Awe-inspiring landforms, picturesque views and a whole host of classic coastal charm are on offer in this wonderful part of northern Wales.
Why visit Llandudno and its surrounds?
Llandudno is the largest seaside resort in Wales boasting a two-mile beach that stretches between the headlands of The Great Orme and The Little Orme. Towards the northern part of the beach the Grade II listed Llandudno Pier stretches for 700 metres – the longest in Wales. Peruse its assortment of shops and kiosks, or sip a beverage as you watch the tide come in. The selection of fairground rides and arcade games are guaranteed to keep younger visitors entertained. Further along the promenade you’ll find shows and concerts at the Venue Cymru and for those sun-drenched summer days, be sure to take a dip in the Craig-y-Don Paddling Pool.
For the best views of Llandudno, take a cable car up to the summit of The Great Orme. Leave the hustle and bustle of the beachfront behind during a 10-minute escapade and soar with seabirds such as guillemots, kittiwakes and razorbills.
If extreme sport is more your style, the nearby ski and snowboard centre will have you cruising down the slopes in no time at all, and there’s tobogganing and alpine mini golf to round-off the fun.
Nearby Colwyn Bay beach has had a recent multi-million pound regeneration named Porth Eirias – directly translated as ‘park by the sea’. This development features a watersports centre offering sailing, windsurfing and powerboat classes as well as a selection of shops and restaurants who offer locally sourced, fresh fish and seafood.
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is less than two miles down the road from Colwyn Bay beach and is the perfect location for a family day out. Marvel at the magnificent lemurs as you wander their walkthrough enclosure, and don’t miss the sea lions splashing around as you look on through underwater viewing facility. After working up an appetite be sure to stop by the café, for their selection of snacks and wholesome lunches.
A brief history
Llandudno’s name originates from its patron saint, Saint Tudno, who was one of the seven sons of King Seithenyn whose kingdom was submerged by tidal activity in Cardigan Bay.
Dubbed as ‘The Queen of the Welsh Resorts’ back in 1864, Llandudno is historically known for its copper mining. In the Bronze Age – approximately 4000 years ago – miners used granite hammers and animal bone to work at the ore creating a vast network of tunnels. These passageways amount to approximately 5 miles in length, earning the accolade of ‘The Largest Prehistoric Copper Mines in the World’ by the Guinness World Records. The mining ended with the beginning of the Iron Age as copper was no longer in demand.
In 1843 an act of parliament allowed a large portion of land to fall into the hands of Hon. Lloyd Mostyn. He and architect Owen Williams had a plan to develop Llandudno into a holiday resort for the wealthy Victorian families, and within 10 years much of the town had been transformed. By the 1850s the railway had arrived in Llandudno making it more accessible and changing its fortunes forever.
When is a good time to visit Llandudno?
Llandudno’s scenery is impressive no matter when you visit, and the varied selection of events and activities that go on all-year-round make it attractive for all.
Every May Bank Holiday weekend Llandudno is transported back to the 1800s with its annual Victorian Extravaganza. This free event promises fun for all ages with a street fair and entertainment, vintage rides, a series of stalls and, of course, traditional dress.
If you’re all about hearing that sweet music, Llandudno Jazz Festival is sure to be your bag. Bask in the delightful July sunshine with a refreshing beverage as you enjoy music from some of the genre’s most highly revered artists from Wales and beyond.
Motor enthusiasts will love the Wales Rally GB which normally takes place in October. Living life in the fast lane comes naturally to these highly-skilled drivers as they push their cars to the limits on Llandudno’s testing, meandering roads.
Getting around
Trains from London Euston stop off at Colwyn Bay, leaving just a short journey across to Llandudno. Services from Manchester and Birmingham also serve north Wales, while trains from Shrewsbury and Crewe travel to the north coast of Wales.
If you’re driving from Birmingham you can be in Llandudno in less than 3 hours via the M6 and M53. Meanwhile, journeys from Manchester via the M56 and A55 will have you in North Wales in less than 2 hours.
If the stunning surrounds and bountiful supply of attractions have inspired you, then why not check out our hotels near Colwyn Bay and see for yourself?
