There’s plenty of water in Bristol, seagulls and salty air too. But as hard as we try to imagine, it’s not quite the same as living by the sea. Thankfully, we’ve got some amazing coastal towns, so we’re only a short drive or train ride away from the sea. But one of Bristol’s closest seaside towns is among the best places to live by the sea.
No, it’s not Weston-super-Mare. The Sunday Times, in its search for the best places to live by the sea in 2023, listed Clevedon. Half an hour by car and less than an hour by train, this quick trip seaside trip offers fish ‘n’ chip shops, ice cream vans, tea rooms, and all the other coastal classics. But there’s plenty unique about Clevedon too.
Clevedon Pier was opened in 1869 and is the only Grade 1 listed pier you can visit in England. While the Marine Lake is a tidal infinity pool filled with seawater, offering a safe place to swim, play and boat on the coast. Meanwhile, you can also check out the legendary filming locations from the hit ITV series, Broadchurch. Other highlights include the Salthouse fields, the Curzon Cinema for a rainy day (one of the oldest purpose-built cinemas in the world) and Candlelight concerts.
Clevedon was one of 15 destinations named by judges. Although The Sunday Times highlighted that the seaside town was once considered a ‘last resort’ for buyers, it now ranks as the second best among places to live in the UK. Highlighting its Victorian charm and how it has flourished in the past five years. David Wild, a director at Savills, said: “It’s still better value than Bristol but it’s no longer second best and is now attracting buyers in its own right.”
The Sunday Times continued: “Other attractions include a highly rated secondary school, the most attractive pier in the country and a tidal, saltwater infinity pool that’s a dreamy spot for swimming or bobbing about on a kayak, paddleboard or inflatable. The sunsets over the Welsh hills and Bristol channel are spectacular too.
“You’ll pay a premium to enjoy them from your home but there is a good choice of properties. Flats close to the water start at about £300,000 but as you move away from the water, the streets get leafier, the plots bigger and the houses grander.”
Whether you’re thinking of moving or just visiting the beach on a hot summer’s day, Clevedon is always worth a look in. To see The Sunday Times’ Best places to live by the sea in the UK 2023 head here.