Little Orme & Angel Bay
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The Little Orme (Rhiwledyn in Welsh) is a limestone headland between Colwyn Bay and Llandudno, rising steeply from the sea to give some of the finest coastal views on the North Wales coast. It is less visited than the Great Orme to the west, and all the better for it — wilder, quieter, and home to one of the area’s best wildlife secrets.
On the eastern face of the headland, hidden below the cliffs, is Angel Bay (Porth Dyniewaid) — a sheltered rocky cove where Atlantic grey seals regularly haul out to rest. This is one of the most reliable seal-watching spots in North Wales, particularly between September and April. In autumn and early winter (September to December), seals come ashore to pup; in winter and early spring (January to April), the moulting season brings further gatherings.
The Nature Reserve
The Little Orme headland is managed by the North Wales Wildlife Trust as the Rhiwledyn SSSI nature reserve. Limestone grassland and coastal scrub support colourful wildflowers in spring and summer, and the clifftops attract a range of seabirds. The reserve is freely accessible year-round.
Walking the Little Orme
The classic Little Orme and Angel Bay circular walk is approximately 4.3 miles (7km) and takes around 1 hour 45 minutes to 2 hours at a comfortable pace. It is rated moderate — there is a proper climb onto the headland from the Rhos-on-Sea or Penrhyn Bay side, and the clifftop path requires care near the edges, but the route is clear and the rewards are significant.
From the trig point at the summit, the view takes in Llandudno and the Great Orme to the west, and the full sweep of Colwyn Bay to the east. On clear days Snowdonia is visible to the south-west. The path then drops to a popular viewpoint above Angel Bay before completing the loop.
The Little Orme is the main challenge on the Colwyn Bay to Llandudno route — the one significant climb on an otherwise flat coastal path. For those who prefer to avoid the ascent, the walk can be done from the Llandudno side, approaching Angel Bay from the west.
Parking is available on the Penrhyn Bay side or at the Rhos-on-Sea end of the route. The walk is accessible by bus from Colwyn Bay (services run along the coastal road to Llandudno).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you see seals at Angel Bay?
Yes — Angel Bay is one of the most reliable seal-watching spots in North Wales. Atlantic grey seals are present year-round but most numerous during the pupping season (September to December) and moulting season (January to April). Observe from the cliff path above; do not descend to the beach.
How do I get to the Little Orme from Colwyn Bay?
Walk or cycle west along the promenade through Rhos-on-Sea to Penrhyn Bay, then follow the Wales Coast Path signs up onto the headland. The walk from Colwyn Bay to the Little Orme summit is approximately 4 miles. Alternatively, drive to Penrhyn Bay and start from there.
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