Brighton and Hove has been voted the UK's top seaside resort.

In a poll of British seaside places, the city beat every sandy beach in the country - including Newquay and St Ives in Cornwall - to win, despite its pebbly terrain.

The winner was decided by 5,780 visitors to the Radio Times website, who chose the city for its beaches, colourful nightlife and thriving arts scene.

Whitby in North Yorkshire came second, followed by St Ives in third place and Scarborough in fourth position.

They were followed by Blackpool, Bournemouth, Newquay, Torquay, Tenby and Lyme Regis in the top ten.

The survey was conducted by BBC Homes & Antiques magazine, which runs lifestyle and travel features every month.

Its current issue contains a supplement on UK seaside resorts.

Homes & Antiques editor Bernie Herlihy said: "It is just fantastic that this poll gives recognition to those top British seaside towns, gems that we should be proud to visit this summer."

Brighton and Hove City Council officials said they were delighted with the win.

Councillor Sue John, who chairs the council's culture and tourism sub-committee, said: "I'm really delighted at this award.

"There is something for everyone in our city and, of course, no one should visit without taking in the fabulous Royal Pavilion - the only people's palace in Britain."

Nick Vowles, marketing manager at VisitBrighton, said: "It's especially pleasing to be recognised as a great city to visit by BBC Homes & Antiques readers as these are exactly the kind of people we are encouraging to visit Brighton.

"They often come out of season, they have the time to stay longer, and they really appreciate our fantastic culture, heritage and eating experiences."

Following in the top 20 destinations were Llandudno, Weymouth, Southwold, Poole, Bude, Great Yarmouth, Wells Next-the-Sea, Ilfracombe, Skegness and Cromer.