Such are the emotional connections between the Northwest of England and north Wales that holidaying along the north Wales coastline is part of Merseyside and Lancastrian folklore.
Camping sites and caravan parks the length of the north Wales, from Prestatyn to Abersoch, hold fond childhood memories of summer escapes.
And those ties are about to become even stronger, with Transport for Wales announcing even better rail service links between the two regions.
From May 17, one of the most significant timetable changes in a generation is taking place, which will deliver comprehensive benefits for travelers who would prefer to let the train take the strain when visiting north Wales.
The changes will make it even easier for people to explore and delight in the north Wales coastline and countryside, whether for a day out or longer stays in the region.
The changes which are being implemented will mean there will be more trains running more frequently, in fact there will be around a 50 per cent increase in train services on the North Wales Coast Line.
These sweeping changes implemented by Transport for Wales will increase accessibility for people across the north of England to enjoy this part of Wales which, along with the already mentioned coast and countryside, is steeped in history, especially if you like castles!
And who doesn’t like a castle? From visiting the real thing to building your own on one of the many beaches, the new Transport for Wales timetable will ensure your visit to north Wales gets off to the best possible start.
Caernarfon and Conway castles are rightly on anyone’s list of must visit castles. Now, thanks to the hit reality TV series I’m A Celebrity you can add Abergele’s spectacular Gwrych Castle, which hosted the 2020 and 2021 series.
For those seeking sea air and miles of sandy beaches, Prestatyn, one of the first seaside stops on the line, is a must. With a promenade stretching for four miles along the beach front, Prestatyn is the ideal stop for those wishing to throw off the urban landscape for the day and stretch those legs or just chill out on the beach with some fish and chips for that classic seaside day out!
For those seeking a greater degree of activity, pop the bike on board and take advantage of two local cycle routes starting in Prestatyn, one of which takes in the picturesque Dyserth Waterfall.
While holidaying along the north Wales coastline resonates strongly with the good people of Merseyside, Cheshire and the Wirral, Chester, Liverpool and Manchester, similarly are part of north Walian history and culture. Liverpool, has been a magnate for north Walians over the decades.
At one time, Liverpool was regarded as the capital city of north Wales and boasted close to a 100 Welsh language chapels. The city hosted the Eisteddfod on three occasions, the last in 1929 in Sefton Park.
Those ties remain as strong as ever. Liverpool is still a popular destination for north Walians, with Tate Liverpool a highlight along with Liverpool’s longstanding heritage with regards to music and football. And not only culture, but also for a day out shopping and taking in the vibrant Liverpool nightlife. Hopping on a train to Liverpool Lime Street station has never been easier.
Chester has been voted one of Europe’s prettiest cities, and it’s not hard to see why. Rain or shine, there’s plenty to keep you busy. With a rich Roman history, discover the oldest, longest and most complete city walls in Britain or visit the country’s largest Roman Amphitheatre.
And if it’s retail therapy you require, Chester is a great weekend destination. Soak up the atmosphere while strolling along the covered timber walkways of The Rows, exploring a superb selection of independent retailers and restaurants and coffee shops which offer something different from more generic UK city high streets.
Train route: Llandudno, Llandudno Junction, Colwyn Bay, Abegele & Pensarn, Rhyl, Prestatyn, Flint, Shotton, Chester, Crewe, Liverpool.
Plan your next journey with Transport for Wales and visit: tfw.wales/places/things-to-do-in/north-wales
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