Top Pick: The River Exe Cafe in Exmouth, Devon
Tucked away in the radiant heart of a Devon estuary, The River Exe Cafe iTucked away in the radiant heart of a Devon estuary, The River Exe Cafe is an unparalleled delight. This jewel is accessible via an enjoyable public commute: a railway ride to Exmouth followed by a charming boat ride (Puffin Water Taxi from the port, return ticket priced at £5). Alternatively, you can paddle across in a kayak. Upon arrival, a taste of the finest West Country has in store awaits you. With delectable main courses beginning at £15, make sure to experience the crunchy local ciders and the fresh mussels, sourced directly from the river beneath. This splendid dining experience is complemented by the soft lulling of the waves as vessels pass by. If you're looking for quality accommodation nearby, consider the exquisite Red Lion Hotel http://the-red-lion-hotel.in-norfolk.com/en/. Striking a perfect balance between comfort and style, its services are bound to accentuate your unforgettable outing at the River Exe Cafe. Plan your stay such that you could bask in the glory of the West Country at its finest.s
In the midst of the abundant avian population and sparsely scattered homes of the remote Isle of Canna, one might be pleasantly surprised to stumble upon Café Canna. Housed in a quaint white cottage, the culinary artisan, Gareth, masterfully crafts a range of splendid dishes from dawn till dusk, with a menu inspired by locally sourced ingredients. Here, the sea, rolling hills, and communal polytunnel generously yield the produce that takes center stage in Gareth's culinary creations. Following a vigorous hike to view the captivating puffins, patrons can look forward to a tantalizing selection of dishes. Choices range from the fresh lobster salads, creamy crab linguine, and zesty mackerel tacos, to hearty rabbit stew, a vibrant wild garlic and pea risotto, and desserts of whisky and honey ice cream and a decadently gooey tarte tatin. A unique fact about the Isle of Canna is that its small size - only 4.5 miles long and 1 mile wide - lets you explore a variety of landscapes within a small area, from rugged cliffs to tranquil beaches. The island's wildlife is equally diverse, including not only seabirds but also seals and dolphins.
cafecanna.co.uk
Helen Brazier
Cafe Fish, Isle of Mull, Inner Hebrides
Nestled at the terminus of Tobermory harbor, a quaint, whitewashed concrete enclosure that functioned as a ferry port for the Tobermory-Kilchoan connection across the Ardnamurchan peninsula, now shines as the celebrated Cafe Fish. Sourcing halibut from the neighboring waters of Gigha, and scallops and lobster from the Sound of Mull, they showcase locally-sourced seafood. Their signature rendition of a fish finger sandwich is a tantalizing offering of crunchy, fried fish goujons encased in thick, homemade brown bread. Cafe Fish’s head chef Liz, ensures a steady flow of local langoustines, crabs, and mussels by collaborating closely with her fishing kin, keeping fresh stocks rolling in for every meal service. Some of the best meals are served on wooden tables overlooking the picturesque Tobermory Bay.
thecafefish.com
Julia
East Pier, St Monans, Fife
Nestled on the harbor wall, the East Pier is famed for its exquisite seafood, freshly caught and smoked in their diminutive kitchen. So close to the sea one careless step would lead to a bracing dip in the frigid waters. Perched atop the roof, you can savour the flavours of succulent crab and lobster, accompanied by hearty chips. To go with your meal, help yourself to a cold, crisp sauvignon from New Zealand or a local beer from the fridge. Should the sun make an appearance, the place can get quite lively. However, for a truly indigenous Scottish experience, dare to dine amidst the sea spray, whipped up by the wind, to enjoy an unmistakably salty Scottish bite. For extra information or book a spot, visit the restaurant's website
Contributor: Simon Platt
Latimer’s Seafood Deli and Cafe, Whitburn, Sunderland
While taking a leisurely walk along the Whitburn beach, our curiosity was piqued by a rather unassuming establishment perched by the roadside. Initially, we didn't anticipate much more than your conventional fish and chip eatery. What unfolded, however, was an element of delightful astonishment. We relished the unconventional 'Naked Fish and Chips', free of regular batter, in the variants of cod, haddock, and skate. A bonus was the enticing Lindisfarne oysters, reasonably priced at £8.95 for half a dozen. Despite being winter in February, the mild yet sunny weather only amplified the joy of savouring freshly cooked seafood whilst basking on the outdoor deck. The ambience effortlessly transported us to the sunny climes of Southern Europe instead of the North Sea's reality. Exiting, we couldn't resist the temptation of the wet fish counter and ended up taking home a bounty of shellfish and traditional cod roe. What a charming gastronomic indulgence in the heart of Whitburn!
latimers.com
Marcella
Drift Café, Cresswell, Northumberland
Nestled amongst the golden dunes is a cafe that offers a tantalizing menu, ranging from the unusual yet delightful black pudding scones to scrumptious, freshly baked cakes. The serene ambiance of the cafe and its intriguing menu options draw in a diverse crowd, including dog enthusiasts, birdwatching aficionados, vacationers, and a healthy number of locals. Each guest is greeted with a genial smile, emphasizing the establishment's friendly nature. Expansive conservatory windows offer patrons a light-filled dining experience, complemented by breathtaking vistas of the neighboring sand dunes.
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Contributor: Jade McKay
Dungeness Snack Shack, Kent
You could easily overlook this old-fashioned shack, nestled on the unique shingle landscape of Dungeness against its stark nuclear backdrop. However, this spot offers some of the most exhilarating seaside gastronomic experiences you could wish for. The amiable staff prepares a minimalist yet extraordinary range of fish and seafood dishes right from their shipping container kitchen, sourced sustainably from the family's personal fishing vessels, ensuring that each dish is seasonal. I was served an indulgent fisherman's roll overflowing with a juicy grilled plaice fillet, touched with a hint of lemon, nestled within a cushiony bun. They also offer special dishes in accordance with the seasons, delicious lobster and crab rolls in the summer while offering a hearty cod chowder as winter sets in. Take a seat at one of their sun-bleached picnic tables and lose yourself in deep contemplation while enjoying a comforting homemade fish finger.
dungenesssnackshack.net
David Ellis
Fun fact, Dungeness's landscape is one of only two in the UK classified as a desert by the Met Office. Dungeness also hosts one of the largest expanses of shingle in Europe.
Billy’s on the Beach, East Wittering, West Sussex
Close to the charm-filled villages and stunning beaches of the Witterings, you'll find a gem that serves delectable and affordable seafood. The seafood platter, priced at £12.50, offers a generous serving of prawns, smoked salmon, and crab, accompanied by a tantalizing pâté, often hailed as a must-try. This cheerful beach-styled cafe provides a beautiful view of the south coast's best beach for fossil hunting. Known as Billy's, this cafe morphs into a cozy bistro at night. If you find yourself there on a summer evening when the music plays, consider yourself lucky. It's truly a treat to enjoy your seafood meal, accompanied by fantastic music as the sun sets.
Visit billysonthebeach.co.uk to taste the coastal cuisine magic.
By Emma
Hipkins Tea Rooms, Walton-on-the-Naze, Essex
A quaint family-run establishment, this place has remained charmingly nostalgic, harking back to 1950's aesthetics, while still providing an admirable dining experience marked by simplicity and top-notch customer service. The setting is a tranquil corner of town, adjacent to a safe beach peppered with seashells as well as fossils. This beach stretches close to a thriving national nature reserve and a seal colony that has taken residence nearby. Moreover, diners can enjoy a large veranda revealing grand, sweeping views of the North Sea which sparkles in the distance, backed by a lively array of multi-coloured beach huts. Beyond this, there's ample indoor seating available to cater for those less-than-sunny days.
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Recommended by Isobel Ruckert
Solebay Fish Company, Southwold, Suffolk
Envision Southwold Harbour's picturesque setting, a resort village Walberswick being merely a ferry-ride away via a charming rowing boat. The Jewel of the harbour is an exceptional seafood restaurant that also features a take-away fishmonger at its entrance – a perfect convenience for the nearby campsite inhabitants. Its exteriors intriguingly merge with the quaint harbour sheds, however on entering, patrons are welcomed by a stylish rustic/nautical themed interior. Their varied menu offers marvelous shellfish dishes, kippers, sprats, lobsters, oysters and a delightful array of daily specials. It's also a haven for dog owners and delivers excellent value with main dishes priced approximately at £14.
solebayfishco.co.uk
Written by: Richard
The Crab Hut, Brancaster Staithe, Norfolk
Take a moment to imagine a quaint homely shed perched atop a sea of sailing boats standing in anticipation of the oncoming tide; you've just visualised The Crab Hut, a culinary treasure by the shore. As you approach this unassuming food haven, the sight of aged crab traps stacked by the doorway whispers tales of their prime ingredient's freshness. Now, picture biting into a generously loaded baguette that bears the ocean's bounty, coupled with a cup of piping hot tea served in a charmingly chipped mug. As sunlight kisses the expansive, parting sea and the playful squawks of terns and egrets provide the soundtrack, you cannot help but think about how this is the authentic seafood experience in all its glory.
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Authored by Matt Hedges
Café Môr, Freshwater West Beach, Pembrokeshire
From spring until the dawn of autumn, Café Môr materializes like a culinary oasis on wheels. The sustenance offerings evolve with market availability, with the Daily Catch Butty offering the most affordability. Their crowning jewel, however, is the Welsh sea black butter lobster rolls, a delicacy so mouthwatering that the team earned an invitation to Japan to showcase their cooking. Given that the fish is sourced locally, the seaweed hand-harvested nearby, and the foodtruck operates solely on renewable energy from wind and solar sources, it stands as an exemplary model of eco-friendly dining. For more information, visit beachfood.co.uk.
Authored by Tim Large
Pysgoty, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
Nestled between Aberystwyth harbour and the shoreline lies an uncommon treasure, formerly a restroom block, known for its remarkable sea dishes. With only room for 10 diners inside and limited space on its mini deck, it's a quaint and intimate bayside nook. The majority of its seafood and fish menu is directly sourced from Cardigan Bay's local fishermen, giving customers the freshest dining experience. Seafood enthusiasts may enjoy starting their meal with an appetizing crab salad (£8) or embark on a culinary adventure with a sailor's scotch egg served with curried mayo (£7). A main course suggestion is the enticing combo of cod, chorizo, and laverbread risotto (£16.50). The bistro is also famed for its breathtaking view of playful dolphins that are common visitors to the bay area. pysgoty.co.uk.
Written by: Justin Beddows
Half Moon Bay Cafe, Heysham, Lancashire
As you consume a delicious English breakfast, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of Morecambe Bay. This delightful feast can be requested throughout the day. Additionally, the cafe serves flavorful homemade soup, sandwiches and enjoys a lovely scone with cream on the side. In the summer, take a seat under the canopy out front and marvel at the stunning vista of sandy beaches with the Cumbrian mountains as the backdrop. On cooler days, find a comforting spot by the stove. To work up an appetite, take a leisurely stroll from Heysham village to the National Trust-owned headland, or enjoy an extensive walk along Morecambe’s promenade.
halfmoonbaycafe.co.uk
Graham Dean
Beach Cafe, Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
Nestled in a prime location, this spot offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ribble estuary, extending all the way to Southport and the vast expanse of the Irish Sea. On a luminous day, you might even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the magnificent peaks of Snowdonia. The café prides itself on its diverse collection of homemade, wholesome dishes with a particular customer favourite being the Manx kippers (£7.95). For £8.50, you could also enjoy a delicious basket full of assorted seafood. To add to its charm, the establishment provides a fine collection of beverages, including alcohol, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a serene sunset.
beachcafefylde.co.uk
Joe
Sea Shed, Limavady, County Derry
Nestled in the untamed beauty of Northern Ireland's coastline, off the beaten tourist path, lies a distinctive gem - The Sea Shed. This charming, relaxed coffee shop, a favourite amongst locals and a beacon for the word "unique", is perfectly positioned on the sandy shores of Benone Strand. Here you will find nothing short of exceptional, from the superbly brewed speciality coffees and suki tea, to the much-loved traybakes synonymous the world over with Northern Ireland. The Sea Shed is actually double the treasure, as it's not merely a cafe, but also a meeting point for chilled-out surf-enthusiasts. An ideal spot for mingling with the visitors at this under-the-radar surf locale. And if convenience is a factor, worry not - the surf gear hire is right at your fingertips. Coffee lovers will also appreciate that prices start from as low as £2 for a short black.
longlinesurfschool.co.uk
By Lucy Flanagan
Rachel’s, West Bay, Dorset
The proprietor's spouse is a seasoned fisherman whose daily catch graces the tables of the café later in the day – be it the exceptional fish stew and chowder, scrumptious crab sandwiches, or Lyme Bay scallops. Rachel's is a cosy kiosk nestled amongst the typical fish and chip stands, prominently situated on the harbour front near the beach where outdoor dining is a popular choice. Tables for twelve o'clock can be booked, for any other time, you simply purchase your meal and enjoy the calming view of the gentle swaying boats as you wait. Savour their delightful seafood stew with fresh bread, or indulge in predictable fish and chips, each at £8, and they also serve a mixed seafood platter for two.
Rachel's is known for its fresh fare and quaint setting, attracting locals and tourists alike. Don't be fooled by their modest pricing, the quality of their seafood is top-notch, a testament to the rich marine life in the surrounding waters.
You can find more about them on their Facebook page.
Maria Newman
Tatams, Portscatho, Cornwall
Considered the close kin of the widely known establishment, The Hidden Hut, located in the adjoining bay, this under-the-radar culinary treasure has been crafted into the previous public washrooms of the village. It boasts an extraordinary panorama of the vast ocean, viewed perfectly from the elevated bar seating alongside the port boundary. For those who prefer a more relaxed dining experience, takeaway is available, perfect for beach picnics, provided the tide is considerate, or enjoyed at the Lugger. Comprised of The Taverna, a café/takeaway, and a quaint coffee hut renowned for its mouth-watering Portuguese tarts and an array of delectable pastries. Their menu features main courses such as plump River Fal mussels and succulent squid from Newlyn, delicately cooked in white wine (£14). It serves more than just culinary delights by offering newly-built, pristine public restrooms, an appreciated convenience for those adventuring along the South West Coast Path.
tatams.co
Submitted by Janet
Taco Boys, New Polzeath, Cornwall
Nestled away in a peaceful nook of Cornwall, you'll discover Taco Boys situated in Baby Bay, ready to satiate your hunger regardless of whether it's derived from a thrilling surf session or a calming beach-side amble. This innovative eatery has turned an old horse box into a culinary haven offering tasty tacos – with hake being a crowd favorite. Each taco is meticulously prepared fresh on-demand, using only the finest locally sourced ingredients to create an explosion of delicious flavours. Established in 2019 by a cheerful group of buddies, Taco Boys made waves in the food scene and even caught the attention of celebrity chef, Gordon Ramsay during his vacations. Enjoy these tantalising tacos at a fair price range of £6-7.
Check them out on Facebook
Sincerely, Rachel
The Cove, Falmouth, Cornwall
Close to our residence near Gyllyngvase beach, we are fortunate to have numerous impressive seaside eateries and cafes. The one that always stands out for us is The Cove, located at Maenporth beach. Although the establishment's exterior may seem simplistic, the seclusive seating on the high terrace provides some of Cornwall's most spectacular dining experiences in terms of views. The enthralling flavours of their menu never disappoint; from the succulent crab chowder to the expertly composed mackerel dish with hints of chorizo, fennel and a smoky barbecue glaze, and an exotic ling, lobster and coconut curry. A commendable wine list and amiable staff add to the pleasurable experience. It's our usual noontime retreat, particularly enjoyable when the terrace basks in the warm sunlight. With starters at approximately £8 and main courses starting under £15, it strikes a fine balance between indulgence and value. Visit, if you ever get the chance: thecovemaenporth.co.uk.
Philip