Often the best days at the seaside are the simplest ones. You don’t need an endless supply of attractions for a great day at the coast, sometimes the best memories are made when you gather the family up in the car, pack a picnic and head to the closest beach you can find.
For many in Greater Manchester North Wales is the first port of call if you’re planning a coastal day out. Rhyl is one of the first seaside towns you come across as you head west, but it’s often dismissed by visitors in favour of larger destinations like Llandudno or the scenic beaches of Anglesey.
Rhyl isn’t the fanciest of seaside resorts; you won’t find grand Victorian piers, an endless supply of chippies or rollercoasters and rides here. But you will find a large sandy beach, picturesque dunes and a smattering of attractions the whole family will love. It also happens to be easily reached from Greater Manchester, with a drive taking around 90 minutes, perfect for a day trip.
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In fact, the town has undergone a transformation in recent years. Major sea defence works have taken place while the promenade has been raised and widened. The SC2 water park reopened and the town’s Queen’s Market also opened to customers, featuring a range of independent food outlets, local traders and pop-up events.
An £11million revamp of the promenade road and town centre is also in the works, aimed at regenerating the town with funding secured from the Local Regeneration Fund, North Wales Live reports.
So it’s an exciting time for the coastal town. Developments aside, its impressive beach is one of the main attractions for visitors.
The main beach extends for almost two miles from the Clwyd Estuary to Splash Point so there’s plenty of room for everyone. It is tidal so keep your eyes on the tide times.
Backing the beach is a large promenade, offering the perfect place for a seaside stroll overlooking the water. Along the promenade you’ll find various cafes and attractions, including crazy golf, a small family funfair and arcades.
At the western end of the beach is SC2, an adventure play centre with an indoor waterpark, outdoor splash park and soft play areas. It’s ideal for families and kids will love to cool off in the water outside. Prices start from £11.50 for adults for one hour, and £9 for children aged three to fifteen. Children under three start from £4.95, while children under one from £1.95.
One of Rhyl’s oldest and most popular attractions is the miniature railway which first opened in May 1911. It holds the title of Britain’s oldest miniature railway and takes passengers on a mile-long journey around the Marine Lake. The station is home to a small museum with hands-on exhibits for younger kids.
Train fares are £4 per adult and £3 for children aged two to fourteen, while kids under two can travel free. Marine Lake is a popular spot for crabbing, so remember to bring a bucket with you.
If you cross the River Clwyd to Kinmel Bay you’ll come across Horton’s Nose Nature Reserve and the Kinmel Dunes Local Nature Reserve. Both areas offer a tranquil place for a stroll with gorgeous views out to sea.
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