Underrated UK seaside town with 3-mile beach named among prettiest in Britain

A quaint seaside town that feels like you've been transported back in time has been crowned one of the UK's prettiest - and it's easy to see why. Situated on the idyllic South East England coast, where theNorth Sea meets the English Channel, lies the charming coastal town of Deal, Kent.

Just 90 minutes from London, and eight miles north-east of Dover's famous white cliffs - this underrated destination is jam-packed with natural beauty and classic attractions. With a three-mile shingle beach that effortlessly melts into crystal clear waters, Deal is the perfect place to soak up the rays with a good book or get adventurous and try your hand at windsurfing.

READ MORE: Beautiful UK beach named among world's best is 3-miles of 'untouched paradise'

On a clear day, you'll also be able to spot France, especially if you walk along the 313-metre 'brutalist' pier that first opened in 1957.

"Quaint, quirky and one of the most charming coastal towns in Kent, Deal in White Cliffs Country is steeped in history," hails Visit South East England. "See a fantastic range of maritime exhibits at Deal Museum, the Timeball Tower Museum or explore one of the historic castles in Deal and Walmer... and explore the maze of narrow streets and alleyways, renowned for smuggling during the 18th century."

Deal also boasts a vibrant shopping scene, with a bustling high street and the Deal Saturday Market, which sells everything from fresh local food to jewellery, vintage clothes, and furniture. Then, head over to Middle Street, known for its iconic colourful Georgian Homes, for some much-needed pub grub.

With all of this in mind, it's no surprise The Independent recently ranked Deal as one of the best day trips from the Big Smoke. "The glistening pebble beach is lined with a rainbow of pastel-shaded 17th-century fishermen's cottages and grand Victorian abodes, and the award-winning high street is chock full of interesting restaurants, shops and delis," the publication wrote.

"Picnic-wise, fish and chips from Middle Street Fish Bar are a must, or for something fancier, pick up a gourmet spread (think ciabatta with mackerel and house pickled cucumber) from grocers Arno & Co."

Located just under 83 miles from central London, it only takes two hours and nine minutes to drive down to Deal. However, direct train journeys slash the journey time down to just one hour and 25 minutes. If you're flexible with dates, you can grab an adult single fare for as little as £18.30.

There is a wide range of accommodation types in Deal, from cosy B&Bs to luxury holiday homes. For example, a weekend's stay at The Kings Head - an traditional pub turned inn located in the heart of the town - will set you back just £270. However, this is only based on one adult staying in a single room.

If you're looking for something a bit more stylish and spacious, check out The Watchmaker's House. This four-bedroom house boasts a chic interior, a fully equipped kitchen, log burner, private patio - and sleeps up to seven people. Staying here on the exact same dates costs £1,365.

*Prices based on Trainline and Booking.com listings at the time of writing.

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