Inside the ‘most British of French seaside resorts’ – and even Winston Churchill holidayed on its white sand beaches
THERE’S a French coastal town loved by both UK prime ministers and royalty, under an hour from the port at Calais.
Located in northern France, Le Touquet-Paris-Plage has been described as the “most British of French resort towns” in recent years.
The French town was purchased by British businessman John Robinson Whitley in 1894.
Before the 1890s, Le Touquet-Paris-Plage had been a popular holiday destination among wealthy Parisians.
However, it soon became a hotspot for upper-class Brits who were attracted to its tennis courts and horse riding excursions.
According to Mayor Daniel Fasquelle, these features were introduced to attract “British Clientele”.
Back in 2023, town council member, Kate Landry-Madden told BBC Travel: “French tourists are always like, ‘Oh, it’s so English here!
“And the English who come over are always like, ‘Oh, it’s so French in le Touquet!
“So, it’s just this funny mixture of the best of both worlds, really.”
And it seemed to do the trick with some famous Brits too.
Former Prime Minister Winston Churchill, English author Ian Fleming and Queen Elizabeth II are among the town’s most high-profile holidaymakers.
One of the best places to visit in Le Touquet-Paris-Plage is its beach, with a long stretch of sand, rows of sun loungers and colourful beach huts.
There are a string of cafes and restaurants dotted along the promenade that lines the beach too.
For families with young children, there’s Aqualud, a water park with over 2,000 metres of water slides.
There are also three golf courses nearby too – another feature that was introduced to attract British holidaymakers in the 19th century.
Other activities include a wander through some of the local markets like Marche Couvert and Rue St. Jean which sell fresh fish, meat, bread and other French delicacies.
Food and drink is relatively affordable, with a bottle of beer costing €5 (£4.35) while a meal out at a mid-range restaurant will cost €17 (£14.80).
When booking a trip, the summer is the best time to visit, with highs of 21C.
Hotels are extremely affordable too with a night at the Le Grand Hôtel Le Touquet-Paris-Plage, a four-star hotel, costing £77.50 per person per night.
Brit holidaymakers can also visit Hotel Barriere Le Westminster, a five-star hotel that recently underwent a multimillion-pound renovation.
The hotel first opened its doors in 1924 on the site of a former palace.
Fans of James Bond will want to check out the 007 Suite where Ian Fleming is said to have stayed.
It’s also thought to be where Sean Connery was signed the contract for his Bond role.
Holidaymakers can also pitch up a tent at Camping de la Mer for £16.56 per night – although the campsite is currently closed for the winter season.
Holidaymakers who want to visit Le Touquet-Paris-Plage will need to arrive at the beach city of Calais, which is just 50 minutes from the UK.
From there, Brits can either drive one hour to reach the seaside town or jump on a train from Calais to Le Touquet-Paris-Plage.
We’ve found one-way tickets for £10.88 for a full-paying adult.
And the French seaside town is also a great spot to bring back cheap wine and cheese to the UK.
Just make sure to check the new duty free rules – Brits can bring back 42 litres of beer and 18 litres of wine.
And you can bring back as much cheese as you want, as long as it is under £390 per person.
My View: Here's what it's like to stay at Le Touquet-Paris-Plage
THE Sun's Madalyn Bielfeld visited Le Touquet-Paris-Plage back in 2023, here's what she thought...
“It’s no wonder Victorian travellers were entranced by Le Touquet with it’s wide, pristine sandy beaches that are perfect for a stroll summer or winter.
“Or walk along the pedestrianised Rue St Jean and Rue de Mez for some serious retail therapy.
“The best views are found after climbing Le Touquet’s lighthouse which sits in the centre of town and pays homage to the two original lighthouses destroyed in the Second World War.
“Climb the 298 steps to be rewarded with sea views, the forests and the surrounding countryside.
“The resort’s famous light has even inspired generations of artists., and you can explore its history at the Way Side Villa — home of the Museum of Touquet-Paris-Plage.”
And earlier this year, Sun Travel revealed the best seaside destinations to visit in winter.
And this other holiday location is getting a huge new tourist attraction.