UK seaside town where 100% of pubs and cafes are independent
The UK's most independent seaside towns have been unveiled, with one nestled quietly on the Welsh coastline where locally sourced goods and family-run businesses reign supreme.
New research conducted by Simply Sea Views identified the most independent coastal destinations by ranking 50 seaside locations according to how much of their high street comprises locally owned shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs.
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While Falmouth claimed the top spot, ahead of St Ives and Whitby, the Welsh town of Barmouth secured a place in the top 10, coming in at a commendable sixth. Remarkably, Barmouth stands as the only seaside town where 100% of cafés and pubs are independently owned — a fact that locals can rightfully celebrate.
The rankings were compiled using the proportion of shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs that are locally owned in each location, incorporating customer ratings and the number of independent businesses per resident. Drawing on more than 20,000 individual businesses across the UK, each destination received a score out of 100.
Barmouth's overall score was 79.1 — a town that truly flourishes on its independent spirit.
Britain simply wouldn't be the same without its pubs, serving as a cornerstone of any high street, a cherished social hub for any village, and a welcome place to rest weary legs during a UK coastal break. Barmouth is fortunate to boast several such establishments, every one of which is independently run.
A firm favourite in the town is Barmouth Bar and Grill, which customers have described as a "lovely place" where staff are "friendly and helpful". Just a few doors away sits Myrddin's Tap, and just around the corner you'll discover The Last Inn, aptly named as the final pub in the town — or the first, should you be approaching from the other direction.
Strolling through Barmouth, you'll encounter a number of further options for a pint or two, including the traditional Tal Y Don Hotel, which sits closest to the train station.
One visitor noted in a Google Review: "Great little Welsh pub. Exactly as you'd imagine: great selection of drinks, good food, dog friendly. Nice to sit outside and have a drink, but also inside is nice and cosy."
Cafés are the lifeblood of British seaside towns, and Barmouth is certainly no different, boasting a charming selection of delightful spots all within easy walking distance of the beach.
Boasting an impressive 4.6 stars on Google, Goodies is a much-loved destination for a cup of coffee and their signature cakes. One visitor shared their experience, writing: "Definitely the nicest café in Barmouth. Good coffee, excellent cakes and a really good café food menu.
"Light, airy decor with comfortable chairs and plenty of space - you never feel crowded. I come here every time I'm in Barmouth, and it never disappoints."
Modest and unassuming, situated on the corner with views across the sea is Bath House Cafe, an ideal spot to enjoy a beverage in the sunshine - including their carefully curated selection of beer and cider. The establishment also offers an array of dishes ranging from burgers to mussels and waffles, catering to every palate.
Running through the heart of the town, the high street features Bradshaw's Coffee, Richmond Coffee Shop, The Lunchbox and Wendy's Café, alongside numerous other choices for enthusiastic food lovers.
Scattered amongst the town's dining and refreshment venues are various shops, offering carefully selected homeware, gifts, stationery, books and clothing. This makes Barmouth an excellent destination to explore for the day, safe in the knowledge that you're championing local, independent traders.