Once-thriving seaside town with 'best' pier now fallen from grace as UK's 'worst'

A UK town that was once thriving with a famous pier has now been voted one of the worst in the country. According to a survey, the worst part of the town is its scenery where it was given just one star by tourists.

surveyed thousands of people about their experiences at 120 UK seaside towns. The survey asked for views on a range of criteria, including food and drink offerings, the quality of beaches, value for money and attractions. With a score of just 48%, Clacton-on-Sea in was ranked as one of the worst.

Just five years ago, Clacton's pier was named Pier of the Year. In the survey, the seafront and pier was given just two stars by visitors.

Meanwhile, tourists rated parking in Clacton-on-Sea, whose MP is Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, three stars and gave the town two stars for peace and quiet. It also ranked poorly for value for money, receiving just two stars out of five.

According to Visit Essex, Clacton-on-Sea is a "bustling but affordable seaside resort". It adds: "It boasts an array of entertainment facilities including a pleasure pier, arcades, the Princes and the West Cliff Theatres, a golf course, seafront walks, water sports and an airfield offering pleasure flights."

The main shopping area contains a combination of national chains and independent businesses. Visitors also have the choice of a number of eateries to enjoy.

Although the Which? Travel survey rated Clacton poorly, reviewers on TripAdvisor have painted the town in a more positive light. It has almost 500 excellent reviews and 375 very good rankings.

One visitor said: "The beach was amazing clean and tidy. The pier was awesome and they did an awesome free fireworks display which was awesome."

A second added: "Sunny clean, good parking, toilets a bit smelly but otherwise ok. Not too busy and no issues with Dogs or noise. Get down there."

A third wrote: "So well kept & so delightful. Sun out today so it couldn't have been better. I was particularly impressed by the Roses & Garden above the Beach."

However, one tourist said in a review: "It is an average british beach to be honest." Another added: "Came down expecting a bit more with it being a seaside town, everything was just a bit underwhelming. Could do with more things for the children."