Portmeirion, a coastal village in Gwynedd, North Wales, has been named among the UK's prettiest towns and villages by the Independent. The lesser-known location features in a list alongside popular destinations such as Castle Combe in the Cotswolds, Port Isaac in Cornwall, and Whitby in North Yorkshire.
Italianate Design and Attractions
The village is designed in a striking Italianate style, intended to mimic Portofino and other coastal towns in Italy. It was designed by Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, with construction beginning in 1925 and completed around 50 years later. The village sits on the estuary of the River Dwyryd and features pastel pink, yellow, and blue buildings, a central piazza, a tall bell tower, and scenic garden walks.
Tourists can enjoy a walk around the Mediterranean-style square, which includes decorative fountains and a giant chessboard, as well as 70 acres of sub-tropical woodland. The area offers 19 miles of walking paths, hidden lakes, and a Japanese garden. The estuary provides a relaxing haven, and there is also a seasonal outdoor pool.
Dining and Admission
The village is home to independent boutiques, shops, cafes, and restaurants. Popular options include lunch at Castell Deudraeth Brasserie and afternoon tea at Hotel Portmeirion, with the former including free entry to explore the grounds. There are six coffee shops and cafes within the castle grounds, offering freshly made pizzas and homemade Italian-style gelato.
Visitors must pay an admission charge to enter Portmeirion. It costs £20 for adults, while children aged under five get in for free.
The Independent said: "Portmeirion, a charming Italian-style village in Gwynedd, is an ideal spot for a relaxed weekend in North Wales. The coastal village was created by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in 1925, with the project completed around 50 years later, as an example of architecture’s ability to enhance natural beauty rather than destroy it. The pastel buildings, piazza and Gwyllt Japanese gardens will take you from rural Wales to Italy, Japan and back without ever having to leave the UK."
Visitor Reviews
Portmeirion has received glowing reviews on TripAdvisor. Liz A wrote this month: "I went to Portmerion on Wednesday as part of a coach trip. It is a place I have wanted to visit for a long time and I wasn't disappointed. Beautiful weather and a beautiful setting. Lovely place to people watch and pass time. Had Korean fried chicken with sticky rice and spring onion for lunch from the street food cafe and it was delicious. Would love to make a return visit."
Nancy H added this month: "Wow what a fabulous place. Colorful buildings, very well maintained. Stunning scenery, something different around each corner. Lots of places to get food, also areas for you to picnic to have own food which is well worth doing. You need plenty of time to see and soak everything up. Beautiful. A day to remember."
Peter B wrote in July: "A stunning village set in a beautiful landscape. The architecture is beautiful, very well preserved with great features. I was very surprised by the setting, I had heard of the village but I didn’t realise it was set in an outstanding location. Highly recommended, a great day out."
