UK's 'sunniest' seaside town in May with 241 hours of sun and miles of beaches

As the days grow longer and the sun shines brighter, seaside towns across the UK start to come alive. Local businesses throw open their doors in anticipation of the summer rush, beaches begin to fill with eager sun-seekers, and there's a palpable sense of excitement in the air.

However, the unpredictable British can still throw a spanner in the works in May, so it's always handy to know where you're most likely to catch some rays. According to a study by Aqua, Southend-on-Sea in Essex takes the crown as the UK's sunniest seaside town in May, boasting an impressive average of 241 hours of sunshine throughout the month.

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The research also revealed that it has the second-lowest rainfall, with just 41.6mm recorded on average, making it one of the driest spots in the country during spring.

Nestled on the Thames Estuary, Southend boasts seven miles of diverse beaches, from bustling family-friendly locations to tranquil stretches perfect for unwinding.

The area is home to nine unique beaches, including Thorpe Bay, which proudly holds both Blue Flag and Quality Coast awards and is flanked by a charming traditional promenade, reports .

Visit Southend assures that there's something for everyone. Chalkwell Beach is a hit for its expansive space and rock-pooling opportunities at low tide, while Shoeburyness provides a serene getaway, complete with grassy picnic areas and rows of colourful beach huts.

Southend Pier, the world's longest pleasure pier, extends over a mile into the estuary and even features its own railway line and museum.

But there's more to this destination than just sun, sea and sand. Sealife Adventure, hailed by Visit Southend as the top aquarium in the southeast, is home to an array of creatures including sharks, penguins, otters, meerkats and even monkeys.

Right next door, thrill-seekers can enjoy Adventure Island, a free-entry theme park boasting over 60 rides. For those seeking tranquillity, the town offers nature reserves like Two Tree Island and Belton Hills, not to mention award-winning parks perfect for a leisurely stroll.

Culture vultures are well catered for too, with venues such as the Cliffs Pavilion and Palace Theatre, alongside a variety of museums and art galleries showcasing exhibitions.

Accessibility is a breeze, with direct trains from London Liverpool Street reaching Southend in under an hour, while Southend Airport provides links to select European destinations.

Basking in abundant sunshine, minimal rainfall, and a seven-mile stretch of coastline, it's no wonder Southend has been crowned the UK's "beer garden capital" by Aqua, boasting 281 beer gardens per 100,000 residents – ideal spots for enjoying a pint in the sunshine.