Plastic-free coast: 10 seaside communities to visit in the British Isles

‘The oceans, seemingly limitless, invoke in us a sense of awe and wonder…” says David Attenborough’s soothingly familiar voice over footage of icebergs and islands. “Plastic has become an integral part of our daily lives,” he continues, picking up rubbish from a beach, “but every year some 8 million tonnes of it ends up in the ocean.” Attenborough’s now-famous message has helped galvanise communities throughout the UK to cut down on single-use, avoidable plastics.

In July 2017 the environmental charity Surfers Against Sewage (SAS) launched a project called Plastic Free Communities. Co-ordinator Rachel Yates says: “It isn’t about removing all plastic from our lives, but kicking our addiction to throwaway plastic and changing the system that produces it.”

SAS began as a grassroots campaign against polluted seas in 1990. It’s partly thanks to its work that the UK has some of Europe’s cleanest waters. With nearly 99% of bathing water now exceeding minimum standards (compared with 27% in 1990), the charity has turned its attention to the problem of disposable plastics.

In December 2017, just as Blue Planet II aired its game-changing episode, Penzance became Britain’s first “plastic-free” town. Since then, SAS has awarded plastic-free status to another 61 places, and more than 500 have signed up to work towards it. To get the award, communities need, among other things, to get council backing and work with local businesses to reduce their reliance on single-use plastics.

As well as helping the environment, these communities may be attracting more visitors too. Most residents (77%) responding to a poll in Pembrokeshire felt that local plastic-free initiatives had boosted tourism.

A growing number of tourists are looking for more sustainable options. Yates cites reports of overseas visitors seeing news coverage of Plastic Free Penzance and deciding to visit as a result. Penzance guesthouse owner Jon Matthews predicts: “Those businesses who fail to recognise the environmental concerns of a customer base … will lose more market share in the following years. It’s a chance to do the right thing and grow your business at the same time.”

Ahead of World Oceans Day, we profile 10 coastal communities that are making changes and often inspiring their visitors to do the same.

Whitstable, Kent

Experience The vibrant High Street of Whitstable boasts an expansive mural by street artist Catman, picturing our planet encapsulated within an immense hourglass, which bleeds into a mounds of abandoned bottles. As Kent's inaugural town to achieve plastic-free status, you'll discover a wealth of independent boutiques, absorbing galleries, and bustling seafood vendors adorning the quaint lanes surrounding the pebbled beach and operational harbour.

Travelers relish the explore unique boutiques, purchase fresh shellfish from the market located by the harbour, watch the day's fresh catch being brought in, and make a point to visit Fishlab. Originally a profit-free fishmonger, it has been transformed into a gallery displaying fresh exhibitions every week. A point of pride for the town is the annual oyster festival, taking place from 27th to 29th July, and offering an eclectic mix of food vendors, traditional morris dancing, spectacular fireworks and enchanting grotters; mini towers composed of oyster shells illuminated by candlelight.

Accommodation The environmentally-conscious West Beach caravan park adopts plastic-free options in its on-site cafe. It also offers cosy static caravans available on Airbnb, at a starting price of £65 per night. Additionally, Whitstable offers an plethora of modern dining spots, among which two stand out thanks to their eco-friendly policies: the nonprofit Umbrella Café, serving delicious mushrooms in a silky cider and sage sauce (£4.50), and the veggie-friendly Revival, offering tantalising breakfast tortillas seasoned with coriander and lime (£7.25).

Participate in Preservation Both cafes are proud participants in the innovative FetchhCup scheme which invites patrons to utilise reusable coffee cups with a refundable deposit of £2. As an added eco-friendly bonus, Whitstable has 50 companies who are committed to refilling your water bottle at no cost. Lucy Boutwood, an advocate for Plastic Free Whitstable has observed: “We spot tourists who purposely patronize our plastic-free components. Our social media forums, including Facebook and Instagram, serve as platforms for people to appreciate and learn from all the groundbreaking eco-friendly measures taken by Whitstable."

Lyme Regis, Dorset

You simply must explore Lyme Regis, the first locale in its county to entirely break free from plastics. Poised on a breathtaking coastline scattered with historical fossils, this town is also home to the antique stone harbour wall known as 'the Cobb'. This iconic landmark featured prominently in literary works like Jane Austen's Persuasion and The French Lieutenant's Woman. The town is renowned for its rich cultural scene, hosting annual fêtes to commemorate everything from its fossil heritage in early May, to traditional folk music in late August. The town's charity-driven carnival, occurring from the 3rd to the 11th of August, promises a vibrant parade, a regatta, a fun duck race, and even a water polo competition at the harbor.

A locals' favorite spot is the town's ancient watermill, which was salvaged and restored by dedicated volunteers. This marvel of engineering currently churns out wholemeal flour while simultaneously generating hydroelectric power. Its quaint, cobblestone court has evolved into a hotspot for the creative community - housing everything from a silversmith and a pottery to a design agency. At its heart lies the Courtyard Café, a charming spot where the mill's flour is used to whip up fresh scones and pastries. The café staunchly adheres to a robust recycling regimen, diverting most of its waste from landfills. The site even composts its organic waste at Trill Farm Organics. This captivating farm, which also offers B&B accommodations, cultivates herbs and veggies for the café while promoting sustainable living practices.

Participate in the Clean-up Travelers can become part of numerous plastic-eliminating activities, such as beach clean-ups or exhilarating movie nights. Visit plasticfreelyme.uk for more information. Keep an eye out for signs which will guide you to various establishments like inns, diners, fish n chip places, coffee houses and dessert parlors that are actively engaged in decreasing their plastic usage. This step not only helps the environment but also boosts the local economy.

Accommodations Over 20 enterprises, embracing everything from public libraries to breweries, are participants in the area's refill campaign. A multitude of accommodations including the Greenhill House (double rooms from £160 B&B), a magnificent 1930's mansion with panoramic coastal vistas, have secured the distinguished SAS plastic-free recognition. Besides plastic reduction, the mansion has transitioned to ecologically friendly cleaning solutions and renewable power sources. Such efforts help guests leave a lesser carbon footprint while enjoying their vacation.

Penzance

Do With tropical gardens, trendy art galleries, pirate-themed pubs and the magnificent Jubilee Pool about to switch to geothermal heating, arty Penzance has always been a trailblazer. The UK’s first plastic-free town is continuing to lead the way, with almost 100 local businesses signed up to the scheme. This year the default traffic announcement sign reads “Welcome to Plastic Free PZ. Reduce, Refill. Rethink.”

Wave’s Café was one of the first plastic-free champions and only sells takeaway drinks in refill cups. Pop in for vegan nachos or roasted squash salad (each £10.95). Fraser’s, a fish and chip shop on the promenade, won 2019’s Good Catch award for sustainability and serves ice-cream in compostable pots.

Participate in the clean-up effort The annual Golowan Festival, running from the 21st to 30th of June, offers an array of cultural performances, including arts, crafts, comedy, a torch-lit procession, fireworks and folk music. It also provides an amusement park and a multitude of street food options. This year, the festival is collaborating with Plastic Free Penzance in an endeavor to foster environmental consciousness. Visitors are kindly urged to contribute to this initiative by bringing along refillable water bottles, coffee mugs, and supporting local businesses to minimize their impact on the environment, or as it's cheekily referred, their 'plastic bootprint'. One noteworthy contributor to this green cause is a German coach company that was so inspired by this initiative, they prohibited single-use plastic bottles on board their vehicles, effectively preventing these harmful items from entering the town.

Your Accommodation The Woodstock Guest House, conveniently located next to the lush Morrab Gardens, bids farewell to single-use plastics during breakfast, with room prices starting from £80 for a bed and breakfast. Meanwhile, the stylish bed and breakfast Venton Vean boasts of an almost entirely plastic-free operation, also offering a bed and breakfast option from £90.

Hornsea, East Yorkshire

Experience Hornsea, a classic seaside resort situated only 15 miles from Hull, offers an unparalleled sense of separation from the hectic outside world. This coastal haven boasts traditional features such as 2-penny slot machines and delightful fresh doughnut stalls along its bustling promenades. A must-do activity here is to rent traditional wooden rowing boats from Hornsea Mere, the largest freshwater lake in Yorkshire. Adult and child rentals are reasonably priced at £5 and £2.50 respectively.

After your rowing adventure, stop by the Number 10 coffee shop on Market Place for a delicious recharge. Pick between their delectable Greek salad or their nourishing roasted vegetable quiche, both priced at a pocket-friendly £4.65. Established by owners Joanne and Tim Bunch, this quaint coffee shop has championed environmental sustainability long before it was trendy.

Hornsea's annual no-cost carnival, scheduled for 19-21 July, has a fun 'back in time' theme this year, with an incentive to eliminate single-use plastics. Highlight features include a community tug of war and a lively parade. Furthermore, Hornsea Rail Trail is a must-visit for hiking or cycling enthusiasts, weaving its way from Hull to Hornsea; a satisfying outdoors experience just 15 miles away.

Accommodation While there haven't been any local hotels that have fully transitioned to a plastic-free model, one can enjoy a refreshing stay at the charming Ellesmere B&B (Double rooms for £95). Situated on a serene side road near the mere, visitors have the opportunity to relish a delightful breakfast in the tranquil scene of a walled garden.

Contribute to the environment The enthusiastic paddleboarders of Hornsea's plastic-free initiative have kickstarted a “litter paddle” in the adjacent Driffiled canal. The members of this initiative have successfully enlisted the support of 14 local ventures, and are collaborating fruitfully with the coastguard. A base designed for the weekend, located in a charming beach hut on the northern promenade, is open to inhabitants and tourists. It offers cleaning gear for volunteers wishing to assist in a litter clearance, and to recompense their contribution, the local Tesco generously provides free hot beverages and biscuits. Paul Parry, the coordinator of the initiative, shares that they have been receiving "extraordinary feedback from visitors claiming it to be the cleanest beach they've ever experienced". This effort not only sustains the cleanliness of the beaches, but also maintains the biodiversity of marine life that is often threatened by ocean pollution.

Hastings, East Sussex

Discover A vividly historic town, a medieval-era Cinque Port, proudly showcases its age-old inns built with half-timbers and the remains of an early English castle established by William the Conqueror. It's remarkable to see this town's dedication towards achieving a plastic-free environment. Don't miss the authentic Italian gelato scooped directly onto a crispy cone available at Di Pola’s located on Marine Parade. On a leisurely seaside walk, immerse yourself in the alluring Shipwreck Museum, freely open to the public, and further explore the undeniably captivating 1930s Bottle Alley under the promenade, which is adorned with fragments of vintage bottles. Set to magnetize an array of visitors is the fresh expansion of the Hastings Contemporary (renamed from the original Jerwood Gallery), opening its doors from July 6 with a celebrated collection including exhibits by the famed modern artist Tal R (adults for £8 and under-16s enjoy free admission).

Continuing to charm visitors are the esteemed cliff funicular railways, with routes leading to breath-taking view points situated both west and east of the town - a defining feature of Hastings’ allure (£3 return ticket).

To make your visit more enjoyable, consider accommodation options available in the area. Hastings offers a vast selection of comfortable apartments tailored to fit a wide range of budgets and preferences. You can find a detailed list and make your reservations. Enjoy your memorable stay in our historic town.

Historical note, Hastings was one of the original Cinque Ports during the Middle Ages, providing shelter and commerce opportunities for ships crossing the English Channel. Also, the town holds a significant place in history due to the Battle of Hastings in 1066, which marked the start of the Norman Conquest of England.

On the 14th of July, be a part of an initiative advocating for pristine oceans at Hastings' Pirate Day. The day promises a medley of pirate-themed activities, with a unique challenge to establish a new world record by creating the largest human depiction of a vessel. From August 3rd to 11th, you won't want to miss the Hastings Old Town Carnival, where the activities range from pram races, open garden exhibitions, lively street parties, to a spectacular grand parade.

Accommodation While territorial hotels are yet to adopt the plastic-free campaign, consider staying at the Old Rectory. Located in the charming East Hill area of town, this hotel offers a taste of the locale with breakfast made from fresh local produce, which incorporates smoked fish procured just around the corner. For a double room inclusive of bed and breakfast, prices start at £110 (theoldrectoryhastings.co.uk).

Jersey

Experience Jersey, an island boasting 43 miles of spectacular coastline that's not technically considered part of the UK, has shown great dedication in maintaining pristine and litter-free waters. The island's governance took a decisive step by declaring a climate emergency in May of 2019, manifested in their solid support for Plastic Free Jersey (PFJ), as conveyed by Linzi Hawkin, one of the organization's co-founders. Recognising the importance of local businesses in this endeavour, one of the earliest establishments to associate with this initiative was the wholesome eatery, Moo. Hawkin shares, “They serve locally-sourced, organic delights such as açai bowls, cold-pressed juices and scrumptious salads. More importantly, they have effectively eliminated the usage of single-use plastics within their facility, serving as a model to inspire their clientele and other businesses."

Accommodate Aligning with this environmental consciousness, local hotel mogul Seymours has taken commendable steps in terms of sustainability. They have successfully eliminated or substituted single-use plastics across their three hotel properties, including the Merton, where you can secure rooms starting from £76 B&B. Even their popular post-surf hangout, the Watersplash, is part of this vital green initiative. On the other hand, if you're intending to explore other parts of the UK, the easiest way to find sustainable and luxury accommodations is by browsing through the best options on tophotels.com. They have a diverse catalogue of eco-friendly hotels that uphold the same level of commitment to sustainability as Seymours does.

Play your part PFJ allied with Surfers Against Sewage in the dawn of 2018, organizing consistent coastal clear-ups in partnership with Littlefeet Environmental charity. They've inaugurated recycling machines and initiated innovative challenges for learners. Collaborating with the imaginative advocacy organization, Protect Blue, PFJ provided complimentary learning resources for recreational enterprise providers on the island – with Jersey being a perfect setting for water sports like surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, sailing, and coasteering. The yearly Surf Film Festival takes place right on the sandy shores of St Ouen’s Bay from July 12-14, with its focus on environmental stewardship and oceanic-themed festivities, gathers spectators lining deck chairs.

North Devon

Explore Witness the vibrant biodiversity along the breadth of North Devon, nestled between the expansive ocean and Exmoor's lofty peaks. This region promotes an array of fauna in diverse habitats - from the saline-tolerant vegetation in the sandy dunes and rocky coastlines to the moist and dense oak woods inland. The flourishing wildlife includes unique species such as fritillary butterflies, horseshoe bats, hedgehogs and water voles along with marine animals like seals. The area also nurtures otters, red deer, and a diverse spectrum of bird species.

The eco-conscious On the Road music festival in Braunton (30 August-2 September) offers an enriching blend of salty sea air, great tunes, and sustainable practices. This event boasts a line-up of fantastic bands and hosts circus skills and dance tents for an invigorating celebration. For the ultimate maritime festival experience, get on the disco cabin or the cocktail bus, promising an unforgettable ride. And, with the festival's emphasis on sustainability, expect water refill stations, durable drinking containers and recycling facilities.

Accommodation Searching for eco-friendly lodging options in the vicinity of Exmoor? Choose a quaint barn-turned-cottage around North Hayne Farm (pricing starts at £269 for a three-night stay in a cottage that houses four persons). Amid organic pastures and blooming hedgerows, these cottages offer a refreshing break from city life. The proprietors Cheryl and Roger Dixon have thoughtfully designed an eco-friendly stay, from sustainable insulation to using green cleaning supplies. The Dixon's are eager to share the farm experience with guests, offering guided bat walks, nature trails, and even a plastic-free contest for children. They also introduce guests to the fantastic solution of homemade beeswax wraps for packing food. It's no surprise that Cheryl has seen an increasing number of environmentally-aware guests due to the farm's reputation spreading through word-of-mouth.

Consider setting up your tent at Little Roadway Farm nestled in Woolacombe; offering an affordable stay for a pair starting at £18. This haven promotes eco-friendly practices through the use of decomposable takeaway boxes and implements made from bamboo namely straws and toothbrushes. Venturing close-by, you would find the Porthole, a novel seaside cafe designed as a wooden cabin. Their environmental efforts are shown by avoiding single-use cups and bottled water, while urging patrons to bring their personal boxes for the takeouts.

Broad Haven and Little Haven, Pembrokeshire

Experience The beaches, filled with firm sand, set the ideal scene for constructing sandcastles, while a leisurely walk along the seaside pathway provides a glimpse into the past with the sight of ancient monoliths. Being framed by gentle, verdant hills and forested valleys, these twin villages have the distinction of being the first communities in Pembrokeshire recognized by the SAS. This year, at the Pembrokeshire triathlon on the 8th of June, the distinguished sand artist Marc Treanor is set to craft a 30-meter-wide masterpiece, featuring emblems of the local no-plastic group and the fresh-off-the-dock Eco Champion initiative. The Havens Carnival scheduled for the 3rd of August, aims to be a plastic-free occasion to the furthest extent achievable.

For a taste of sumptuous local cuisine, pay a visit to the Sunshine Italian, and indulge in their delightful asparagus and Welsh leek risotto (£10.95), or perhaps cozy up to some vegan caponata siciliana (£12.95), as you soak in the breathtaking view of the sun dipping below the ocean’s horizon.

The charming, old-world fishing village of Little Haven emanates a savvy eco-preneur spirit. A tour to St Brides Castle is just a Puffin Shuttle bus ride away. An invigorating five-mile stroll back brings you through majestic rocky caverns and Iron Age strongholds. Once back, spoil your taste buds with scrumptious crab sandwiches, available for just £5.50 at Lobster and Môr. The Cornerhouse Cafe offers a selection of mouth-watering ice creams. End the day with a couple of pints by the cosy fireside at the Swan.

Stay If you enchanted by the rhythm of the waves, head to Havens Sports. Here, you can rent body boards to get into the water and ride the waves. For accommodation, the YHA Broad Haven offers a dorm bed starting from £13 or a private room from £35. This accommodation is one of the eight in the area recognised as a plastic-free champion. It's conveniently located right by the coast and a safe beach ensured for delightful bathing. A short stroll away you will find the Sunshine Italian, ready to serve a Italian culinary experience.

St Bees, Cumbria

Explore the natural and historical wonders of St Bees in Cumbria, famously recognized for marking one terminus of Alfred Wainwright’s arduous Coast to Coast Walk. This enticing trail navigates through three scenic national parks and concludes at Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire, positioning St Bees as an irresistible allure for hikers. Additionally, the area presents a captivating kaleidoscope of wildlife and historical attractions. The cliff-side RSPB reserve, houses one of northwest England’s most extensive seabird nesting colonies. Meanwhile, the 12th-century priory impresses with its strikingly unique Norman doorway.

Take a breather at Hartley’s, a quaint seaside café that serves tea at £1.70 in elegant china cups complemented with metal teaspoons. The hospitable staff is more than willing to top up your water bottles. As a bonus, the café offers a breathtaking view of St Bees Head right from its window.

Help clean up There are frequent beach cleans in the area, organised by Colourful Coast and the National Trust. The next of these family-friendly events is on 25 July at 10.30am, starting near St Bees lifeboat station on the main beach; all kit provided.

Stay Accommodation options include The Station House (from £320 a week, sleeps four), a half-timbered railway waiting room that is part of a holiday cottage green scheme. Then there is eco-friendly YHA Eskdale (dorm bed from £10, private room £39 B&B), 18 miles to the south-east in the Lake District, with heating and power from a biomass boiler and solar panels; there’s a nature trail and bird hide on the grounds.

Anstruther, East Fife

Find yourself immersed in the quaint seaside charm of Anstruther located along the coastal region of Fife. The area is renowned for its scenic seafront dotted with cobblestoned paths, crow-step gables, lively port, and sun-bathing beaches. Since 2018, numerous efforts from the local businesses have helped in maintaining the area's clean and unspoiled allure, particularly the reduction of plastic waste. A non-profit community group in Anstruther partnered with the locals to launch an eye-opening photo exhibit named "It Ends Up on Our Beach". The exhibit showcased photographs of waste materials, primarily collected from local shores.

Among the leading vanguards in Anstruther's plastic-free journey is its first-ever champion, the esteemed Anstruther Fish Bar. They serve their delectable fare in biodegradable packages and offer refills of water to pedestrians. Just adjacent to this establishment, the notable Fisheries Museum is joyously observing its golden jubilee commemorating 50 successful years, blogged with a series of beach cleaning activities and eco-centered workshops. For those intent on a noteworthy detour, secure a ride on the Anstruther Pleasure Cruiser, carrying you to the Isle of May, a haven for marine wildlife, nestling five miles offshore. The respective residences of puffins, guillemots, and grey seals were highlighted recently on Radio 4’s Planet Puffin.

If you're looking for an accommodation that aligns with your sustainable lifestyle, look no further than the eco-conscious Spindrift Guesthouse (room rates start from £110 B&B; find out more information on their website thespindrift.co.uk). This Victorian house, built by a sea captain, truly distinguishes itself by integrating local produce and rigorously steering clear of single-use plastics. Not to mention its honour bar flaunting a selection of 25 whiskies, most of them being local.

A stone throw's away, the quaint yet green-conscious Dreel Tavern awaits with its pristine streamside garden, perfect for balmy evenings. On colder days, the inviting warmth of a log fire beckons. For wanderlusts, the steps of the stunning Fife coastal path trace right past the tavern's front door, offering an array of delightful experiences right from breath-taking coastline views to a vibrant display of local flora and fauna.