Consumer body Which? has named the seaside towns in Wales that are the least highly rated by visitors, based on a survey of 5,000 people. Bangor was ranked the worst in Wales, scoring just 46%, while Barry Island followed with 54%.
Lowest-Rated Seaside Towns in Wales
According to the survey, which assessed towns on beach quality, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, tourist attractions, shopping, and value for money, Bangor received the lowest score. One visitor described Barry Island as “tacky” and only worth visiting for fans of the TV show Gavin & Stacey. However, the beach scored three stars, and another visitor called it an “old fashioned and lively seaside town, great beaches and interesting walks.”
Both Bangor and Barry Island scored higher than the UK's worst-rated seaside town, Bognor Regis, which received 41% and just one star in most categories. Visitors said it was “tired” and needed “major rejuvenation.”
Surprising Low Scores for Abersoch and Colwyn Bay
The millionaires' playground of Abersoch on the Llyn Peninsula scored fourth-lowest at 55%, just behind Colwyn Bay (55%) and marginally above Fishguard (56%). Abersoch, where beach huts sell for the price of family homes, suffered in ratings for tourist attractions and value for money. One contributor said: “Abersoch is very expensive. It's a millionaires' playground. Having said that, it's a nice place to visit, people-watch, and spend lots of money.” Another added: “Abersoch is extremely expensive because of all the people flocking in from the wealthy areas of Cheshire and Merseyside. The beaches are so quiet even at the height of the season because they are so big. Views are magnificent. Food expensive but good.”
Fishguard, a favourite of WalesOnline travel reporter Portia Jones, is home to one of the best cafes in Wales and top-ranked bakers, yet it scored poorly overall.
Highest-Rated Seaside Towns in Wales
At the top of the list, the mock Italian tourist village of Portmeirion built by architect Clough Williams-Ellis achieved 80%, scoring highly on tourist attractions, scenery, and its seafront. St Davids in Pembrokeshire followed closely with 79%, valued for its scenery and tourist attractions. Conwy and Tenby both scored 75%, while Llandudno achieved 74%.
UK-Wide Context
Bamburgh in Northumberland took the top spot in Which?’s survey for the sixth year running, with an overall destination score of 84%. It received five stars for its beach, seafront, and scenery. Visitors praised the “lovely beach overlooking Bamburgh Castle” and the “spectacular coastal scenery.” Many popular seaside towns had middling scores: Margate (53%) and Newquay (55%) received just one star for peace and quiet and two stars for value for money.
Rory Boland, Editor of Which? Travel, said: “The North East has emerged as this year’s favourite seaside spot, a reflection of its outstanding beaches and the fact that holidays here can be fantastic value for money. It also shows that there are special seaside towns in every corner of the UK. From Swanage to Plockton, Southwold to Conwy, you’ll have a great time in many of the country’s lesser-known destinations, and should save some money too. Whether you're returning to a much-loved seaside town or discovering a hidden gem, there’s something for everyone.”
