Bridlington Named Eighth Best UK Beach for Rainy Day Holidays in New Index

When planning a seaside holiday, unexpected rain can be a real downer. A recent survey revealed that nearly one in three Brits, or 30%, would cancel their holiday plans if heavy rain was predicted. However, it seems that many people are willing to embrace the reality of the UK's unpredictable weather. In fact, over 70% of those surveyed said they would continue with their holiday plans regardless of rain. This attitude is the inspiration behind Parkdean Resorts' new 'Rainy Day Index', which has identified the best beaches to visit even when the clouds are looming.

Bridlington: A Rainy Day Gem

Among the top ten beaches listed in the Rainy Day Index, Bridlington in Yorkshire stands out as the only northern beach to make the cut, coming in at eighth place. With a rainproof score of 87, it boasts ten nearby indoor facilities, making it an ideal spot for families looking to enjoy a day out, even if the weather doesn't cooperate. The beaches that ranked higher include several from the south of England, particularly from Dorset and Devon.

Top Ten Beaches for Rainy Days

The Rainy Day Index ranks the beaches based on their ability to provide enjoyable experiences despite the rain. Here are the top ten beaches according to the index:

Understanding the Rainy Day Index

The Rainy Day Index was developed to help families and holidaymakers find the best spots to enjoy a beach day, even when the sun isn't shining. The index takes into consideration:

• Weather Data: Information from the Met Office shows that it rains between 170 and 180 days in the UK each year, meaning rain is quite common.

• Geographical Information: The ranking considers the physical shelter of each beach, like how well it is protected from the wind and rain.

• Indoor Activities: The number of indoor facilities nearby is crucial. These can include cafes, arcades, and other fun activities that keep families entertained.

Embracing Rainy Holidays

Parkdean Resorts has partnered with psychologist Dr. Ravi Gill to encourage families to embrace rainy weather. Dr. Gill explains that the way people view rainy days can greatly impact their holiday experience. He suggests shifting the mindset from expecting perfect weather to being open to flexible fun. He states:

“A holiday isn’t ruined by rain. It’s shaped by how we respond to it. Let go of perfection: shift your mindset from ‘Perfect weather’ to ‘Flexible fun.’”

This perspective can be especially beneficial for children, who often mirror adults' emotions. If parents view rain as an adventure rather than a setback, kids are likely to follow suit, making the experience more enjoyable for everyone involved.

Making the Most of Your Holiday

Even if the weather isn’t ideal, there are still plenty of things to do while on holiday. Parkdean Resorts has a range of indoor activities available at their parks, ensuring that families can keep busy regardless of rain. Activities may include:

• Swimming in indoor pools

• Mini golf

• Escape room challenges

• Exploring arcades

• Enjoying live entertainment

Anthony Reilly, Marketing Director at Parkdean Resorts, emphasised the importance of not letting rain dampen spirits. He noted that some of the best memories often come from unexpected moments, encouraging families to embrace the experience no matter the weather.