To experience some genuine typically British experiences then try this list of five – there’s something for everyone.

1. Eat fish and chips. Ideally in the north of England or Scotland where the best ‘chippies’ are to be found, and – very important this – you must eat it sitting outside from the paper it comes wrapped in rather than from a plate. Go heavy on the salt and malt vinegar, absolutely delicious.

2. Try crown green bowling. A version of this genteel game has been played in the UK since the 13th century and it is as much a sport of kings as horse racing. Perhaps one for the older set think English country villages and a cream tea and you are along the right lines.

crown green bowling by Jenny Poole

3. Hop across to a European party island. If you visit Britain in the summer months and are struggling to cope with the unfortunate reality of almost continuous rain then grab a cheap flight and holiday in Ibiza, Majorca or Tenerife for a long weekend. Get ready to party hard this is not for the faint hearted – or your Mum!

4. Take a donkey ride on the beach. Get back to basics with some family fun at the seaside. Indulge yourself with ice creams a plenty and give the kids a treat with a donkey trek on the sands, they’ll love it. Also look out for traditional Punch & Judy puppet shows, crazy golf and amusement arcades: all essential tourist attractions at British coastal towns.

5. Go and see a football match. Soak up the atmosphere on the terraces and get engrossed with the action on the pitch. Some of the world’s greatest players play soccer in the UK so take the chance to see them close up and discover this exciting sport for yourself.

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Plymouth, Devon / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Herry Lawford

Amongst the Devon coastline, other UK towns that are popular for retirement are Eastbourne, Bournemouth and Blackpool. The only seaside town in the South that really shakes the retirement reputation is Brighton. So can Devon compare to the Bright lights of Brighton, or is it edging ever closer to the older average age of Eastbourners?

Devon Towns

The county of Devon is divided in to small villages and towns, the largest in order, being Plymouth, Exeter and Torquay. The smallest Parish of Hatherleigh has a population of just over 1300, and the mid weight towns of Ilfracombe and Dartmouth have an average population of 10,000. Plymouth is twice the size of Exeter and has around 240000 residents.

Plymouth

Plymouth is famous for its Gin, is a naval City steeped in History and also home to a large University. Thanks to the high population of students, there’s a fair share of bars and clubs, but the city is also popular with tourists who want to see where some of the world’s most famous explorers in history set sail. Plymouth is neither young nor old.

Exeter

Another university city, Exeter is a little more cosmopolitan than Plymouth and has a higher concentration of bars in the centre, as well as being a better centre for art and theatre. Exeter has a younger and more creative buzz to it than Plymouth and most other areas of Devon.

Exeter Cathedral / Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Phillip Capper

Dartmouth

A medium sized Parish sat on the mouth of the river Dart, Dartmouth is a popular place for romantic weekends away in Dartmouth cottages and riverside apartments, and is likely to be more popular with the more regular travellers and those with an interest in sailing and water sports. Dartmouth has a good mix of country walks, relaxed nightlife and things to see and do in the day so is popular with couples and families.

Torquay

Torquay enjoys 22 miles of coastline and sandy bays, so is really popular with anyone interested in water sports, which are readily available to try in the area. Torquay is firmly on the radar of surf enthusiasts and is home to several surf schools and webcams that can be accessed across the world for the keenest of surfers to check out the waves. And with the surfing culture comes parties, new pals and a groovier pace of life.

So Devon; Surfer’s paradise of Senior Settlement? Neither. It seems Devon has plenty to offer visitors of all ages in each of its unique areas, so there is never a better reason to see what’s on offer in Devon when you book your next UK break away.

Lara Moreton is a travel writer who has travelled most of the UK coastline looking for the best beaches. Lara is a keen conservationist.

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Photo licensed under the Creative Commons, created by Reinis Traidas

A Beach with Worldwide Recognition

As the song goes, ‘Well we do like to be beside the seaside’, and Brighton had the honour of being voted into the top 10 of the best city beach break destinations in the world. The famous Brighton Pier makes a stunning backdrop to the cosmopolitan and super cool Brighton promenade, where you can go for a stroll on a beautiful summer’s evening, or lap up the atmosphere of the various cafes and bars along the sea front.

The beach at Brighton can offer more than just a place to chill out however. For those seeking a little bit more excitement, there are loads of activities for you to do including a variety of water sports, from windsurfing to kayaking.

A Haven for Culture Vultures

Unlike some coastal towns that have a vacuum of creativity, Brighton has a whole host of things to see for those who wish to feast on something a little more enriching.

Brighton has a huge population of different artists and creative types, and therefore it is no surprise that there is a whole host of culture to sample. From dance and performance art, to comedy and some of the best festivals in the UK, whatever you’re into, you’ll find something for you.

The best month for festivals is May, when you have the Brighton Fringe, The Great Escape, and the Brighton Festival – the biggest arts festival in the whole of England. The 2012 Brighton Festival will be an extra special one, guest directed by the fabulous Vanessa Redgrave!

A Buzzing Nightlife

Brighton prides itself on having the liveliest music and club scene on the south coast, and some of the town’s most famous exports include Fatboy Slim, The Who and The Kooks. Regardless of your taste, you will be able to find a club that caters to your tastes amongst the smorgasbord of music on offer.

For those who love finding intimate music venues, the Latest Music Bar just off the front is one of Brighton’s favourite venues. Grab a bite to eat, catch the latest up and comers in the world of music or comedy, or book yourself in for a private party you’ll never forget.

With all of this fantastic entertainment on offer, Brighton is the ideal destination for stag and hen weekends, or just for a short break with your mates.

There are many places to visit in the UK, and all of them have different things going for them. Choose Brighton though, and you will find everything you could possibly want from a summer holiday.

This guest blog was written on behalf of Stonehills, offering fantastic holiday apartments in Brighton, the rest of the UK and in Europe.

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