Britain’s seaside towns were once jam-packed during the summer months, but their days as tourist magnets faded with the advent of low-cost international travel. Even after a pandemic-era revival, visitor levels are nowhere near what they once were.
A new travel report, however, reckons one Somerset destination is set to make a huge comeback in 2026: Weston-Super-Mare.
The seaside town became a bustling holiday spot for people looking to escape the smog of Victorian city life in the mid-19th century, when direct train routes from Bristol opened up. But in the past 50 years or so, a downturn in tourism has left the area and its once-great attractions a little worse for wear, so much so that it now frequently appears in lists of the worst seaside towns in Britain. But is Weston really that bad?
According to coach operator Flixbus, not at all. In fact, it has just released data on next year’s trending destinations, which suggests the exact opposite. In order to calculate the UK’s up-and-coming holiday destinations, Flixbus analysed its own booking data and searches on its website, as well as popularity on Google and TikTok.
Based on those findings, Weston-Super-Mare is having a resurgence. It was named the top trending destination for 2026 by the budget coach provider, signalling ‘a renewed love for quintessential British beach breaks’ amongst people booking getaways.
So why are punters choosing Weston? Flixbus says that it has four main draws: nostalgia, entertainment, good food, and, of course, the beach. People are ‘craving the simple pleasure of a day by the sea’, and this town can provide one on a budget.
In terms of stuff to do, there’s more than enough to keep you busy for a day or two. After a swim in the Bristol Channel, stroll along the promenade where you’ll find fairground rides, loads of chippies, gift shops, and arcades. The pier is impressive and home to a café with impressive views of the water, and plenty more rides to keep any little ones happy.
The town is also in the midst of a big regeneration plan, which includes restoring the Grade II* Birnbeck Pier (not to be confused with the Grand Pier, which remains open).
Should you visit Weston-Super-Mare?
Weston-Super-Mare is, despite what naysayers might have you believe, a lovely day out. I visited last summer just for something to do on a sunny day, and was surprised by how much I enjoyed myself.
A beach is a beach no matter where you are, and this one’s just as good as any other for sunbathing/ice cream-eating. Word of warning though – the sand here is not sand. It is sinking mud. When a sign advises you avoid a stretch of beach, obey or watch your childhood quicksand fears become actualised in real time. This mud makes swimming dangerous, so if you fancy a dip head round to the designated (free) lido.
A visit to the Grand Pier is a must, especially if you have kids. We also went on the big wheel, which offered brilliant views of the water, went on the waltzers, and enjoyed some fresh fish and chips while battling seagulls. Sure, this isn’t the fanciest seaside break you can have in the UK, but it is one with an undeniable charm that you won’t fully appreciate until you see it for yourself.
Britain’s ‘most beautiful village in the world’ could soon permanently ban coaches to stop overtourism.
Plus: the UK’s second longest pier is set to reopen after a £20 million makeover.
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