Abergele

Abergele is a town and community on the north coast of Wales, within Conwy County Borough. It sits on the banks of the River Gele near Cardigan Bay, roughly midway between Prestatyn and Rhyl. The name Abergele derives from Welsh Aber Gele, meaning "mouth of the Gele." The town is part of the Welsh-speaking region with a mixed Anglophone and Welsh-speaking community.

Historically part of Denbighshire, Abergele developed from a rural parish into a market town, with agriculture and local trades at its core. In the 19th century the arrival of the Chester–Holyhead railway fostered growth as a seaside destination and supported the development of the Abergele and Pensarn area. Nearby Gwrych Castle, begun in the 19th century, is a prominent local landmark.

Geographically, the coast around Abergele includes sandy beaches at Pensarn and access to Cardigan Bay. The River Gele runs through the town, giving the settlement its name and shaping its early layout. The town is served by the coastal rail line linking Chester and Holyhead, and lies close to the A55 expressesway, providing road connections across the region.

Economy and community: Today Abergele functions as a local service town with shops, schools and leisure facilities serving residents and nearby rural communities. Tourism and coastal recreation contribute to the economy, alongside commuter links to larger towns. The town council governs local matters, while Abergele forms part of Conwy County Borough for broader administration and representation.

Landmarks: Gwrych Castle, a historic estate overlooking the town, remains a notable landmark; the castle garnered international attention when it was used as a filming location for the 2020 series of I'm a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here!