'Most stunning' UK seaside town home to one of Europe's most beautiful castles
With its towering walls, ancient castle and bustling harbour, Conwy is one of the most stunningly picturesque towns you'll visit in Wales. This historic coastal retreat isn't just popular with tourists; it even earned a spot on the Sunday Times' list of the top places to live in the UK.
"Every kind of natural adventure is within easy reach of the brooding towers and tumbledown castle walls that cast an enchanting spell over this coastal hotspot," they wrote of Conwy.
"Those lucky enough to live in the town can pick up groceries and grab a coffee in impeccably historic surroundings, while enjoying the reassurance of regular trains and a fast road."
Conwy Quay is the ideal starting point for your exploration, adorned with lobster pots, entwined fishing nets, and all the delightful seaside paraphernalia you'd expect. Right next to The Liverpool Arms there's even a convenient information board displaying the current rates if you're considering docking your boat in the harbour, reports Wales Online.
Along the harbour, you'll also discover one of Conwy's most charming features: The Smallest House in Great Britain. Acknowledged by the Guinness Book of World Records, this petite red-fronted dwelling measures a mere 72 inches wide and 122 inches high and was inhabited until May 1900.
It's been handed down through the same family for over 130 years. Its last known resident was a 6ft 3in fisherman named Robert Jones. Today, it serves as a quaint attraction and picture-perfect backdrop.
Things to do in Conwy
If you fancy a pint with a view, pop into The Liverpool Arms, the oldest traditional pub in Conwy town.
Situated right on the waterfront, just across the road from the quay and beaches, it's particularly popular on a warm day with patrons spilling out onto the streets. History, harbour views and a good pint, what more could you ask for?
Alongside the harbour, Conwy's main attraction is the Castell Conwy (Conwy Castle) and its walls.
Part of Wales' UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Castell Conwy boasts a concentric design with eight towers. It's a key component of King Edward I's "Iron Ring", a chain of impressive fortresses built in Wales during the late 13th century to cement English dominance following the conquest of Wales.
Visitors can delve into the inner and outer wards, which house numerous rooms, and explore the castle walls, which feature 21 towers and fully encircle the town of Conwy.
Recognised for its aesthetic appeal and historical importance, the castle was dubbed one of Europe's 'most beautiful' by influential publication Condé Nast Traveller.
They noted: "Aside from getting us one step closer to living out our fairytale fantasies, the staggering structures showcase some of the world's best architecture, most stunning landscapes, and maybe even a ghost story or two. There's perhaps no better place on earth to find awe-inspiring castles than in Europe, where it seems like you can't visit a city or take a road trip without stumbling upon some sort of royal dwelling."
Like many historical structures in Wales, Conwy Castle is said to be haunted, much to the delight of ghost hunters and paranormal fans.
Eerie sightings have included various silhouettes and dark figures observed from the battlements and windows overlooking the town. Given that King Henry VIII used the castle as a prison in the 16th century, many believe these apparitions to be former inmates.
In 2016, a group of paranormal investigators claimed to have captured the voice of a young girl spirit uttering 'don't tell them'. Not exactly what you want to hear in a dim, echoing fortress. In 2020, a man snapped a photo outside Conwy Castle, which he believes shows a procession of phantoms led by a male ghost with a sword, as reported by North Wales Live.
Once you've had your fill of castles and spectres, it's time for a treat, and Dylan's Restaurant is just the place. Established in 2012, Dylan's aimed to celebrate the produce, character, and natural beauty of North Wales, and they've hit the mark with this latest venture.
The menu is a heartfelt tribute to local produce, gathered from across the region and served in a building as stunning as the dishes themselves. From the upper levels, you can enjoy panoramic views of the 13th-century St Mary's Church and Conwy Castle.
For somewhere to stay, the Quay Hotel and Spa is a great option.
This destination spa hotel boasts breathtaking views of the grand Conwy Castle and estuary and is conveniently situated near the Welsh towns of Conwy and Llandudno.
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