PORTMEIRION VILLAGE : A TASTE OF ITALY IN NORTH WALES! – Portmeirion Village Tour and History
Step into the whimsical village of Portmerion, nestled against the breathtaking Welsh coast. Imagine the vibrancy of the Italian Riviera blended with the rugged charm of rural Wales. This is Portmeirion! A colourful masterpiece of architectural styles it was the inspired vision of Clough Williams-Ellis and today stands as one
Of Wales most cherished treasures. Join us for a tour around this magical place. Portmeirion lies tucked away and almost hidden in the west of North Wales on the beautiful Dwyryd estuary, a few miles from the large town of Porthmadog. The gorgeous Snowdonia National Park is just on its doorstep.
The moment you step into this village, a sense of wonder washes over you it’s unlike anywhere else in Wales or indeed the whole United Kingdom. BertrumClough Williams-Ellis was born in Northamptonshire in 1883 but moved back to his family roots in Wales at an early age. He became a visionary architect and passionate environmentalist
A fierce protector of rural landscapes founding key conservation organisations and playing a pivotal role in establishing national parks in England and Wales. His colourful eccentric architectural style left a lasting mark taking 50 years of dedication to complete. It was a wet start to the visit passing under the gatehouse take a left
Down some steps to the Grotto, it’s easily missed but has some wonderful views of the Estuary. From the sea it apparently looks like a defensive bunker. Below is the local shell inlaid Grotto. Clough believed that development didn’t have to destroy beautiful landscapes he
Wanted to demonstrate how to build within a naturally stunning setting whilst enhancing its existing beauty. He held these views long before he found the money and the location to fulfil his vision. In 1925 having spent several years searching for an ideal place
For his village concept, he heard about the sale of this neglected estate and Mansion owned by m Mrs Adelaide Haig. The setting was perfect and he didn’t hesitate to make an offer to buy the land and dilapidated Mansion for £4,000. The Grand Hotel before us was that mansion,
Built in 1850. Clough breathed new life into it transforming it into an unlicensed hotel in 1926. Even today you can experience its history and spend a night within its walls. As we walk downhill towards the arched Bridge House, you can see some examples of how he used the
Rocky landscape to his advantage, deciding on the locations of his buildings and merging the two in harmony. He had drawings and models made to help envisage how the completed village would look. Portmeirion was built in two stages from 1925 to 39, for many of the prominent buildings and then after
The war from 1954 to 76 filling in the gaps so to speak. It wasn’t a strict architectural blueprint but a broad concept that he let evolve organically adapting to the landscape and his ever-flowing inspiration. We are now in Battery Square, a tiny pebbled Piazza with
Small shops around it. The battery is a white weatherboard building of distinctive Kentish style design. It was one of the first buildings erected after the hotel in 1926 and is said to offer stunning estuary views from the other side. The Toll House, a quirky multi-storied building of arts
And craft character with a lookout tower adorned by an oak statue of St Peter This building was the original village toll house with a gatekeeper to take the toll to enter. The sheep sign was designed by Clough’s daughter Susan when he asked her to create it for the Welsh woolshop.
Below the sign is a bust of actor Patrick McGoohan. The cult classic TV show The Prisoner was filmed in Portmeirion, a former secret agent, McGoohan known only as number six was abruptly kidnapped and imprisoned in a mysterious coastal village. A place of constant surveillance and psychological
Manipulation number six fiercely resists attempts to break his spirit and uncover the secrets of his resignation while also plotting to escape from the bizarre prison that holds him. One of the shops in Battery Square is now the prisoner shop where you can pick up souvenirs and trinkets depicting the show.
Clough was a proponent of reusing architectural elements. He was gifted and incorporated many pieces from demolished buildings, joyfully calling Portmeirion, “A home for the fallen buildings”. The bell tower is a great example of this, built in 1928 and inspired by a Campanile in Portofino.
Some of the stones used came from the the base of the 12th century Castell Deudraeth, a mile away. The chiming clock within the Tower came from elsewhere and demolished London brewery. Portmeirion was designed as a visual feast and from this height in
Front of the Dome we catch our first glimpse of the central Piaza and the wonderful vistas Clough created. You may be wondering if the buildings are just for display? Well, in many cases they are in full use either as shops, cafes or eateries. Some are used for accommodation, there are 32 serviced suites
Individually decorated and featuring views of the picturesque Piazza and spectacular seascapes. 16 cottages are for self-catering holidays with full access to all the facilities of the hotels. The best bit is that entry is included in your booking and when all the visitors have gone you can enjoy
The grounds almost all to yourself and experience the cosy night lighting, giving a whole new perspective. Designed to be the village centrepiece the Piazza embodies the Italianate, almost theatrical vision. Colourful buildings with unique architectural details balconies and archways ring the Piazza. It’s a place
For visitors to relax and admire the view and absorb the unique atmosphere of Portmeirion. The Bristol Colonnade was originally part of a grand Georgian ear bathhouse, designed by James Bridges and built around 1760 it adorned the building’s facade. Sadly the bathhouse
Fell into disrepair, Clough recognised the architectural value of the colonnade and had it carefully dismantled for transport. Each stone was meticulously numbered transported and reassembled in Portmeirion. Another stunning example of his dedication to preserving architectural treasures. The colonnade represents a classic Palladian architectural style characterised
By its symmetry, harmonious proportions and use of columns. It is primarily composed of bath stone giving it a characteristically warm honey coloured appearance. The intentional state of partial decay called “Pleasing Decay” reflects Clough’s belief in the beauty of ageing structures.
The giant chessboard was added as a direct reference to the TV classic The Prisoner. In the show scenes of human chess games with costume pieces took place in the piazza. When it was first installed some residents objected believing it was out
Of character for the historic village but its popularity with the tourists meant it stayed. The Gothic Pavilion has a unique past. It was originally part of Nerquis Hall, a historic building in Flintshire but was not considered aesthetically pleasing by its owner.
Learning of its potential demolition Clough arranged to have it relocated here in 1965. Clearly embodying the Gothic revival style with its elegant pinnacles and decorative stonework, the building features a whimsical pink colour scheme in true Portmeirion style. The arches offer beautiful almost theatrical framed views of the Piazza and other village scenery.
The Piazza was built in 1965 and replaced a tennis court which had been here since the 1930s. Clough had plans for it since the beginning but didn’t get round to finalising it until his daughter and husband encouraged him to move the unsightly court.
Ahead of us is the Gloriette but we’ll come to that shortly as first we’ll walk beside the Piazza on an elevation above the colonnade. The Gloriette is more of a distinctive facade than a fully functioning building, its primary purpose is to create an aesthetic statement the structure
Features five Trompe-l’œil windows that create an illusion of greater depth and Grandeur. Along with the central fountain the Gloriette acts as a centrepiece for the Piazza adding a sense of both elegance and charm. As we look out at the other buildings it’s interesting
To note that most are about 2/3 the size of the buildings they were modelled on. The four grand ionic columns came from Hooton Hall in Cheshire. This 15th-century building was demolished and intricate mermaid and fish balcony railings were salvaged from a demolished sailor’s house in Liverpool.
Behind the Gloriette is the building called “Salutation”, one of only four that predates the creation of the village. Built in 1850, it was originally designed as a lodge and stable block at “Aber Ia” the estate’s name before Portmeirion. Used as a cafe, it houses the
Ship shop showcasing the Portmeirion Pottery established by his daughter Susan and husband Euan. Perhaps the most famous range introduced in 1972, “Botanic Garden” features the iconic laurel leaf border with a range of beautiful flowers. You can see all the latest designs inside the shop.
In this area, we can climb up to the Gazebo for fantastic views over the village. It is quite steep and a little bit slippery when wet, but it’s well worth the climb. The extensive 70-acre woodlands around the village are a haven of natural beauty the
Pathways take you through dense forests, hidden clearings and along picturesque coastal coves. We won’t be walking any of them today but on a previous visit we did see a cove and the lovely secluded gardens like the Japanese Garden with its
Pagoda and Lily Pond, so do make some time to explore outside of the village centre. Using six of the 30 mermaid panels Clough purchased in 1954 from the Liverpool sailor’s house, his daughter Susan designed this gazebo to mark the Centenary of her father’s birth. The views from this vantage point are just wonderful.
The woods contain a remarkable collection of exotic trees and plants many planted by Clough and past owners. Giant Redwoods from California and Chilean Southern Beach to name but a few. Ah!, the bell tower is chiming as it does several times a day. The Triumphal Arch was added in 1962 as a
New route for delivery lorries to get into the village with goods for the shop. Mermaid Cottage enjoys a prominent location right in the heart of the village nestled amongst the other colourful buildings. It exudes a classic Cottage aesthetic with its whitewashed walls
Arched doorways and traditional windows. There is an upper and lower suite if you fancy staying here. Built in the 1840s it was another of the four buildings on the original estate it was used as a Gardener’s bothy and by the time Clough arrived the whole
Area was like a wilderness, the cottage was dilapidated. Neptune and Trinity stand side by side. Neptune was one of his first Cottages in 1926, where it came from is unknown. On the other side were garages which are now shops and we’ll see those later. Trinity was built in 1933 and so-called just
Because Clough had acquired the coat of arms of Trinity House at the same time. The busts of the Duke and Duchess of Aygll are placed below for no particular reason Walking behind Trinity and Neptune we find the location of the majority of the shops in the village.
There are lots of different things to browse during your visit. To our left stands the charming Angel built in 1926 around the same time as Neptune which it gracefully connects to. On our right the majestic Town Hall begins to reveal itself likely Clough’s most ambitious architectural project, but before we delve
Into that let’s admire the striking statue of Hercules. Acquired in 1960 it was created by William Brody, a renowned Scottish sculptor and cast in around 1863. Clough had a deep admiration for Brody’s work and found the statue in Aberdeen and with great effort had it transported to the village.
The town hall also called Hercules Hall was built to house a jacoban ceiling acquired in the 1930s, along with mullioned windows and panelling. Clough read about the demolition of Emral Hall in Flintshire and headed off to the auction to buy the pieces.
Fronting the hall is a beautiful set of gates which may have come from the same place, I wasn’t able to be sure. Now used for private function rooms there appears to be no way to see the wonderful ceiling unless you’re at an event. I do hope we didn’t miss it by accident.
At the foot of the hall stairs is a bust of Clough when he was 80. A gift from Jonah Jones, a dear friend who would go on to write a biography about him. Now let’s walk down to the Estuary and see the quayside.
As we walk down the hill on the left we can catch a glimpse of the hotel’s heated pool added in the 1970s. We also see the salmon coloured entrance to Anchor and the roof of Fountain. We almost missed these because we were concentrating on the Estuary.
It was here that Noel Coward wrote the comic play “Blithe Spirit” while staying in the fountain suites in 1941. We’ve reached the original estate Mansion then called Aber La, Clough turned it into the hotel
And extended it in 1926 and 30. The likes of Coward, HD Wells, George Bernard Shaw have graced these rooms. A fire in 1981 gutted the hotel, years of reconstruction have returned it to its former glory. From memory a sign said Hotel guests only so we didn’t try to look inside.
The quay is a beautiful place to view the estuary, although it was turning grey again and looking like more rain. You’ll notice a stone boat on the quay. There were children playing on it so he didn’t get the best coverage. Clough purchased a Porthmadog Ketch in 1926 and moored
It’s here on the quay. It was called the “Amis Reunis” or “friends reunited” and here it sat for many years until during some maintenance work a storm dragged its anchors and away it went down the estuary. He managed to salvage some of it but had to settle for a stone
Replacement in homage to the original Amis Reunis. Continuing our lovely walk along the quay, we are heading to the Observatory Tower. A distinctive four-story building located at the southern end of Portmeirion, close to the Glaslyn River. If you watched last week’s video all about the beautiful village
Of Beddgelert, then you will have seen the river flowing right through the centre of village making its way down here and the sea. Beddglert is a charming village and only 20 minutes drive from Portmeirion, so check out that video if you missed it. It’s well worth a visit.
Clough designed the tower in 1935 and built it the following year initially some thought it looked a bit like a lighthouse but it is a lookout tower. The top-level originally housed a camera obscura which was able to project an image of the estuary on a white table,
Much to his delight! Standing proud at its entrance is a bright colourful statue of Nelson given to him by a distant relative. You can climb up the tower and enjoy the views. The coastal path continues beyond the tower and we pass the last of the four early estate
Buildings. This was was once a fisherman’s cottage “White Horses” is 18th century and named after the waves that come in during spring tides. Clough used it as a workshop at one time but in 1966 extended
It and made it accommodation. In fact, Patrick McGoohan was one of the first to stay during the filming of The Prisoner. If we continue on we reached the southerlymost point and a lighthouse folley that Clough built of sheet metal in 1953, but this is as far
As we’ll come with our walk on this path today. It’s worth noting you can walk on the sand but do make sure you know when the tide is due to change as it can be dangerous. Clough was made a knight bachelor in 1972 and became Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in recognition
For his services to the preservation of the environment and to architecture. Directly behind the Gothic Pavilion is a Lion, presented to him on his 90th birthday, a gift from his friends. He died peacefully on the 9th of April 1978 at the age of 94 at his home Plas Brondanw.
His creation of Portmeirion showcases a unique blend of Italianate architecture and playful design, transforming it into a beloved and iconic Welsh landmark. His legacy is one of preserving the beauty of Wales, fostering architectural innovation and promoting a harmonious relationship between the built environment and the natural world.
It’s been an incredibly interesting visit and we hope you come and enjoy it too. Let’s look ahead to what’s on next time in beautiful Wales! Disappear into the swirling cloud clouds as we ascend Mount Snowdon. A journey aboard a historic 127 year old steam train. This majestic Welsh peak hides some of
Its beauty today, but the echoes of the past and history of its epic construction remains. Join us for a hauntingly beautiful ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. Do subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes of our Welsh travel adventures and thank you for watching. See you again soon.
Welcome to Portmeirion, the whimsical Italian-inspired village nestled in the heart of North Wales! In this video, I’m taking you on a full tour of Portmeirion, exploring its quirky architecture, stunning gardens, and hidden gems. Whether you’re a fan of the iconic TV show “The Prisoner” or simply love unique travel destinations, Portmeirion is a must-see.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
How to get to Portmeirion
Best things to see and do in Portmeirion
Tips for planning your day trip to Portmeirion
Is Portmeirion worth visiting?
See more and booking details here https://portmeirion.wales/
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00:00 Portmeirion Overview
00:38 Getting to Portmeirion
01:06 Clough Williams-Ellis
01:39 Grotto – Estuary views
02:50 Buying Portmeirion
05:15 The Prisoner
06:04 The Bell Tower
07:47 Staying in Portmeirion
08:54 Bristol Colonnade
10:25 Gothic Pavilion
11:08 Piazza Fountain
12:32 Gloriette
13:53 Portmeirion Pottery
14:27 Gazebo & Gardens
16:45 Mermaid Cottage
18:18 Shopping
19:09 Hercules
19:49 The Town Hall
20:39 Quayside
21:47 Amis Reunis
22:29 Observatory Tower
23:50 White Horses
24:58 Completing Portmeirion
25:50 Next Time…
#portmeirion #northwales #welshvillage
50 Comments
If you missed last week's video check out Beddgelert here:- https://youtu.be/x_8h2E2tvJw or our wonderful episode in Conwy! https://youtu.be/5G1MR5Ms4ek
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As this video began, I was thinking it looked so much like what I remembered from the TV show "The Prisoner" and sure enough, several minutes into it, Simon mentioned the show !!!! I never knew the show used a real place — I thought it was purely a set purpose built for the show. What a wonderful place to visit; it's like stepping out of the real world and entering a place in an alternate universe.
We had to skip Portmeirion Village due to time constraints on our trip to Wales. Always regretted it.
But I got to go with you guys! Thank you.😃
WOW !! FROM WHAT I HAVE SEEN WALES IS AMAZING! I'M ALREADY THINKING ABOUT MY NEXT TRIP THANK YOU FOR SHARING THIS LOVELY TOUR
Very unique. Thanks for sharing ❤
Thanks so much for your beautiful videos. Obviously, Wales has been highly under-rated on most travelers' to-do lists. Portmeirion almost reminds me of an Epcot Center village in Walt Disney World. 😊
I think this has to to be one of your very best videos up there with the Bucklers Hard one about the Beaulieu area. So much information and if I may say superb locations . This is one to watch again as you can't absorb all the information in one4 viewing. A rain day video when curled up with a nice hot drink. Well done boys.
This video is well worth rewatching!
Absolutely fascinating. New to me! As an American your vlogs are perfect. Informative and enjoyable. Thankyou
No. 2: You are number 6. No. 6: I am not a number. I am a free man! No. 2: Mwaaahaahaa
Wonderful video and what a lovely place in general, Thank you.
Always worth watching
Portmeirion is everything you said, it is wonderful and must have been delightful to visit. Clough Williams-Ellis' vision is inspiring and you presented it with dignity and respect. Thanks for sharing this place with us.
I think you should release a Blu-ray of UK's charming small towns series, it's good production quality with music and narration.
Visited portmeirion last September, the weather was blue sky all day . we sent a couple of photos to our friends and they thought we`d taken a day trip to Italy .. had a photo blown up to 800×500 mm on our wall ..well worth a day or two visit . there it a small motorhome site there too …
What a lovely place and as usual you gave us great footage and lovely background music. Thankyou for taking us exploring with you, cheers Cheryl 🙂
Possibly your best work yet fantastic filming thank you
I have to tell you again what a beautiful job you do with these videos. Your narration reflects fantastic research & I know it must take you a long time editing. Believe me, it's well worth the effort and does not go unappreciated. Well done from California!!
An absolutely lovely film gents, we stayed in the hotel for 3 nights in July last year (room, food and service were first class) celebrating my wife's 60th birthday, you're right about residents having access to the village once the day visitors have left, it's so peaceful when there's only residents in the village and a great way to walk off dinner before heading to the bar 🥃🍷
We went out for the daytime while there, but on our return as I like to swim I took advantage of the residents swimming pool, I found it a bit disconcerting having the day visitors gawping at you through the railings🤣🤣.
very nice
Wonderful video! Thank you
Did you film Number 6's cottage? It was larger on the inside than it was on the outside, like a Tardis.
Love your videos and all the interesting commentary you provide. Thank you for them all so far and looking forward to many more.
Magnificent….you guy's find the most interesting picturesque and beautiful places
Thank you
👍
Beautiful video, but the music was too loud. There was really no need for any music since the bits without music were amazing.
Really loved this episode. It's been nearly 40 years since I visited. As a kid I loved the Prisoner, second only to the Avengers.
As always, thank you for presenting top notch videos that are second to none. I will be looking forward to the next one.
Beautiful.
❤
Que gran cuidad y de hermosos paisajes , parece que no fuera Gales .
Un video que reconforta el alma .
Saludos
What a charming place! I have a very heavy Portmeirion bowl with patterns of fruit. It has sat on my kitchen counter for decades. Many of the buildings remind me of the old storybook villages and Pirates of the Caribbean scenes at the original Disneyland in Anaheim. Hearing how many architectural pieces were saved and incorporated there, I'm so happy. What a terrific life's work and legacy. Wow! As a child I was allowed to stay up and watch The Prisoner, as my parents thought it was edifying. I think I barely understood what was going on, but liked it. I really need to watch it again one of these days.
👍🏼💚😁Very beautiful village .
Am i the only one who gets an eerie feeling about this place?
💜💜💜💜💜
This is one of my dream locations since I'm a HUGE The Prisoner fan!!! Love the video!
I have often wondered if you have a writing background as your narrations are so elegant and so have many enchanting turns of phrases! This is such a unique and beautiful village that I would love to visit, with such a wonderful detailed back story. Thanks for sharing!
I am totally gobsmacked. Clough certainly had an eye for beauty. The area is stunning. Thanks for taking me along. Please take care
Your videos are so interesting, informative, peaceful and relaxing. I truly enjoy them and your wonderful commentary!
What a beautiful magical place. Loved the colors & designs of the builfings.
A Beautiful place.
'Never been there – never will be , but my spirit lives in Portmierion .
They'd never get The Information , but i'd dive right in to life at The Village – they'd never get me to leave !
👍 Good Video 👌
What an amazing man and what a legacy to leave behind for others to enjoy.
Portmeirion: Be seeing you…⚪
Very late watching this but well worth it.what a treat.and what a wonderfull place.a clever man with great vision.don't think i would make it on the walking side but youve shown everything.thank you realy enjoyable.
I was fortunate enough to stay in this village several years. It is a magical place❤
A special environment and excellently filmed with a beautiful story.
Thank you !!
Another great video guys
Really enjoying your North Wales adventures 😊❤
Hope you've had a good weekend
Morgs Jo and Boo 🐕 ❤
Thank you for ❤❤👍🥰💐
My wife and I spent 2 nights there. We stayed above the Book Store. Very Beautiful and rtealy nice when all the visitors left for the day.
Always beautiful and interesting vídeos!!👏👏👏I love all them!❤️👩🏻🇧🇷
What a feast for the eyes! A great video-you never disappoint!🙂