The most expensive seaside area has been crowned and the average property price reaches a staggering price of £965,708. A new study released by Lloyds Banking Group reveals that Sandbanks is Britain’s most expensive coastal location. While the property price actually dropped from 3% compared to last year, Sandbanks, in the seaside town of Poole, still tops the ranking as being the most expensive spot yet again.
Sandbanks is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the UK with turquoise-coloured waters and some of the most expensive homes in the county as well, bringing billionaires and celebrities alike. Last year, a luxury £15 million mansion with five bedrooms on the seafront was put under offer, making it the most expensive property to have ever be sold in the area.
Some of the famous residents of the exclusive area include celebrity chef Rick Stein, Harry Redknapp, Tony Pulis, and Liam Gallagher.
According to Lloyds, the three key elements that make it so desirable is its golden beaches, luxury living with its high-end properties and the variety of dining options and leisure with upscale restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a vibrant nightlife.
The average price for a property in Poole is significantly lower than that of Sanbanks, with an average of £421,000, while the median price was at £340,000, between May 2024 and April 2025, according to plumplot. Most homes sold in Poole fall into the £300,000 to £400,000 price range, making up just over 30% of all sales. The next most popular price range is between £250,000 and £300,000, which accounts for about 14% of sales.
Using data from the Land Registry and the Registers of Scotland, Lloyds also found that Salcombe, Devon, ranks second, with average home prices at £826,159, followed by Padstow, Cornwall, with an average price of £715,974, and Aldeburgh, Suffolk, at £619,693.
The study found that the most affordable coastal town is Campbeltown, on the Kintyre Peninsula and the former ‘Whisky capital of the world’, where the average house costs just £103,078.
Amanda Bryden, head of mortgages at Lloyds, said: “Coastal living continues to hold a special appeal – whether it’s the lure of sea views, sandy beaches, or a slower pace of life. Our latest research shows the most exclusive seaside spots – like Sandbanks – still command premium prices.
“In some of the UK’s most desirable coastal towns, average prices have dipped slightly over the past year. But, over the longer term, values remain significantly higher – especially in the South West, where demand from lifestyle movers continues to shape the market.
“At the other end of the scale, there are still pockets of real affordability – particularly in Scotland, where buyers can find coastal homes for a fraction of the price.
“For those willing to look beyond the traditional hotspots, there are some hidden gems offering great value and a strong sense of community.
“It’s also important to recognise that not all coastal areas share the same fortunes. Some seaside towns face significant challenges, from seasonal economies to a lack of affordable housing for local people.”