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The sizable community and seaside resort lies between the mouth of the River Clwyd and the Irish Sea in northeast Wales. Archaeological discoveries date human existence back over 200,000 years. The English and Welsh alike alternately ruled the land. Charles II constructed the nearby Rhuddlan Castle in the 1200s. Only a settlement during medieval times, documents first mention the location in 1506 as Hyll. The name changed many times until finally becoming Rhyl in 1840.
A fishing community for centuries, Rhyl was also known for brick making. A couple dozen cottages constructed by nearby clay pits served as homes for the masons and their families. By 1800, the community only had 300 residents.
However, city dwellers looking for a taste of the rural life began travelling to Rhyl. Beginning in the 1830s, Rhyl became a favoured holiday destination. A variety of Royal guests arrived and stayed for months. Soon a harbour, promenade and amusements entertained visitors. Holiday accommodations and associated tourist trades developed. Before long, the beachfront had an amusement park and a miniature steam locomotive bringing guests to and from various locations along the shore. Though the community demolished the original amusement park, the little historic train remains functional.
Activities and Attractions
Visitors stroll along the miles of endless sandy beaches, explore the harbour or venture to the promenade, housing entertainment facilities for the entire family.
Leaflets provide directions for self-guided walks along coastal paths, to historic Rhyl locations and through the lush Welsh countryside. Water sports enthusiasts enjoy canoeing, jet skiing, kayaking and wind surfing on the open water or the nearby marine lake.
Lying along the promenade guests find the Rhyl Sun Centre, promising refreshing water based fun for the kids of all ages. The amusement venue features various activities for children toddler aged and up. Ride tubes down chilling 300-foot (91 metre) rapids or dare to enter the lagoon pool where tropical storms occur at any moment. Hone your surfing skills in the surf pool or ride the monorail for a sky-high view of the facility.
Venturing further on the promenade, guests encounter the Rhyl SeaQuarium. The facility provides the opportunity of viewing amazing sea creatures up close through visual displays, interactive exhibits and live shows. Aquatic environments include animals found along beaches and shores to those that inhabit tropical reefs and deep ocean floors. Visit the facility nursery and witness eggs hatching or staff members hand feeding baby sharks and rays, measuring but a few inches in length. Special nurseries also house other fish species, including clownfish and the mysterious seahorses. The sea lion cove offers demonstrations showing the abilities, agility and intelligence of these much-loved entertainers. Young guests especially enjoy the rock pool exhibit where individuals experience the textures of different sea creatures.
Also on the waterfront lies the Pavilion Theatre. The facility regularly offers live entertainment venues featuring comedians, music concerts and musicals. Entertainment features have included popular performances by Bon Jovi, High School Musical 2 and the Las Vegas Rat Pack.
Train fanciers of all ages enjoy a ride on the Rhyl Miniature Railway, providing passenger rides for over 100 years. The small steam locomotives start at the central station and venture around the marine lake and back. Learn the history of this unique railway and see the cars and engines as they evolved in design over the years.
Journeying out of Rhyl and travelling along the River Clwyl, visitors come face to face with the remains of Rhuddlan Castle. Constructed on the stronghold began in 1277 and was commissioned by Edward I. The massive structure consisted of walls within walls and quick access to the river. Visitors tour the towers and inner bailey that once protected the area from invasion.
Places to Stay and Dining
Families travelling on holiday find facilities in Rhyl that provide family sized en suite rooms, children’s games in the lounge and family entertainment television channels. Many local hotels are conveniently located a few minutes from the beach, promenade and entertainment venues.
The chefs at Rossini’s Italian restaurant prepare meat, poultry, fish and pasta dishes for in-house dining or take away. Fresh seafood main meals include grilled tuna steak, served with a specially seasoned butter and lemon sauce. Try pan-fried king prawns served with a chilli, garlic and tomato cream sauce.
Accommodation in Rhyl
Show Bed & Breakfasts in Rhyl
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