Wales’ Towns Rated for Beauty and Pleasantness
Experts recently rated the UK’s prettiest and ugliest towns, revealing a mix of Welsh locations on both lists. With 1,250 towns in the UK, experts evaluated 21 Welsh towns based on the pleasantness of their shop fronts, historic architecture, low traffic/litter, viewpoints, and greenery, assigning each a score out of 50. Crickhowell and St David’s appeared on the prettiest list, while Merthyr Tydfil made its mark among the ugliest in the UK.
**Prettiest Towns:**
1. Crickhowell – Overall Score: 42/50
– Shop Fronts: 8/10
– Historic Architecture: 8/10
Described as a beautiful town in Monmouthshire, Crickhowell boasts a quaint Georgian appearance with a variety of charming establishments, set against the backdrop of Bannau Brycheiniog National Park. The town’s historical significance and picturesque surroundings earned it the sixth spot on the list of prettiest towns in the UK.
2. St David’s, Pembrokeshire – Overall Rating: 44/50
– Shop Fronts: 9/10
– Historic Architecture: 8/10
St David’s, technically a city, was included in the study as a town due to its small population and captivating coastal location. Home to a stunning cathedral and a vibrant seaside atmosphere, St David’s offers visitors a mix of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a standout destination in Wales.
**Ugliest Town:**
– Merthyr Tydfil – Overall Ranking: 15/50
– Shop Fronts: 2/10
– Historic Architecture: 4/10
Merthyr Tydfil was placed among the ugliest towns in the UK, known for its industrial landscape, traffic congestion, and social challenges. Despite its less flattering ranking, the town is noted for its cultural attractions like Cyfarthfa Castle and its proximity to outdoor recreational opportunities.
The Telegraph’s list showcased a range of towns across the UK, with notable entries like Rye, East Sussex, and Stanley, County Durham, representing the extremes of beauty and urban development. While some towns captured the essence of traditional charm, others faced issues related to urbanization and modernization.
As the debate over town aesthetics continues, the rankings serve as a reminder of the diverse landscapes and experiences available across the UK. Each town’s unique character and heritage contribute to its overall appeal, inviting visitors to explore the hidden gems and historical narratives woven into the fabric of these communities. Whether nestled in the lush countryside or nestled along the rugged coastline, every town has a story to tell and a beauty to uncover.