Fancy swapping the hustle and bustle for a bit of sea air? Manchester might not be close to the coast but if you’re after a bit of escapism then a visit to this classic Victorian seaside town is a must. Named one of the best coastal towns in the UK to visit by The Times, the stunning Welsh seaside town of Llandudno is less than a two-hour drive from Manchester city centre and has plenty to offer to make for a great day trip or weekend getaway.
A quintessential seaside experience
As you stroll down Llandudno’s classic Victorian pier you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, as you pass rows of stalls selling traditional Welsh gifts, puppet shows, penny arcades and retro stores – and it’s the perfect spot to grab an ice cream too. If you’re looking for the quintessential seaside experience you’ll certainly find it here.
The Times described Llandudno as “the embodiment of a classic Victorian beach town” due to its “promenade, sandy stretches on either side of the Creuddyn peninsula and, against considerable odds, a Punch and Judy show”. Highlighting that “the Codman family’s puppets have been delighting and confusing kids with their domestic disharmony since 1860”.
Llandudno has two coastlines and its very own secret beach
Another thing that makes Llandudno so special is that it has not one but two coastlines and beaches to explore. You’ll find North Shore Beach, a pebbly beach located between the Great Orme and the Little Orme headlands, and West Shore Beach, the town’s lesser-known sandy spot.
Located on the opposite side of the headland to North Shore Beach, the somewhat secret West Shore Beach looks over Conwy Sands and is backed by dunes. The golden, sandy beach is considered a hidden gem as not all visitors are aware of it and it offers great conditions for kite surfing. West Shore Beach is quieter than the other side of Llandudno and only has one cafe, making it perfect if you want to escape the crowds.
The 679ft summit of Great Orme offers breathtaking views
The Welsh seaside town has plenty of breathtaking views including ones on board the Great Orme Tramway, from Happy Valley Botanical Gardens (the oldest of Conwy’s parks) and of course, at the top of Great Orme’s 679ft summit. On a clear day, you can can experience views of Snowdonia and Anglesey, and as far as the Isle of Man, Blackpool and the Lake District.
If you fancy a walk, you can explore the miles of footpaths up to Great Orme whilst taking in the views of the surrounding areas. Another way to experience the Great Orme is via their famous yellow cable cars, which run from Happy Valley (where you’ll find a dry ski slope and a snowboarding centre) to the summit, offering incredible views of Llandudno along the way.
Or if you want to step back in time, you an hop on board the Great Orme tramway which has been running for over 100 years. From Victoria station, just a short walk from Llandudno pier, you can climb aboard a beautifully-restored tramcar and then ascent through the winding roads of the Great Orme, passing the likes of wild Kashmir Goats or rare Silver Studded Blue Butterflies.
The peak overlooking Llandudno is not only known for its views but also its history. At the top you can explore the Bronze Age copper mines, Iron Age fort, Stone Age remains or the sixth century St. Tudno’s Church.
How to get to Llandudno from Manchester
Travelling to Llandudno by car is approximately an hour and 50 minute journey from Manchester city centre, going via the M56 then the A55 going towards Conwy. Llandudno also has a train station, which takes just over 2 hours to get to from Manchester direct or changing at Chester.