A coastal village in Kent has been revealed as the number one trending seaside destination on Airbnb.

Sandgate, which is nestled between Folkestone and Hythe, has beaten popular spots Margate and Whitstable as having seen the biggest rise in Brits searching for homes on the accommodation-booking platform.

The village of Sandgate is home to a pebble beach, where new colourful beach huts were recently added, and Sandgate Castle.

It was the only place in the county to feature in Airbnb's top 10.

Other seaside gems piquing the interest of Brits this summer include Seaburn in County Durham, Portishead in Somerset and Saltburn-by-the-Sea in North Yorkshire.

It comes as more people are opting for a staycation this year, with concerns about Covid-19 meaning travellers are choosing to stay closer to home.

In total, nearby travel is making up 82% of nights booked in the UK in 2021, according to Airbnb.

Amanda Cupples, general manager for Northern Europe at Airbnb said: “There’s nothing quite like the smell of fish and chips and the sound of seagulls to transport you straight into holiday mode, and this past year has seen a real resurgence of the great British seaside holiday.

"And it’s not just the familiar summer stalwarts that are feeling the love; this hotlist shows that Brits are exploring lesser-known destinations and favouring well-loved gems as a means of escape this summer.

"We encourage anyone who is thinking about hosting to try it and take advantage of the upcoming travel surge - it not only boosts earnings but also helps towards reigniting local economies.

"If you can’t beach ‘em, join ‘em!”

Cllr Tim Prater, leader of Sandgate Parish Council said: "It's brilliant to see, and those of us that live in and love Sandgate will be delighted that others are discovering the area.

"It's brilliant to see, and those of us that live in and love Sandgate will be delighted that others are discovering the area..."

"Our award winning beach has held the Seaside Award for eight years running and we've got both long established and new places to eat and drink.

"The fantastic Lower Leas Park is right on our doorstep, and we're well placed for walking to both Folkestone and Hythe if you really want to leave the village!"

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