What brings holidaymakers to seaside resorts like Bognor Regis?

Hotel booking platform Hoo looked at what the most popular attractions are when it comes to the seaside itself, what we like to eat and the best activities while by the beach.

The research shows that the option of a dip on those sunny summer days was the biggest draw of the seaside (47 per cent), with long days spent lounging on the beach also one of the main attractions (34 per cent).

It’s bad news for Bognor’s pier as the research showed the good old British pier was less of a draw.

Just five per cent stated that the pier was their favourite thing about a visit to the beach.

In terms of our favourite beachside snacks, fish and chips remain the firm favourite for 72 per cent, with the good old 99 also remaining popular (19 per cent).

However, not all seaside cuisine is as popular with the modern holidaymaker, with the South East delicacy of jellied eels the least favourite of all (0.3 per cent).

In terms of seaside activities, another traditional seaside sight has also fallen out of favour, with just one per cent stating that donkey rides were their favourite thing about a trip to the beach.

Social activities such as eating and drinking were the most favourite pastime (39 per cent), while arcades also ranked high (21 per cent) along with sunbathing (19 per cent).

Hoo Co-founder, Adrian Murdock, commented: “The British seaside seems to suffer from the perhaps unfair opinion that it’s a bit dated and naff, but this seems a little harsh considering it still offers all of the things we love about a trip to the coast.

“This hasn’t changed in decades and although coastal resorts do need to adapt with changing times and tastes, the unique character of the British seaside is something that really can’t be beaten.

“We’re lucky enough to have some of the most outstanding beaches right on our doorstep and what’s more, they don’t require a flight and a handful of Covid tests to reach them.

“Of course, the one thing we can’t guarantee is the weather and this is the biggest factor in why many opt for a holiday abroad.

“However, by doing so you also miss out on the chance of fish and chips on the beach, proper 99s with a flake, 10p slot machines and all of the other great seaside experiences that simply can’t be found on the Costa del Sol. Or anywhere else in the world, for that matter.”

Survey of 1,151 UK population carried out by Hoo (May 28, 2021).