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'Fish and chip capital' that's perfect for tourists named top place to visit

'Fish and chip capital' that's perfect for tourists named top place to visit

Daily Mirror4 days ago
If you're looking for a quintessential British seaside town that also offers mouth watering fish and chips then look no further than this Welsh coastal gem steeped in history
There are few things better than tucking into a fresh tasty fish and chips on a warm night – and where better than a town known for its delicious take on the dish? The Welsh coast is famous for its rugged coastline, remote landscape and friendly charm, making it a popular spot for British staycations.

However, not all resorts are created equally. While some focus on food and culture and others on arcades and amusements, this town manages to incorporate them all. Nestled in by the sea in Conwy, Llandudno offers the quintessential British seaside experience – with a Welsh flavour.


Its pier is one of the longest in the UK and dates back to the 19th century. Aside from the stunning views, one of Llandudno's most popular draws includes its arcade, which features penny classics as well as more modern games – perfect to keep children entertained.
If you're something of a history buff, you'll also be delighted to discover the ancient tunnels known as the Great Orm Mines, which date back 3500 years ago. In fact, in 2005, it was awarded the title of 'The Largest Prehistoric Copper Mines in the World' by the Guinness World Records Team.
They're well-worth a visit. According to a TripAdvisor viewer: "A remarkable view into these 4000 year old mines. Take your time and follow the self-guided tour – don't just look ahead, especially when underground in the mines. Pause and look up, down and back the way you came.

They added: "The sheer extent of this ancient industry powered only by human muscle is eye opening and very well presented."
If you want to travel there, you can always get the Great Orme tram: the only cable-hauled tramway on a public road in Great Britain. It takes visitors all the way to the base of the Great Orme headland.

Of course, if you're more of a beach-goer, there's always West Shore Beach. The curving expansive sand gives way to the breathtaking ruggedness of the Irish Sea and offers a chance to sit back and relax.
It's a hotspot for adventure-seekers too, as the beach is in a great location for kite surfing and even wing foiling. For those who prefer a slower pace, it also opens up onto many gorgeous coastal paths.
Of course, with all the exploring to be done, you'll likely want to fill up on some delicious British classics. As reported by The Guardian, Llandudno has been named the fish and chips capital of North Wales.
Chish N Fips is one of the top rate fish and chips restaurants and is known for its fresh cod and mushy peas. According to one TripAdvisor reviewer: "My wife and I are fish and chip foodies. We are expert at knowing when the oil is clean, the cod is cod and fresh and the chips are from quality potatoes."
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I stayed in the Airbnb alternative trying to do things differently
I stayed in the Airbnb alternative trying to do things differently

Metro

timean hour ago

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I stayed in the Airbnb alternative trying to do things differently

Metro Checks In to Limehome, a holiday rental platform that's hoping to give Airbnb and VRBO a run for their money. I love Spain, particularly its mainland cities; gazing at Gaudi's masterpieces in Barcelona, watching flamenco in Madrid, and of course, eating tapas anywhere, anytime, at any given opportunity. But as a British tourist, Spain doesn't always love me back. Backlash to mass tourism has snowballed in the past year, with locals complaining of overcrowding and short-term rentals wiping out affordable housing in holiday hotspots. At first glance, Limehome, a sort of Airbnb alternative which offers short-let apartments in 153 European cities, might seem like it's adding to the problem. But the strategy is different. Limehome aims to transform unused urban buildings into hotels and apartments, reducing the impact on housing for locals. Fuel your wanderlust with our curated newsletter of travel deals, guides and inspiration. Sign up here. 'This approach helps bring new life to city areas without impacting the availability of residential housing,' a spokesperson told Metro. They've recently acquired an office building in Paris, which will be transformed into 25 apartments, as well as an unused building in Burgos, a city in Northern Spain less popular with visitors than its famous neighbours. I headed to the Limehome in Ruzafa, Valencia's trendiest neighbourhood, to check it out. Limehome is a hotel-holiday apartment hybrid. There's no reception or concierge — it's all done via an app. You can check in online before your stay, much like you do for a flight. Then, on the day of arrival, you're sent the codes which you use to access the building. To some, this could feel impersonal, but it's quick, easy and faff-free. Opening the door to the light-filled apartment, it's clear to see that providing a clean, comfortable stay is the priority. The aesthetic is all clean lines and grey interiors, with a pop-of-red kitchen. There are a few extra touches to make the place feel cosier, such as houseplants and colourful art on the walls. If a hotel full of personality and local tips is what you're after, this isn't for you — if you'd told me I was the first person to stay here, I'd have believed you. There's no guest book or well-worn pamphlets like you might find in an Airbnb, and I didn't see a single other guest for the three days I was there. But the apartment was spotless, the kitchen stocked with everything you need (including an all-important bottle opener) and the Wi-Fi super fast. Someone visiting Valencia on business would be equally at home here as a group of friends on a city break. The apartment I stayed in had one bedroom, plus a sofa bed in the lounge/dining area. It was spacious, more than big enough for the maximum four people that could stay here. Beds were comfortable, and the bathroom was equipped with shower gel and shampoo, unusual for stays like this. As a self-catered apartment, you won't find any adds on: there's no spa or swimming pool, for example, but the standout feature has to be the cute balcony that looks out onto the street below. Small but compact, it was the perfect spot to rest my legs after a long day of sightseeing, sangria in hand, of course. A special shout-out also goes to the full-length mirror – this should be a must in every holiday accommodation, but it's not. Often, when staying in a self-service apartment, it's all about location. You're foregoing the luxury amenities of a hotel, in exchange for staying right in the action. That's certainly the case for Limehome Valencia, which is in the heart of Ruzafa, Valencia's hipster neighbourhood. You're spoilt for choice when it comes to food and drink: from aesthetically pleasing brunch spots (I liked Casa Raíz with it's cute outdoor courtyard), and some of the best tapas I've ever eaten (I lost count of the amount of plates I ordered at La Anjana) to quirky cocktail bars (La Bella De Cadiz is quite a sight to behold…). There are vintage stores and art galleries, and Ruzafa is known for being particularly LGBTQ+ friendly, with rainbow flagged adorned from various balconies and awnings. And, while it's not Valencia's most famous area for street art (you'll have to head to El Carmen for that), Rufaza feels colourful and creative. You'll still be able to spot some amazing murals if you keep your eyes peeled. You feel like you're hanging out with the locals here, who spill out of bars, and drink Agua de Valencia — a lethal but delicious cocktail — on the kerb. The only downside is that it's not exactly quiet, and it was a little noisy when attempting to sleep. 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Limehome Valencia has a lift, which offers access to all floors. However, not all Limehome apartments are the same, and it's important to check before booking. Standout feature: The right-in-the-heart-of-it location, and little balcony. Perfect for: Limehome Valencia would suit pretty much every type and group of guest, from families to business travellers. Not right for: Those looking for a stay with bags of character. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: Europe's 'Paris of the East' is an underrated gem with £37 flights and 31°C August weather MORE: Family forced to hide in their cabin during £8,000 cruise from hell MORE: European seaside town takes aim at tourists with sassy poster and begs for 'decorum'

History of Shell Island tidal campsite and why (most) campers love it so much
History of Shell Island tidal campsite and why (most) campers love it so much

North Wales Live

timean hour ago

  • North Wales Live

History of Shell Island tidal campsite and why (most) campers love it so much

The land where Shell Island campsite now lies was once a farm that incredibly dates back to the Domesday Book of 1086. Its place in the history books does not end there although the next significant mention is likely more legend than historical fact. The current custodians report an intriguing tale of King Charles I reportedly hiding at the nearby Elizabethan mansion Cors Y Gedol Hall in the 1640s before attempting to flee to France, possibly departing from Shell Island's shores through a secret tunnel. This is probably not one to research too heavily unless you want to destroy the legend. Despite its name the site is not actually an island and is instead a peninsula located near the village of Llanbedr. Its main route is cut off at high tide on certain days each month - creating that island feel. In fact the area was not even a peninsula until the intervention of part of the nobility in the 19th Century. The current estuary was formed following a diversion of the Afon Artro by the Earl of Winchilsea in 1819 to improve access to the wharf at Pensarn which was the shipment point for slate from Llanfair and Llanbedr. Prior to this the Artro entered the sea to the south of Shell Island, or Mochras to give it its Welsh name. Its English name stems from the abundance and variety of seashells found on its beaches. And it was these beaches that started to attract visitors in the second half of the 19th Century. This was driven by the opening of the Cambrian Coast Line that was constructed between 1855 and 1869, opening up the seaside to the new industrial workers. It was then the arrival of the Workman family in 1958 that started to create the site it is today. They bought 450 acres of land and created what is now one of Europe's biggest campsites. Join the North Wales Live Whatsapp community now Over the years, Shell Island's historic structures have been thoughtfully repurposed. The restaurant, snack bar, and tavern, developed between 1976 and 1977, were once a hay barn, stables, and a cow shed, respectively. Even the toilet block has a storied past, having served as a homing station for the RAF Station at Llanbedr during wartime. For many families it now requires at least one annual visit while every year a new generation is introduced to its charms. Those who fall for the place adore it as shown by the five star reviews on Tripadvisor. One recent review called it "beach heaven" and described the surroundings - with Eryri as a backdrop - as a true feast for the eyes". They added: "A simply wonderful, divine place." Another camper said: What an experience to set up camp in this expansive site right on the sand dunes! Spectacular views, lots of space and the beach right there!" Another said it was "Wales at its beautiful best" but feared telling people how good it was. They said: "I would thoroughly recommend but don't tell everyone as I want to go back!" "Camping paradise" was the title of another review. It added: "Fantastic location, great staff and value for money. Nowhere better for a sundowner on the beach and often dolphins in the morning passing by. On the UK coast so can be windy and the usual weather but only adds to the charm. Many visits with the kids as children and now as adults. Love it." But it's not for everyone with particular complaints over large groups. One negative review said: "Massive groups of loud, not very nice people. The site has really gone down hill since Covid, they say they don't let groups on but people just book separately and meet up when they arrive. There are far better camp sites out there." Another said: "Considering they say there are 400+ acres it seemed very crowded, if you want a sea view you're going to be within touching distance of your neighbour. "Definitely not a quite relaxing holiday, more like a festival field, we were booked in for three nights but left after 1, the views are beautiful but it's spoilt by it being overcrowded and some of the people there are maybe not to everyone's taste shall we say." These are certainly in the minority though - with around 750 of just over 1,000 reviews rating it good or excellent. It is easy to see why.

Mum says she 'found UK's best beach' in North Wales after moving from England
Mum says she 'found UK's best beach' in North Wales after moving from England

North Wales Live

time2 hours ago

  • North Wales Live

Mum says she 'found UK's best beach' in North Wales after moving from England

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