The Brits: it’s no secret we’re good at gardening, skilled at chutney-making, expert at queuing – what we don’t get enough praise for, though, is our stellar seaside. When the sun shines, the sea is calm and the seagulls swoop, nothing beats a leisurely promenade along the pier, rapidly melting ice-creams in hand; when the skies darken and the waves are choppy, what can be better than salt-scattered chips and crisp-battered fish, enjoyed in a cosy pub overlooking the rain-lashed shore? With these seaside yearnings in mind, the boutique hotel experts at Mr & Mrs Smith have selected three of their favourite British beach hotels, just for handbag.com…
The Scarlet
Beach Mawgan Porth, Cornwall
Best for Eco-conscious coasting
Perched like a giant gull’s nest atop a Cornish clifftop, the Scarlet Hotel overlooks Mawgan Porth: a golden stretch of sand with ever-shifting seascapes in shades of charcoal, blue and emerald. Floor-to-ceiling windows maximise the sea-and-sand views, keeping the outdoors in, and every room comes with its own balcony or outdoor ‘pod’. As well as coastal good looks, the Scarlet hotel has heart; it’s eco-friendly through and through and true to its roots, decorated with paintings by local artists. Don’t confuse conscientious with unsexy, though – there’s also an amazing spa, and red log-fired hot tubs stud the cliff face, overlooking the sea.
To book Visit mrandmrssmith.com.
