Scotland dominates list of least expensive seaside towns

Scotland dominates the list of Britain’s least expensive seaside towns, research by Halifax has revealed.

Properties on Millport on the Isle of Cumbrae, North Ayrshire, are the most affordable homes by the sea in the country at an average cost of just £74,148.

The figures comes as it is revealed that the average price of living at the seaside in the UK has increased by more than £24,000 over the past year, according to analysis.

However, every area named in the top ten most affordable seaside towns to buy a house are in Scotland with four in North Ayrshire, one in South Ayrshire, two in the Highlands, two in Argyll and Bute, one in Inverclyde and one in Dumfries and Galloway,

Meanwhile, Halifax identified Salcombe in Devon, England, as Britain’s most expensive seaside town, with an average house price of £950,325.

Over the past 10 years, the average house price in Britain’s seaside towns has risen by 36%, or £71,046, from an average of £194,932 in 2011.

Padstow in Cornwall has seen the biggest average price rise of any seaside town over the past decade, with prices jumping by over a quarter of a million pounds (£264,910), from £351,458 to £616,368.

Russell Galley, Halifax managing director, said: “As many people re-evaluate their work and lifestyle priorities, the South West has been a magnet for those drawn to a life by the water, with Salcombe, Sandbanks and Padstow the three most expensive seaside locations in Britain.

“However, more affordable options exist for those willing to move further north, with many towns on Scotland’s coastline offering great value for money.”

Britain’s least expensive seaside towns.

1. Millport, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £74,148

2. Girvan, South Ayrshire, Scotland, £90,210

3. Campbeltown, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £92,726

4. Rothesay, Argyll and Bute, Scotland, £97,753

5. Greenock, Inverclyde, Scotland, £99,994

6. Saltcoats, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £102,164

7. Thurso, Highland, Scotland, £104,041

8. Wick, Highland, Scotland, £106,062

9. Irvine, North Ayrshire, Scotland, £109,685

10. Stranraer, Dumfries and Galloway, Scotland, £110,674

Britain’s most expensive seaside towns,