Llandudno is often referred to as the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’. It is a seaside town on the north coast, in the county of Conwy. Its history stretches back thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement on the headland of Great Orme dating as far back as the Bronze Age. Ancient copper mines discovered on the Orme are among the oldest in Europe, showing that the area was a centre for early metalworking.
What was the area like during the medieval era?
During the medieval period, Llandudno existed as a small farming and fishing community. It was part of the manor of Gogarth, held by the Bishop of Bangor. The town remained modest in size until the mid-19th century, and the rise of seaside tourism.
The arrival of the railway in 1858 was a milestone
The major turning point in Llandudno’s history came in the 1850s when the Mostyn family, prominent landowners, supported the development of the town as a seaside resort. With the arrival of the railway in 1858, Llandudno became more accessible to visitors from cities such as Manchester and Liverpool. The development of the area continues, with a multi-million pound flood defence project at the beach.
One of the most fashionable seaside destinations
By the late 19th century, Llandudno had become one of the most fashionable seaside destinations. The town also became known for its connections to Lewis Carroll, as it is believed that Alice Liddell, the inspiration for Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland, spent holidays in Llandudno. If you’re searching for the best hotel in Llandudno, you will come across a select few that are worth a visit. Locals can often recommend the best hotel in Llandudno for weddings, conferences, and special occasions, due to excellent facilities and reputation.
During both World Wars, Llandudno played important roles
In World War II, it housed troops and government offices, including the Inland Revenue. After the wars, it continued to attract tourists, although changing holiday habits led to a decline in traditional seaside tourism in the later 20th century. Today, Llandudno remains a popular destination for families.
