Retreat to regal Rhyl on the X-tra special X12

Victorian splendour unlocked by Arriva Wales….

Nestled on the North Wales coast, Rhyl is a town rich in history, culture, and charm. It’s served by the fabulous Arriva Wales 12/X12 from the delightful Llandudno and is a journey that combines seaside charm, Victorian architectural elegance and sumptuous coastal views. The journey takes 80 minutes and is truly captivating and with top notch customer service. This route has achieved ‘Premium Journey’ rating from the Great Scenic Journeys customer service review team and rightly so!

Great Scenic Journey Premium Journey Checkmark

Once a premier Victorian seaside resort, Rhyl has undergone a modern transformation, blending its historical roots with contemporary attractions. Whether you’re a history buff, an adventure seeker, or someone looking to relax by the sea, Rhyl has something to offer. Let’s dive into what makes this coastal town so special.

Rhyl’s history dates back to the 19th century when it emerged as a bustling seaside attraction for visitors. The arrival of the railway in 1848 was a turning point, bringing in tourists from all over the UK. The town flourished, with grand hotels, a pier, and a pavilion – this was truly a bygone era for Rhyl. Although the original pier was demolished in the 1970s, Rhyl’s historical charm remains, seen in its beautiful architecture and the remnants of its illustrious past.

Splash, nostalgia and wistful garden dreams

There’s plenty to do in this fab town. For a splash of excitement, SC2 is a state-of-the-art waterpark and adventure centre It boasts thrilling water slides, a tag arena, and a cosy indoor and outdoor splash pad for younger children. The Ninja TAG course is particularly popular, providing a challenging and fun experience for all ages.

Meanwhile, those with a penchant for nostalgia will love the Rhyl Miniature Railway which offers a delightful ride along the Marine Lake. It is the oldest miniature railway in the UK, operating since 1911. The scenic route around the lake and museum is perfect for families and train enthusiasts alike. There’s a great play area at the Lake for children to burn off some energy!

One of our favourite places to retreat from the splash of SC2 is the Botanic Gardens with its lovely floral beauty and also great tennis courts, bowling greens, nine hole putting green and cafe – all run by a dedicated team of volunteers from the local residents association. They have revived the fortunes of this blissful place, having previously fallen into disrepair until they took over it in 2004. The gardens were established in 1878, when it was sold as a 9 acre plot with avenues, lily pond, rose pergola and conservatories.

Rhyl Pavilion Theatre is well worth perusing and was originally referred to as the “Palace of Dreams” This historical venue has hosted countless performances and continues to be a cultural hub in Rhyl. There’s some great performances coming up here, including on 31st May, a tribute to Pink Floyd and then on 14th June, The Bohemians Queen Greatest and the Magic of Mowtown on 29th June.

Famous folk and football renaissance

Rhyl has been home to several notable personalities. Perhaps the most famous is Matthew Rhys, the acclaimed actor known for his roles in “The Americans” and “Perry Mason.” Rhyl’s own Mike Peters, the lead singer of the rock band The Alarm, has also left a significant mark on the music scene. Their successes highlight the creative spirit that thrives in this vibrant town.

Rhyl’s sporting scene is diverse and dynamic. The town boasts a rich football history, with C.P.D. Y Rhyl 1879 playing in the Ardal League, having been conceived in May 2020, following the insolvency of Rhyl FC, who were formed in 1879 and enjoyed various successes, including winning the Welsh Premier League. The team, under the stewardship of Gareth Thomas finished this season in 3rd spot and this is a Club in revival mode following the challenges faced by Rhyl F.C.

Meanwhile, for those who prefer water sports, Rhyl’s coastal location provides excellent opportunities for sailing, kayaking, and even windsurfing.

Gastro gorging by the sea

The town’s culinary scene is as diverse as its attractions. From traditional Welsh fare to classic fish, chips and mushy peas, to international cuisine, there’s something to tantalize every palate. A visit to The Sussex, a historic pub, offers a taste of traditional Welsh hospitality is highly recommended so too 1891 restaurant which is actually inside the Pavilion Theatre and offers stunning views of the coast along with a contemporary menu that features local produce. It’s a good spot for a pre-show dinner or a special night out.

Hidden nocturnal gems, community capers and nature’s finest

Rhyl’s nightlife is vibrant, with several venues offering entertainment into the early hours. The lively Bar 236 is known for its friendly atmosphere, fab cocktails and live music. For those who enjoy a dance, The Hidden Nightclub, hidden away in Water Street, has great music and a bubbly clientele and decent priced drinks.

The town’s community spirit is evident in its numerous events and festivals throughout the year. The Rhyl Air Show, held every summer, is a spectacular event featuring thrilling air displays. The Rhyl Music Festival celebrates local talent and brings a vibrant energy to the town. These events, among others, foster a strong sense of community and make Rhyl a lively place to visit.

Rhyl is not just about attractions, the social scene and nightlife; it’s also a haven for nature lovers. The beautiful Rhyl Beach is perfect for a day out, whether you’re building sandcastles, taking a dip in the sea, or simply enjoying a stroll along the promenade or for the more adventurous a walk that navigates the sand dunes. There are seven miles of sand stretching all the way to Prestatyn, with truly stunning views. For bird watchers, the nearby Brickfield Pond and Rhyl Marsh offer serene environments to observe a variety of bird species.

Let loose on Llandudno to cap a fab adventure

After a fun-filled day in Rhyl, the 12/X12 to Llandudno for an overnight stay is the stuff of dreams, soaking up the sea air, the wonderfully long Victorian Pier, a trip on the Great Orme Tramway, a ride on Britain’s longest cable car, crazy golf, a nature reserve or two and views all the way to the Lake District – life doesn’t get better than an adventure on this wonderful Arriva Wales bus route!