UK's 'worst seaside resort' insists abandoned £18.5m investment isn't a 'blow'
A popular seaside resort that has grappled with its image in recent years is facing yet another blow, as it seemingly struggles to sell a huge £18.5 million shopping complex
A popular seaside city savagely ranked as one of the UK's worst has clapped back at claims it has suffered a major blow over a £18.5 million complex.
For many, Bangor - nestled on the coast of Wales and just a stone's throw from Snowdonia National Park - is a coastal gem wrapped up in nostalgia and natural beauty. Classed as the oldest city in the country, and commonly mistaken as a town, Bangor is filled with a rich history, unique architecture, and an impressive Victorian pier that stretches almost half a kilometre out to sea.
Residents insist their hometown has 'lots to offer', but Bangor was sensationally snubbed earlier this year when it was ranked as the worst seaside resort in the whole of the UK. Earning a measly 42 per cent overall destination score, almost 5,000 Which? members gave the destination just one star for its seafront/ pier, food and drink offerings, shopping experience, and tourist attractions. Bangor redeemed itself slightly with its scenery and parking availability.
"It's disappointing to see Bangor City named as one of the UK's worst seaside towns," said Bangor City Council at the time. "Such rankings often fail to capture the full picture and the unique charms that make Bangor City so special."
However, Bangor's sliding reputation has recently been cast under the spotlight once more due to the sale of its premier shopping complex, the Menai Centre, which reports describe as another 'blow' to the city. Developed back in 2007 by Cathco Property Group - reportedly costing £18.5 million to build - the 130,000 square ft building struggled during the pandemic, which caused almost 80 per cent of its shops to close down.
According to North Wales Live, it was bought by Bearmont Capital back in 2023, who added a bunch of retailers including he Original Factory Shop (TOFS), Greggs, and Hays Travel to the complex. Plans to open a major health centre in the complex in place of the former Debenhams store, using Welsh Government funds, have also been unveiled.
The centre has now been placed up for auction with a guide price of just £4.2 million - a mere fraction of the price it cost to build. However, the sale does not include the Debenhams unit or a linked site, which was sold off a number of years ago. "If no stand out bids are received or bids received are of a similar value then a reserve price will be set on the property and it will be sold via a live online auction (date to be determined subject to Stage 1 of the process)," Savills, who is selling the property, said.
Speaking to the Mirror, a spokesperson for the council stressed that Bangor doesn't have a beach and has never promoted itself as a 'seaside resort' - despite being located near the sea. "Similarly, Bangor does not promote itself as a tourist destination," they added.
"We do, of course, have interesting attractions, such as St Deiniol's Cathedral, Garth Pier (which won the National Pier of the Year award in 2022), and the University building, to name a few, and Bangor is an ideal base to visit North Wales's attractions. However, to consider Bangor as a seaside resort would be flawed and inaccurate. In contrast to the Which survey, another survey found that the people of Bangor as the happiest people in the County."
The spokesperson added that the council does not consider the sale of the Menai centre as a 'blow to the city' as most of the retail units within the complex are 'occupied on long leases' that won't be impacted by the change of ownership. "The sale, several months ago, of the other Bangor shopping centre, namely the Deiniol Centre, has not impacted negatively on the units within it nor on the City and there is no reason to think that this one will," they stated.
"This year, Bangor is celebrating 1500 since St Deiniol established his religious settlement here and to mark this important milestone, the City has come together and is hosting an ambitious programme of events. It has something for everyone, from a military parade to music concerts, from Bangor's Across the World Exhibition to a History Festival, from the Summer Festival to the Christmas Festival and much more. The one exception being that Bangor does not have a beach."
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North Wales Live
7 hours ago
- North Wales Live
Unsung market town in Wales that's great for hiking, biking and epic Sunday lunches
As I navigated the rolling hills of Mid Wales, the scenery began to subtly transform. The narrow roads meandered through steep valleys, alongside dense forests, and over historic stone bridges that crossed swift streams. After journeying past farmlands and small clusters of homes, I found myself in Rhayader, the first town on the River Wye. Rhayader is a hidden gem, home to the stunning dams and reservoirs of the Elan and Claerwen Valleys. This underrated market town is a perfect base for biking, hiking and wildlife spotting. It has stayed true to its agricultural heritage and remains a vital hub for the farming community, with a bustling livestock market serving a large rural area. Historically, Rhayader has been a rest stop for weary travellers in Mid Wales, serving as a staging post for drovers and those journeying the lengthy route from London to Aberystwyth, reports Wales Online. Today, it's known as the gateway to the Elan Valley, located just outside the expansive estate. It's a handy base with a variety of independent shops, cafés, and pubs, and also brands itself as the 'outdoors capital of Wales'. This spot is certainly one of my favourite places in Wales for an exhilarating bike ride followed by a hearty Sunday lunch at one of the many local pubs. Join the North Wales Live WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone Here's how to make the most of a visit to Rhayader. Shopping The main street hosts a compact shopping area where you can peruse a range of antiques, local crafts, prints, pottery, upcycled clothing, and local souvenirs. Hafod Hardware, a family-run hardware store with a vintage feel that has been in operation since 1895, is one of the more unique shopping experiences available here. In addition to standard DIY items and kitchenware, you can also find vintage-style tourism prints of Wales and, rather more predictably, specially-made Elan Valley mugs and chocolate bars. Quillies, a local craft shop, is worth a visit for its beautiful locally-made crafts including pottery, textiles, jewellery and fused glass. Family-run No 8 Clothing offers a retail fix with men's, women's, and children's clothing, accessories and gifts across two floors. It stocks well-known brands such as Joules, Brakeburn, Seasalt, Soya Concept, Mistral, Joe Browns, Wrangler, Pachamama, Jellycat, and Powder. River Wood is a glorious place - the UK's only gallery-bookshop dedicated solely to wildlife and wild places, filled with original paintings, prints, cards, and books. Upstairs, there's a working artist's studio and space for creative workshops. For outdoor gear, Hill Walking provides a good selection of clothing, boots, and accessories from brands like Urban Road, Game, Regatta, Trespass, and Craghoppers, all suitable for walking in Wales' unpredictable weather conditions. Explore the dams Rhayader serves as the entrance to the stunning Elan Valley, home to the area's Victorian dams nestled amongst rolling green hills. Constructed over a century ago to quench the thirst of a rapidly urbanising Birmingham, these unique gravity dams attract photographers from far and wide, eager to capture their cascading waters. The tale of the Elan Valley originates in the late 19th century when Birmingham, a bustling city at the peak of the industrial revolution, was expanding at an unprecedented rate. In desperate need of a reliable and clean water source, engineers turned their attention to the remote Elan Valley. With its high rainfall and steep, narrow landscape, the valley was the ideal location for a series of reservoirs. In 1892, one of the most ambitious water supply projects of its era commenced. Over 3,000 workers were employed to construct dams, reservoirs and aqueducts by hand, aided by steam-powered machinery. By the time the project was completed in 1904, the Elan Valley had undergone a significant transformation. Four main dams were built – Caban Coch, Garreg Ddu, Pen y Garreg, and Craig Goch. Each dam is a feat of engineering, constructed from local stone and designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape. For instance, the Caban Coch Dam, viewed from afar, appears to be a natural cliff face. However, up close, its sheer size and the sound of water tumbling over its edge are nothing short of breathtaking. The reservoirs themselves, vast and deep bodies of water, mirror the surrounding hills and sky, creating a picturesque spot. A map of the estate can be obtained from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, where staff are also on hand to suggest scenic routes to view the dams. The optimal time to leisurely drive around the estate is after heavy rainfall - a common occurrence in Wales - when the reservoir water cascades over the steep, 'Birmingham Baroque'-style structures. Fancy being guided by a local expert? You can arrange a custom tour of the Elan Valley and the Cambrian Mountains area with Cambrian Safaris and discover all the hidden nooks with a local guide. Stay updated Cycle the Elan Valley trail One of the top ways to explore Elan Valley is by walking or cycling along the Elan Valley Trail. This 13-mile (21km) path traces the route of the old railway that transported materials to the valley during the dam's construction. Today, a well-kept trail meanders through some of the valley's most scenic spots. Starting in the quaint village of Cwmdeuddwr, just west of Rhayader, you'll follow the old Birmingham Corporation Railway line, perfectly situated to showcase Elan's finest Victorian dams. The linear trail is mostly level, save for a few inclines, with several tarmacked stretches making it suitable for cyclists of all skill levels, including older children. If you fancy a bit of assistance on your journey, why not hire an E-bike in Rhayader and glide through the valley with ease? For those without their own bikes, the market town of Rhayader offers rental services from Neil's Wheels or Clive Powell Mountain Bikes. With the trail taking approximately three hours to complete, a half-day bike hire should provide ample time for photo opportunities and coffee breaks. The route ascends 165ft from the Elan Valley Visitor Centre, passing the awe-inspiring Caban Coch and Garreg Ddu reservoirs. When full, millions of gallons of water tumble over the historic 120ft-high dam walls of Cabin Coch – a sight worth capturing on camera. Go Wildlife watching Rhayader is ideally situated for wildlife spotting, being adjacent to the wildlife-rich Elan Valley where red kites can often be seen soaring above the town. The nearby Elan Estate is owned by Dŵr Cymru Welsh Water, but a significant portion is vested in the Elan Valley Trust. While its primary function is to provide clean water, it also serves as a meticulously managed beauty spot for visitors. Over 80% of the valley is designated a site of special scientific interest (SSSI), teeming with wildlife and boasting remarkable landscapes. The Elan Valley is a sanctuary for an array of wildlife, thanks to its varied habitats and meticulous management. The valley's forests, moorlands, and wetlands are home to a diverse range of species including birds, mammals, insects and plants. Bird enthusiasts will be thrilled by the variety of species that can be spotted here. Waterfowl such as tufted ducks, great crested grebes, and goosanders are drawn to the reservoirs, while woodpeckers and nuthatches inhabit the surrounding woods. The expansive moorland serves as a hunting ground for birds of prey, with red kites, buzzards, and occasionally peregrine falcons seen soaring high above. For a closer view of the resident red kites, head to Gigrin Farm, renowned for its red kite feeding. Situated half a mile from Rhayader, hundreds of red kites feed here, making it the best spot in the UK to see and photograph these magnificent birds (including the rare leucistic red kites). Small-scale cattle farming also plays a vital role in the Elan Valley. Today, only a few farms continue this practice. Keep your eyes peeled and you'll spot cattle grazing freely on the open hills and in some enclosed habitats. The flora of the Elan Valley is equally impressive. Dense forests house ancient oaks and the moorlands are blanketed in a mix of heather, bilberry, and mosses. In the spring and summer, the valley's meadows come alive with wildflowers, adding a burst of colour to the landscape. Sign up for the North Wales Live newsletter sent twice daily to your inbox Try stargazing Did you know that Rhyader and the Elan Valley boast some of the world's darkest, clearest, and least polluted skies? The Elan Valley, with its 45,000 acres of safeguarded land, has been at the forefront of this movement since it was awarded International Dark Sky Park status in 2015, becoming the first privately-owned yet publicly-accessible park globally to achieve this. This prestigious status now ensures that the Elan Valley is shielded from light pollution, providing a safe haven for the wealth of wildlife and nature found within the estate. Since receiving its dark sky designation, the Elan Valley is now acknowledged as one of the premier stargazing destinations worldwide and has been highlighted in numerous stargazing guides, talks, and books. But what does this mean in pactice? Simply put, it means minimal light pollution and such clear skies that you can see the Milky Way, meteor showers, and even the faint glow of neighbouring galaxies with the naked eye. The valley's secluded location and considerate conservation efforts make it an exceptional spot for those seeking a deeper connection with the cosmos. Here, you'll discover several prime locations for stargazing. Each offers a unique perspective on the night sky, whether you're a casual observer or a passionate astrophotographer. Craig Goch Dam car park: A popular spot with wide open views, it's ideal for seeing the Milky Way or setting up for long-exposure photography. Claerwen Dam: Known for its dramatic backdrop, this site combines the grandeur of Victorian engineering with the infinite beauty of the stars above. Teifi Pools: Remote and serene, these pools reflect the starlight, creating a mesmerising experience. Pont ar Elan: Easily accessible yet wonderfully secluded, it's a fantastic spot to gaze at constellations or catch a meteor shower. Bring a red-light torch to maintain your night vision and allow your eyes 20 minutes to adjust to the darkness for the full experience. For a more engaging experience, consider attending organised stargazing events in the area to connect with the cosmos or try your hand at astrophotography. The Elan Valley Trust and Dark Sky Wales regularly host guided tours and workshops offering expert insights and access to telescopes. For dark sky events, check out the Elan Valley's What's On webpage, Facebook (ElanValley), and Instagram (@elanvalley). Eating and drinking in Rhayader Pop into The Lost ARC for lunch and coffee in this quirky community café. Be sure to order my favourite – a delicious Welsh rarebit consisting of toasted bread covered in warm, mature cheddar, Welsh ale, and a touch of laverbread and mustard. They also offer coffee, cakes, light lunches, and a wide selection of vegan options. By evening, this trendy establishment transforms into a live music venue showcasing emerging acts and hosting popular pizza nights. The Old Swan Tea Rooms is a traditional family-run tea room and cake shop providing a lovely spot for homemade pasties, cakes, and lunches. Give their incredibly tasty chicken curry made from a family recipe a try. For a hearty Sunday lunch, make your way to The Crown for generous servings of meat and veg and a Yorkshire pudding. This is Sunday lunch as Mam would make it – no-nonsense, satisfying, and with plenty of gravy. You certainly won't leave hungry. The Historic Triangle, a beautiful 16th-century drover's inn located in Cwmdauddwr, is a short stroll away. Here you'll find a roaring fire, real cask ales on tap, and homemade food including several pub classics. Another good spot for ales, traditional bar meals, and Sunday carveries is The Lamb and Flag, while the bright green Elan Hotel also has a decent selection of drinks at their bar. Where to stay Mid Wales Holiday Lets These reasonably-priced holiday lets can sleep up to 44 people with Glandwr House, Afonwy House, The Old Drapers, The Bakehouse, and The Cwtch all available. The handsome red-brick converted townhouses are perfect for groups of friends or families travelling together in the Elan Valley area. They are also well-equipped for cyclists, offering secure bike storage to keep your gear safe. After a long day of hitting the trails you can unwind in the bubbly outdoor hot tub, which is perfect for soothing those aching muscles. Ty Morgans For a stay in the heart of Rhayader, Ty Morgans is a historic townhouse that blends traditional charm with a modern feel. This boutique and well-priced accommodation is situated at the crossroads of Rhayader, making it a perfect base for exploring the town and the Elan Valley area. It is thoughtfully designed, incorporating original features like oak beams and stone fireplaces while offering all the modern amenities you'd expect including en suite bathrooms. Ty Morgans is a delightful spot that boasts an on-site bar and restaurant, serving everything from hearty Welsh breakfasts to evening meals. Its central location means you're just a stone's throw away from local shops, pubs, and the Riverside Walk. Elan Valley Hotel Just a short drive from the Elan Valley, the Elan Valley Hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and convenience in a boutique hotel setting. Here, guests can enjoy well-furnished rooms with stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Each room is designed for comfort, featuring plush beds and modern amenities. The hotel's restaurant is famed for its exceptional menu, which uses locally-sourced ingredients to provide a truly authentic taste of Wales. It's the ideal location for easy access to the Elan Valley's numerous trails and reservoirs, all while enjoying a touch of luxury. Getting to Rhayader Rhayader, the gateway to the Elan Valley, is easily reachable from various parts of Wales and England. By car: If you're driving, Rhayader is well-connected via the A470 and A44, making it a scenic road trip from cities like Cardiff (around two and a half hours), Birmingham (just over two hours), or Shrewsbury (around 90 minutes). The roads into Mid Wales wind through picturesque countryside, so allow a little extra time for slower rural routes and photo stops. By public transport: Train and bus services are available, albeit limited due to the rural location. The closest train station is situated in Llandrindod Wells, approximately 12 miles away, with connections provided by Transport for Wales. From there, a local bus can be taken to reach Rhayader. For further details and timetables, consult Traveline Cymru or utilise transport apps to assist in planning your journey.
Western Telegraph
11 hours ago
- Western Telegraph
Beer only Cresselly Arms in Pembrokeshire named pub of week
The Grade II listed Cresselly Arms in Cresswell Quay is a 250-year-old riverside pub with a Victorian public bar dating back to the 1880s. The pub, which won the Pembrokeshire CAMRA Pub of the Year awards in 2015 and 2024, and was named the Wales CAMRA Pub of the Year 2024, has retained much of its original charm over the years. Not only is it Grade II listed, but it has a cosy farm kitchen interior, complete with a red and black quarry-tiled floor, a roaring open cast-iron fireplace, and Victorian-era counter and bar-back shelves. It serves a wide selection of beers and lagers, including its popular Quay Ale, but it does not serve food. (Image: Supplied) However, it sometimes hosts barbecue events outside during the summer months, and it partners with street food vendors like Feast Pembrokeshire and We Love Curry to cater for customers. The Cresselly Arms can be reached by boat from the Milford Haven estuary or by paddleboard at high tide, and it's just a short drive from Tenby. It's also situated on several walking routes, making it a favourite spot for hikers. A spokesperson from the Cresselly Arms said: "On a bright summer's day, the pub provides the perfect setting to watch the sun set over the estuary - that is, if you're lucky enough to snag a table." The pub is a sanctuary for both locals and tourists, hosting community events and offering four cask beers. (Image: Supplied) It also has a homely farm kitchen interior, where a fire burns in the hearth. It is accessible by boat from the Milford Haven estuary at high tide and lies on a series of interesting walking routes. A spokesperson added: "Given its prime location, it's no surprise that this popular pub gets crowded when the weather is warm." The pub also boasts a Victorian public bar, which dates back to the 1880s and has retained much of its original charm over the years. The pub is a Grade II listed Pembrokeshire heritage pub.
Sky News
12 hours ago
- Sky News
Ashley's Frasers explores bid for ailing Revolution Beauty
Mike Ashley, the high street billionaire, is exploring a cut-price takeover bid for struggling Revolution Beauty – a move that would stoke animosity between him and rival London-listed retailer Debenhams. Sky News has learnt that Frasers Group, which owns retailers ranging from House of Fraser to Evans Cycles, has approached Revolution Beauty about a potential offer for the company. Retail industry sources said this weekend that Frasers was considering whether to bid but was not certain to do so. Revolution Beauty, which sells branded cosmetics, put itself up for sale last month as it warned investors that it was evaluating options to establish "a more robust capital structure with additional capital to invest into the company". It said it had received a takeover approach from a third party - thought to be a reference to a bidder other than Frasers Group - and invited other suitors to contact its advisers at Panmure Liberum, the investment bank. To facilitate the sale process, Revolution Beauty has parachuted in Iain McDonald, an experienced City figure whose directorships include a seat on the board of Debenhams Group, as chairman. Debenhams holds a large minority stake in Revolution Beauty, while Frasers is a big shareholder in Debenhams and blocked the change of its legal name from Boohoo earlier this year by voting against the plan. Revolution Beauty has had a torrid run on the London stock market, and now has a market capitalisation of barely £20m. Its stock has collapsed by over 70% in the last 12 months alone. The company has at various points been embroiled in probes relating to its accounting and a multimillion pound settlement with its founder, Adam Minto. In January, it reached a settlement with Chrysalis Investments, its former shareholder, after it made a series of allegations against the company. Revolution, which positions itself as a mass market beauty range, is sold through thousands of outlets including Superdrug stores in the UK. It built a strong following among younger consumers by forging collaborations with media properties including the ITV dating show Love Island. Frasers' interest in acquiring Revolution Beauty would reflect its growing interest in expanding beyond pure retailing in recent years. Under chief executive Michael Murray, it has also built stakes in companies such as THG, the owner of beauty brands such as LookFantastic. Because the auction of Revolution Beauty is taking place through a formal sale process, the identity of prospective bidders does not have to be disclosed in the usual way. It was unclear on Saturday whether Frasers intends to make a statement confirming its interest to the London stock market next week. On Friday, shares in Frasers closed at 728.5p, giving it a market value of £3.3bn. Any offer for Revolution Beauty is thought to be unlikely to ascribe a significant premium to its current valuation.
