If you’re thinking about buying a holiday home in the UK, whether as just as a second home for you and your family, or as somewhere to let, the chances are you’ve already asked yourself the big question: coast or countryside?
Both options can offer beautiful escapes from day-to-day life, but they come with different vibes, price tags, and practical things to think about.
So, whether you dream of sea views or rolling hills, here’s a quick comparison to help you figure out what might be suitable for you.
The case for the coast
There’s something undeniably special about being by the sea. Picture this: morning swims, fresh seafood, long walks on the beach, and those incredible sunsets.
Coastal spots like St Ives, Whitstable and Southwold have long been favourites with holidaymakers – and that’s great news if you’re planning to rent your place out.
Holiday homes by the coast tend to do really well in the summer months, especially in sought-after towns and coastal villages.
On top of that, coastal homes can often command strong resale values – there’s only so much shoreline to go around, after all.
But before you dive in, there are a few practicalities to think about. Salt air, wind, and storms can cause more wear and tear over time, and properties near the sea are sometimes in flood-prone areas. It’s worth checking your postcode using the government’s flood risk tool before you buy.
If you do go coastal, not that some holiday home insurance providers may charge higher premiums in high-risk flood areas, so always read the small print.
Why the countryside still charms
If you’re craving a slower pace, the countryside might be your perfect match. From the honey-coloured cottages of the Cotswolds to converted barns in the Lake District, rural retreats offer peace, privacy, and endless walks straight from your doorstep.
Countryside homes often come with more space for your money, and they’re a hit with families and outdoor types all year round – not just in the summer. Plus, you can find all sorts of unique properties, from eco-lodges to historic farmhouses.
That said, rural living does have its quirks. You might be further from shops, pubs or public transport, and older properties can be a bit of a project to maintain. Thatched roofs and Listed buildings, for example, need specialist care – and that means specialist holiday home insurance.
It’s a good idea to look for a holiday home insurance policy that includes cover for unoccupied periods, as well as any features unique to older or rural properties.
Some countryside homes may also be at greater risk of burglary if they’re tucked away, so security matters too.
What your holiday home insurance should cover
Wherever you choose to buy, having the most suitable and cost-effective holiday home insurance cover is essential. Holiday homes aren’t like standard homes – they’re often empty for weeks at a time or used by paying guests, which changes what insurers need to protect.
An appropriate UK holiday home insurance policy may include:
- buildings and contents cover for both you and your guests;
- public liability insurance, in case someone is injured at your property;
- cover for loss of rental income if something happens and you can’t rent it out:
- protection while the property is empty.
So, where should you buy your holiday home?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here. If you love the idea of seaside fun, a coastal property could be your ideal base – and a great earner in the summer. But if quiet mornings, country views, and year-round appeal sound more like your thing, a countryside retreat might tick more boxes.
Whichever path you take, getting the most appropriate insurance is key to protecting your investment and your peace of mind. After all, you want your holiday home to be a place to relax – not a source of worry.
Further reading: Guide to holiday homes
