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Rhyl Journal
20-05-2025
- Rhyl Journal
Review of The Toad, Colwyn Bay, on the North Wales coast
And, if one gastro pub in town is anything to go by, they will be well catered for when it comes to food. The Bay was bustling that weekend, and on the Saturday of Prom Xtra, customers were lined up out the door of The Toad's impressive building on West Promenade. It was a little quieter when I visited on Sunday, but it was getting more and more busy during my stay. I can see the appeal. The interior has the feel of a traditional pub while at the same time being modern and classy. Although a regular fixture in Colwyn Bay for many years, The Toad still has the feeling of a fresh, new venue having re-opened just over a year ago following a devastating fire. It welcomed customers back in June last year, complete with a new logo. I had a busy day planned so wanted to fuel up, so with that in mind I ordered a starter and a main. The Conwy Valley Lamb roast dinner had been calling me since I checked out The Toad's Sunday menu the day before, so I knew I would definitely be ordering that. More about that soon! There were several options for starter, all of which sounded good. I opted for the Salt & Pepper Squid with a Katsu Curry Sauce and Spring Onion for £7. The serving bowl was attractive and there was a plentiful helping of squid rings the size of puffy Hula Hoops within. It was a well-balanced like bite, crunch and a little spice from the batter, fresh crispness from the spring onion, and a rich savoury hit from the curry sauce. I love gravy and sauce and could have gladly had more of the Katsu, but that is nit-picking. On to the main. And what a main course it was. The Slow Braised Pulled Shoulder & Leg of Conwy Valley Lamb, served with roasted carrots, broccoli, chive mash, sticky red cabbage, thyme roast potatoes, beef fat Yorkshire pudding and rich lamb gravy topped with lamb fat crumb cost £21. The lamb was phenomenal, a thick serving of rich meat that, forgive the cliche, just fell apart. Every element on the plate worked and complemented the others. Highlights were the tricky red cabbage and chive mash, but all of the ingredients were top notch Nothing was just on the plate without earning its place, and each item was elevated to be the best it could be. And, remember I mentioned my love of gravy and sauce early? This was one of those rare times when I wasn't thinking this could be made better by a little more gravy because there was plenty. There was also a side dish of cauliflower cheese that added more tasty goodness to what was already a fantastic meal. To have food like this at a gastro pub is simply remarkable, and I would recommend trying it without hesitation. Beyond the food, the staff were friendly, welcoming and attentive, but not overly so. And the spectacular views of the beach and sea are hard to beat. Later, I noticed on The Toad's website that they boast serving "probably" the best fish and chips in Conwy. I think another visit is in order.
Yahoo
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
7 peculiar Airbnbs across Wales for a stay like no other
Want to break from the norm and spend a night somewhere peculiar? Here are seven atypical Airbnbs across Wales, including a cinema, a double-decker bus, and a train. The Reel Cinema Experience The Reel Cinema Experience (Image: AirBnB) Nestled in Sully, this rental offers a cinema experience like no other for £110 a night. With a super king-size bed, slipper bath, and a personal garden with a BBQ, it's a dream for film lovers, noting the surround sound 'reference' system and a full gaming experience. The owners have noted that due to the nature of the cinema, guests will have to be met at arrival to explain how the equipment works. The Sand Castle, Tenby The Sand Castle (Image: AirBnB) This two-bedroom apartment in Tenby is suitably called The Sand Castle as it's right on the beach. It can host four guests and costs £369 a night. Finished to a high standard, the property is equipped with everything you need. It even includes a cocktail-making kit and a retro record player. There is also a private patio with stunning views of the beach below. 'The Dome' at South View The Dome at South View (Image: AirBnB) 'The Dome' at South View is a Geodesic dome located in a smallholding in Hundleton. It can fit four guests at £105 a night (with a minimum of two nights). Guests will have access to a wood-fired hot tub, an outdoor kitchen, and an outdoor shower. Ideal for a simple outdoor experience, the dome is equipped with electricity, a wood-burning stove, and board games for all the family to enjoy. Delightful one-bed pod with hot tub Delightful one-bed pod with hot tub (Image: AirBnB) This one-bed pod is located in Cwmann and costs £130 a night. It has a hot tub and is dog friendly. It is situated in the Welsh hills of the Cambrian Mountains, ideal for those seeking a peaceful escape with panoramic views. The accommodation offers extra services such as early check-in, late check-out, firepit packs, and decorations for special occasions. Dolly Double D Dolly Double D (Image: AirBnB) Dolly Double D is a vintage double-decker bus that has been renovated into a comfortable space in the Brecon Beacons. It can host up to six guests at £49 a night. The bus includes a full kitchen, a smart TV, and a log burner. Additional costs apply for hot tub use, logs, and pets. Guests are advised to bring extra clothing as the bus can get cold during winter months. Luxury Shepherd's Hut Luxury Shepherd's Hut (Image: AirBnB) This luxurious shepherd's hut in Monmouthshire is available for £101 a night. It offers panoramic sunrise views and is situated on a 100-acre Welsh farm. The hut is equipped with a wood stove, underfloor heating, a kitchen, and a bathroom with a waterfall shower. A short drive away are Michelin-star restaurants and the market town of Abergavenny. The Toad ... Quirky train stay The Toad (Image: AirBnB) The Toad is a restored GWR brake van, known as a Toad Wagon, located at Crai. It offers a unique self-catering experience with rustic features and a wood-fired hot tub for £125 a night (with a two-night minimum). The train carriage is equipped with modern amenities such as WiFi, a fitted kitchen, and a bathroom. Its elevated position provides stunning views of the Welsh countryside.
