Porthmadog is probably one of the busiest towns on the Lleyn Peninsula and it is unusual as it is built on reclaimed land from the sea. The slate mining industry that grew up around this town saw it undergo an extremely rapid growth in the mid 19th century, prior to then this town did not exist. William Maddocks, is credited with the idea of creating this town out of the marshland in the Glaslyn Estuary, he also had the foresight to build an embankment, known locally as “The Cob” and a harbour from where hundreds of thousands of tons of slate left Porthmadog to all parts of the world. By the late 19th century the railways had arrived and a decision to use Holyhead as the main port for Ireland severely effected the trade out of Porthadog to the extent that by 1945 shipping was no longer the economic driving force it once was in the area. The railways also were shortlived, the Ffestiniog Railway built to transport the slate to the harbour closed and fell into dereliction – only to be rescued by enthusiasts around the mid 1950’s and suddenly Porthmadog began to thrive again with the new industry of the 20th century – tourism. The narrow gauge railway that once transported slate now took tourists through some of the most picturesque parts of Snowdonia, the Ffestioniog Railway was reborn and today provides a vital link on the local transport system. The town of Porthmadog is such an attractive location that tourists return every year to enjoy the hospitality on offer and they bring their friends thus introducing even more tourists to this pretty little town. Whilst the town centre boasts a range of traditional local shops most people visit to appreciate the sandy beaches at Black Rock Sands and the steam railway enthusiasts cannot fail to be impressed by the current steam trains in use. It may well have been a great seaport rich in maritime history but today it is a prime location for visitors who want to enjoy the seaside and yet appreciate the dramatic scenery that Snowdonia can provide.
Attraction
Ffestiniog Railway
Rob Piercy Gallery
Welsh Highland Railway (Porthmadog)
Budget
Travelodge Porthmadog *book online*
Caravan Park
Garreg Goch Caravan Park
Greenacres Holiday Park
Cottage
Cae Coch
Cefn Coch Isaf
Derwin Fawr
Shepherd's Cottage
Ty Fferm
Dentist
Doctor
Estate Agent
Bob Parry & Co Ltd
Madeley Evans
Madeley Evans
The Exchange Estate Agency
Tom Parry & Co
Williams A Tyddyn
Golf Club
Holiday Park
Inn
Market
Porthmadog Local Produce Market
Porthmadog Market
Pub and Bar
Australia Public House
Newborough Bach
Ship
Station Inn
Union Inn
Restaurant
Blackrock Cafe
Blossoms Restaurant
Passage To India
Ship
Union Inn
Y Sgwar
Yr Wylan
School
Eifion Wyn Junior School
Ysgol Y Gorlan
Self-Catering
Greenacres Holiday ParkSolicitor
Vet
Sports Clubs
Porthmadog Rowing Club (Rowing)
Porthmadog Sailing Club (Sailing)
Shops
Lili Wen
Pet & Aquatic Centre
Pet Friends
P C Rook & Thomas
Pianos Cymru
H Davies
Nigel's
Rob Piercy Gallery
Porthmadog Models
Rowlands Pharmacy
Activities
Porthmadog Activity Centre(Riding)
Places to Stay near Porthmadog
Royal Sportsman Hotel (0.07 miles)
The Royal Sportsman is Porthmadog's premier Hotel, the only full service quality Hotel in Porthmadog with star ratings awarded by both the Welsh Tourist Board and the AA. The Royal ... More
Travelodge Porthmadog (0.14 miles)
Travelodge Porthmadog is located just 2 miles from Portmeirion and is just under a mile away from Snowdonia National Park. The hotel offers free onsite parking and offers great access to nearby attractions. Guest rooms ... More | visit website
Golden Fleece Inn (0.76 miles)
Portmeirion Hotel (1.84 miles)
It enjoyed ... More | visit website
Cefn Coch Isaf (2.85 miles)
A 17th century stone built cottage, in a quiet location adjoining the owners' home and set in four acres of garden and woodland just three miles from the little village of Tremadog. Well furnished throughout, ... More
Gwrach Ynys Country House (3.26 miles)
The house is surrounded by an ... More | visit website
Estuary Lodge (3.47 miles)
Locate approximately 4 miles North of Harlech on the A496 the Estuary is a STRICTLY NO SMOKING PREMISES (including car par and all outside areas) ideal for visiting the St. ... More
Brynllydan (3.69 miles)
A haven of peace and tranquillity, this family run residence is immersed within 7 acres of private grounds on a secluded hillside setting, boasting spectacular views of Snowdonia’s National Park. Overlooking the ... More
Glyn-y-Coed Hotel (3.99 miles)
Brit Quote: |
|
On this day: |