Dartmouth, a picturesque town in Devon, has recently been acknowledged as one of Britain's best seaside towns, despite its considerable distance from the actual coastline. Surrounded predominantly by the River Dart, the town boasts charming pastel-colored houses and active waterfront scenes, featuring the boats and vessels that navigate its waters. The apparent contradiction of being labeled a seaside town while being two miles from the sea has garnered both attention and intrigue among travel enthusiasts.

This surprising recognition highlights a trend in travel where destinations like Dartmouth are increasingly celebrated for their coastal ambiance and heritage, rather than their proximity to the ocean. The town is noted for its rich historical character and vibrant community, differentiating itself through events and activities that attract visitors, even without direct beach access. Publications such as CN Traveller and Time Out have promoted Dartmouth as a prime staycation spot, emphasizing experiences and scenery over traditional beach town attributes.

The debate about the definition of a 'seaside town' raises questions about how location is emphasized in tourism. Dartmouth's accolade may inspire other towns further inland to rebrand themselves in similar fashions, potentially shifting tourist perceptions about what constitutes a seaside experience. It's a development that might encourage travel to places that offer picturesque settings and unique local cultures without the immediate appeal of sand and sea.