Many Brits love a good seaside holiday. They were first popularised in the Victorian era with the boom of the railway, allowing families to escape to coastal towns and cities.
With the arrival of more affordable flights in the 1960s these once buzzing holiday locations started to wane in popularity.
However, they are still a go-to destination for many of us with certain spots set up for an influx of visitors every summer.
Now a survey has revealed that they might not just be great places to visit, but to live. A study conducted by floral delivery service Flowercard determined the best locations in the UK for residents’ wellbeing.
Two seaside spots were ranked among the top three spots, with Brighton in Sussex taking the crown. Bournemouth, in Dorset, placed third just below York.
The survey took into account seven different factors across the UK’s biggest cities, including air quality, gyms per 100,000 people and average life expectancy.
As reported by L&Q Homes, a spokesperson for Flowercard explained: “We wanted to investigate how easy it is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and look after your wellbeing in different parts of the country.
“Is there a perfect place for making wellness a central part of your life?
“And are there certain places where wellness is that much more difficult to achieve?
“We’ve looked at seven different factors across the UK’s biggest cities to find out which location is the country’s wellness capital.
“So, from the number of gyms and spas in the area, to local life expectancy, which city will see you living your best life?”
But what makes Bournemouth so special? Anyone who knows the area will probably answer first by saying the beaches.
Unlike many other areas in the UK, they are sandy.
Bournemouth.co.uk explains: “With seven glorious miles of idyllic coastline, you’re sure to fill your days with fun in this beautiful coastal town at any time of year.
“Bournemouth is very much open all year round for you and your family and friends to create lasting memories.
“But of course, this seaside resort really starts to come alive with the summer sun and the chance to while away the longer days enjoying all that a holiday in Bournemouth has to offer.
“If you haven’t booked your summer break in yet, have a browse through the fantastic selection of accommodation.
“Or how about planning a short break to look forward to – perhaps around one of our fabulous festivals and free events.”
For those who love to explore it is also not far from the New Forest National Park and the stunning Durdle Door and Lulworth Cove.
Homes in Bournemouth are also cheaper than in other areas of the UK.
According to data from Rightmove, properties in Bournemouth had an overall average price of £380,874 over the last year.
