Discovering Coastal Treasures: Exploring Old Colwyn and Its Hidden Gems

Old Colwyn is often overshadowed by its more theatrical neighbour, Llandudno, but it has a solid, unpretentious character that’s quietly appealing. The Ship Inn sits on Abergele Road, a classic seaside building that doesn’t feel the need to perform. It’s for people who want to be near the sea without committing to full exposure.

The Seaside, Refined

The promenade is a short walk away. In winter, the Irish Sea settles into a range of menacing pewter shades, which is far more interesting than anything turquoise. The coastline here is wide, open, and flat — ideal for group walks that don’t require enthusiasm or specialist footwear.

You can head toward Rhos-on-Sea if you’re feeling motivated, or just far enough to justify a large lunch if you’re not. On clear days, the light catches the Victorian piers in the distance and actually earns its praise. On grey ones, lean into the mood and take photos that look intentional in black and white.

The Logic of an Inn

Staying somewhere with “Inn” in the name comes with built-in reassurance. There’s an expectation of warmth and practicality that standard holiday rentals sometimes lack.

The Ship Inn is well placed for the rest of the coast. Conwy is close, the Welsh Mountain Zoo is up the hill, and Llandudno is there when you want it. The advantage of Old Colwyn is that it acts as a base rather than a spectacle. You can dip into busier towns, then retreat here once you’ve reached your personal limit of gift shops.

Food, Minus the Theatre

Because it used to be an inn, the kitchen and dining areas are designed to be used, not admired.

The local approach: Old Colwyn still has proper shops. Use the butchers, pick up seafood or Welsh cakes, and eat together without a schedule.

The breakout option: There are still pubs nearby that haven’t been “reimagined.” You can get a pint, a packet of crisps, and sit down without decoding a menu.

Practical Notes

The Coast Path: The North Wales Coast Path runs along the front. It’s flat, scenic, and unusually forgiving. Ideal for bikes or long walks with minimal complaint.

The Zoo: It’s close, uphill, and comes with some of the best views in the area. The animals remain unimpressed.

Transport: The A55 is nearby but not intrusive. It makes moving a large group along the coast — to Caernarfon or Anglesey — surprisingly painless.

The Ship Inn works because it’s honest. It’s a sturdy building in a town that knows exactly what it is. Good for sea air, long walks, and quiet evenings that only happen when the water is close and the expectations are low.