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by Nico McKenzie
Situated on the north coast of Wales along the Menai Straits, Bangor is in a wonderful setting. With views of the Isle of Anglesey and the Menai Suspension Bridge in one direction, and Snowdonia’s towering peaks in the other, this friendly coastal city packs a powerful scenic punch. The history of Bangor is an interesting one - Bangor’s origins lie in the early 6th century, when Saint Deiniol founded a monastery on the city’s present-day site. It’s believed the name Bangor, an ancient Welsh word meaning ‘wall’, may have originated from the wattle-style enclosure that ringed the monastery.
The largest city in the Welsh county of Gwynedd, Bangor also ranks as one of Britain’s smallest cities, making it ideal for exploring by foot.
A walk is all that’s needed to take in Bangor’s highlights, from Bangor Cathedral to its charming, Victorian-era Garth Pier, and a traditional centre of pedestrianised streets, pastel-painted townhouses and Victorian villas. Add to these the pull of nearby Snowdonia National Park and the energy of students at Bangor University — another of the city’s claims to fame — and Bangor has something for everyone.
Afterwards, perhaps you could get all cosy in the welcoming pubs and cafes, enjoy fresh local produce in the restaurants and bistros, and sample Bangor’s lively evening scene, with its regular live music, folk music and classical concerts.