Britons looking to swerve the rain this year may want to head south, as new research has revealed the UK’s sunniest seaside destinations, and a charming coastal town taking the top spot.
A new “Sun Report” ranked locations across the UK based on their average monthly sunshine hours throughout the year.
The results - from MG Timber and Online Marketing Surgery - showed Shanklin is officially the sunniest area in the UK, enjoying an impressive 164.67 hours of sunshine per month.
Meanwhile, Kinlochewe was named the least sunny destination, with just 77.20 average monthly sunshine hours. The findings come as many Britons swap overseas holidays for UK breaks, with coastal escapes proving especially popular when the weather is hot.
Shanklin, Isle of Wight, was shown to be the UK's sunniest spot
| GETTYThe UK’s top 10 sunniest areas
- Shanklin – 164.67 hours
- Folkestone – 160.96 hours
- Bognor Regis – 159.88 hours
- Hastings – 159.52 hours
- Weymouth – 158.7 hours
- Eastbourne – 157.65 hours
- Shoeburyness – 157.03 hours
- Manston – 153.84 hours
- Walton-on-the-Naze – 152 hours
- Isle of Portland – 151.88 hours
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Topping the list is Shanklin, one of the Isle of Wight’s most beloved seaside resorts. Known for its traditional beach huts, golden sands and picturesque Old Village filled with tea rooms and thatched cottages, the destination has long been popular with families seeking classic British seaside charm.
The nearby Shanklin Chine, a dramatic tree-lined gorge with waterfalls and walking trails, also draws visitors during the summer months.
Coming second is Folkestone in Kent, which has undergone a major transformation in recent years. Once seen mainly as a ferry gateway, the town is now known for its trendy Harbour Arm, independent restaurants, colourful art scene and long beachfront promenade.
Its combination of coastal scenery and easy rail access from London has made it more and more popular for weekend breaks.
Folkestone, Kent, is another sunny option for a UK break
|GETTY
In third place was Bognor Regis. This area continues to attract holidaymakers looking for traditional seaside fun and warmer weather. The West Sussex resort boasts a long promenade and family-friendly beaches, as well as attractions including its famous pier and nearby South Downs countryside.
It is also one of the driest and sunniest parts of the country, helping cement its reputation as a reliable summer getaway.
The report highlights 10 spots that average more than 150 hours of sunshine a month, giving Britons plenty of options for a warm-weather escape without leaving the UK.
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