Littlehampton

Sandy beaches stretch for miles along this unpretentious West Sussex resort, where the River Arun meets the English Channel in a proper seaside town that hasn't lost its soul to gentrification. Littlehampton feels refreshingly real - working fishing boats still use the harbour, and families pile onto the beach with windbreaks and thermos flasks just like they did fifty years ago.

The Littlehampton Redoubt stands guard over the river mouth, a fascinating piece of military history that most visitors walk straight past on their way to the sand. More's the pity, because this Napoleonic fort tells the story of a town that's seen plenty of action. The Littlehampton Museum fills in the gaps with local maritime tales and Victorian seaside memorabilia that brings the past to life properly.

Mewsbrook Park offers a lovely green escape when the seafront gets too busy, while golfers can test their short game at Norfolk Gardens Pitch & Putt or head to Rustington Golf Centre for something more challenging. The Arun Yacht Club adds a touch of maritime elegance to the working harbour, though it's the mix of pleasure boats and fishing vessels that gives this stretch of water its character.

Reaching Littlehampton couldn't be easier - trains run regularly from London Victoria via Brighton, taking about 90 minutes. The A27 provides quick road access from Brighton or Portsmouth. Staying at one of the nearby parks like South Downs Caravan Park puts you within walking distance of the beach while keeping you close to the South Downs for proper countryside walks. It's the perfect base for exploring both coast and downland without the premium prices of Brighton or the crowds of Bournemouth.