The Walk
© Geograph contributors / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 2.0)
The walk from Colwyn Bay to Rhos-on-Sea along the seafront is one of the most accessible walks in North Wales — entirely flat, well-surfaced, and with sea views throughout. The distance is around 1.5 miles (2.5 km) one way, taking 25–35 minutes at a comfortable pace. The return can be made on the same route or by cutting through the residential streets slightly inland for a different perspective.
The route follows the promenade westward from Colwyn Bay town centre, passing the Victoria Pier and the beach before reaching Porth Eirias at the western end of the main promenade. From Porth Eirias, the path continues along Cayley Promenade into Rhos-on-Sea.
What to See
Along the route, the main points of interest are the Victoria Pier (a Victorian survivor, restored and reopened in 2021), the Blue Flag beach, the Porth Eirias complex with the Bryn Williams restaurant and watersports activity, and at Rhos-on-Sea, St Trillo’s Chapel — one of the smallest ancient churches in Britain, built directly on the seafront and dating in part from the 6th century.
The views across the bay throughout the walk take in the full arc of Colwyn Bay, the Great Orme to the west, and the Conwy headland and mountains beyond. On a clear day this is one of the most rewarding coastal walks on the North Wales coast for the effort required.
Extending the Walk
From Rhos-on-Sea, the Wales Coast Path continues westward toward Llandudno. The route to Little Orme and Angel Bay adds around 2–3 miles and involves some height gain on the headland. For a longer full day walk, the full coastal route to Llandudno continues beyond the Little Orme along the promenade into the resort town, with trains back from Llandudno to Colwyn Bay completing the circuit.
Practical Information
The walk is entirely flat and suitable for pushchairs, wheelchairs and all fitness levels. No special equipment is needed. Cafes and public toilets are available at Porth Eirias and in Rhos-on-Sea village centre. The route is walkable year-round; wind off the Irish Sea can make it chilly even in summer, so a light layer is always sensible on the North Wales coast.
Dogs are welcome on the promenade year-round. Note that the beach itself has a seasonal dog restriction 1 May–30 September — see Dog-Friendly Colwyn Bay for details.
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