The seaside village beneath the Little Orme, between Rhos-on-Sea and Llandudno
About Penrhyn Bay
Penrhyn Bay is a seaside village in Conwy County Borough, sitting east of the Little Orme and running straight into Rhos-on-Sea. It had 4,883 residents at the 2011 census and began as a farming community before growing into a residential area, with major building waves in the 1930s, 1950s, 1960s and 1990s. For visitors it is a quieter alternative to the main resorts, with the beach on the doorstep and the Little Orme rising behind.
History and Landmarks
The oldest building is Penrhyn Old Hall, dating from the early 15th century and once home to the Pugh family, who were fined for Catholic recusancy. It was the birthplace of the poet Gwilym Puw and today runs as a pub and restaurant, with the ruins of a medieval chapel in the grounds. In 1587, printing materials for an early Welsh-language Catholic book were found in a cave on the Little Orme.
A limestone quarry operated from the mid-19th century until quarrying stopped in 1936, and had its own narrow gauge railway. The quarry is a reminder of how much of the coast around here was shaped by limestone, as you will see on the Little Orme.
Things to Do
Walk or cycle the coast route towards Rhos-on-Sea and Colwyn Bay, climb the Little Orme for views across the bay, or head over the headland to Llandudno, covered in our coast route guide. The village has local shops, a parish church and a medical centre, and nearby Welsh-medium schools include Ysgol Glanwydden. For somewhere to eat, see our restaurant guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Penrhyn Bay?
Penrhyn Bay is on the north Wales coast, east of the Little Orme and next to Rhos-on-Sea, about three miles from Llandudno and a few miles west of Colwyn Bay town centre.
Is Penrhyn Bay a good place to stay?
It is a quiet base between Llandudno and Colwyn Bay, with the beach and coast path close by. See our where to stay guide for accommodation nearby.
Find Accommodation in Colwyn Bay
Search hotels, B&Bs and guest houses across Colwyn Bay and the North Wales coast.
Powered by Booking.com
Recent Comments