The Beach Huts That Cost More Than Your House

World Beach Day has us thinking about these coastal constructions.

The 1st of September marks World Beach Day, which is a chance to reflect on the gorgeous seaside hotspots of the country and sustainable ways to protect them. However, in this line of work, the mind quickly turns to those coastal constructions that provide so much personality across the UK. 

While piers, arcades and promenades might be staples of British beach towns, there is something even more important that you’ll find in most tourist destinations up and down the nation. Beach Huts are a fundamental part of the seaside scene, but these days, they could cost more than your house!

Beach Boom 

The pandemic had a massive impact on UK tourism. The staycation became the norm and so local infrastructure adapted to keep up with demand. As part of that shift, Beach Huts became prime real estate. After all, if you’re going to head down to the coast every weekend, you need somewhere to store your bucket and spade! 

By 2024, the average price of a Beach Hut was £45,800! While there have been some regional inconsistencies, it’s still far more expensive to buy what is essentially a shed by the sea than it was even 10 years ago. 

Despite those eye-watering numbers, what we are now seeing are drastic reductions, as tourists head abroad once more and ditch the Beach Huts altogether. Suddenly, owners are selling their Beach Huts for less than they bought them. That’s why people are turning to all kinds of tricks to raise the value of their property. 

Luxury Huts

Did you know there’s a Beach Hut in Mudeford, along the Dorset coast, that was valued at £440,000? That’s more than the UK’s average property price. The wooden cabin comes complete with solar panels, exceptional interior design and lavish furnishings. Yet, it still doesn’t have a toilet. 

That’s not the only example of Beach Huts punching above their weight class. Back in 2018, a Southwold, Suffolk, Beach Hut sold for £150,000. In Kent, Beach Huts have similarly been sitting at around the £100,000 mark, due to their location and specialist fixtures. 

Although Beach Huts are non-domestic properties, their price tags continue to astound. Even with the boom having passed, it's possible that those living by the coast may soon be called to a Beach Hut-based construction project simply to add value to that real estate. So, if you are looking for the next big gig or property to invest in, perhaps you should head for the coast.