St Asaph Parish Church

The cathedral at St Asaph is Wales's smallest, which might sound like damning it with faint praise until you actually walk through the door. Tucked into the village just inland from Rhyl, this 12th-century church punches well above its weight. The interior is modest but genuinely moving - you'll find yourself studying the stonework and the light falling through the windows in a way you wouldn't in somewhere grander.

It's the sort of place that appeals most to anyone with an interest in Welsh ecclesiastical history or medieval architecture. Church enthusiasts will appreciate the details; families might find a 20-minute visit about right unless the kids have a particular passion for old buildings. The staff are usually helpful if you catch someone about.

Worth building into a longer walk around the village rather than treating as a destination in itself. If you're staying at Golden Sands or Parkdean Resorts' Ty Mawr park nearby, it's an easy 20-minute drive and makes for a gentle afternoon break from park life. The surrounding area has enough independent shops and cafes in Rhyl to turn it into a proper half-day out.

Admission is typically free, though they appreciate a donation. Opening times can be a bit variable depending on volunteer availability, so worth checking ahead rather than turning up expecting the doors to be open.