Welsh pier in one of country’s cheapest seaside towns is named best in UK – under a year after it was nearly destroyed
PIERS are a staple of British summers and the one in Llandudno has been named Pier of the Year.
The 2,295ft Victorian attraction in Wales was given the award by the National Piers Society, and it's an especially big deal considering it was almost destroyed last year.
Last year, Llandudno Pier in north Wales was battered by Storm Darragh and it was closed due to the damage.
Kiosks were badly impacted with roofs being ripped apart, and one shop was completely knocked over by the wind.
The pier was forced to close after the storm, with the estimated repair cost originally thought to be around £250,000.
It reopened in February 2025 as have most of the businesses on the pier.
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Llandudno Pier Ferris wheel has also re-opened to the public for 2025 and you can go up for views over the bay, costing £5.
Llandudno Pier dates back to 1878 and last claimed the top spot two decades ago in 2005.
Tim Wardley, chairman of the National Piers Society, said: "When I learned of this year’s winner, I was thrilled.
"Llandudno Pier has suffered a torrid time with the storm damage inflicted over the winter, and our members were highly impressed with the way that pier owners, staff, and public all pulled together to ensure repairs were carried out in record time to get the pier reopened.
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"It really shows what a valuable and much-loved asset the pier is to the community."
On the pier you'll find cafes, ice cream kiosks, bars and traditional arcades.
Llandudno Pier is the longest in Wales and was built in two parts, the first was from the gate near Happy Valley which opened in 1877.
The second part, which now gives Llandudno Pier its main entrance from the promenade, was added in 1884.
One visitor wrote on Tripadvisor: "This pier provides traditional British seaside entertainment at its absolute best. Do not miss the hot doughnuts."
Another added: "The pier is a traditional pastime with families of all ages, this pier is one of the best, it has something for everyone."
For anyone planning a visit this summer, Llandudno has also been named one of the most affordable places for a beach holiday in the UK.
The Victorian seaside resort is a budget-friendly gem thanks to its affordability, highly rated beaches and activities.
Llandudno is rated as one of the top 10 seaside towns in the country.
Llandudno has highly rated beaches with the North Shore Beach and West Shore Beach being known as the "Queen of Welsh Resorts".
The North Shore Beach, has a long promenade which is that of a classic British seaside town.
The only exception is that it's lined with palm trees, which will make you feel like you're on a Spanish promenade, not one in Wales.
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Here's another tiny Welsh town dubbed ‘Cornwall without the crowds’ has huge sandy beach where you can spot porpoises.
