Aldeburgh, Suffolk, is UK’s favourite spot for a meal out on the coast – with Southwold coming a close second, according to Which?

A Suffolk resort and Scotland’s oldest university town are the best coastal spots for a meal out, according to a new survey.

Only two out of more than 100 destinations scored the maximum five stars for their culinary offerings: Aldeburgh in Suffolk and St Andrews in Fife.

Other top seaside breaks for foodies include Southwold, Dartmouth, Tynemouth

They all earned four stars for food and drink in a Which? survey of the UK’s best seaside towns.

Whether you’re after a great chippie, an artisan ice cream parlour or a fine-dining restaurant, you won’t go hungry in these top-rated seaside towns.

Aldeburgh is described as: “For cod straight out of the fryer, join the queue at Aldeburgh Fish and Chip Shop. You’ll need to book ahead if you're hankering after lobster at The Suffolk, a stylish new restaurant.

“But this well-heeled coastal town didn’t earn a five-star rating just for its seafood. The colourful Victorian high street has everything you might need for a picnic on the shingle beach, including an artisan bakery, chocolate shop and gin distillery.

Aldeburgh’s annual food and drink festival (23-24 September, tickets from £10) is held a few miles away at Snape Maltings on the River Alde – an old Victorian malt barn that houses cafés, independent shops and a concert hall.”

Southwold meanwhile is described as: “With a brewery at its heart and fresh fish for sale, Southwold scored a solid four stars for food and drink. Adnams brewery has been here since 1876, and its presence is felt everywhere: from the hoppy smell on the sea breeze to its historic hotels (The Crown and The Swan).

“You can buy the catch of the day from the Sole Bay Fish Company shack overlooking the harbour. For picnics on the Blue Flag beach, stock up on sourdough, pies and sweet treats at Two Magpies Bakery and Black Olive Delicatessen.”

Southwold was also Suffolk’s highest-rated seaside town and bagged five stars for its seafront – complete with rotund lighthouse, candy-coloured beach huts and retro pier.

For the survey: More than 3,000 visitors rated beaches, attractions, scenery, value for money – and more – for over 100 UK seaside towns and villages