15 of the Most Fun Sailing Towns in the UK (and why)
The UK is home to some of the most captivating sailing destinations in the world, with its coastline dotted by charming towns that beckon sailors from near and far. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or a newcomer to the sea, these towns offer a blend of adventure, history, and breathtaking scenery. Here’s a look at 15 of the most fun sailing towns in the UK and why you should visit them.
1. Cowes, Isle of Wight
- Why it’s fun: Known as the spiritual home of British sailing, Cowes hosts the famous annual Cowes Week, a regatta that draws sailors from around the globe. It’s a hub for sailors, with an atmosphere buzzing with excitement, especially in summer.
- Costs: Expect mooring fees of around £20-£50 per night depending on the season and location within the harbour. Rental for a small yacht could start from £500 per day.
- Specs: Sheltered waters and a deep-sea marina make it perfect for competitive and leisure sailing.
2. Falmouth, Cornwall
- Why it’s fun: Falmouth boasts some of the deepest natural harbours in the world and offers year-round sailing. The town’s maritime culture, combined with stunning beaches, make it a top destination for sailing enthusiasts.
- Costs: Marina fees range between £25 and £60 per night. Sailboat rentals can be as low as £300 for a day.
- Specs: Ideal for cruising, with a variety of routes that take you along Cornwall’s scenic coastline.
3. Lymington, Hampshire
- Why it’s fun: Lymington sits at the edge of the New Forest and provides easy access to the Solent, one of the most popular sailing areas in the UK. The town’s historical charm, combined with its sailing pedigree, creates a delightful atmosphere.
- Costs: Mooring fees range from £30 to £70 per night. Yacht hire averages at £400-£700 for a day.
- Specs: Deep-water channels and a prime location for Solent day trips or longer cruises.
4. Salcombe, Devon
- Why it’s fun: With its beautiful estuary and golden beaches, Salcombe is a favourite among sailors looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation. The town is also renowned for its fresh seafood.
- Costs: Expect to pay around £25-£55 for mooring. Rental yachts start from around £350 per day.
- Specs: The sheltered harbour makes Salcombe ideal for beginner sailors and family-friendly trips.
5. Dartmouth, Devon
- Why it’s fun: Nestled along the River Dart, Dartmouth offers sailors calm waters with the opportunity to explore historic castles and the beautiful South Devon coastline. The annual Dartmouth Regatta is a highlight.
- Costs: Moorings cost £20-£45 per night, and yacht hire begins at £350 per day.
- Specs: Perfect for river sailing or heading out to sea, with excellent marina facilities.
6. Oban, Scotland
- Why it’s fun: Known as the gateway to the Scottish Isles, Oban offers dramatic sailing routes through the Inner Hebrides, rich with wildlife and remote island exploration.
- Costs: Mooring fees range from £20-£40, with sailboat rentals around £450 per day.
- Specs: Ideal for longer sailing trips to the isles of Mull, Iona, and beyond, with navigable waters for all levels.
7. Poole, Dorset
- Why it’s fun: Poole Harbour is one of the largest natural harbours in the world, making it a sailor’s paradise. The calm waters are perfect for both beginners and seasoned sailors.
- Costs: Moorings are priced between £30 and £60 per night. Rentals start at £300 per day.
- Specs: The extensive harbour provides plenty of sheltered sailing, with options to venture further along the Jurassic Coast.
8. Portsmouth, Hampshire
- Why it’s fun: Home to the UK’s naval history, Portsmouth offers a vibrant sailing community, with access to the Solent and nearby islands. The town also hosts the Round the Island Race.
- Costs: Mooring fees are £25-£55 per night, and boat rental starts around £350 per day.
- Specs: Ideal for historic harbour cruises or crossing over to the Isle of Wight.
9. Padstow, Cornwall
- Why it’s fun: Padstow is a charming fishing town that offers excellent sailing around the rugged North Cornwall coastline. The town itself is famous for its seafood, with plenty of dining options post-sail.
- Costs: Mooring fees range between £25 and £50, and you can hire a sailboat for around £300 per day.
- Specs: Perfect for coastal sailing, with scenic routes along the Cornish shores.
10. Holyhead, Anglesey
- Why it’s fun: Holyhead is a fantastic starting point for exploring the Irish Sea. With its long maritime history, it provides ample opportunities for adventurous sailors to navigate the waters between Wales and Ireland.
- Costs: Mooring fees are around £20-£45 per night, while boat rentals start at £400 per day.
- Specs: Deep-water harbours and excellent navigation aids for cross-channel voyages.
11. Whitby, North Yorkshire
- Why it’s fun: Known for its gothic charm and rich history, Whitby is a fascinating sailing destination along the Yorkshire coast. The town’s dramatic cliffs and connection to Bram Stoker’s Dracula add a unique twist to sailing here.
- Costs: Moorings range from £25 to £50 per night, with rentals starting at £350 per day.
- Specs: Ideal for coastal cruising and exploring the North Sea.
12. Brighton, East Sussex
- Why it’s fun: With its vibrant seaside culture, Brighton offers an exciting blend of sailing and city life. The town has a lively marina and great conditions for day sails or weekend trips.
- Costs: Mooring fees are £30-£70 per night, and sailboat rentals start at £400 per day.
- Specs: Perfect for day sailing along the Sussex coast, with a well-equipped marina.
13. Weymouth, Dorset
- Why it’s fun: Weymouth played host to the 2012 Olympic sailing events, and the town continues to attract sailors with its ideal conditions. The town’s sandy beaches and bustling harbour make it a great family destination.
- Costs: Expect to pay £25-£60 per night for mooring. Yacht hire starts at £350 per day.
- Specs: Sheltered waters and open sea options, perfect for all levels of sailing.
14. Brixham, Devon
- Why it’s fun: A working fishing town, Brixham offers a more traditional British coastal experience. The town’s history and vibrant local culture make it a favourite among sailors looking for authenticity.
- Costs: Moorings cost £20-£45 per night. Rentals start at £300 per day.
- Specs: Ideal for coastal cruising and exploring Torbay’s natural beauty.
15. Stornoway, Isle of Lewis
- Why it’s fun: Stornoway, on the Isle of Lewis, offers breathtaking sailing experiences in the Outer Hebrides. It’s perfect for sailors who want to get off the beaten track and explore remote waters and rugged landscapes.
- Costs: Mooring fees range between £20-£40 per night, and sailboat rentals start at £450 per day.
- Specs: Best suited for experienced sailors, with opportunities to explore the dramatic Hebridean coastline.
Final Thoughts
These 15 sailing towns in the UK offer a variety of experiences, from calm, sheltered harbours perfect for beginners to challenging routes that lead to remote islands and dramatic coastlines. Whether you’re looking for a quick day sail or a multi-day adventure, these towns have something to offer every type of sailor. With prices for moorings and rentals varying based on location and season, it’s best to plan ahead to make the most of your visit to these fantastic sailing destinations.
Happy Boating!
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