UK seaside town just 30 minutes from major city centre named top place to visit

The UK boasts some beautiful and scenic getaways - including this idyllic town by the seaside. Portobello is located just 30 minutes from Edinburgh and it's been named as one of the top places to visit in Britain. Now a seriously trendy spot, the coastal town offers two miles of sand, making it a perfect location for a sunny day to sunbathe and swimming, or a wintery walk to blow the cobwebs away.

The award-winning beach is a popular spot, with large crowds in the warm weather, while the iconic promenade is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as popular events such as the annual Big Beach Busk, international volleyball competitions and triathlon events.

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It's a great spot for foodies, as tourists have a wide range of choices with several bars an cafes on the promenade, with more options available on Portobello's busy high street - including quality independent restaurants and gift shops. There is a market in Brighton Park on the first Saturday of every month, selling fresh local produce as well as crafts.

One thing that stands out in the coastal suburb is the elegant Georgian and Victorian architecture, which is protected within the conservation area and there are a number of attractive parks to enjoy.

An independent town until 1896, Portobello retains its unique character and sense of identity, making a trip to Edinburgh’s Seaside an essential part of your visit to Scotland.

Another of the main draws to Portobello for many is The Portobello Bookshop, a beloved indie shop. “You see people really warming to anything anybody does that is enhancing the community,” owner Jack Clark tells The Guardian.

The bookshop's popular and exceptional events has brought in authors from Eimear McBride to Zadie Smith. Pedersen packed out the bookshop in May to launch his debut novel Muckle Flugga, glimmers of which were inspired by his home town.

Trip advisorvisitors have rated the town a stellar 4.6 out of 5, with many gushing over the picturesque spot. One person wrote: So close to Edinburgh city centre yet you could be a world away as you stroll down the elegant Victorian (?) promenade or along the sandy beach. Some very good cafes charging reasonable prices along the route as well. Definitely worth a visit if you are in Edinburgh."

While a second penned: "We took the train from Edinburgh to Portobello Beach for a day trip. So easy to get there, beautiful little beach town with amazing views, shops, restaurants, and friendly people."

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