It may only be September, but for many the countdown to Christmas has already begun. Instead of battling for taxis, queuing at crowded bars and feeling lost in the city rush, groups are escaping to the seaside, where sea air, sweeping views and a sense of space bring a refreshing twist to the season.
From Llandudno’s Victorian promenade to castles and coves further along the shoreline, Christmas is now stretching the visitor season well beyond summer. Theatres, markets and hotels are reporting stronger interest in festive nights out, as partygoers look to combine holiday cheer with the natural charm of the coast.
It’s part of a wider UK trend, with coastal towns increasingly positioning themselves as destinations for Christmas parties that bring together seasonal sparkle and the magic of the sea. In Llandudno, the seafront St George’s Hotel is at the heart of the celebrations. This year’s programme includes atmospheric Murder Mystery Nights for those who enjoy a touch of drama, a glittering Great Gatsby Casino Party, and the ever-popular Festive Feast & Fizz Party Nights, complete with a three-course meal and DJ. Prices start from just £41 per person.
“Christmas by the sea has a charm you just can’t get in the city,” said Charlotte McKernon, Events Co-ordinator at St George’s Hotel. “At St George’s, you get all the excitement of any Christmas party – the food, the music, the festive atmosphere, without the crush and stress of city venues. It’s festive, relaxed, and that little bit more special”.
With strong transport links, North Wales is increasingly accessible for those looking to escape the crowds. And as more groups head coastward for their celebrations, it seems the seaside is beginning to claim Christmas as much as summer.