Roman fortress that was constructed in the 3rd century AD. It the only Roman stronghold north of the Alps which has walls that stand to their original height; many of its original towers also remain. The fort been used for defence purposes on many occasions up until the 16th century, with a castle being added during the medieval period. The complex is owned by English Heritage, and is open to the public. A pathway encircles the fortress, providing great views across the harbour to Portsmouth.

Although much of Portchester is a suburban settlement, with family homes built in the 20th century, an old village-type area is located close to the fortress. A series of Georgian and Victorian townhouses flank the main street that runs up to Portchester Castle. A welcoming pub named The Cormorant is located on the street, and is popular with visitors during holiday season.

Portencross, Ayrshire
Portencross is a small hamlet that is located near the tip of Farland Head, a rugged promontory around 2.5 km (1.5 miles) to the west of East Kilbride. It is quite popular with visitors due to its surrounding scenery, with the rocky shoreline, a pleasant beach around Ardneil Bay, and the remains of a 14th-Century castle that overlook the wild landscape. A major renovation project was completed in 2010, in order to prevent the fortress from crumbling away and being lost forever.

Portgordon, Moray
The small village of Portgordon lies around 2km (1.2 miles) to the west of Buckie. Laid out on a small, elongated grid pattern, the village is generally made up of terraced cottages. Like much of coastal Moray, fishing was once the largest industry in Portgordon, but this has since declined. A large harbour is located in front of the village.

Portgower, Highland
The small village of Portgower is flanked by the steep hill of Creag Loisgte on its northern side, and by the rocky shore to its south. An ex-fishing village, it consists of a few cottages.

Porth, Cornwall
Situated just outside of Newquay, the village of Porth is well-known for its sandy beach, which fills the length of a long, narrow cove during low tide. Flanked by an assortment of rocky cliffs on either side, it is a rather beautiful Cornish bay. Trevelgue Head, a large tidal island, makes up the northern edge of the inlet, connected to the mainland by a small bridge. It is the site of a massive Iron Age fort – large earth and stone ramparts, along with two barrows from the Bronze Age, were excavated from the island in 1939. Porth itself is a rather laidback Cornish village, with a range of guest houses and holiday homes, a couple of beach cafes and a seaside pub named The Mermaid Inn.

Porthallow, Cornwall
Porthallow is a quiet coastal village located at the head of a sheltered and rocky cove. Traditional fishing cottages make up much of Porthallow, with a beach of grey pebbles that holds a few small boats. A cosy pub named The Five Pilchards Inn is placed in the village, and sells drinks, food and even offers a place to stay. Porthallow is flanked by cliffs on both of its sides, with pebble beaches and rocky outcrops making up much of the coastal landscape.

Porthcawl, Glamorgan
The popular seaside resort town of Porthcawl is located on the coast of South Wales, around 35 km to the west of Cardiff. It is set within a rather nice coastal landscape, with three large sandy beaches to choose from: Coney Beach, Trecco Bay Beach and Newton Beach. Although the first two are bordered by the town, the latter lies next to a vast, wild sand dune system named Merthyr Mawr that is ideal for walking. To the west of the town, low rocky cliffs stand above the sand. Although Porthcawl is a rather relaxed seaside town, it is also quite vibrant, especially during holiday season – an esplanade curves around a small bay, backed by a mixture of townhouses, guest houses and the Grand Pavilion – the latter is a venue for popular shows. A marina filled with sailboats is located to the east of the promenade. A funfair sits next to Coney Beach, with cafes, fast food outlets and amusement arcades nearby.

Porthcovan, Cornwall
The small village of Porthcovan lies at the head of a bay of the same name – a sandy inlet that is flanked by low rocky cliffs on either side. When the tide goes out, the beach connects with other small coves along the coast, many of which back into the cliffs. Despite being quite popular with visitors, Porthcovan is a rather quiet village, consisting of a few semi-detached houses, and a beach shop and café.

Porthcurno, Cornwall
Located in a lovely wooded valley, the village of Porthcurno is located close to the tip of the Land’s End peninsula, but on its southern edge. It is renowned for its beautiful sandy cove – a sheltered patch of golden sand flanked by rocky cliffs on either side. A fairly remote location, it is rather serene, and in the sunshine, looks more like the sort of beach one would find in the Mediterranean. An open-air amphitheatre named The Minack Theatre is located close to the village, on top of a rocky headland – it regularly holds performances and attracts many visitors.

Porthdinllaen, Gwynedd
Porthdinllaen is a small, picturesque fishing village that is made up of a few stone-built cottages, and a cosy pub named the Tŷ Coch Inn. Flanked by a lovely beach of smooth sand, the village is located on the eastern side of a rocky headland, and faces onto a bay which shares a name with the village. The peaks of Yr Eifl are visible on the other side of the bay. The nearest parking is available in Morfa Mefyn; cars are prohibited from entering Porthdinllaen, apart from the residents of the village.

Porthgain, Pembrokeshire
The hamlet of Porthgain is placed at the head of a rocky cove, located in a valley on the northern coast of the St Davids Peninsula. A harbour borders the hamlet, which was once used to export stone from a nearby quarry; the industry has since ceased, but large breakwaters and ruined industrial buildings remain. A couple of rows of quaint cottages extend from the shore, which include a cosy pub named the Sloop Inn, and an art gallery called The Harbour Lights Gallery. More info here.

Porthleven, Cornwall
Porthleven is a charming Cornish port town that is located on the side of Mount’s Bay. Here, terraced cottages that flank narrow streets reach down a hillslope to the edge of a scenic harbour, which is home to many fishing boats. It is popular with visitors during holiday season, who visit the small town for its pleasant atmosphere. Porthleven is home to a choice of cafes and restaurants selling locally-caught seafood, with two traditional pubs – the Harbour Inn and the Ship Inn – located on the quayside. The southern side of the town looks out over the vast waters of Mount’s Bay, with a beach of golden sand that stretches out beneath a row of cliffs.

Porthloo, St. Mary’s, Isles of Scilly
Located just a stone’s throw away from Hugh Town, Porthloo is a small village that is popular with visitors. Many are attracted to Porthloo Beach, a ribbon of sand that arches around the head of a rocky bay, and is within easy reach of two small tidal islands during low tide. A row of cottages, several of which are used as holiday lettings, look out across the bay towards Hugh Town. As with much of the island, a scenic coastal footpath winds its way past the village, connecting it with Halangy Point to the north.

Porthmadog, Gwynedd
With a population of around 4,000, the pretty settlement of Porthmadog is considered to be a town, but feels much more like a large village, with a high street lined with a few shops, restaurants and cafes. It is placed at the northern end of the Afon Glaslyn estuary, and includes a harbour that is used as a marina – it is overlooked by traditional stone-built townhouses, and a maritime museum that showcases much of Porthmadog’s heritage. In fact, the town rapidly grew in the 19th Century due to the roaring slate industry in north-west Wales at that time, becoming a centre for slate exporting and shipbuilding. Two narrow-gauge heritage railways link Porthmadog with the peaks of the Snowdonia National Park – the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, which winds its way past Mount Snowdon, and the Ffestiniog Railway, which was once used to transport slate from large mines to Porthmadog.

Porthoustock, Cornwall
The hamlet of Porthoustock is nestled within a wooded valley on the eastern side of the Lizard peninsula. It is situated close to a rocky cove, which is arched by a beach of grey pebbles. It is the site of industrial activity, with a quarry that mines minerals located close by. Fishing boats also run from the hamlet.

Porthtowan, Cornwall
Much of Porthtowan, a small village of the northern side of Cornwall, is located at the foot of a large valley. Its sandy beach is a frequent Blue Flag award winner, and is one of Cornwall’s most popular surfing beaches. Being fairly off the beaten track, Porthtowan is often a quiet village, with a collection of cottages and other buildings. A beach café, surf shop and bar are located next to the shore.

Portishead, Somerset

Portknockie, Moray
Placed above a small, grassy cliff, the village of Portknockie overlooks a harbour that is often filled with small boats. Although herring fishing was once a large industry, this has all but diminished over the past few decades – many of the boats are used for pleasure purposes. The coastal landscape close to the village is incredibly rugged, with many large rocks and narrow inlets making up the shore. Bow Fiddle Rock – a natural arch that resembles the tip of a fiddle bow – is located just to the east of the village.

Portlethen Village, Aberdeenshire
Portlethen Village rests on top of the Aberdeenshire cliffs, overlooking a picturesque bay that shares its name. Due to the steep nature of the cliffs, access down to the rocky beach below is rather difficult and is not recommended outside of any properly marked paths. The village itself is a collection of single-storey cottages and bungalows.

Portloe, Cornwall
Situated at the head of a rugged cove, the village of Portloe is an incredibly pretty village of stone-built cottages, many of which cling to the side of a steep coastal hillslope. The village retains much of its original character, with many of its buildings never having been altered since they were built – some of the cottages in Portloe are over 200 years old. A short slipway descends from the village to the shore, which is sheltered by rocky cliffs on three of its sides. The Lugger Hotel and restaurant is located in the centre of Portloe, with the Ship Inn pub placed on one of the country lanes as it enters the village.

Portmahomack, Highland
The scenic village of Portmahomack curves around a small bay, overlooking the Dornock Firth. The quay provides great views of the Scottish Highlands, located in the far distance to the west. The village itself is made up of many traditional painted houses that face the sea, bordered by an arc of pleasant golden sand. A small harbour borders the northern part of the bay.

Portmeirion, Gwynedd
Portmeirion is a very quirky village that is popular with tourists from far and wide. Built between 1925 and 1975 by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion was designed to resemble an Italian village, with a series of beautifully ornate buildings, that include cottages, townhouses and a large stone belltower. A large piazza filled with a water fountain and a flower garden forms the centrepiece of the village. Not only is Portmeirion a scenic village in its own right, but it is also surrounded by a rather beautiful landscape. The village is built on the side of a hill, where it overlooks the estuary of the Afon Dwyryd – the peaks of the Snowdonia National Park rise up above the other side of the inlet. A plush hotel, also designed in the Italianate style, is located on the village’s waterfront. More info here.

Portmeirion - Gwynedd, North Wale

Photo: GBC


Portnacroish, Argyll and Bute
The small village of Portnacroish overlooks Loch Laich, a tidal inlet which is famous for Castle Stalker, a picturesque fortress that sits atop a small rocky island. A traditional pub named The Old Inn is placed on the main road that runs through Portnacroish, and the Appin Bay Guest House overlooks the surrounding scenery. The grey peaks of the Kingairloch Peninsula can be seen on the other side of Loch Linnhe, which is located to the west of the village.

Portnaguran and Broker, Lewis, Outer Hebrides
The hamlet of Portnaguran sits near the north-eastern tip of the Eye Peninsula, which protrudes eastwards from the Isle of Lewis’s western coast. It faces onto a small rocky bay, flanked by a harbour wall and a row of bungalows. Broker is a similar-sized hamlet located just to the south of Portnaguran; it also overlooks the sea, but is perched on top of a small cliff, providing great views across Broad Bay of Lewis’s scenic coastline.

Portnahaven and Port Wemyss,  Isle of Islay 
The neighbouring villages of Portnahaven and Port Wemyss can be found at the tip of a large peninsula named the Rinns of Islay. Portnahaven is a very pretty village, with two rows of picturesque white-washed cottages that curve around a rocky coastal inlet, one that is headed by a beach of golden sand. A shop, post office, a bed and breakfast and a few holiday lettings are located here. Port Wemyss is an equally pretty collection of white-painted cottages, placed above a low cliff that faces onto the Isle of Ornsay, a rocky island that is adorned with a white lighthouse. The shore that passes to the south of the village is incredibly rugged, with crags of sharp rock that separate the land from the sea.

Portnalong, Isle of Skye
The small village of Portnalong is located around 2.5 km (4 miles) to the north-west of Carbost, and also borders the shore of Loch Harport. It is a collection of cottages and croft farmhouses that stretch from a small jetty along the side of the loch. Some of its buildings have been converted into holiday lettings, and the Skyewalker Hostel and Croft Bunkhouse are located in the village. The surrounding area is very scenic, with Ardtreck Point close to the village, and a sandy beach at Fiskaveg Bay just to the west.

Portobello, City of Edinburgh
Portobello is a coastal suburb of Edinburgh, located around 5 km/3 miles to the east of the city centre, bordering the Firth of Forth. It is a popular resort town, with a lengthy sandy beach, and a vibrant promenade fronted by a row of large 18th and 19th Century buildings, some of which are used as guest houses, cafes and bars. Portobello High Street, which runs close to the beach, is flanked by a range of high-quality independent shops and award-winning restaurants. Much of the town is built in a traditional style that is closely associated with Edinburgh (and much of Scotland), with terraced cottages and townhouses made of large stone slabs, giving Portobello a rather vintage feel. Several parks and gardens can be found in the town, including Abercorn Park and Brighton Park.

Portpatrick, Dumfries and Galloway
Located on the western coast of the Rhinns of Galloway, the village of Portpatrick is known for its pretty pastel-hued cottages and townhouses that face onto a rocky harbour. It is a rather lively village that is popular with visitors – a selection of traditional hotels is located here, including the Portpatrick Hotel – a grand three-storey hotel that is perched on top of a row of rugged cliffs, overlooking the harbour. Several shops are located in the village, whereas some of the hotels include a bar and restaurant. Portpatrick’s location on the Rhinns of Galloway means that it is surrounded by a decent selection of rugged scenery, with great walking opportunities available in the local area.

Portreath, Cornwall
Like many villages along the northern coast of Cornwall, Portreath sits to the side of a sandy cove, which is flanked by two rocky cliffs on either side. It is a pretty village, with an old harbour, three pubs, and several cafes and restaurants. It is popular with more experienced surfers, particularly as the main harbour wall generates a rare type of surf break.

Portree, Isle of Skye
The town of Portree is the largest on the Isle of Skye, one of Scotland’s Inner Hebrides. It overlooks a loch of the same name, and is surrounded by incredibly scenery, with mountains in almost all directions. A wooded promontory named the Lump sits on the side of the loch, providing amazing views of the local landscape. A small harbour is tucked away at the base of a hillslope, along with a quay, and rows of quaint cottages painted in vibrant colours. The town centre, which sits above the harbour, has a quiet and village-type feel to it. Since Portree is frequented by visitors, particularly during holiday season, a nice selection of hotels and guesthouses are located in the town, including The Caledonian. Cafes, restaurants and shops are located in the town. The Scorrybreac Trail is a 3.1 km/1.9-mile-long circular footpath that runs from the west of the town – much of it takes walkers through the coastal woodland and along the rocky shore of Loch Portree.

Portscatho, Cornwall
Located on the eastern side of the Roseland peninsula, Porthscatho is a village of picturesque stone-built cottages that stretch down a hillslope to the edge of a rocky cove. Although much of the village’s fishing industry has declined over the years, boats still bring in catches every single day. A small harbour is located just below the village, surrounded by rocks and patches of sand that make up Portscatho’s shore. A cosy pub named the Plume of Feathers is situated in the centre of the village, close to a restaurant and a small art gallery.

Portskerra, Sutherland
The small village of Portskerra is located along an idyllic stretch of Scotland’s northern coast. It overlooks Melvich Bay, with its lovely beach of golden sand that is flanked on both sides by rocky cliffs, and is bordered by a row of high dunes. A collection of cottages makes up the village, which spreads out over a rocky headland. The northern part of Portskerra ends at a small hidden cove, flanked by patches of rocks that add to the area’s great scenery.

Portslade-by-Sea, West Sussex
Portslade-by-Sea is a seaside town situated on the South Coast of England, around 5 km to the west of Brighton. Functioning mainly as a suburb of Brighton and Hove, it is an industrialised town, with numerous warehouses lining the shoreline. The Southwick Ship Canal, a 3 km-long water channel, runs perpendicular to the beach, itself a relic of the town’s industrial past. A shingle beach lines the town, with a small wildlife site separating the warehouses from the shore. Portslade also marks the western extent of the seaside lawns that run towards Hove. A model yacht club is based at Hove Lagoon, a boating lake that is located close to Portslade.

Portsmouth, Hampshire
Portsmouth is a port city on the south coast of England in the county of Hampshire .It is largely located on Portsea Island at the mouth of the Solent River into the English Channel.

Portsoy, Aberdeenshire
Portsoy is a rather pleasant village, made up of rather picturesque cottages and townhouses that straddle a series of quiet streets. Bordered by a rather rugged section of coastline, with rocks that jut out into the sea, a couple of small harbours were placed here in order to provide shelter for fishing boats. A series of shops can be found in the village, as well as the Station Hotel. A small rocky beach curves around Links Bay. Portsoy is surrounded by a selection of nice coastal scenery, with rugged cliffs and a couple of headlands.

Portwrinkle, Cornwall
The village of Portwrinkle can be found in south-eastern Cornwall, perched between the waves of Whitsand Bay and a row of coastal hills. A 7 km (4 mile) long beach of sand stretches from Portwrinkle towards Rame Head – however, much of the village is flanked by outcrops of rock. A sheltered cove named Finnygook Beach is also located just below Portwrinkle, and provides a splash of sand. The Jolly Roger, a fine beach café, is situated in the village.

Powfoot, Dumfries and Galloway
Powfoot is a small village located on the banks of the Solway Firth. A collection of bungalows, cottages and terraced houses make up the village, which also includes a hotel on the waterfront. A sandy beach borders Powfoot, but is most easily accessible just to the west of the village. A large golf course borders the village, as well as a camping and caravanning park.

Praa Sands, Cornwall
The coastal village of Praa Sands takes its name from an adjacent beach, a beautiful stretch of light-yellow sand that arches around a wide bay. A row of sand dunes separates the shore from the village, with two headlands of tall, rocky cliffs on either side. Praa Sands attracts bathers, swimmers and surfers whenever the sea is choppy. The village’s small tourist area is located next to the western side of the beach – this is where the Sandbar pub and restaurant, and parking facilities, can all be found.

Prestatyn, Denbighshire
Prestatyn is a coastal town in North Wales, overlooking the Irish Sea. It is a rather popular destination for holidaymakers, with many caravan sites and a large Pontins holiday park in and around the town. A large promenade separates Prestatyn from its extensive shingle beach, with wide and golden sandflats emerging during low tide. A row of sand dunes borders the shoreline directly to the west of the town. The Nova Centre is placed on the seafront – a large indoor visitor attraction that hosts an indoor swimming pool, a large children’s soft play area, a café and a restaurant. Much of the town was built in the 20th Century, hence the lack of buildings facing directly onto the beach. A large bowling alley is situated next to Ffrith Park, an area of greenery that lies just to the west of Prestatyn.

Prestonpans, Lothian
The small town of Prestonpans can be found on the southern side of the Firth of Forth, some 13 km (8 miles) to the east of central Edinburgh. It is a mostly quiet coastal town, with a high street lined with terraced houses, a selection of shops, and a cluster of food outlets. Many murals depicting local history can be seen painted on the sides of houses, and adorning parts of the sea wall. Houses are built to the edge of the firth, with a small coastal walkway that provides great views across the firth – the rolling hills of Fife are visible to the north, with Arthur’s Seat (a hill in the centre of Edinburgh) to the west. Prestonpans is well-known for being close to the site of a historic battle, which took place just to the southeast of the town in 1745 – the battlefield is protected by Historic Scotland. The Prestonpans Tapestry was created in 2010 to commemorate the battle.

Prestwick, Ayrshire
Prestwick is a charming resort town on the coast of Ayrshire, situated around 50 km (30 miles) to the southwest of central Glasgow. A bustling high street makes up much of the town centre – located a stone’s throw away from the sea, it is lined with a number of trendy cafes and restaurants, along with a fine selection of independent stores. A wide promenade borders the shore – it is a patch of grass overlooked by a row of townhouses on one side, and flanked by a sandy beach of on the other. The promenade provides great views across the Firth of Clyde, with the peaks of Arran on the horizon. A sailing club is perched just above the shore, and two golf courses flank the coastline – one to the north of the town, the other to the south.

Primrose Valley
Located in the Scarborough district of North Yorkshire, England, Primrose Valley is a seaside village situated south of Filey. It was previously part of the East Riding of Yorkshire until 1974 when it was incorporated into the Scarborough local government area.

Pwll, Carmarthenshire
The village of Pwll is sandwiched between the towns of Burry Port and Llanelli, where it overlooks the large estuary of the River Loughor. Although a coastal railway line separates the village from the shore, a couple of pedestrian level crossings provide access to the side of the estuary, which supplies great views of the Gower Peninsula, located on the southern side of the Loughor. A large coastal park also borders the estuary. Pwll is a village of cottages and suburban-style housing, with several shops, a café and a pub located here.

Pwllheli, Gwynedd
The market town of Pwllheli is located on the southern side of the Llyn Peninsula. It has two main sections: an older area filled with townhouses and other buildings that straddle a series of narrow streets, and a newer seafront part that includes a pleasant promenade. Both are separated by a large harbour – once used for industrial activity, it is now occupied by a bustling marina, which hosts many sailboats and yachts. Pwllheli is popular with pleasure sailing – Plas Heli, the Welsh National Sailing Academy and Events Centre, is situated alongside the town. The newer seafront area is flanked by a row of mostly 20th Century-built townhouses that look onto Tremadog Bay, with the peaks of Snowdonia visible in the distance to the south-east. A fine beach of sand and shingle borders much of the town. A range of shops, restaurants and cafes can be found in the older part of Pwllheli, along with the Neuadd Dwyfor Arts Centre.

 

Author:  Julian Marks