Portmeirion’s Italian charm draws thousands to Wales annually
Portmeirion is a well-known tourist village located in Wales. It is mainly associated with the cult TV series "The Prisoner," which was filmed there in the 1960s.
Portmeirion is a picturesque village in Gwynedd that is often compared to the Italian Portofino. Thanks to its extraordinary architecture, it attracts over 200,000 tourists annually.
This might seem typical enough, if not for the fact that its history is surprisingly short for a place in the United Kingdom. In comparison to its "original," the Italian town of Portofino, which dates back to Roman times, the origins of Portmeirion seem almost amusing. The village was constructed between 1925 and 1976, designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis and inspired by the Italian style.
Portmeirion is filled with winding paths, fountains, forests, and beaches. The village is captivating with its bright, vivid colours and architectural details. It features a stylized central square and a tower-shaped belfry.
The colourful buildings and charming cottages add to the appeal, and the picturesque surroundings, extensive woodlands, souvenir shops, spa centres, and celebrated restaurants all encourage tourists to extend their stay. To offer guests a taste of Italy, the village even sells Italian ice cream at the Angel Ices cafe.
New life for playhouse
Despite the village's great popularity, one of its buildings, the Playhouse, has remained empty for years. There are now plans for its renovation and transformation into an exhibition space that will narrate the story of Portmeirion to visitors.
Attractions and events
Portmeirion is not just a tourist attraction; it's also a site with a rich film history. The village was the filming location for the original version of the TV series "The Prisoner" from the 60s. Annually, a convention dedicated to this production is held here.
Admission to Portmeirion is paid, and the funds collected are allocated to maintaining the village. A one-day adult ticket costs £10 (about CAD 19), and for children aged five to fifteen, £5 (about CAD 9). An annual pass is available for £40 for adults (about CAD 74) and £25 for children (about CAD 46).
Portmeirion combines the charm of Italian architecture with Welsh hospitality, offering unforgettable views of the Dwyryd estuary from the cliffside rotunda.
