Going to the seaside is ingrained in us Brits - generations of families have kept up this tradition for centuries. If you get itchy feet this summer, why go back to the same old beach that gets duller every year - and why take a gamble on somewhere that may be disappointing? Choose one of our top 5 UK family seasides, with good transport links and family-fun surroundings, and you'll have a brilliant time, whatever the weather.

1) Merthyr Mawr

www.bridgend.gov.uk/web/groups/tourism/documents/marketing/001765.hcsp

Dramatic dunes and sweeping coastlines mean that the beautiful village of Merthyr Mawr has got it all: the ideal hideaway for all the family. Nestled along the 'Golden Coast' of South Wales, the sands stretch away into the horizon, framed by scarred castles and strongholds from battles long gone. Merthyr Mawr is a real gem of a town, with tea shops and rambling streets, and some of the cleanest beaches in South Wales. And the larger, nearby town of Pen-y-bont Ar Ogwr has plenty of places to eat, drink and shop if needs be.

Merthyr Mawr is a tranquil idyll of a getaway: if candyfloss and arcade games are more your cup of tea, give it a miss. It's perfect for children who are happy playing games and amusing themselves, running over the dunes and hearing tales of shipwrecks and smugglers long gone - while their parents get some well-deserved peace and quiet.

Getting there:

By road: Pen-y-bont Ar Ogwr is well-connected to the M4 (Junction 36); then take the A4063 out of the city onto the A48, and follow the signs.

By rail: Bridgend railway station is located in the heart of Pen-y-bont Ar Ogwr, and is well-linked to Merthyr Mawr by the 146 and 156 bus services.

2) Southwold

www.exploresouthwold.co.uk

Southwold is a charming north Suffolk seaside town on the Suffolk Heritage Coast. Almost an island, being bounded by the North Sea to the East, by the River Blyth and Southwold harbour to the South-West and by Buss Creek to the North, there is just the one road in to and out of Southwold. With its working lighthouse, beach huts, award-winning pier, busy harbour, cliff top cannon and of course the beach, Southwold is a quintessentially English resort town.

We enjoyed the colourful beach huts and quaint tea rooms that cover Southwold, as well as the replica town stocks on Bartholomew’s Green and play equipment on Tibby’s Green near the Church. Ideal for families with a taste for the English, who enjoy villages and towns with a hospitable, undemanding feel.

Getting there:

By road: from the A12, take the B1126 (from the north) or the A1095 (from the south) and follow down to the sea.

By rail: Harlesworth rail is the nearest station, and is regularly and frequently serviced by the 601 bus, that runs straight to Southwold.

3) Hastings

www.visit1066country.com

Hastings is just as famous for its bright, vibrant city life and beaches as for the ancient Battle of 1066. Aside from learning about this event, there's a wealth of fascinating activities for the family to indulge in: from the Smugglers' Adventure to the Blue Reef Aquarium, and Clambers play centre, to the chilling ghost walks that take place in the night-haunted streets of the Old Town.

Hastings does get slightly crowded in peak summer times, but if you're looking for somewhere with energy - a bit of hustle and bustle - Hastings has got all the atmosphere, without the stress.

Getting there:

By road: Take the A21 (southbound) from inland, or the A259 from either direction along the coast.

By rail: Go from London (Charing Cross or London Bridge) to Hastings Rail or St Leonards Warrior Square Rail.

4) Ballycastle, County Antrim, N. Ireland

www.ballycastle.free-online.co.uk

Ballycastle is a small rural seaside town placed on the most north-easterly tip of county Antrim, Northern Ireland, surrounded with breath-taking beauty and steeped in cultural history. Ballycastle is best known for the 'Ould Lammas Fair', probably the largest of its kind in Ireland with its 'dulse' and 'yellowman', which makes for a great exploration during your trip. Aside from relaxing on the beautiful beaches, families can enjoy snorkelling and diving, cycling, hiking, and golf. But our favourite attraction is The Park Deli on Quay Road, with its delcious selection of food and eat-in bistro.

Getting there:

By road: The A2 will take you straight up to Ballycastle with ease.

5) Maidencombe, Devon

www.torbay.gov.uk/index/leisure/beaches/maidencombe-beach.htm

An unspoilt coastal hamlet boasting a sheltered beach and magnificent coastal walks with panoramic views. The sandy beach is cloaked by dramatic red sandstone cliffs, and there are thatched cottages and winding lanes to enjoy. If shopping is desired, a few miles away is Torquay where palm trees line the promenade, and glossy yachts are mirrored on the water.

We enjoyed Kent’s Cavern, where a guided tour through an ethereal subterranean wonderland unveils prehistoric treasures and beautiful enclaves. Younger visitors will be delighted with Paignton Zoo and Babbacombe Model Village with its brilliant miniature models including a circus and railway.

Getting there:

By road: take the A3022 (from the south), or the A380 (from the north) and find the B3199, which will take you right into Maidencombe.

By rail: Torre railway station or Newton Abbot railway station both have brilliant bus links to Maidencombe.

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