Best seaside town 2017 REVEALED - and it isn’t Cornwall or Devon
THE BEST seaside town in the UK has been revealed by the British Travel Awards, but it isn’t Cornwall or Devon.
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The seaside town holiday was one of the most popular trips by Britons this year as many chose a staycation instead of heading abroad.
Indeed, with some European countries currently at risk of a measles outbreak, it certainly makes sense to stay closer to home.
It has since been revealed which is the best seaside town in the UK for 2017, as voted by the general public.
Surprisingly, it isn’t Cornwall or Devon that took the top spot.
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Many head to the spot in the summer to visit the famous attractions
The British Travel Awards 2017 found that Bournemouth was the winner, for the third year in a row.
Just under 360,000 registered to vote, as the town beat Brighton and Bude for the gold, despite Brighton apparently being one of the happiest places in the UK.
Bournemouth’s sandy beaches and busy nightlife means it was crowned the best place for a seaside holiday for the family this year.
Many head to the spot in the summer to visit the famous attractions, as well as visit Poole Harbour, the largest natural harbour in the world.
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Mike Francis, president of Bournemouth and Poole Tourism Management Board, said: “This is a fantastic achievement for Bournemouth and it is great knowing that this award was voted for by our visitors.
“This is recognition of the huge recent investment in the resort and of all the hard work of our local tourism businesses in delivering a diverse and exciting offer.”
Cllr Pat Oakley, portfolio holder for tourism, leisure and the arts said: “I am thrilled that Bournemouth has won this award for best UK seaside town for the third time. What an endorsement for our resort.
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to all those who work so hard in the tourism and hospitality sectors and massive congratulations to the whole town.”
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Scientists have also found that being by the sea does improve happiness.
A study of over 4,500 people found that living near the coastline gives “greater psychological contentment” than being further inland.
People also reported to feeling more relaxed and refreshed after a short visit to the sea.
Psychology expert Dr Kayleigh Wyles, who undertook the research at Plymouth Marine Laboratory, commented: “These findings are important as they not only help unpick the mechanisms behind these psychological benefits, but they can also help to prioritise the protection of these environments.”
