A hidden gem of a seaside town has been crowned the country's best, and to top it off, its local fish and chip shop has been declared the finest in Britain.

Nestled between the picturesque River Alde and a stunning stretch of English coastline overlooking the North Sea, Aldeburgh in Suffolk is a charming town that seems plucked straight from a storybook.

This enchanting location offers a truly magical experience and has even earned the title of 'best seaside spot' by The Times. Its pebble beach, adorned with vibrant 19th-century holiday villas and an old-fashioned watchtower, is a major draw.

Plus, being just under two hours by train from London's Liverpool Street, Aldeburgh serves as an ideal retreat for city dwellers seeking a tranquil weekend escape.

The town is particularly popular among visitors from the capital, with some even contemplating a permanent move, earning it the nickname 'London-on-sea', according to MyLondon, reports <a href="https://www.mirror.co.uk/travel/uk-ireland/little-known-stunning-seaside-town-33732929" rel="Follow" target="_self">the Mirror</a>.

Its sand and shingle beach consistently ranks among the top beaches in Suffolk and East Anglia. It's also been listed among the top five shingle beaches nationwide and has received numerous accolades, including the prestigious Blue Flag award.

Aldeburgh's beach is not only known for its stunning stretches of sand but also as a treasure trove brimming with attractions to delight its visitors. For history enthusiasts, the Quatrefoil Martello Tower stands as a lasting monument to Britain's coastal defences during the Napoleonic wars.

Further adding to the charm is a quaint Norman church and a beautifully restored old windmill. For art lovers, the imposing four-metre high steel sculpture, the Aldeburgh Scallop, graces the beach, a tribute to Benjamin Britten, the celebrated 20th-century composer who made Aldeburgh his home.

Moving away from the shoreline, the town centre offers gastronomic delights with two family-owned takeaways - The Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop and The Golden Galleon. With over fifty years on the High Street, their legacy continues to draw in locals and tourists alike.

The Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop, in particular, has earned accolades as Britain's finest fish and chip destination, garnering glowing testimonials on Tripadvisor.

A review lauded: "I love fish and chips, and this was the best I've ever had from a takeaway. The fish had beautiful light batter, and was translucent, flaky and delicious. Great chips too. Excellent."

For those inclined to explore the area by foot, Aldeburgh doesn't disappoint.

The 9.7km Aldeburgh Circular Walk is considered moderate and guides you through the breathtaking Suffolk coastline, vast heathlands, and lush meadows.

Aldeburgh beckons as an idyllic spot for UK travellers seeking an escape from urban life, eager to immerse themselves in historic sights or simply indulge in the supreme quality of local fish and chips.