Colwyn Bay Cottages with Hot Tubs

Get More From Your Colwyn Bay Hot Tub Cottage Break

Sightseeing

Colwyn Bay packs a surprising amount into a compact area. The revitalised waterfront features Porth Eirias, a modern beach complex with watersports centre and restaurant. It's the perfect starting point for exploring the 3-mile promenade that stretches to Rhos-on-Sea.

Welsh Mountain Zoo (LL28 5UY, open 9:30am-5:30pm summer, 9:30am-4:30pm winter) sits above the town and houses over 140 species in 37 acres. Kids love the penguin parade and sea lion feeding. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from over 1,500 reviews.

Bodnant Garden (LL28 5RE, open 9:30am-5pm) is a National Trust treasure just 15 minutes inland. Its famous Laburnum Arch blooms spectacularly in late May. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from over 2,000 reviews.

Don't miss Conwy Castle (LL32 8AY, open 9:30am-5pm), just 10 minutes away. This 13th-century fortress dominates the skyline and offers incredible views from its towers. TripAdvisor score: 4.5/5 from over 5,000 reviews.

Pet Friendly

Colwyn Bay welcomes dogs year-round on certain beaches. Porth Eirias Beach has seasonal restrictions (May-September), but nearby Rhos-on-Sea and Old Colwyn beaches allow dogs all year.

The 3-mile promenade offers flat, easy walking with plenty of spots to stop. I recommend starting early morning when you'll have it almost to yourself - perfect for energetic dogs needing a good run.

For woodland walks, Pwllycrochan Woods behind the town has marked trails through ancient woodland. Your dog will love exploring the streams and varied terrain.

Dog-friendly eateries include The Bay Cafe (LL29 8HH) on the promenade with outdoor seating and The White Lion (LL29 8LA) in Old Colwyn which welcomes dogs in the bar area and offers water bowls and treats.

Most cottages with hot tubs in the area provide secure gardens - but always check fence heights if your dog's a jumper! We suggest bringing towels specifically for dog paws after beach walks.

Top 3 attractions you have to see in Colwyn Bay

Welsh Mountain Zoo (LL28 5UY) isn't just any zoo - it specialises in conservation and houses rare species like snow leopards and red pandas. The Californian sea lions are particularly entertaining during feeding time (11am and 3pm daily). The zoo sits on a hillside with panoramic views across the bay. One visitor wrote: "Worth every penny. The keepers clearly love the animals and the talks are fascinating. We spent 5 hours here and could have stayed longer."

Eirias Park (LL29 7SP) covers 50 acres with something for everyone. The boating lake rents pedal boats in summer (£5 for 20 minutes), while the adventure playground keeps kids busy for hours. Sports enthusiasts can use the tennis courts, bowling greens or watch rugby at Stadiwm CSM, home to RGC rugby team. Recent visitor comment: "Great free day out. The playground is massive and my kids spent three hours here without getting bored."

Bodnant Garden (LL28 5RE) deserves a full day. Beyond the famous Laburnum Arch, you'll find 80 acres of world-class gardens including the stunning Dell with its waterfall and giant redwoods. The Winter Garden looks spectacular from December to March when most gardens have little interest. The on-site cafe serves excellent Welsh cakes. Visitor review: "Even in the rain this place is magical. The rhododendrons in May are like something from another world."

Is Colwyn Bay beach sandy?

Yes! Colwyn Bay has a sandy beach that was significantly expanded during a 2013 regeneration project. The sand quality improves as you walk east toward Rhos-on-Sea. At low tide, you'll find a vast expanse of flat sand perfect for games and sandcastle building.

Where can I eat with a sea view?

Bryn Williams at Porth Eirias (LL29 8HH) offers modern Welsh cuisine with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bay. For something more casual, The Toad (LL29 8PL) has a terrace with sea views and serves excellent pub food including fresh local seafood.

Can I go swimming in the sea at Colwyn Bay?

Yes, the water quality at Colwyn Bay beach has improved dramatically in recent years. The beach now regularly achieves good ratings in water quality tests. The bay is relatively sheltered, making it safer than more exposed Welsh beaches. In summer, lifeguards patrol the main beach area (10am-6pm).

What's the best time to visit Colwyn Bay?

May to September offers the best weather, with July and August being warmest (average 19°C). However, spring (April-May) brings fewer crowds and beautiful garden displays. October can offer sunny days with spectacular autumn colours at Bodnant Garden. Your hot tub will be enjoyable year-round!

Is there public transport in Colwyn Bay?

Yes, Colwyn Bay has excellent transport links. The train station connects directly to London (3.5 hours), Manchester (2 hours) and Cardiff (4 hours). Local buses run frequently along the coast and inland to attractions. The number 5 bus runs every 15 minutes along the coast between Llandudno and Rhyl.

Where's the nearest supermarket to stock up my cottage?

Colwyn Bay has a large Morrisons (LL29 8DH) near the train station. There's also an Aldi (LL29 7SN) and Lidl (LL29 7YT) within the town. For local produce, try Edwards of Conwy (LL32 8LD, 15 minutes drive) - an award-winning butcher with an excellent deli section.

1. Visit Wales Official Colwyn Bay Guide
2. Colwyn Bay Beach Information
3. Bodnant Garden National Trust
4. Welsh Mountain Zoo Official Site