A stunning Welsh town, far removed from the chaos of some of the country's busier coastal resorts, has been crowned the finest seaside destination in the UK.
When thoughts turn to the Welsh coastline, many will recall fond childhood memories of Pembrokeshire's Saundersfoot, sun-soaked days amid the vibrant colours of Tenby, or the breathtaking cliffs of Rhossili Bay on the Gower Peninsula.
As magnificent as each of these coastal gems undoubtedly are, one lesser-known destination has recently been awarded the ultimate accolade.
In a comprehensive roundup of the UK's finest seaside towns, New Quay in Ceredigion claimed the coveted top spot.
"Victorian terraced houses tumble down to New Quay's main sandy bay, which is typically dotted with kayaks, sailboats, paddleboards, and families building sandcastles. But if a wilder beach sounds more like it, then Traeth Gwyn Beach and Cei Bach Beach are just the thing," the rankings from Holiday Cars enthused.
"New Quay is a small but buzzy town, yet not completely overrun with tourists, so it's a happy medium for those who seek relaxation but not isolation. The harbour is a popular boat trip jumping-off point, with sailboats taking visitors out on dolphin-spotting, seal-spotting, and fishing trips. Days end with spectacular over-the-water sunsets and, of course, fish and chips."
Cardigan Bay, where New Quay is located, hosts the largest population of resident bottlenose dolphins in the UK, with sightings from the harbour wall virtually certain during summer months. The bay has also been designated a Special Area of Conservation, with the Marine Wildlife Centre offering boat trips where visitors may additionally encounter harbour porpoises, Atlantic grey seals, and seasonal arrivals including giant sunfish, leatherback turtles, and basking sharks.
New Quay boasts three distinctly different beaches. Harbour Beach is a Blue Flag award-winning beach featuring fine sand and a designated safe swimming zone, favoured by families; Traeth Gwyn is another Blue Flag beach perfect for sunbathing and building sandcastles; while Cei Bach provides a more protected option, according to Discover Ceredigion.
The town represents the halfway point of the Wales Coast Path, the world's first trail to trace an entire nation's coastline. It provides stunning hiking routes extending both north towards Aberaeron and south to Aberporth, writes ALONG DUSTY ROADS.
Unsurprisingly, Wales' most celebrated poetic figure, Dylan Thomas, regularly visited New Quay. He resided in the town during 1944/45, amongst the most productive phases of his literary career. It's believed to have influenced his renowned play Under Milk Wood, and visitors can explore the Dylan Thomas Trail throughout the town, according to Visit Mid Wales. The New Quay Honey Farm is a charming and distinctive local attraction, where millions of bees produce honey from a vast array of flowers. Visitors can also enjoy a 'Bees Behind Glass' exhibition, browse the on-site shop, and indulge in homemade honey treats at the café.
