Outrage has erupted in a UK seaside town after it was controversially named the second worst in the country. Which?, the UK’s consumer advocacy group, polled over 3,800 beachgoers on their recent trips to British coasts. They evaluated aspects ranging from beach quality and landscapes to food, drink, lodging, attractions, and value for money.

When the votes were tallied, two destinations in Wales were lauded as top five seaside treasures, along with Bamburgh in Northumberland, which bagged the number one spot for a sterling fifth consecutive year. Portmeirion in Gwynedd, acclaimed for its quirky Italianate design, notched an impressive 79% satisfaction score from enchanted visitors, reports Wales Online. 

Equally alluring, St Davids in Pembrokeshire, Britain’s tiniest city, shares the honour with Portmeirion, both topping the high tide of admiration with a 79% endorsement.

The least popular location on the list was Bognor Regis, which in the past has been celebrated as one of the sunniest spots in mainland Britain. It received a 36% approval rate and snagged a lacklustre single star in most categories.

One tourist branded it a “a run-down seaside town”. Bangor in Gwynedd has narrowly escaped being named the ‘worst seaside town in the UK’ this year, scoring a lacklustre 38% and drawing attention for its “shabby” appearance.

Despite this, it has improved slightly from last year’s ranking. Amidst the criticism, some have praised Bangor for its “stunning views across the Menai Straits” and its status as a prime gateway to North Wales and Anglesey. 

Although Bangor may not feature a traditional sandy beach, it is home to a historic Victorian-era pier that remains largely untouched since its opening by Lord Penrhyn in 1896.

The news of Bangor’s low ranking in the Which? survey has sparked disappointment in WalesOnline reporter and local Branwen Jones.

She expressed her dismay, pointing out the error of referring to Bangor as a ‘town’ when it is actually a city, and challenged the negative perceptions held by many.

Branwen passionately defended her city, stating: “You can keep your sandy beaches and your fancy hotels because Bangor has so much more than that.

“It has a community of people that genuinely care about it, people who have lived and worked on its shores, and will fight to keep its history alive and its future bright.”

She further highlighted the city’s allure, mentioning the breathtaking views of Eryri, the sea, and the north-west Welsh coastline.

Bangor boasts a rich history, a magnificent cathedral, a university founded for the benefit of the community, and a population that affectionately refers to it as ‘adra’.