30/4/24
Llandudno, a charming seaside town in North Wales, is renowned for its picturesque beauty, historic pier, and vibrant cultural scene. But once a year, this coastal gem takes a step back in time to celebrate its rich Victorian heritage. The Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza is an event that transforms the town into a 19th-century wonderland, with a traditional Victorian market, period costumes, and a host of entertainment. If you're curious about the origins of this unique festival and what's happening in Llandudno during this time in early May, join us on a historical journey through the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza.
The Origins of the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza
Llandudno's Victorian Extravaganza didn't just appear out of thin air. It's rooted deeply in the town's Victorian origins, a period during which Llandudno flourished as a holiday destination.
The first Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza was held in 1986. It was conceived as a way to celebrate the town's Victorian heritage and to attract visitors during the May Bank Holiday weekend. The event was an instant success, gaining popularity year after year, and it has since become a staple in the town's event calendar.
What to Expect at the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza
Each year, the Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza offers a diverse program that brings the past to life. Here's what visitors can expect.
• Victorian Market and Street Fair - Stroll down the streets of Llandudno during the extravaganza, and you'll find a bustling Victorian market. Artisans and vendors dressed in period attire sell everything from handcrafted jewellery to traditional Welsh cakes. The street fair is full of activities, from fairground rides to games of chance that evoke the playful spirit of a bygone era.
• Parades and Performances - One of the highlights of the extravaganza is the daily parade. Brass bands, steam engines, and participants in whole Victorian garb march through the town, delighting onlookers with a spectacle reminiscent of the town's historical past. Performances throughout the event include musical acts, dance troupes, and street entertainers, all adding to the lively atmosphere.
• Exhibitions and Displays - Llandudno's Victorian Extravaganza also features exhibitions that showcase the technological and cultural advancements of the era. Vintage vehicles, steam-powered machinery, and historical displays offer educational opportunities for all ages, allowing visitors to learn about the innovations that shaped the Victorian period.
Visit the Extravaganza website for a full schedule of what's on here.
The Significance of the Victorian Era in Llandudno
The Victorian era was a time of significant change and development for Llandudno, and its legacy can still be seen throughout the town.
Architectural Heritage
The town's layout, with its wide streets and elegant seafront promenade, reflects the ordered planning of the period. Many of the buildings, including hotels and the Llandudno Pier, are fine examples of Victorian architecture and have been preserved or restored to maintain their original grandeur.
Llandudno's Growth as a Tourist Destination
The arrival of the railway in 1858 made Llandudno accessible to tourists from cities like Liverpool and Manchester. The town's reputation as a fashionable destination grew, with its clean sea air and therapeutic bathing waters appealing to the Victorian sensibility.
Accommodations in Llandudno
Book your accommodations early, as hotels and guesthouses tend to fill up quickly for the event. For an immersive experience, consider staying in one of Llandudno's many Victorian-era hotels.
One Llandudno hotel to consider is The Esplanade. Whether you’re looking for a double or family room in Llandudno, the Esplanade hotel will cater to all your needs. This inexpensive hotel in Llandudno is located on the iconic promenade, meaning you’ll be right in the action for the Victorian Extravaganza. Also, The Esplanade is one of the few hotels in Llandudno with parking! If you’re also looking for places to eat in Llandudno, we have our newly refurbished restaurant, The Goat, which is opening shortly!
The Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza is more than just an event; it's a testament to the town's rich history and the enduring appeal of the Victorian era. Whether you're a history buff, a lover of all things vintage, or simply looking for a unique experience, the extravaganza offers a glimpse into the past while celebrating the vibrancy of the present. So mark your calendars and prepare to be whisked away to the grandeur of Victorian Llandudno.