Article Summary
Colwyn Bay is a traditional Victorian seaside resort on the north Wales coast, offering a long promenade, sandy beaches, and easy access to the mountains of Snowdonia. Located between Llandudno and Rhyl, this characterful town combines genuine Welsh heritage with classic British seaside appeal, featuring the magnificent Welsh Mountain Zoo, the rejuvenated waterfront at Porth Eirias, and proximity to some of the finest landscapes in Wales. This comprehensive guide covers everything visitors need to know about Colwyn Bay, from its Victorian origins and beach facilities to practical information for planning your visit.
A Victorian Vision on the Welsh Coast
Colwyn Bay occupies a sweeping curve of coastline where the mountains of Snowdonia meet the Irish Sea, a setting that Victorian developers recognised as ideal for the creation of a fashionable seaside resort. The town that emerged from their vision retains much of its original character, with elegant Victorian and Edwardian buildings lining streets that slope gently towards the promenade and the broad sandy beach beyond.
Unlike some Welsh coastal towns that have surrendered entirely to mass tourism or declined into neglect, Colwyn Bay has found a middle path. The town possesses genuine community life beyond the tourist trade, with residents who live here year round rather than simply servicing summer visitors. The Welsh language is heard on the streets, local businesses serve local needs, and the rhythms of ordinary life continue regardless of the holiday season.
Yet Colwyn Bay also embraces its role as a destination. The waterfront has been transformed by the development of Porth Eirias, a contemporary watersports centre that has brought new energy to the seafront. The Victorian pier, though reduced from its original glory, still extends into the bay. The promenade stretches for miles in either direction, connecting Colwyn Bay with its neighbours in a continuous coastal walkway. And the Welsh Mountain Zoo, perched on the hillside above the town, provides one of the finest visitor attractions in north Wales.
The setting elevates Colwyn Bay above many comparable resorts. The Great Orme headland at Llandudno dominates the western horizon, the Little Orme rises closer at hand, and behind the town the land climbs towards the foothills of Snowdonia. On clear days, the mountains themselves are visible, their peaks a reminder that world class landscapes lie within minutes of the beach.
For families seeking traditional seaside holidays, for water sports enthusiasts drawn by the new facilities at Porth Eirias, for wildlife lovers heading to the zoo, or for anyone wanting a base that combines coastal access with mountain proximity, Colwyn Bay delivers a satisfying combination of attractions and atmosphere.
History and Heritage
Understanding the history of Colwyn Bay illuminates the town’s character and explains the Victorian and Edwardian architecture that gives it distinction.
Ancient Origins
The area around Colwyn Bay has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of prehistoric settlement in the surrounding hills. The name Colwyn derives from a Welsh saint, Colwyn, who established a religious community in the area during the early medieval period.
Before the Victorian development, the coastline here consisted of small fishing communities and agricultural land. The village of Old Colwyn, set back from the sea on higher ground, predates the resort town and retains a more traditional Welsh village character to this day.
The Romans passed through this region, their road from Chester to Caernarfon following the coastal strip. Medieval travellers continued to use this route, and the area saw its share of the conflicts that shaped Welsh history. However, the coast remained sparsely populated, its potential as a resort destination unrecognised until the nineteenth century.
The Railway Arrives
The transformation of Colwyn Bay began with the arrival of the Chester and Holyhead Railway in 1848. This line, part of the route connecting London with the Irish ferries, opened the north Wales coast to visitors from the industrial cities of England.
The railway company recognised the potential for resort development along the scenic coastline and actively encouraged the creation of new towns to generate passenger traffic. Colwyn Bay emerged as one of several planned developments that transformed the north Wales coast during the Victorian era.
The first plots were laid out in the 1860s, with streets designed on a grid pattern and building plots sold to developers who constructed the villas, hotels, and boarding houses that would accommodate the expected visitors. The town grew rapidly through the latter decades of the nineteenth century.
Victorian Heyday
By the 1890s, Colwyn Bay had established itself as a fashionable resort, attracting visitors who sought the health benefits attributed to sea air and sea bathing. The town marketed itself as a refined alternative to more boisterous resorts, emphasising its scenery, climate, and respectable atmosphere.
The pier opened in 1900, extending 750 feet into the bay and providing the essential Victorian amenity of a promenade over the waves. The pier featured a pavilion at its head, hosting concerts and entertainments that drew visitors throughout the season.
Grand hotels rose along the seafront, their facades designed to impress arriving visitors with the resort’s aspirations to elegance. Churches, chapels, and public buildings followed, creating the civic infrastructure of a substantial town. By the outbreak of the First World War, Colwyn Bay had grown from empty fields to a thriving community of over 8,000 residents.
Twentieth Century Changes
The twentieth century brought changes that reshaped Colwyn Bay along with all British seaside resorts. The interwar years saw continued popularity, with working class visitors joining the middle class families who had dominated Victorian tourism. Holiday camps and caravan parks supplemented the traditional hotels and guesthouses.
The Second World War brought disruption, with the town hosting evacuees from the bombed cities and military personnel stationed in the area. The Ministry of Food relocated to Colwyn Bay, bringing civil servants who doubled the town’s population and left lasting memories among those who served there.
The postwar decades brought the familiar challenges of changing holiday patterns. Package holidays to Mediterranean destinations drew visitors away from British beaches, and Colwyn Bay, like many resorts, struggled to maintain its appeal. The pier fell into disrepair, losing sections to storms and neglect. Some of the grand hotels closed or converted to other uses.
Contemporary Revival
Recent decades have brought renewal to Colwyn Bay. Significant investment has transformed the waterfront, with Porth Eirias providing contemporary facilities that attract new generations of visitors. The promenade has been upgraded, public spaces improved, and efforts made to enhance the town’s appeal.
The town has embraced its heritage, recognising that Victorian and Edwardian character provides distinction in an era of identikit development. Conservation efforts have protected key buildings, and appreciation has grown for the quality of the original town planning.
Colwyn Bay today balances respect for its past with adaptation to contemporary expectations. The result is a resort that offers both traditional seaside atmosphere and modern facilities, appealing to visitors who value authenticity alongside convenience.
The Beach and Seafront
The beach at Colwyn Bay stretches in a gentle curve along the coastline, backed by a promenade that connects with neighbouring resorts in an almost continuous coastal walkway.
The Beach
Colwyn Bay Beach is predominantly sandy, with areas of shingle particularly towards the high tide line. The beach faces north across the Irish Sea towards the Isle of Man, invisible over the horizon but present in the geography of this coast.
At low tide, the beach extends considerably, revealing broad flats of firm sand suitable for walking, games, and the traditional beach activities that have drawn visitors for over a century. The gentle gradient creates extensive shallow areas ideal for paddling and safe play for younger children.
The tidal range is substantial, and the beach transforms between high and low water. At high tide, the sea reaches close to the promenade, while at low tide the water retreats to reveal the full extent of the sandy shore.
The beach is divided into several informal sections:
The main beach lies in front of the town centre, with the easiest access from the promenade and the greatest concentration of facilities nearby. This section tends to be busiest during peak periods.
Porth Eirias beach at the western end has been enhanced as part of the waterfront development, with improved access and the contemporary facilities of the watersports centre immediately behind.
Towards Old Colwyn the beach continues eastward, becoming quieter and less developed as it approaches the neighbouring community.
The Promenade
The promenade is one of Colwyn Bay’s finest assets, a broad walkway that extends along the seafront providing space for strolling, cycling, and simply enjoying the coastal views.
The promenade connects Colwyn Bay with Rhos on Sea to the west and Old Colwyn to the east, forming part of a longer coastal route that continues towards Llandudno in one direction and Rhyl in the other. This connectivity allows for extended walks or cycles along the coast, with the option of returning by different routes or using public transport.
Seating areas along the promenade provide places to rest and absorb the scene. On fine days, the benches fill with visitors watching the sea, enjoying ice creams, or simply sitting in contemplation. The views extend across the bay to the Great Orme and Little Orme headlands, distinctive landmarks that frame the western horizon.
Porth Eirias
The development at Porth Eirias has transformed the western end of Colwyn Bay’s seafront, creating a contemporary waterfront destination that has brought new energy to the resort.
The centrepiece is the watersports centre, a striking building designed to house facilities for surfing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and other water based activities. The architecture makes a bold statement, its angular forms and contemporary materials announcing that Colwyn Bay is looking forward as well as back.
The development includes restaurants and cafes with sea views, creating a dining destination that attracts visitors from across north Wales. The public spaces around the building have been designed to encourage gathering and activity, with events and activities programmed throughout the year.
Porth Eirias has succeeded in attracting a younger demographic to Colwyn Bay, with water sports enthusiasts joining the traditional family visitors. The combination of contemporary facilities with the existing Victorian resort creates an appealing balance of old and new.
The Pier
Colwyn Bay Pier has had a troubled history in recent decades, but remains a significant feature of the seafront. The original Victorian pier extended 750 feet into the bay, but storms and neglect reduced it to a fraction of its former length.
Recent years have seen efforts to stabilise and restore the remaining structure. While the pier no longer offers the full promenade over the waves that Victorian visitors enjoyed, it retains heritage significance and improvement works continue.
The pier’s future remains subject to ongoing discussion and planning, but its presence on the seafront connects contemporary Colwyn Bay with its Victorian origins.
The Welsh Mountain Zoo
The Welsh Mountain Zoo is one of the finest visitor attractions in north Wales, combining animal conservation with spectacular setting on the hillside above Colwyn Bay.
History and Mission
The zoo was founded in 1963 by Robert Jackson, a naturalist and conservationist who recognised the potential of the hillside site above Colwyn Bay. From modest beginnings, the zoo has grown into a significant institution, accredited by the British and Irish Association of Zoos and Aquariums and involved in numerous conservation programmes.
The zoo’s mission combines public education, animal welfare, and species conservation. Breeding programmes for endangered species form a key part of the work, with the zoo participating in international efforts to maintain viable populations of threatened animals.
The setting distinguishes the Welsh Mountain Zoo from many comparable attractions. The hillside location provides stunning views across Colwyn Bay to the sea, and on clear days the panorama extends to the Great Orme and the mountains of Snowdonia. The animals benefit from spacious enclosures designed to make use of the sloping terrain.
Animal Collection
The zoo houses a diverse collection of animals from around the world:
Big cats including snow leopards, Sumatran tigers, and cheetahs occupy spacious enclosures that allow visitors to observe these magnificent predators.
Primates from various species find homes at the zoo, with particular emphasis on conservation programmes for endangered species.
Bears including brown bears live in large naturalistic enclosures on the hillside.
Birds from around the world include various raptors, with flying displays demonstrating the skills of these aerial hunters.
Penguins provide popular entertainment at feeding times, their antics delighting visitors of all ages.
Reptiles and smaller animals complete the collection, with educational displays explaining the importance of these less glamorous but equally significant creatures.
Conservation Work
The Welsh Mountain Zoo participates in numerous conservation programmes:
Breeding programmes for endangered species contribute to maintaining genetic diversity and viable populations for potential future reintroduction.
Research conducted at the zoo contributes to scientific understanding of animal behaviour, health, and conservation needs.
Education programmes help visitors, particularly children, understand the importance of wildlife conservation and the threats facing species around the world.
Field conservation work supports projects in the wild, with the zoo contributing expertise and resources to efforts protecting species in their natural habitats.
Visiting the Zoo
The zoo is located on the hillside above Colwyn Bay, accessed by road from the town centre. Signposting guides visitors from the main routes through Colwyn Bay.
Opening times vary seasonally, with longer hours during summer and school holidays. Checking the zoo’s website before visiting is advisable.
Admission charges apply, with discounts for children, seniors, and families. Annual passes offer value for visitors planning multiple trips.
Facilities include cafes and restaurants with sea views, gift shops, play areas for children, and accessible routes through much of the site.
Events throughout the year include feeding demonstrations, keeper talks, and seasonal activities that add variety to repeat visits.
The hillside location means the zoo involves significant walking, much of it on slopes. Those with mobility limitations should enquire about accessibility options when planning their visit.
Rhos on Sea
Rhos on Sea, immediately west of Colwyn Bay, has effectively merged with its larger neighbour while retaining its own character and attractions.
Character
Rhos on Sea developed as a separate resort in the Victorian era and maintains a slightly different atmosphere from Colwyn Bay. The town is perhaps quieter and more genteel, with an older demographic among both residents and visitors.
The seafront at Rhos on Sea continues the promenade from Colwyn Bay, providing seamless coastal walking. The beach is similar in character, sandy with some shingle, and offers the same views across the bay to the Orme headlands.
Harlequin Puppet Theatre
The Harlequin Puppet Theatre is a unique attraction in Rhos on Sea, Britain’s only permanent puppet theatre. The intimate venue hosts performances of classic tales and original productions, delighting audiences of all ages with the traditional art of puppetry.
The theatre has operated since 1958, making it an established institution with a devoted following. Performances run throughout the year, with increased frequency during school holidays. Booking in advance is advisable as the small auditorium fills quickly for popular shows.
St Trillo’s Chapel
St Trillo’s Chapel claims to be the smallest church in Britain, a tiny stone building on the seafront that seats approximately six people. The chapel is built over a holy well and dates from the medieval period, though the current structure may be a later rebuilding.
The chapel provides a contemplative counterpoint to the resort atmosphere, a reminder of the sacred geography that underlies the Welsh landscape. Services are held occasionally, and the chapel is usually open for visitors to peer inside.
Rhos Point and Little Orme
Rhos Point extends into the sea at the western end of Rhos on Sea, providing elevated views along the coast. The Little Orme headland rises beyond, a limestone outcrop that echoes its larger neighbour at Llandudno.
Walking routes climb onto the Little Orme, offering panoramic views and the chance to explore the limestone grassland that supports interesting plant communities. The walking is moderate but involves some steep sections.
Eirias Park
Eirias Park is the principal park in Colwyn Bay, providing green space, sports facilities, and event venues that serve both residents and visitors.
The Park
The park covers approximately 50 acres on the eastern edge of the town centre, offering a variety of landscapes and facilities:
Formal gardens near the park entrance provide colourful displays through the growing season.
Open grassland offers space for informal games and relaxation.
Woodland areas provide shade and habitat for wildlife.
A lake adds variety to the landscape and attracts waterfowl.
The park provides welcome green space within easy reach of the seafront, allowing visitors to combine beach time with the different pleasures of a traditional municipal park.
Sports Facilities
Eirias Park has developed significant sports facilities:
Parc Eirias Stadium hosts rugby union matches, including international games featuring Wales. The stadium provides the largest capacity venue in north Wales for major sporting events.
Athletics facilities serve local clubs and competitions.
Tennis courts, bowling greens, and other sports amenities cater to various activities.
The sports facilities bring visitors to Colwyn Bay for events and competitions, supplementing the traditional tourist trade with a different audience.
Events
Eirias Park hosts various events throughout the year:
Concerts featuring major artists have established the park as a music venue of regional significance.
Sporting events bring competitors and spectators for rugby, athletics, and other sports.
Community events including fairs, festivals, and seasonal celebrations use the park’s spaces and facilities.
Access Wales Airshow is an annual event that takes place at Porth Eirias and uses Eirias Park as the main viewing area, attracting thousands of visitors to watch aerial displays over Colwyn Bay.
Checking the events calendar before visiting allows visitors to either seek out events of interest or avoid unexpectedly crowded conditions.
Walking and Cycling
Colwyn Bay provides excellent opportunities for walking and cycling, both along the coast and into the surrounding countryside.
The Wales Coast Path
The Wales Coast Path passes through Colwyn Bay as part of its 870 mile route around the Welsh coastline. The promenade provides easy, level walking along the seafront, with the path continuing in both directions.
Westward towards Llandudno, the coast path follows the promenade through Rhos on Sea before climbing onto the Little Orme and continuing around the headland. The walking becomes more challenging on the headland sections but rewards effort with spectacular views.
Eastward towards Old Colwyn and beyond, the path continues along the coast towards Rhyl and the northern extent of the Welsh coast. This section is generally level, following the promenade and coastal paths.
The North Wales Path
The North Wales Path crosses Colwyn Bay as part of its 60 mile route from Prestatyn to Bangor. The path combines coastal and inland sections, and walkers passing through Colwyn Bay can access both environments.
Cycling
The promenade is shared use, accommodating both pedestrians and cyclists. The flat terrain makes for easy cycling, and the continuous route along the coast allows for extended rides.
The National Cycle Network includes routes through Colwyn Bay, connecting with the wider network that crosses Wales.
Mountain biking opportunities exist in the hills behind the town, though these require appropriate equipment and experience.
Walks from Colwyn Bay
Several walks start from or pass through Colwyn Bay:
The promenade walk from Colwyn Bay to Llandudno provides approximately 5 miles of coastal walking, with the option of returning by bus or continuing into Llandudno itself.
The Little Orme circuit climbs onto the headland west of Rhos on Sea, offering dramatic clifftop walking with views along the coast.
Bryn Euryn is a nature reserve on the outskirts of Colwyn Bay, where paths climb through woodland and limestone grassland to a summit with panoramic views.
The Conwy Valley lies inland from Colwyn Bay, with numerous walking opportunities in the foothills of Snowdonia accessible by short car journeys.
Old Colwyn
Old Colwyn is the original settlement from which the Victorian resort took its name, located on the hillside above and to the east of Colwyn Bay proper.
Character
Old Colwyn retains a more traditional Welsh village character than the planned Victorian resort below. The streets are narrower and more organic in their layout, the buildings older and more varied in their architecture.
The village has its own identity, with residents who may feel more connected to Old Colwyn than to Colwyn Bay itself. Local shops, pubs, and services cater to this distinct community.
St Catherine’s Church
St Catherine’s Church stands at the heart of Old Colwyn, a medieval foundation that predates the Victorian resort by centuries. The current building contains features from various periods, reflecting the continuous use of the site for worship.
The churchyard contains memorials spanning centuries, connecting the present community with its ancestors. The elevated position provides views across the coast and towards the mountains.
Beach Access
Old Colwyn has its own beach access, quieter than the main Colwyn Bay beach and favoured by those seeking to escape the busier central sections. The beach character is similar, sandy with some shingle, and the views extend along the coast in both directions.
Practical Information for Visitors
Getting to Colwyn Bay
By car: Colwyn Bay lies on the A55 North Wales Expressway, the main route along the north Wales coast. From Chester and the northwest, follow the A55 westward. From Snowdonia, approach via the A470 and A55. The town is well signposted from the main route. Sat nav postcode: LL29 8HH for the town centre.
By train: Colwyn Bay station is served by Transport for Wales services on the North Wales Coast Line, with frequent trains between Chester, Llandudno Junction, Bangor, and Holyhead. Journey times from Chester are approximately 40 minutes, from Crewe approximately 1 hour 15 minutes.
By bus: Bus services connect Colwyn Bay with Llandudno, Rhyl, and other destinations along the coast. Services are frequent during the day, with reduced evening and Sunday frequencies.
Parking
Parking is available at various locations around Colwyn Bay:
Seafront car parks provide convenient access to the beach and promenade. Charges apply, and spaces fill during busy periods.
Porth Eirias car park serves the waterfront development, useful for visitors focusing on that area.
Town centre car parks suit those combining beach visits with shopping or other town centre activities.
On street parking is available in some areas, with varying restrictions. Check signage carefully to avoid penalties.
During summer weekends and school holidays, arriving early is advisable as parking can be challenging when the resort is busy.
Accommodation
Colwyn Bay offers accommodation across a range of styles and price points:
Hotels including both Victorian establishments and modern chain hotels provide various options for different budgets and preferences.
Bed and breakfasts and guesthouses offer traditional hospitality, often in characterful Victorian buildings.
Self catering apartments and cottages suit those preferring independence and longer stays.
Holiday parks and caravan sites in the surrounding area provide family oriented accommodation with on site facilities.
Budget accommodation including hostels serves those prioritising cost over facilities.
Booking ahead is advisable during summer and school holidays, particularly for accommodation with sea views or specific requirements.
Eating and Drinking
Colwyn Bay offers numerous options for eating and drinking:
Porth Eirias contains several restaurants and cafes with sea views, offering contemporary dining in the waterfront setting.
Traditional fish and chip shops provide the classic seaside meal.
Cafes throughout the town serve breakfast, lunch, and refreshments.
Pubs offer meals alongside drinks, with several establishments in the town centre and along the seafront.
International cuisines including Indian, Chinese, and Italian restaurants extend the dining options.
Tea rooms provide traditional afternoon tea experiences.
For the widest range of dining options, nearby Llandudno is approximately 15 minutes by car or bus.
Facilities
Toilets are available at various points along the seafront and in the town centre.
Beach equipment including buckets, spades, and basic supplies is available from seafront shops.
Supermarkets in the town provide provisions for self catering visitors.
Banks and ATMs are available in the town centre.
Medical services include pharmacies in the town centre. The nearest major hospital is Ysbyty Glan Clwyd in Bodelwyddan, approximately 10 miles east.
Tourist information is available from the library and various local businesses.
Beach Safety
Colwyn Bay Beach has lifeguard coverage during peak season on the main beach areas. However, coverage varies and visitors should not assume lifeguard presence. Look for the red and yellow flags that indicate patrolled areas.
Tides: The significant tidal range means the beach transforms between high and low water. Be aware of the incoming tide, particularly when walking out onto the sand at low water.
Currents: Currents can develop, particularly during certain tidal states. If caught in a current, swim parallel to the shore rather than fighting against it.
Weather: Conditions can change quickly. Watch for approaching weather systems and be prepared to leave the beach if conditions deteriorate.
Dogs
Dogs are restricted from certain sections of Colwyn Bay Beach during the summer season, typically from May to September. Designated dog friendly sections remain available year round. Check signage on the beach for current restrictions.
Dogs are welcome on the promenade and in Eirias Park, though should be kept under control.
Day Trips from Colwyn Bay
Colwyn Bay’s location provides excellent access to the attractions of north Wales and beyond.
Llandudno
The Victorian resort of Llandudno lies approximately 5 miles west of Colwyn Bay:
The Great Orme headland offers cable car and tramway access to the summit, with panoramic views and the ancient copper mines. Why you need to visit the Great Orme
The pier extends into the bay, providing traditional seaside entertainment.
Victorian architecture creates an elegant resort atmosphere quite different from more modern developments.
Shopping in the town centre offers a wider range than Colwyn Bay.
Conwy
The medieval walled town of Conwy lies approximately 6 miles west of Colwyn Bay:
Conwy Castle is one of the finest Edwardian fortresses in Wales, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. How Many Castles in Wales?
The town walls provide walkable medieval defences with views across the town and estuary.
The smallest house in Britain is a quirky attraction on the quayside.
Plas Mawr is an Elizabethan townhouse of exceptional quality.
Snowdonia
The mountains of Snowdonia lie within easy reach of Colwyn Bay:
Snowdon itself is accessible by mountain railway from Llanberis or by various walking routes.The Ultimate Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa) Climb: Which Trail Will You Take? Interactive Map
Betws y Coed provides the gateway to Snowdonia, approximately 15 miles from Colwyn Bay.Betws y Coed: A Complete Guide to the Gateway to Snowdonia
Numerous peaks offer mountain walking for all abilities, from gentle valley walks to challenging summits.
Bodnant Garden
This National Trust garden lies approximately 7 miles from Colwyn Bay:
World famous gardens feature spectacular displays, particularly the laburnum arch in late spring.
All year interest from different seasonal plantings.
Tea rooms and plant sales complement the garden visits.
Rhyl and Prestatyn
The resorts to the east offer different character:
Rhyl provides more developed resort facilities including the SeaQuarium, cinema, and water park.
Prestatyn marks the northern end of the Offa’s Dyke Path and offers quieter beaches.
Anglesey
The island of Anglesey lies across the Menai Strait, approximately 30 miles from Colwyn Bay:
Beaumaris Castle is another of the great Edwardian fortresses.
South Stack lighthouse and cliffs provide dramatic coastal scenery and seabird colonies.
Newborough Beach offers miles of sand backed by forest and dunes.
Events and Festivals
Colwyn Bay hosts various events throughout the year that add interest to visits at different seasons.
Access Wales Airshow
The Access Wales Airshow is an annual event held at Porth Eirias and Eirias Park, typically in June. The free airshow attracts thousands of visitors to watch aerial displays including the Red Arrows and other military and civilian aircraft.
The event transforms the seafront into a major attraction, with ground displays, entertainment, and food stalls complementing the flying programme. Accommodation books quickly for airshow weekend, so early planning is essential.
Concerts and Live Events
Eirias Park hosts concerts featuring major artists, bringing significant visitor numbers to Colwyn Bay:
Summer concerts have featured internationally known performers, attracting audiences from across north Wales and beyond.
Sporting events at the stadium include international rugby matches.
Community Events
Various community events mark the calendar:
Christmas celebrations bring festive atmosphere to the town centre.
Summer events on the seafront provide entertainment during the peak season.
Markets and fairs offer shopping opportunities and community gathering.
Welsh Language and Culture
Colwyn Bay hosts events celebrating Welsh language and culture:
Eisteddfodau (cultural festivals featuring music, poetry, and performance) occur at various scales.
Welsh language events reflect the bilingual character of the community.
Frequently Asked Questions About Colwyn Bay
Where is Colwyn Bay located?
Colwyn Bay is located on the north Wales coast, between Llandudno to the west and Rhyl to the east. The town lies on the A55 North Wales Expressway, approximately 5 miles from Llandudno and 30 miles from Chester.
Is Colwyn Bay Beach sandy?
Yes, Colwyn Bay Beach is predominantly sandy, with some shingle particularly towards the high tide line. At low tide, extensive sandy areas are exposed, providing good conditions for traditional beach activities.
Does Colwyn Bay have a train station?
Yes, Colwyn Bay station is on the North Wales Coast Line, with frequent services between Chester, Llandudno Junction, Bangor, and Holyhead. The station is located in the town centre, within walking distance of the seafront.
What is Porth Eirias?
Porth Eirias is a contemporary waterfront development at the western end of Colwyn Bay, featuring a watersports centre, restaurants, and improved beach facilities. The development has transformed the seafront and attracts visitors for water sports and dining.
Is there a zoo at Colwyn Bay?
Yes, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is located on the hillside above Colwyn Bay. The zoo houses a diverse collection of animals and is involved in conservation programmes for endangered species. The setting provides spectacular views across the bay.
Is Colwyn Bay Beach lifeguarded?
Lifeguard coverage is provided on the main beach during peak season, but coverage varies and is not guaranteed. Check for the red and yellow flags that indicate patrolled areas.
Are dogs allowed on Colwyn Bay Beach?
Dogs are restricted from certain sections of the beach during summer months, typically May to September. Designated dog friendly sections remain available year round. Check signage for current restrictions.
How far is Colwyn Bay from Snowdonia?
Colwyn Bay is approximately 15 miles from Betws y Coed, the gateway to Snowdonia, and approximately 25 miles from the base of Snowdon. The mountains are visible from Colwyn Bay on clear days.
What is there to do in Colwyn Bay?
Activities include beach visits and water sports at Porth Eirias, the Welsh Mountain Zoo, walking the promenade and coastal paths, exploring the Victorian architecture, visiting Eirias Park, and using the town as a base for exploring Snowdonia and the north Wales coast.
Is there parking at Colwyn Bay?
Yes, car parks are available along the seafront, at Porth Eirias, and in the town centre. Charges apply at most locations, and spaces can be limited during busy periods.
What is the pier like at Colwyn Bay?
Colwyn Bay Pier has suffered storm damage and neglect over the years, reducing it from its original Victorian extent. Restoration efforts continue, but the pier currently does not offer the full promenade experience of its heyday.
How far is Colwyn Bay from Llandudno?
Colwyn Bay is approximately 5 miles from Llandudno, connected by the promenade, coastal road, railway, and bus services. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes by car or train.
Is Colwyn Bay good for families?
Yes, Colwyn Bay is well suited for families, offering sandy beaches, the Welsh Mountain Zoo, the promenade for walking and cycling, and various family friendly attractions. The Harlequin Puppet Theatre in nearby Rhos on Sea provides entertainment for children.
What is Rhos on Sea?
Rhos on Sea is a smaller resort immediately west of Colwyn Bay, effectively merged with its larger neighbour but retaining its own character. Attractions include the Harlequin Puppet Theatre and St Trillo’s Chapel, claimed to be Britain’s smallest church.
Can you surf at Colwyn Bay?
Yes, surfing and other water sports are available at Porth Eirias, which has a watersports centre offering tuition and equipment hire. Conditions vary, with the sheltered bay producing gentler waves than more exposed beaches.
What is the weather like in Colwyn Bay?
Colwyn Bay has a maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers. Rainfall is moderate, and the town benefits from some shelter provided by the Great Orme headland. Sea breezes can make the coast feel cooler than inland areas.
Is there an airshow at Colwyn Bay?
Yes, the Access Wales Airshow is held annually at Porth Eirias and Eirias Park, typically in June. The free event features aerial displays and attracts large crowds.
What is Eirias Park?
Eirias Park is the principal park in Colwyn Bay, featuring gardens, sports facilities including a stadium, a lake, and event spaces. The park hosts concerts and sporting events throughout the year.
