Bognor Regis A Once-Picturesque Seaside Town in Crisis, Once Loved by Royals, Now Struggling to Compete With More Vibrant UK Destinations

Published on November 16, 2025

From Cornwall’s sun-kissed sands to Northumberland’s rugged coastlines, the UK boasts a variety of seaside destinations that attract millions of visitors every year.

From Cornwall’s sun-kissed sands to Northumberland’s rugged coastlines, the UK boasts a variety of seaside destinations that attract millions of visitors every year. Yet, nestled in West Sussex, one resort has received a rather unflattering verdict. Bognor Regis, once a favourite of the British royal family, has been voted the UK’s worst seaside resort, according to a recent survey by consumer magazine Which?

Bognor Regis Scores Low in Every Category
Bognor Regis recorded a disappointing destination score of just 36%, making it the lowest-ranked seaside town in the survey. The town, which has a long history and once served as a peaceful retreat for the royal family, now struggles to compete with the more well-maintained and picturesque seaside resorts across the country.
In the Which? survey, Bognor Regis received one-star ratings in nearly every category. Its seafront, food and drink, tourist attractions, shopping, and even its parking facilities were all rated poorly. Visitors also cited the lack of peace and quiet and poor value for money, further contributing to the town’s dismal reputation. The negative feedback highlighted that Bognor Regis has failed to keep pace with other seaside resorts, where visitor experience is continuously improved to match the expectations of modern-day tourists.
The once-glorious destination, known for its Victorian charm, has been overshadowed by larger, more glamorous resorts along the British coastline. The town’s inability to maintain its appeal has contributed to its low standing in the Which? survey.

A Royal Past That Feels Far Away
Bognor Regis was once the go-to seaside retreat for the British royal family. King George V famously visited the town in 1929, which helped elevate its status as a fashionable getaway. During this time, the town boasted elegant hotels, beautiful promenades, and a bustling seafront full of life. It was a town full of grandeur and charm, attracting visitors who sought respite from the stresses of everyday life.
Today, however, Bognor Regis has a far less glamorous reputation. Although remnants of its royal past can still be seen, particularly in the grand hotels and old-fashioned buildings, much of the town feels outdated and in need of modernisation. The seafront, once a highlight of the town, is now in a state of disrepair, with a lack of investment and upkeep evident in the crumbling infrastructure and rundown attractions. What was once a thriving tourism hub has now become a shadow of its former self, with fewer visitors each year.

A Glimmer of Hope: Local Optimism
Despite the overwhelming negative feedback, there is still some optimism surrounding Bognor Regis. While many visitors were disappointed with their experiences, a few locals and tourists remain hopeful for the town’s revival. One visitor, speaking to Which?, commented that they enjoyed “the lights along the pier at night,” suggesting that, despite the town’s challenges, there are still elements of Bognor Regis that offer charm.
Some also believe that with fresh investment and a renewed focus on the town’s strengths, it could return to its former glory. The long stretch of seafront and the family-friendly atmosphere that the town has cultivated over the years are still assets that could form the foundation for its revival. Bognor Regis has the potential to attract families looking for a quieter, more affordable holiday experience, away from the hustle and bustle of more popular seaside resorts.
In recent years, there have been small signs of recovery, with a few new businesses and attractions attempting to bring new life to the area. However, these efforts remain fragmented, and the town continues to face significant hurdles in attracting both tourists and investment.
Bognor Regis: The Seaside Alternative

For travellers seeking a picture-perfect seaside escape, Bognor Regis may not be the first destination that comes to mind. Its low ratings in the Which? survey make it clear that the town has a lot of work to do if it hopes to recapture its former charm.
However, for those who prefer a more low-key, family-oriented beach experience, Bognor Regis could still offer a peaceful retreat. Its spacious seafront, coupled with its quiet atmosphere, makes it an appealing choice for visitors who want to avoid the crowds and commercialism found in other more popular towns. It is, perhaps, best suited for those willing to look beyond the town’s shortcomings and appreciate the still-present aspects of its character.
While Bognor Regis may not offer the luxurious escape that some might expect from a UK seaside resort, its legacy as a family-friendly, no-frills destination still holds appeal for those seeking simple pleasures by the sea. If the town can manage to inject new energy into its tourism sector, Bognor Regis may one day regain its place as a treasured seaside destination.

Conclusion: A Seaside Town in Need of Revival
Bognor Regis’ fall from grace is a cautionary tale for seaside towns that fail to evolve with changing tourism trends. Once a royal favourite, the town has struggled to maintain its relevance in the competitive world of UK seaside resorts. While it currently holds the title of Britain’s worst seaside resort, there are still those who hold out hope for a brighter future. With targeted investment, an overhaul of its attractions, and a renewed focus on maintaining its family-friendly atmosphere, Bognor Regis may yet find its way back to prominence. Until then, visitors may want to explore other seaside destinations, as the town’s path to recovery remains uncertain.