Abergele

The old market town sits perfectly between Snowdonia's foothills and the North Wales coast, close enough to Rhyl to catch a train but far enough away to feel properly Welsh. Abergele has kept its working-town character while the coastal resorts nearby chase the tourist pound - the high street still serves locals first, visitors second.

Landlords will tell you the town's name means 'mouth of the River Gele', though most folk are more interested in the cracking walks that start from the town centre. Mynydd Bodran and Moel Iago offer proper hill walking without the Snowdonia crowds, while Coed Peniarth-fawr provides gentler woodland rambles when the weather turns. The views from Mynydd Bodrochwyn stretch right across to Anglesey on a clear day.

History buffs make a beeline for Brynffanigl Castle, though don't expect Windsor - it's more romantic ruin than grand fortress. St Michael's church anchors the town centre, with Elian Sant tucked away in the countryside for those seeking something quieter.

Getting here couldn't be easier. The A55 runs right past, making Abergele a doddle to reach from Manchester or Liverpool. Trains stop regularly on the North Wales Coast line, connecting you to Chester in one direction and Holyhead in the other.

Staying at one of the nearby parks makes perfect sense for exploring both coast and mountains. You're fifteen minutes from Colwyn Bay's beaches, twenty from Conwy's castle, yet surrounded by proper hill country. Golden Sands Holiday Park and Parkdean Resorts Ty Mawr Holiday Park put you right in the sweet spot for day trips in any direction.