The 'postcard perfect' UK seaside town with independent shops and barely any crowds

A "postcard-perfect" seaside town packed with independent shops has been dubbed the top hidden gem in a UK holiday ranking. The quaint town was praised for its "timeless elegance" and "low-key charm", which makes people fall in love with it - once they discover it.

Holiday accommodation provider Hoseasons included the town in its list of the UK's best seaside hidden gems, based on booking data, reviews, and expert picks. Nestled on Suffolk's Heritage Coast, Southwold stood out for its quiet waterfront lifestyle and rows of independent shops that give it a character all its own.

"Southwold is the kind of seaside town that feels like stepping into a perfectly framed postcard, think pastel beach huts, independent shops and old-fashioned charm," it said.

"In Southwold you won't find any chain stores, neon amusements, and there's certainly no pressure to rush. It attracts a quieter, slower kind of visitor, namely couples, families and solo wanderers who want quality over noise."

The pretty high street is perfect for meandering on a lazy weekend through the bookshops, galleries, and delis, before stopping for a well-deserved cup of tea.

Depending on where the afternoon takes you, beer lovers could then head to the award-winning UK brewer and wine merchant, Adnams Brewery, for a tour and tasting.

The sandy beach, lined with brightly painted beach huts, is perfect for a gentle stroll or a family day out, and history buffs can explore the working Southwold Lighthouse for sweeping coastal views.

When you're ready for some old-fashioned seaside fun, the Victorian pier is full of quirky cafes, shops, and some of the most eccentric arcade machines you could dream of, from a Zimmer frame simulator to a 'Whack A Banker' machine.

Nature enthusiasts may want to head to nearby reserves like RSPB Minsmere, with shallow lagoons and grasslands bursting with wildlife.