5 warmest seas to head to in England this weekend

Hannah Millington
·Health & Wellness Reporter
·2-min read
Warm beach sea. (Getty Images)
Make the most of the sunshine with a dip in one of the warmest seas in the country. (Getty Images)

With temperatures soaring, you're no doubt craving a dip in the sea at the weekend... And the good news is you don't actually have to fly to far-flung destinations to bask in warm waters.

So, whether you're planning a day trip with the family, have already set up a WhatsApp group with friends, or fancy a solo beach jaunt, these are the warmest seas to head to, according to a study of the best coastal towns in England and Wales by Millets.

Coastal locations with the warmest sea temperatures

1. Clacton-on-Sea 18.2°C

Clacton, Essex, UK. June 28, 2014. Image shows two deck chairs and parasol on a sandy beach on a sunny summer day.
Clacton-on-Sea is only two hours from London. (Getty Images)

Everyone's favourite seaside town in Essex, Clacton-on-Sea tops the list of spots with the warmest waters, just waiting to be enjoyed. Don't forget to pack a bucket and spade for the sandy shores, and make a day of it with a trip to the pier and ice cream.

2. Bournemouth 17.2°C

Bournenouth Dorsett Uk
Bournemouth doesn't just look picturesque. (Getty Images)

Bournemouth – known as a popular spot for tourists and locals alike to flock to on hot days – comes in joint second place for the warmest sea. But, if you're planning a trip, make sure you follow safety advice issued by Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole (BCP) Council following a recent incident. Also, see our guide below, wherever you're heading.

3. Gosport 17.2°C

The view, on a hazy day, of Portsmouth and Gosport from an aircraft above the Solent.
Head to Gosport this weekend for waters that don't leave you with a chill. (Getty Images)

Gosport has as many as eight idyllic beaches listed in and around the town, found on a peninsula on the western side of Portsmouth Harbour. Whether you head to Stokes Bay or Lee-on-Solent, don't forget your sun screen.

4. Poole 17.0°C

Footpath through sand dunes leading to the beach. Sandbanks beach, Poole, Dorset.
Sandbanks beach is a favourite swim spot in Poole. (Getty Images)

Poole has the fourth most warm sea temperature, with Sandbanks one of the most popular spots, made up of a spit of golden sand. Plus, its also listed as one of the UK's best Blue Flag beaches, meaning it promises clean water free of pollution and debris too.

Other spots to swim at include Canford Cliffs Beach and Branksome Chine.

5. Wallasey 16.9°C

Modern sea defences on Wallasey beach seen in July 2020 (near Liverpool, England) as the tide rushes in.
Wallasey promises sun, sea and sand. (Getty Images)

Wallasey, found in Wirral, Merseyside completes the top five warmest seas to enjoy a dip in. Enjoy the stretch of golden sand and picture-perfect shores, ideal for a long dog walk or relaxing sunbathe in between swims.

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