Overlooked seaside town with wild ponies perfect for winter getaway

Llanfairfechan, is a coastal town on the North Wales coast that's often bypassed by tourists heading to its better-known neighbours. Tucked neatly between three tourist heavyweights, this seaside resort has long been under-appreciated despite its Victorian popularity.

The charming town is just under two hours drive from Manchester and is described as having "its feet in the sea and head in the hills", uniquely positioned amidst natural beauty along the A55, just south of the majestic peaks and charming hamlets of Eryri National Park. The nearby attractions of Conwy with its castle, Llandudno's famed Victorian promenade, and Anglesey's beautiful beaches further overshadow Llanfairfechan's allure.

Rooted in history and enriched by nature, Llanfairfechan is a brilliant choice for visitors looking to embrace the sea air during the cooler seasons. With human settlements dating back at least 7,000 years to the Neolithic era, the town witnessed considerable change in the 1800s after being coveted by prosperous land buyers.

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Significant players in its transformation were Richard Luck North, a former solicitor from Leicester who procured the Plas estate, and John Platt, an Oldham MP celebrated as one of the wealthiest textile merchants of his era, who bought the Bryn Y Neuadd Estate.

The two wealthy individuals played a pivotal role in shaping the town of Llanfairfechan, constructing new buildings, schools and housing estates. Their efforts also ensured that piped water supply was accessible to homes in the town, reports North Wales Live.

In 1845, construction began on a railway line from Chester to Holyhead, opening up new trade routes and