Colwyn Bay Area Guide
Following the recent opening of our new branch in Colwyn Bay’s West End, we thought what better way to give you an insight into the area than with an area guide.
Situated on the North Wales coast, tucked between the mountains and the Irish Sea, Colwyn Bay has grown rapidly in recent years becoming the second-largest community and business centre in the North of Wales.
Living in Colwyn Bay
You could say that Colwyn Bay offers convenience to its residents. Not only is it a charming seaside town, with peaceful coastal walks, but everything you could need for your day-to-day life is just a stone’s throw away. There are plenty of supermarkets for your weekly food shop, such as Morrisons and Lidl, along with convenience stores such as SPAR and Londis. You’ll even find Bay View, Colwyn Bay’s very own shopping centre, benefiting from various retail stores and exciting, independent shops, cafes, and restaurants. (More details in the Hospitality section below)
For those of you with young families, there are educational facilities for all ages. Ysgol Pen-y-Bryn and Ysgol Sŵn Y Don are just a few of the primary schools in the area, both displaying commitment to developing children’s confidence and skills. You’ll’ find Ysgol Eirias and Ysgol Bryn Elian secondary schools in Colwyn Bay itself and Grŵp Llandrillo Menai for higher education students, located in the neighbouring town of Rhos-on-Sea. Colwyn Bay Football Club are in the second tier of the Welsh football pyramid and have a large academy and several junior teams, a fantastic opportunity for youngsters in the area to be a part of.
The town certainly isn’t short on job sectors either. So, if you’re looking to work and live in the area, you’ll find opportunity in anything from retail, hospitality, education and leisure. The North Wales Police Headquarters is also based in the centre of Colwyn Bay. For commuters, there is a train station in the town itself with links to Holyhead or Chester and beyond, plus there is easy access onto the A55, perfect for professionals who work out of the area.
Attractions in Colwyn Bay
Having attracted tourists since the Victorian era, the town has transformed and moved with the times over the years thanks to investments in its local attractions.
Following upgrades to Colwyn Bay Promenade, and a major restoration project on its pier, it now presents a long stretch to stroll along whilst gazing out on the sea views. If you don’t want the views to end, why not continue to Rhos-On-Sea or Llandudno which is all part of Wales’s coastal path. The development of Porth Eirias is another major asset, especially for those of you who love to be in the sea with its watersport centre.
Eiras Park is one of Colwyn Bays most famous (literally) attractions. Sitting on 50 acres of parkland, it offers recreational facilities along with its newest addition Eirias Events Centre. Hosting a variety of different music and sporting events annually, Eirias Park has seen celebs from the likes of Elton John to Little Mix and Pixie Lott and its stadium is the home of RGC 1404 and Wales U20s rugby union teams.
Colwyn Bay even has its own Zoo! Set up on the hillside overlooking the town, The Welsh Mountain Zoo is the National Zoo of Wales. It boasts picturesque views and occupies around 37acres of green landscape. You’ll find over 140 species of animals within its grounds, a perfect day out for you animal lovers or families.
Hospitality in Colwyn Bay
With businesses thriving in the town, it has provided ample opportunity for not only employment but the locals to benefit from too. With places to eat and drink in Colwyn Bay on the rise, you certainly won't be left short on options, especially with Rhos-On-Sea and Llandudno just a short venture out.
Discover Pen-Y-Bryn, a traditional and cosy pub serving hearty foods, with a terrace offering panoramic views of the Great Orme. The perfect spot to unwind after a long day of work or relax on a Sunday afternoon. If you fancy yourself a bit of a connoisseur in wine, Rhos-On-Sea has the perfect hidden gem for you. The Grape to Glass is a wine shop like no other, providing you with an educational experience and assisting you in finding a wine to match your personality. On the stunning beach of Porth Eirias lies Bryn Williams’ Bistro, a seafood restaurant serving local produce and run by a Michelin star chef. Now that’s a must-visit!
You can’t beat a nice warm café with a pot of hot tea and cake during the colder months we’ve now approached and there are plenty of those around. Nestled in the high street of Colwyn Bay, The Flat White Café is a welcoming family-run business, serving delicious food and hot drinks, with gluten-free, vegan and vegetarian options on their menu. Coast Café & Gift Shop can be found along the waterfront of Rhos-On-Sea, offering refreshments and luxury sweet treats along with a unique gift shop for you to explore too.
This is just a glimpse into what Colwyn Bay has to offer, there are many more fantastic businesses and opportunities in the area. See it for yourself and take a trip to support local.