With the Bannisters

Tag: North Wales

  • 🐾 Dog-Friendly Pubs, Restaurants & Cafés Around Prestatyn

    🐾 Dog-Friendly Pubs, Restaurants & Cafés Around Prestatyn

    Planning a trip to Prestatyn with your four-legged friend? You’re in luck—this charming coastal town in North Wales is packed with welcoming spots where dogs are treated like VIPs. From cosy pubs to sunny café terraces, here are the best places to eat, drink, and relax with your pup in tow.

    🍻 Dog-Friendly Pubs

    1. William Morgan Prestatyn

    A proper dog-friendly pub with water bowls, treats, and comfy corners. Whether you’re popping in for a pint or settling in for a meal, your dog is more than welcome.

    2. CookHouse Pub & Carvery

    Located on the High Street, this family-friendly pub has a dedicated dog-friendly area and outdoor terrace. Great food, live music, and a warm welcome for all ages—including furry ones!

    3. Torello Lounge

    Trendy and relaxed, Torello Lounge offers a laid-back vibe with dog-friendly seating. Ideal for brunch, cocktails, or a casual bite with your pup by your side.

    🍽️ Dog-Friendly Restaurants

    4. White House Restaurant & Rooms

    Located in nearby Rhuallt, this stylish spot welcomes dogs in the bar area and even offers doggy treats. Perfect for a countryside meal with your canine companion.

    5. CookHouse Pub & Carvery (again!)

    Yes, it’s worth mentioning twice—this place serves up hearty meals and has a reputation for excellent service, including thoughtful touches for dog owners.

    ☕ Dog-Friendly Cafés

    6. Green Island Bistro

    A vegan and nut-free café/bistro in nearby Rhuddlan with a dog-friendly courtyard. Great for a relaxed lunch or coffee stop with your pup.

    7. Dog Furiendly Picks

    Explore more cafés and eateries listed by Dog Furiendly, a trusted resource for dog-friendly travel. Their Prestatyn guide is packed with tail-wagging recommendations.

    ✨ Tips for Dining Out with Dogs

    • Call ahead to confirm dog-friendly areas and seating availability
    • Bring a water bowl and blanket for comfort
    • Choose outdoor seating when possible—many places offer shaded patios
    • Reward good behaviour with treats and praise

    🔗 Sources & Research

    Sources: The Good Dog Guide, Dog Furiendly, UseYourLocal, Tripadvisor

  • 🏰 The Best Castles to Visit in North Wales in 2025

    🏰 The Best Castles to Visit in North Wales in 2025

    North Wales is where ancient legends meet awe-inspiring architecture. The region’s castles are not just stone remnants—they’re stories waiting to be explored. Whether you’re planning a family road trip or craving a solo escape steeped in heritage, these fortresses are perfect for 2025 adventures.

    📍 Quick Navigation

    1. Conwy Castle

    📍 Conwy, Gwynedd
    A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a marvel of medieval engineering. Conwy’s massive towers and intact royal rooms make it a must-visit.

    • Panoramic battlements
    • Interactive exhibits
    • Town walls walk

    2. Caernarfon Castle

    📍 Caernarfon, Gwynedd
    Famous for royal pageantry and imposing architecture, this riverside fortress is undergoing a stunning transformation in 2025.

    • Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
    • Polygonal towers
    • Investiture history

    3. Beaumaris Castle

    📍 Anglesey
    Beautiful, symmetrical, and unfinished—yet undeniably majestic. Great for slow days and peaceful walks.

    4. Harlech Castle

    📍 Harlech, Gwynedd
    Set high above the sea with epic mountain views, Harlech Castle is a stronghold of Welsh folklore and song.

    5. Dolbadarn Castle

    📍 Llanberis
    A quieter spot near Llyn Padarn, perfect for photography, hiking, and soaking in nature’s embrace.

    6. Criccieth Castle

    📍 Criccieth, Gwynedd
    Two beaches flank this castle with sweeping sea views. Gerald of Wales fans—this one’s for you.

    7. Chirk Castle

    📍 Chirk, Wrexham
    Still inhabited, this castle is part stately home, part medieval relic. Explore grand rooms and lush gardens.

    8. Flint Castle

    📍 Flint, Flintshire
    An architectural trailblazer and former royal prison—Shakespeare couldn’t resist its charm.

    9. Denbigh Castle

    📍 Denbigh, Denbighshire
    Cutting-edge storytelling meets ancient structure. Virtual tech brings history to life in 2025.

    10. Penrhyn Castle

    📍 Bangor, Gwynedd
    Technically a neo-Norman mansion, Penrhyn’s grandeur rivals any fortress. Interiors and gardens are lavish and loaded with history.

    ✨ Planning Tips

    • CADW and National Trust passes offer discounts
    • Visit in spring or autumn for best weather and fewer crowds
    • Pack a picnic for scenic spots like Dolbadarn
    • Use park-and-ride or public transport where available

    🔗 Sources & Research

    Inspired by trusted travel sources:

    Sources: Visit Wales, Great British Bucket List, Wandering Welsh Girl, Wales Guidebook, Tripadvisor

  • ✈️ Rhyl Air Show Cancelled – What’s Next for 2025 and Beyond?

    ✈️ Rhyl Air Show Cancelled – What’s Next for 2025 and Beyond?

    The Rhyl Air Show, one of North Wales’ most popular summer spectacles, has been cancelled for 2024, and no event is planned for 2025. For fans of fast jets, the Red Arrows, and family fun on the seafront, this marks a major pause in what had become a much-loved tradition.

    So what happened, and what does the future hold for air shows—and large-scale summer events—in Rhyl and North Wales?

    🛑 Why Was the Rhyl Air Show Cancelled?

    In February 2024, Denbighshire Leisure Ltd confirmed the cancellation of the 2024 Rhyl Air Show, citing the unavailability of the Red Arrows due to their 60th anniversary world tour. The RAF display team has long been the headline attraction for the event.

    “As the Red Arrows will not be available in 2024, we have decided not to proceed with the event this year.”
    — Denbighshire Leisure Ltd, via Rhyl Journal

    As of July 2025, there is no official announcement about a 2025 air show returning to Rhyl, and Denbighshire Leisure has made no commitments about future editions.

    🔮 Will the Rhyl Air Show Return?

    The future of the event remains uncertain.

    With the Red Arrows expected to resume UK appearances in late 2025, there is speculation that the Rhyl Air Show could return in 2026 or beyond—especially given its strong track record of drawing over 140,000 visitors and boosting the local economy.

    “We look forward to exploring new events and opportunities for Rhyl in future years.”
    — Denbighshire Leisure, via North Wales Live

    However, future air shows will likely depend on:

    • Availability of military and civilian display teams
    • Budget allocations for large-scale events
    • Public interest and tourism strategies for the town

    🎪 What Are the Alternatives in 2025?

    While the skies may be quieter, North Wales is far from short on summer fun in 2025. Here are some top events that offer a great alternative for families, tourists, and aviation fans:

    🌊 Conwy River Festival – 17–18 August 2025

    Set against the historic Conwy Castle backdrop, this festival includes yacht races, RNLI demos, pirate parades, and live music. Great for families!
    More info →

    🎶 Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod – 2–6 July 2025

    A world-famous celebration of music and dance. Ideal for culture lovers and great for kids with daytime field performances.
    More info →

    🌿 Bodnant Garden Summer Nights – Fridays in July

    Evening garden walks, live music, and food stalls at one of the UK’s most beautiful gardens near Tal-y-Cafn.
    More info →

    🐑 Anglesey County Show – 13–14 August 2025

    One of Wales’ top agricultural events, featuring livestock shows, crafts, local food, and entertainment.
    More info →

    📷 Memories That Last – But for Now, On Hold

    The Rhyl Air Show has given families unforgettable memories over the years—thundering jets, vintage warbirds, and seaside spectacle. Its absence leaves a gap in the North Wales summer calendar, but it also opens the door for new ideas and future possibilities.

    Could we see a reimagined aviation-themed event in future years? A STEM/RAF family weekend? A return in 2026? Only time will tell.

    🔍 Stay Updated

    Want to be the first to know if the Rhyl Air Show returns?
    🔗 Bookmark Denbighshire Leisure and follow Visit Rhyl for official announcements.

    ✅ Final Thoughts

    While we’ll miss the roar of the Red Arrows over the coast this year, North Wales 2025 still offers plenty of summer adventures—from riverside festivals to music, food, and garden evenings.

    Rhyl’s events scene is evolving, and with continued public support, big days out like the air show could well return in the near future.

    📚 References

  • A quick lunchtime walk. Beach edition.

    A quick lunchtime walk. Beach edition.

    Taking a walk on your lunch break can be a great way to break up the monotony of your workday and improve your overall health and well-being. Today, I took a walk to the beach on my lunch break and I was reminded of the many benefits that come with stepping outside and getting some fresh air.

    Firstly, taking a walk on your lunch break is a great way to get some exercise. If you work in an office, you may spend most of your day sitting in front of a computer screen. Taking a walk during your lunch break can help you get moving and improve your physical health. Even a short walk can help improve your cardiovascular health, burn some calories, and reduce your risk of developing certain health conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.

    Secondly, taking a walk on your lunch break can improve your mental health. Walking outside can help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as improve your mood. This is because walking can release endorphins, which are natural chemicals that help reduce pain and increase feelings of pleasure and well-being. Additionally, being outside in nature can be calming and restorative, helping you feel more relaxed and centred.

    Thirdly, taking a walk on your lunch break can improve your productivity. Studies have shown that taking a break and going for a walk can actually help improve your cognitive function and concentration, which can ultimately make you more productive when you return to your work. By taking a break and getting some fresh air, you can clear your mind and return to your tasks with renewed focus and energy.

    Finally, taking a walk on your lunch break can be a great way to connect with others. Walking with a coworker or friend can be a great way to bond and build relationships, which can ultimately lead to a more positive work environment.

    Overall, taking a walk on your lunch break can have many benefits for your physical and mental health, as well as your productivity and social connections. So next time you have the opportunity, consider taking a break from your desk and heading outside for a refreshing walk – your body and mind will thank you for it.

  • Climbing in the old RNLI Boathouse in Llandudno

    Climbing in the old RNLI Boathouse in Llandudno

    Recently, my family and I visited the Boathouse Climbing Centre in Llandudno, and we had an incredible experience. Although we had only planned to stay for an hour, we ended up spending over three hours there due to how much my daughter Eva loved climbing.

    As soon as we entered the centre, we were greeted by a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. There were climbers of all ages and skill levels scaling the walls and bouldering, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. We were given a quick introduction to the climbing walls and bouldering areas and set off to explore.

    Eva was excited to try everything and made her way to the tower room to tackle the top rope routes. She was determined to climb as high as possible and did an excellent job of it. Even our baby Harry was captivated by the climbers and wanted to give it a try himself.

    While Eva and I climbed, my wife Lulu stayed with Harry, who was too young to climb. Lulu was happy to watch and cheer us on, with Harry from the side-lines. The staff were incredibly helpful, offering advice and encouragement to us all, and we felt well looked after throughout our visit.

    Overall, we had an amazing time at the Boathouse Climbing Centre. The quality of the climbing walls and routes was impressive, and the staff created a welcoming and inclusive environment. Eva loved it so much that we’re already planning a return visit, and we can’t wait to go back. If you’re looking for a fun and challenging activity to do with your family or friends, we would highly recommend checking out the Boathouse Climbing Centre. https://boathouseclimbingcentre.co.uk/

  • Prestatyn Roman baths

    Prestatyn Roman baths

    Prestatyn is a small seaside town on the North Wales coast, known for its long stretches of sandy beaches and beautiful walks along the coastline. But did you know that the town is also home to a Roman bath house?

    The bath house was discovered back in the 1930s, but there is still much that is not known about its purpose. It is not clear why a bath house would have been built in this particular location, as there have been no other significant Roman remains found in the area.

    The site is currently undergoing work to secure the stone work and preserve this important piece of local history. If you want to visit the site, it is signposted for walking as it is located in a housing estate. There is parking available for two cars at the gate, and a map link is provided for those interested in exploring the area.

    While the Roman bath house may not be a well-known attraction in Prestatyn, it is a fascinating piece of history that is worth exploring for those interested in the town’s past. As more information is uncovered about the site, it will be interesting to see what new insights are gained into the lives of the Romans who once lived in this area. See Facebook for updates

  • Greenwood Family Park

    Greenwood Family Park

    If you’re looking for a family day out in North Wales, then Greenwood Family Park is definitely worth checking out. Located in Y Felinheli, it’s packed full of activities and attractions to keep children of all ages entertained.

    One of the standout features of Greenwood is its eco-friendly ethos. The park is powered entirely by renewable energy, which is generated on-site, making it an excellent choice for environmentally conscious families.

    When it comes to activities, there’s no shortage of things to do. For younger children, the park has a range of interactive play areas, including a tree-top towers and a barefoot trail.

    Older children will enjoy the bigger rides and attractions, such as the Green Dragon rollercoaster and the SolarSplash water ride. There’s also an adventure playground, a giant slide, and a bouncy castle, as well as a variety of other activities.

    But it’s not just about the rides and attractions at Greenwood. The park also has a strong educational focus, with a range of workshops and interactive exhibits that teach children about the environment and renewable energy. And if you’re feeling hungry after all that activity, there’s a range of food options available, including pizza and pasta.

    All in all, Greenwood Family Park is a fantastic day out for families with children of all ages. With its eco-friendly focus, educational exhibits, and range of activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack a picnic and head over to Y Felinheli for a fun-filled day at Greenwood!

  • Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    Gypsy Wood Family Park North Wales

    If you’re looking for a fun and engaging day out with your little ones, Gypsy Wood Park in Bontnewydd, Caernarfon, Gwynedd is definitely worth a visit. This delightful attraction offers a range of interactive attractions and animals that are sure to keep younger children entertained.

    From the moment we arrived, we were greeted with the friendly staff who provided us with a map of the park and showed us around. We were immediately impressed by the beautifully landscaped gardens and the variety of animals on display. Our children were particularly delighted with the miniature ponies and the playful goats.

    One of the highlights of the park was the play area, which had a number of fun and exciting attractions, including a pirate ship, climbing frames, and swings. Our children particularly enjoyed the treehouse, which was built on multiple levels and had a number of interactive features.

    In addition to the play area, there were also a number of other interactive attractions to enjoy, including a miniature train ride, a fairy garden, and a maze. The fairy garden was particularly enchanting, with beautifully crafted fairy houses and other magical features hidden among the flowers.

    Throughout the park, there were also a number of food and drink outlets, so we were able to take breaks and refuel throughout the day. The onsite gift shop also had a variety of souvenirs and mementos for sale.

    Overall, we had a fantastic time at Gypsy Wood Park. The park was well-maintained and clean, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. If you’re looking for a fun and engaging day out with younger children, Gypsy Wood Park is definitely worth a visit.

  • Checking out the cycle path to Point of Ayr

    Checking out the cycle path to Point of Ayr

    If you’re looking for a stunning spot to visit in Wales, you can’t go wrong with Point of Ayr. This northernmost point of mainland Wales offers breathtaking views of the Dee estuary and is home to an important nature reserve managed by the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB). Here’s everything you need to know about this fascinating location:

    Location and Geography

    Point of Ayr is located immediately to the north of Talacre in Flintshire, which is in the northeast part of Wales. It is situated at the mouth of the Dee estuary and is to the southwest of the Liverpool Bay area of the Irish Sea. This unique location means that Point of Ayr offers stunning views of both the estuary and the sea.

    Nature Reserve

    One of the main reasons to visit Point of Ayr is the RSPB nature reserve that is located there. The RSPB Dee Estuary Point of Ayr is an important site for many bird species, including redshanks, curlews, and dunlins. The reserve is home to a variety of habitats, including sand dunes, salt marshes, and mudflats, which provide an important habitat for many species of plants and animals.

    Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a variety of activities, including birdwatching, walking, and exploring the dunes. The reserve is also part of the Gronant and Talacre Dunes Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), which is recognized for its importance in protecting rare and threatened plant and animal species.

    Pony Statue

    One of the most iconic features of Point of Ayr is the pony statue that stands at the entrance to the nature reserve. The statue, which is made from metal, was designed to represent the wild ponies that used to roam the area. Unfortunately, on a recent visit to Point of Ayr, the pony statue had been damaged and was awaiting repair.

    Conclusion

    If you’re looking for a beautiful and unique place to visit in Wales, Point of Ayr is a great choice. This northernmost point of mainland Wales offers stunning views of the Dee estuary and the Irish Sea, and is home to an important nature reserve managed by the RSPB. Visitors to the reserve can enjoy a variety of activities, including birdwatching, walking, and exploring the dunes. And while the pony statue may have been damaged on our last visit, it’s still an iconic feature of this special location.

  • A little time away

    A little time away

    I just wanted to share a few shots for a little trip away. It was great to be back on the north wales coast.