After getting off the ferry at Holyhead in Wales, I was excited to drive through Wales and get a sample of the country before arriving in Manchester. If you would like to read about the ferry trip from Dublin to Holyhead, you can take a look at my blog below:
Parc Arfordirol Penrhos Coastal Park
Just a short drive away from Holyhead, my first stop in Wales was to stretch my legs in Parc Arfordirol Penrhos Coastal Park. This scenic park is part of the Anglesey Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a name which sums up the area beautifully.
My first thought was stopping to admire the beautiful view of the Irish Sea from the park, where I was astounded by how low the tide was: it looked like I could walk out for ages without needing to swim across. The park offers a perfect blend of experiences, from its beautiful woodlands, home to the native red squirrel, to its white sandy beaches with safe swimming. Well-paved hiking trails wind through the landscape, leading to explorable rock pools and scenic picnic areas. Conveniently, free parking and toilet facilities are available near the car park.
Llandudno Promenade and Pier
Eager for another scenic stop, I made my way to the nearby town of Llandudno. The highlight is its magnificent Victorian pier, which juts an impressive 700 metres from the North Shore promenade into the Irish Sea. The pier itself is a hub of family fun, bustling with shops, stalls, and arcades. A nearby Ferris wheel and kids’ funfair add to the lively atmosphere, while the Pier Head Cafe offers a welcome spot for a bite to eat. You can also sample the town’s famous rock candy.
My only reservation was the parking fee, which was a flat £5 for a half-day with no smaller increment available. However, I was pleased to learn that an hourly parking option is being introduced soon.
At first I had a real feeling of deja vu. It was so reminiscent of Llandudno in Cape Town. Here is the view of Llandudno in Wales…
Below is a photo I have from my trip there in March 2023 to Llandudno in Cape Town. The Llandudno in Cape Town established in 1903 (fact check) and was named after the Llandudno in Wales due to its resemblance to the seaside town in North Wales.
With my short drive through Wales, I came to one conclusion: it was simply a destination I had to add to my bucket list for a longer exploration. With its amazing nature, mountains and beautiful coastline I was enchanted.
Shells Adventures 
One thought on “A Welsh Welcome: First Impressions on a Drive from Holyhead”