Hayle.

Cornwall's stretch of coastline meets industrial heritage here, where Hayle's old harbour once shipped Cornish tin and copper around the world before its wide, dune-backed beach became the main draw. Today the town balances that maritime past with a relaxed pace, best soaked up over coffee at one of its cafes while watching the estuary birdlife. Travellers looking to stay overnight will find a handful of welcoming hotels within easy reach of the sand.