Seaside traditions: from deckchairs to donkey rides

The British seaside day has its own gentle rhythm. It begins with the crunch of shingle or the squelch of sand underfoot, and ends with sandy toes, salty hair, and the faint smell of chip fat lingering on the breeze. Between those moments, a set of simple rituals unfolds: the deckchair, the sandcastle, the ice cream, the donkey ride, and for the brave, the brisk dip. These traditions are not grand or expensive. They are humble, repeatable, and quietly beloved. Whether you are visiting a classic resort or a quiet cove, here is how to enjoy them properly.

The deckchair: an essential seaside ritual

Hiring a deckchair is one of the great British beach pleasures. You will find them stacked near the promenade, usually attended by a cheerful soul who takes a small deposit and points you towards a free spot. Expect to pay a few pounds for the day. The classic striped canvas chair is designed for lounging, not for sitting upright. Recline it fully, face the sea, and let the wind ruffle your newspaper. Position matters: tuck yourself into the lee of a wall or a windbreak if the breeze is fresh. When you leave, fold the chair flat and return it. Never hog a deckchair by draping it with towels for hours. And if you own a windbreak, use it — a few wooden slats and a canvas screen can transform a blustery day into a sun trap.

Sandcastles and the battle against the tide

Building a sandcastle is a serious business. The tools are simple: a bucket, a spade, and access to wet sand. Dry sand will crumble; the good stuff is just below the surface, near the water's edge. Fill your bucket, pack it down, and turn it out with a firm tap. A moat is essential, dug with a channel to the sea. Decorate with shells, pebbles, and a flag made from a stick and a handkerchief. The real drama comes when the tide turns. You will watch your creation slowly dissolve, and you will learn to build further up the beach next time. Children love this as much as the building itself. Keep an eye on the incoming water — and never build your castle too close to the waves if you want it to survive long enough for a photograph.

Ice cream, 99 Flakes, and the seaside stroll

No beach day is complete without ice cream. The classic is a 99 Flake: a whippy vanilla cone with a chocolate flake stuck in the top. Ask for raspberry sauce if you like. You will find vans and kiosks along the promenade, often playing a familiar chime. Eat it quickly before the sun wins. For a more local flavour, look for clotted cream ice cream in the West Country or dairy ice cream in Scotland. Then take a slow stroll along the seafront. This is the time to people-watch, admire the pier, and drop a few coins into a penny arcade. Do not feed the seagulls — they are bold, clever, and will happily snatch a cone from your hand. Hold your ice cream close and enjoy every melting drip.

Donkey rides and traditional amusements

Donkey rides are a seaside tradition that goes back over a century. You will still find them on several sandy beaches, usually during the summer months. They are aimed at young children, who are led along the sand at a gentle walk. Rides cost a few pounds and last a few minutes. The donkeys are well cared for, with regular rest breaks and shade. If your child is nervous, watch a few rides first. Other traditional amusements include Punch and Judy shows, deck quoits, and the inevitable amusement arcade. Embrace them. They are part of the fabric of the British seaside, and they have not changed much for a reason.

The brisk dip: braving the briny

For many, the highlight is a plunge into the sea. British water is rarely warm — expect 10°C in winter and up to 18°C in late summer. That is part of the appeal. Enter slowly and let your body adjust. A gasp and a laugh are perfectly normal. If you plan to stay in for more than a few minutes, a wetsuit helps. Otherwise, a quick dip followed by a towel and warm layers is the traditional approach. Always check tide times and local safety information. Swim between the red and yellow flags where lifeguards are present. Never swim alone in unfamiliar water, and be aware of currents. After your dip, wrap up, sip a hot drink, and feel wonderfully alive.

Practicalities for a perfect beach day

A little planning makes all the difference. Check the tide table before you go — you do not want to set up camp on a beach that disappears at noon. Pack a windbreak, a blanket, sunscreen, hats, and layers. The weather can change fast. Bring cash for deckchairs, donkey rides, and ice cream; not every kiosk takes cards. Arrive early to secure parking, especially in popular resorts. Know the lifeguard flags: red and yellow means patrolled swimming, red means danger, and black and white means surfing only. Take your litter home, and leave only footprints. Finally, be flexible. The best seaside days are the ones where you go with the flow, from a morning sandcastle to an afternoon paddle, ending with chips on the promenade as the sun sets.