Oxfordshire is a landlocked county and a beach is at least an hour’s drive away.

That does not mean, however, that we cannot daydream about the nearest beach for walks with the dog or a day out with the family. 

Time Out has compiled a list of 17 seaside towns considered to be ‘the best and the coolest’ in the UK for a getaway based on beautiful beaches, surrounding area, eating out experiences and local culture.

Oxford Mail: The coastline near Lymington (Unsplash)The coastline near Lymington (Unsplash)

The closest beach to Oxfordshire is the port town of Lymington in Hampshire.

An hour and a half from Oxfordshire, Lymington is a Georgian sailing town on the coast in the beautiful New Forest National Park.

The town had postcard-perfect high streets – but the boat-filled harbour is the main attraction.

The High Street has several independent shops and designer boutiques, as well as a local market held each Saturday which dates back to the 13th century.

At the bottom of the High Street, a cobbled road leads down to the Old Town Quay, which is still used by a number of commercial fishing boats.

Lymington is surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the New Forest and the Solent Way footpath provides a great coastal walk with fantastic views of the Needles and the Isle of Wight.

Oxford Mail: Boats in Lymington's Quay (Unsplash)Boats in Lymington's Quay (Unsplash)

Whilst visiting the town you can enjoy sailing experiences, fishing excursions or any number of fantastic old pubs.

The annual Lymington Seafood Festival takes place each August, where jazz and blues meet fresh seafood cooked up by incredible chefs.

Would you visit Lymington? Let us know in the comments.