Bonkers About Beach Huts

Natalie shares her top 10 reasons to consider hiring a beach hut for your next getaway. From the unbeatable ocean views and the relaxing atmosphere to the plethora of water activities and the opportunity for quality time with loved ones, Natalie highlights the unique experiences that beach huts offer. She emphasises the flexibility and freedom they provide, allowing guests to escape the ordinary a...

In this episode, Natalie welcomes Rachel, a former nursery nurse turned creative entrepreneur, to discuss the profound inspiration that the sea and nature provide in our lives. They explore the reasons why people are drawn to beach huts, emphasising the importance of proximity to the sea for relaxation and creativity. Rachel shares her journey from working with children to managing family support...

In this episode, Natalie welcomes Andrew, a seasoned Chief Investment Officer and Business and Investment Strategist, to the show to discuss his extensive experience in real estate and property investment. Andrew shares insights into the differences between real estate and property terminology, the impact of technology on shopping habits and town centres, and the unique characteristics of beach hu...

In this episode, Natalie chats with Sean, a construction director with over 40 years of experience in various sectors of the industry, including residential, commercial, and military projects. Sean shares his journey into construction, influenced by his family's long history in carpentry, and discusses his transition from hands-on work to management. They discuss practical advice for DIY enthusias...

Natalie celebrates the arrival of spring and the joys of beach hut culture along the British seaside. She shares her top five favourite unusual and extravagant beach huts, starting with the innovative Spyglass in Eastbourne, which rotates to follow the sun, and the artistic What Unearthed, inspired by local archaeological finds. The episode also highlights the quirky Crazy Golf 18 Holes in Folkest...

In this episode, Natalie sits down with Liam Gilbey, an animator and motion designer from Cut the Mustard Animation, a Norwich-based studio specialising in bespoke 2D animations. Liam shares insights into his journey from studying at the Norwich University of the Arts to co-founding a successful animation company in 2019, just before the pandemic. Liam discusses the creative process behind Cut the...

In this episode, Natalie sits down with architect Jacob to discuss the multifaceted world of architecture. They touch on Jacob's journey from industrial design to creating innovative spaces, including his recent project, the Spyglass beach hut in Eastbourne. Jacob shares insights into the creative process behind architectural design, the importance of client collaboration, and the challenges of wo...

In this episode, Natalie welcomes communication specialist and beach hut owner Serena Mitchell to discuss her unique beach hut named after her ancestor, Martha Gunn, a legendary sea bathing dipper from the Regency period. Serena shares her journey of acquiring the beach hut in 2017 and the joy it brings her as a space for relaxation and creativity. They also consider the recent controversial chang...

In this episode, Natalie sits down with historian and research consultant Karen Averby, who shares her passion for seaside heritage and beach huts. With a rich background in historical research, Karen discusses her journey into the field, sparked by her early experiences with history and supported by her family. Together they delve into the fascinating history of beach huts, their evolution from b...

In this episode, Natalie reflects on her unique Christmas experience spent by the coast, highlighting her visits to beach huts in Portland, Dorset, and various locations in Sussex. Despite her usual lack of enthusiasm for the holiday season, Natalie shares how the warmth of community and the beauty of the UK coastline made this Christmas particularly special. She discusses the benefits of visiting...

In this festive episode of the Bonkers About Beach Huts podcast, Natalie Young welcomes Nikki Cavell, a Portage Officer and member of the Blue Tits, a global community of cold water swimmers. As Christmas approaches, they discuss the unique experience of wild swimming along the stunning Dorset Coast, particularly on Christmas and New Year's Day, some of the busiest times at the beach. Nikki shares...

In this festive episode, Natalie shares a list of top Christmas gift ideas for beach hut enthusiasts. Whether you're an early shopper or a last-minute gift-giver, Natalie has something for everyone, from the kids and  foodies to party animals and bookworms. Natalie explores a variety of unique gifts, including cookbooks, portable speakers, beach-themed toys, and cosy winter essentials, ensuring th...

In this episode, Natalie welcomes the talented voiceover artist Shelly Atton (SHELL YEAH Voiceover) who shares her unique journey from aspiring actor to award-winning voiceover professional. Originally from Yorkshire and now based in Kent, Shelly discusses her creative process, the importance of acting training in voiceover work, and her quirky Beach Hut recording studio. With insights into the vo...

In this episode, Natalie sits down with Nancy Stevenson, the award-winning author of "Beach Hut People." Nancy shares her journey of exploring the lives of beach hutters along the Essex coast, revealing the rich tapestry of stories behind these cherished seaside retreats. Through her extensive research, which involved interviewing a diverse range of beach hut owners, Nancy uncovers the significanc...

In this episode, Natalie welcomes Alan Elsey, a beach hut owner from Hove, East Sussex. Alan shares his journey of discovering the charm of beach huts after moving from London and how his initial scepticism transformed into a passion for beach hut ownership. Alan discusses the unique features of his award-winning beach hut, including a bar and creative design elements, and reflects on the vibrant...

In this episode Natalie dives into the essential topic of winterising your beach hut. As the seasons change and winter approaches, Natalie shares her top six winterization checklist items to help hutters prepare their seaside abodes for the inevitable storms, high winds, and salt build-up. From protecting against moisture and rust to preventing wood rot and keeping pests at bay, Natalie emphasises...

In this episode, Natalie delves into the often-confused asset classes of beach huts and sheds. With a thorough and unbiased approach, she explores the distinct differences between these two structures across ten categories, including price, ongoing liabilities, physical attributes, and social media presence. Natalie highlights the stark contrasts in usage, internal appearances, and the picturesque...

In this episode, Natalie explores how to enhance your beach hut experience by incorporating modern conveniences and little luxuries that require power. Natalie discusses the growing trend of off-grid living and the innovative gadgets available to beach hut enthusiasts, from battery-powered kettles and cool boxes to portable blenders and lighting solutions. Natalie shares her top seven must-have ga...

In this episode, Natalie interviews Stuart Robinson, the Director of St Anne's Beach Huts Apartments in the charming Victorian seaside town of Lytham St Anne's. Stuart shares his inspiring journey from a corporate telesales job to transforming the traditional beach hut experience into a modern, family-friendly getaway. Stuart discusses the challenges he faced in reintroducing beach huts to the are...

Natalie delves into the often-overlooked topic of beach hut padlock maintenance. She begins by dispelling myths about padlock coverings and emphasizes the importance of protecting these essential security devices from harsh coastal conditions. Listeners will learn about selecting the right marine-grade padlocks, effective cleaning techniques, and the best lubricants to ensure smooth operation. Nat...

Natalie delves into the often-overlooked topic of beach hut security, specifically focusing on the importance of padlocks. With beach huts being valuable assets averaging around £50,000, Natalie emphasizes the need for robust security measures to protect them from opportunist thieves and vandalism. She outlines three key considerations when purchasing padlocks: the ability to withstand harsh coast...

Natalie welcomes renowned British writer Simon Brett, known for his mystery and crime thrillers, including the humorous whodunit "Bones Under the Beach Hut." Simon shares insights into his writing process, the inspiration behind his characters, and his own experiences as a beach hut owner in Littlehampton. The conversation explores the quirks of beach hut communities, the challenges of writing, an...

In this episode, Natalie explores the beauty and tranquility of the seaside during the autumn and winter months. She discusses the importance of preparing beach huts for the cooler seasons, particularly in preventing damp and mould, which can be exacerbated by the humid coastal climate. Natalie shares practical tips on ensuring good ventilation, such as installing wall vents or using whirligigs, a...

In this episode, Natalie discusses the reasons why beasties are attracted to beach huts, such as the high moisture environment, food sources, and shelter they provide. She highlights common bugs like ants, silverfish, woodlice, spiders, moths, flies, mice, and beetles that may infest beach huts and the potential damage they can cause. Natalie offers practical tips for preventing and dealing with u...

Today, Natalie is interviewing Jamie BartlettBundy from Junction House Ltd, a skilled carpenter with a passion for construction. Jamie discusses his journey from carpentry to building bespoke furniture and eventually designing unique beach huts. He shares insights into the construction process of his beach huts, highlighting the use of innovative materials and meticulous craftsmanship. Jamie's bea...