Move to... a home by the beach

Wide horizons, breezy fresh air and masses of space - the best British beaches have all this in abundance. Our coastline offers many Victorian resorts, quiet coves and harbour towns, but for sheer excitement, a big, blustery beach is hard to beat. Some are perfect for water sports - the north Devon and Cornwall coast, for example, lapped by big Atlantic waves, is a magnet for surfers. Others, such as Dorset and East Devon's Jurassic Coast, are rich in fossil history, while countless off-the-beaten-track beaches are ideal for walkers and wildlife lovers.

The best beaches may also be backed by huge dune systems, pine forests or nature reserves, or bisected by streams and rivers winding their way to the sea. There is much to enjoy on our beaches - live near one and these exceptional spaces are yours to relish all year round.  

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Sport

Beaches are great places to exercise, whether you want a stroll or a run, and many are prime sites for water sports, too, from sea kayaking to kite surfing. You can ride horses along the shore on some beaches, but if you own a dog, find out whether they are allowed access during the summer - some popular beaches ban them.

Wildlife

Many beaches are part of a unique area of ecological interest, comprising dunes, forests and marshland. Here you may find rare plant and insect life, and the area often attracts a wide variety of sea birds and animals, from red squirrels to otters and dolphins. If there's a fishing harbour nearby, some of this natural abundance can end up on your plate, too, in the form of fresh, locally caught seafood and fish.

Fresh air

The air quality on our coast is good and sea air has long been prized for its ability to revive and refresh. It is less good for your property, though - strong winds and driving rain during winter storms can cause damage and speed the deterioration of plasterwork and wooden window frames. Regular upkeep may be needed to protect them.

Seasonality

Many beaches swing from utterly deserted in winter to extremely busy in summer. The more remote your beach is, the distance from the car park to the shoreline and whether it is sand or shingle will dictate how crowded it may become. If you live nearby, however, you can visit the beach early or late in the day, when it's quieter.

Property prices

Homes with sea views or within walking distance of a beach sell at a premium, and even distant sea views elevate the price. Prices drop the further back from the coast you go, and the more remote the beach is.

Community

Many villages near good beaches have a high proportion of rental properties or second homes, which can affect community spirit. Do your research, though, as plenty of thriving beachside villages do exist.

Do you think a home by a beach could be for you? Click here for six of the best