We recently visited North Wales - see earlier post about visit to Crug Farm Plants, staying in Llandudno. I had visited many times as a child, but I don't think I have been back since my teens.
Often when you revisit a place from your childhood, it fails to live up to memories, and I must admit to being slightly apprehensive as to whether visiting with Mark would live up to expectations. Fortunately we really shouldn't have worried with Llandudno, the resort town was so clean and tidy, with signs of work and fresh paint everywhere as it gears up for the summer season. A typical Victorian holiday resort, with rows of hotels and guest houses facing the sea, that by and large haven't fallen victim to conversion to budget living accommodation or poor flat conversions. We opted for a traditional guest house a couple of roads from the promenade.
Sunset with the Victorian Pier and Grand Hotel (although the Hotels Tripadvisor reviews would suggest its glory days are well behind it).
Llandudno even has small gardens within one of the parks, the aptly name "Happy Valley", with a bust of Queen Victoria close to the entrance.
Botanically the gardens are fairly ordinary, but the location over looking the sea, makes them a pleasant enough visit.
As well as the fabulous coast, it wouldn't be a trip to Wales without a visit to a castle. In our case we prebooked slots at two, Conwy and then Caernarfon. Both Castles date to 1289, as part of King Edward I of England defences against the Welsh Princes.
Conwy Castle
| Conwy Castle |
| Conwy Castle |
Conwy Castle - look up through one of the towers - sadly now lacking a roof.
Conwy Suspension Bridge, built in 1822 by Thomas Telford
Also in Conwy is the Smallest House in Great Britain.
Caernarfon Castle
I didn't actually take many photos at Caernarfon, despite its impressive size and history.
Having had a lovely long weekend, I dont think we will leave it quite so long before returning to North Wales.
Gaz