The small UK seaside town that ranks among Britain's best but lacks 1 key thing

We're so lucky to have a host of beautiful seaside towns across the UK that make for perfect weekend getaways. A recent list named the best coastal resorts in the nation, ranking them for quality of beaches, scenery, attractions, food and drink and value for money.

While Bamburgh in Northumberland took top spot in the Which? rankings, Dungeness in Kent received an honourable mention. It ranked seventh on the list with an overall destination score of 78%. It scored five stars for peace and quiet, as well as four stars for scenery, parking and value for money.

As reported by the Mirror, Dungeness, which is part of the Folkestone and Hythe district, is known for being quiet and out of the way. It is adored by photographers who snap old shipwrecks scattered along the shoreline.

Dungeness lacks one key thing

However, the town is lacking one key thing - a seafront pier. Dungeness has a unique shingle beach environment which makes pier construction impractical.

As the beach is formed by longshore drift, shingle is deposited by waves rather than sand, which is typically found on other beaches. The waters surrounding the area are also known for strong currents, which would impact pier stability.

The town is also known for being extremely sparse and isolated. There are no hotels or major shopping boutiques in the area.

'Lovely place to visit'

Dungeness has a number of positive reviews from visitors on TripAdvisor. Many highlighted the photogenic nature of the beach and the surrounding coastline.

One person said: "What a lovely place to visit great things to photograph and peaceful, so peaceful."

A second added: "The beach and area is a walking destination but also one of curiosity if you are into artistic exploration. Not suitable for wheelchair and mobility scooter people, but, saying that, if you go to the Nature/Bird sanctuary then you can have a fabulous day out."

A third put: "Wow! What a beautiful and amazing place! Not the usual 'beach', but an eclectic mix of old and new - wooden houses on the beach - old and new lighthouses, a power station and a railway station (end of the line)."