Brits' favourite things about beach holidays - from fish and chips to sandcastles

dailystar.co.uk:

The best things about the “bucket and spade” holiday include eating fish and chips on the beach, building sandcastles, and Mr Whippy ice cream, according to research.A study of 2,000 adults took a nostalgic trip down memory lane, and found 51% love everything the traditional British seaside has to offer.Crabbing and visiting local tea rooms also feature in the top 20 list, as do penny arcades, pier strolls, and beach ball games.But on the flip side, some of the worst things about a beach break include getting divebombed by seagulls, and enduring sand in your sandwiches.Having a nightmare trying to park, crammed beaches, and screaming kids everywhere are also unfortunate parts of a staycation.Additionally, almost one in three (31%) admit their trip to the seaside can also go horribly wrong if they forget to take essentials – such as sun lotion, as well as contact lenses (9%), sunglasses (29%), or something to sit on (23%).The research was commissioned by Vision Direct to highlight the joys of a beach break – but also what can go wrong if you forget crucial items.This was brought to life as beach-goers were left stumped when they were tasked to count the number of beach balls in a visual puzzle – in sympathy for those who have left glasses or contact lenses at home.Barney Streeting, general manager for the contact lens specialist, said: “Many of us will be familiar with the feeling of arriving at a staycation destination, excited to start relaxing – only to discover that you’ve forgotten an essential item like your contact lenses.”The study also found sea views, and letting the kids dig holes in the sand, are other best things about a “bucket and spade” staycation – as well as sticks of rocks, donkey rides, and rock.