Portmeirion, the pastel-coloured village on the North Wales coast that resembles the Italian Riviera, has been named one of the UK's best seaside towns. In Which?'s annual survey of over 5,300 members, Portmeirion achieved a destination score of 80%, ranking seventh overall. The village, designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and opened in 1926, is known for its decorative colonnades, ornate statues, and lush greenery overlooking the Dwyryd estuary.
Survey Details and Scoring
The Which? survey asked members to rate UK seaside destinations on criteria including beach quality, scenery, food and drink, accommodation, attractions, shopping, and value for money. Portmeirion earned five stars for seafront/pier, tourist attractions, and scenery, but only three stars for food and drink, peace and quiet, and beach, and two stars for shopping and value for money. Adult day tickets cost £20 from March 23 to November 1, with concessions at £19 and children aged 5-15 at £14; under-fives enter free.
Features and Filming History
The village features a grotto lined with scallop shells, a piazza, a giant chess set, and a campanile. It was the filming location for the 1960s TV series The Prisoner, and the Round House (Number Six's home) now sells nostalgic memorabilia. Portmeirion also offers cafes, an Italian-style gelateria called Angel Ices, and two hotels: The Hotel Portmeirion (with a swimming pool) and Castell Deudraeth.
Top Rankings and Expert Comment
Bamburgh in Northumberland topped the survey for the sixth consecutive year with an 84% score, praised for its beach and scenery. 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.' He added that special seaside towns exist across the UK, from Swanage to Plockton, offering great experiences and savings.
