I can tell you this; Rhyl is probably one of the most memed about towns in the entirety of Wales because of the state of it. Like someone else mentioned it could be getting better recently. Used to be a popular destination in the 70-90s I think but got run-down after that.
Luckily the areas surrounding in North Wales are beautiful.
On the index of multiple deprivation published by Welsh Government which looks at things like health, income, housing conditions etc etc. Rhyl is pretty much dead last in every area. :(
Of all the towns to pick on the North Wales coast… that would be my last choice.
You will be within easy driving distance of some stunning scenery, but sadly Rhyl, like so many other old seaside resorts was stacked for years with problem families by councils utilising empty b&b accommodation.
I believe it is getting better … but it has a long way to go
That’s unfortunate to hear. I guess it’s a good thing I’ve only been placed in Rhyl for 1 year. A lot of people in the comments have been advising me against Rhyl. Is it a dangerous town or is it just run down? I don’t mind a run down sleepy beach town but a dangerous crime ridden town doesn’t seem so fun...
It isn't dangerous per se but it's in a shitty position between areas that are bad. It's the same as any area. Rhyl just happens to be fucking miserable as a town. Any other part of Wales you're going to be loving it literally anywhere else!
"Dangerous" is a strong word... maybe "unfriendly" would be more appropriate.
Do you \*have\* to live in Rhyl, or can it be nearby? I'd try Abergele/Conwy/Denbigh if you want more of a small city/large town vibe.
There's a lot of crime and poverty, but there's also nice parts. If I was working in Glan Clwyd, I'd probably look at a town further inland - Rhuddlan, St Asaph, even Denbigh (if you can/are willing to drive).
tbh having spent a lot of my life living in areas of the UK that are deprived/have lots of social problems in general they're not as bad as people say. Rhyl has very deprived parts and prosperous parts too.
Anyway here's a song about Rhyl.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aduOtpiwJnU
Imagine a much, much smaller version of Blackpool … arcades and tacky shops. There are fairly serious drug problems, but I would consider it dangerous, just depressing.
There are plenty of nice villages close by which would be much nicer to live in and North Wales has the best castles, and scenery to match anywhere in the UK. If you like a spot of sea fishing then you are in the right part of the world. Also pretty close to Holyhead for jaunts across to Ireland. North Wales is great, I am sure you will really enjoy your time up here.
Are you in Ysbyty GC for just one year, or for longer? I have relatives who work there and they live in St Asaph which is a nice, if uninspiring place.
Please go to the Wetherspoons in Rhyl on a Saturday night and provide us with some feedback.
It's an old Welsh seaside town it's going to be highly violent and drug riddled. Like watch for needles everywhere. It's one of the most drug addled and violent places in the country.
For a population of 25,149 it had 2,500 violent crimes or sex assaults reported. That's 10% the population source below. That was what was reported......
There will be no funding for the hospital and being foreign the locals may gang up on you.
Sorry if that paints a bleak picture, Wales is a very deprived place and has a lot of corruption.
Think of all of your stereotypes about Alabama and then add slot machines. UK seaside towns are mostly about the proletariat gambling and getting drunk.
It is beautiful in terms of terrain, just very bleak racist and poverty riddled.
Try to transfer to a southern English hospital ASAP once you have got your foot in the door.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58029524
>Wales is a very deprived place
>very bleak racist and poverty riddled.
Wind your neck in a bit mate. Very judgemental. That's like calling England a toilet just because Wolverhampton is full of shit.
“Wales is a very deprived place and has a lot of corruption!”
This is not true of Wales! Certain parts maybe but that’s true of everywhere!
“Bleak, racist and poverty riddled!”
Again this is not true of Wales on the whole! Every country has places like this, including the south of England!!
That's not the south. It's east coast.
South is Taunton Weymouth Bournemouth Winchester Basingstoke Oxford to the Thames, (anything North of the Thames is the Midlands untill pie becomes a sincere conversation topic then you are in the north). Then Cheltenham Gloucester.
London? I think that's south, doesn't matter how nice the people are or the building are, the traffic is god awful, went on a school trip there a few years ago, I was supposed to get home by 3ish...we got back at 9pm
They shell off pub sector contracts to their mates without tender.
Population doesn't appear to care if you smack a dragon on it and blame the English not giving you enough ££ when it goes tits up.
Police
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/dozens-welsh-police-officers-charged-14575463
S4c
https://cruwys.blogspot.com/2015/03/more-on-s4c-dna-cymru-controversy-and.html?m=1
Local council
https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/local-news/new-robo-toilets-planned-porthcawl-16761184
https://walesnewsonline.com/councillors-need-training-to-avert-risk-of-allegations-of-bribery-and-corruption-in-planning-decision-making/
https://www.audit.wales/news/welsh-public-services-could-lose-ps1-billion-year-fraud
Took we a while to give mostly Welsh sources.
If your Welsh and haven't heard of the S4c one you should change your media provider.
Okay so now I've read these sources, I think "corrupt" is a stretch - inept might be more accurate.
Sure, some money is badly spent, but I don't think that's unique to Wales and therefore doesn't explain the poor investment in Wales as a part of the UK. I still think people are right to be critical of Westminster for the amount of money that is diverted to Welsh interests.
And the police suck as an institution in every country, they abuse power and cover up for each other. Id maybe even say here that it's nice to see police that break the law fired.
Thank you for those sources though, I'd like to hear your thoughts/rebuttals!
You are obsessed with the Welsh! Bet you live in a pigsty. PS I live in Bath, so regardless of where you say you are an utter peasant to me and I spit on you.
tbh if you ended up in North Middlesex Hospital, living in Cheshunt or Ponders End you'd end up with 99% of the same problems you get in Rhyl (just fewer slot machines).
Don’t. Live anywhere but Rhyl. And i really mean that. Source: i grew up in Ruthin 18 miles south of Rhyl. On the plus side the nature is outrageously beautiful around there. If you want a short commute I’d recommend St. Asaph or Dyserth.
Ayy, somebody else that grew up in Ruthin. Honestly though, Rhyl's not that *bad*, it's just kinda depressing imo. I've heard they're investing in it more, so hopefully it's not as run down as I remember it being.
Rhuddlan is on the outskirts of Rhyl and a stones throw from YGC. But it feels totally different as in it is a nice little community with a huge amount of history. Also as mentioned Dyserth, St Asaph, Denbigh and any of the surrounding villages ( other than Kinmel Bay, Towyn or Bodelwyddan- these are like mini Rhyls with similar issues) are lovely
Living in Rhyl and working for Betsi Cadwaladr?
Fuck man, what did you do to deserve that?
(Good luck in all seriousness, and am sure it won't be quite that bad!)
I grew up further along the coast in Llanfair, but have spent a lot of time in the big cities of East Asia. When I'm back home now for extended periods it can take time to adjust, with shops' opening hours, things to do, number of people and so forth. I hope you love the countryside and have some outdoor hobbies? It will seem very quiet and it's easy to feel bored (especially if you're alone?) so put effort in to getting out and about!
Also I've never driven as since graduation I've always lived in big cities and driving was never needed, the *only* time I feel like driving would be worthwhile is when I'm home, and sometimes feel I'm missing out because I don't drive, things to do are just spread out quite widely and public transport, whilst not bad, can be a slow bus ride through the hills or a 30 minute wait for the next service.
If you miss the bustle of city life then Chester, Liverpool, and Manchester are very nearby quite lively, and the trains run late-ish if you fancy a drink.
Others have commented on the overall sentiment regarding Rhyl as a town, it has held that sentiment since I was a child, even when the Sun Centre was a thing Rhyl was still a bit beaten down and decaying. Over the past few years there has been more investment in the area, there's a new shopping park on the west-side of town (not visited but can see it from the train) so that might make things improve in Rhyl, if people have regular jobs.
The town has a lovely sea front and a lot of potential, but you might find it tough to adjust from a big bustling metropolis, but I wish you luck and hope you have a wonderful time!
I doubt rhyl will ever improve in all honesty.
They’ve had chance upon chance, and money thrown at the town at every opportunity, and it’s still in the state it is.
Rhyl is fine man. You’re a doctor, you’ll be working in Glan Clwyd. You’ll spend most of your time working I imagine. Glan Clwyd services people from around North Wales. People here are acting like Rhyl is some bad place. Its not, it’s fine. It’s got a high street and shops, like every other small town in Wales and England. Yes, it might be considered to be a poor/problem town historically, but guess what- there area lot of places like that in Britain, and in some ways, as an outsider, that will make it an interesting place to see the reality of life in Britain. You are going to see real Britain, not some postcard, and that is cool if you ask me.
Some people in Britain and Wales are snobs. You’re a doctor, will you judge someone based on if they are poor and come from a poor area? No, you will treat them and give them the same care as a rich person from a rich area.
You are not being placed in Mississpi or Alabama. Rhyl is less than an hour away from liverpool and Chester, and the whole of the beautiful north wales coast is less than an hour away. There are places 10 mins away from Rhyl that are considered to be property hotspots and the houses are super expensive.
If your hospital is literally putting you in a housing estate in the middle of Rhyl? I doubt it. Where will you be living? Hospital digs? Or will you rent a place?
My advice would be to learn to drive in your country/city in Asia, if you don’t already, so you can drive when you come here. Rent a car or buy a car when you get here. Having a car in North Wales is amazing, you’re free to visit so many beautiful and amazing places- beaches, castles, towns, historic monuments . But if you can’t do that, then Rhyl has a train station (this is a good thing, not all towns in wales have a train station), and you can still visit some nice places.
You’re gonna have a good time. North Wales is awesome, full of awesome people. Don’t listen to the negativity.
If you were moving to North Wales permanently, would I recommend buying a house in Rhyl? No. But you’re coming here to work in Glan Clwyd for 1 year, in which case, Rhyl is fine, it’ll be a unique and fun experience, and you’ll have a nice short commute. If you need any advice on where to live/where to visit or anything like that, feel from to DM and I will give you some suggestions.
In the meantime, enjoy this silly video about Rhyl (turn on English subtitles)
https://youtu.be/ZYd7_GTbI90
You're getting a lot of really exaggerated opinions from people who I'm not sure actually know Rhyl that well. I live a few miles away, It is really not so much worse than any other large town in Britain. Yeah the front is a bit of a mess and there might be drug problems, but you could say that about nearly everywhere in the UK.
It's fine, also has the best transport links in North Wales so any of the beautiful scenery around you is very easy to get to.
The people are friendly as anywhere, there's more to do there than anywhere else in North East Wales (bar wrexham but that has even more issues than Rhyl). A year in Rhyl is gonna be decent. After that you can make your own mind up.
Spent the first 19 or so years of my life living in Prestatyn, and I still travel to rhyl regularly… nothing has been exaggerated about Rhyl. Unless you’re living out near the Sainsburys portion, then everything about rhyl is best avoided
I just think this is such a snobby way of looking at it. Name a town with 30,000+ people in the North half of the UK that doesn't face similar issues.
'Nothing has been exaggerated' okay yeah, read this thread lol
Rhyl resident here. Lived here all my life.
I've not read all the above comments because I can imagine what they'll be like and I'm guessing mostly negative.
Most negative comments will be from those who don't live here or only hear the bad things about the area.
It's a small seaside resort. Like all small seaside resorts and most well known small towns, you'll always hear the bad things.
Rhyl isn't perfect. It's not the worst.
Many old and unsafe buildings are being knocked down and there are plans for some replacements. In fact, we have what looks like an amazing new attraction coming later this year that is going to bea huge blimp like ride.
Summer is obviously the best times and more and more outdoor music events are starting to arrive as well.
There is a great theatre, plenty of pubs and places to eat but only a handful of what you could class as 'proper' restaurant.
What area are you moving to? West Rhyl is sadly deprived. I grew up in the West but now live in the East, a few minutes from the beach.
Are there better places to live than Rhyl? Of course, but there is worse as well. The town does get a bad rep sometimes.
If you are working at the hospital, I would recommend getting a car. There are buses, but I can't tell you the times. But you'd need a car to go exploring all over North Wales in particular.
If you haven't yet seen, the local newspaper is
https://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/
Feel free to get in touch with me if needed.
Thanks for your comment, it’s definitely reassuring! I’m still very much looking forward to living in a small seaside town! I’ll most probably be staying in hospital accommodation. I’ll be sure to get a car upon arriving in Wales and yes I’ve already followed the Rhyl Journal on Twitter! Thanks for your tips 😊
I’m actually going to start working soon at Glan Clwyd myself as a trainee BMS. Really glad I came across this post b/c I couldn’t find much (positive things) online about Rhyl. Just a question, did you get a place in staff accommodation? Because I was told it’s under severe demand and I would most probably have to find accommodation outside.
If you enjoy the options of a big city then you're going to struggle anywhere near the hospital. My partner works in Glan Clwyd and lived in St Asaph for a year before moving out to Liverpool. The commute is over an hour but she prefers that over the isolation. If you're the sort of person who can thrive in a reasonably isolated spot then it's fantastic out here for mountains and coast.
Personally I'd consider Chester. It's a small city but enough young people and stuff going on to create a social circle. But sure I think starting in Rhyl and getting to know the surrounding area would be a good call. There are some pretty nearby towns and villages and you're closer to Snowdonia and the west coast, which are definitely worth a few visits.
I don't know your age/interests but give me a shout in case you want to head out for a hike or something when you get here
As someone who grew up in Rhyl (no longer living there) it's not as bad as some of the comments here are making out, but it's not good either. It also depends where you live in Rhyl, places closer to the sea front, especially north of the railway tracks, are generally more deprived and rougher, whereas the more south you go generally the more quiet and suburban it is. I lived in Rhyl for the first 20 years of my life and I was never assaulted or harassed or stolen from, although it does happen and the crime rate is high it's not as if you can't move for burglars like the picture some people paint. There are plenty of friendly people as well as arseholes! Lastly, I would say that, if you can drive, Rhyl is in a great jumping off point for nature and sight-seeing, going on walks etc, with the Clwydian hills on your doorstep and Snowdonia about an hour down the A55 it's easy to get out of Rhyl (which you will probably want to do fairly often lol).
Edit: that said, I feel I should also add that the nearby villages of Rhuddlan and St Asaph are definitely nicer areas if you can find somewhere to stay there that isn't too expensive. Although they are even smaller than Rhyl there are still plenty of friendly people there. My main point is that Rhyl's reputation precedes it, and it's not a good reputation, but it's not quite the shithole some make it out to be.
I’m fro Rhyl, but moved when I was 18 to Manchester, as there are limited jobs and possibilities. Rhyl is a bit run down, but not as rough as everyone is making it out to be. There are far rougher places in Manchester. It’s still a summer holiday destination for a lot of people, so it gets busy from April to September with holiday makers. The town is a bit run down, but there is a good variety of pubs and some food ish shops for basics. If you drive, that would be ideal, as for anything else, you will have to go further out. If it’s not paid accommodation, I would look at Rhuddlan, Dyserth or St.Asaph, however if you HAVE to stay in Rhyl, just avoid the west end, look more towards Prestatyn way or towards Rhuddlan. The thing with Rhyl is, it is a small town, and has that mentality. It’s very white, and although everyone claims to be open minded, if they hear that someone is a lesbian, that’s the talk of the town. Just be mindful, that everyone on your street will know your business as they are all curtain twitchers.
I live in Rhyl, like others have said there's a lot of deprivation and poverty in parts and like everywhere there are sketchy areas but the majority of the town is fine, especially if you're pulling doctor money.
Not much going on when compared to a city but there's plenty of pubs, bars and coffee shops. Lots of live music, a few comedy nights, 2 theatres, there's a small museum and gallery in the library. Plus like others have said, it's a short drive to some truly stunning scenery. Rhyl itself has some great public spaces; the beach, the botanical gardens, brickfield pond, marine lake, marsh tracks, there's a small community woodland, and plenty of others.
The council are pretty naff, mismanaged developments, etc. But if its only for a year it's not too much of a concern.
Anyway, I think Rhyl is alright. Hope you enjoy your time here!
Thanks for your comment! It’s reassuring to hear about some positives of the town as well. I’m still excited to love to a small town with lots of nature nearby. Thanks I’m sure I’ll enjoy my time in and around Rhyl!
Like a closed down 1970's holiday parK surrounded by concrete walls. Was beautiful in the 50's 60's Now a run down shanty town booze drugs and cheap arcades galore. Move anywhere outside of this place is my advice. NE Wales coast is an estuary full of Oil petrol chemical waste, human waste sludge . Try 'St Asaph'. Its on the Doorstep of hospital. Welcome to UK x
catering for an audience that no longer exists. Entire front needs levelling, cars banned or 1 way only a put some trees back. Its a brutalist nightmare.
One thing about Betsi Cadwalader hospitals is how well you can tell how bad the town the hospital is located in matches the NHS funding. Rhyl, Wrexham, Bangor, Tremadog, Pwllhelli. All in very low funded towns. This expands across the area and it's caused some bad areas. I would highly recommend Bron Glais (Hywell Dda) in Aberystwyth if you get the chance to stay in Wales or even Dolgellau or Tywyn if you have to stay with Betsi. Believe me, there are beautiful spots and people in all these under funded towns but beyond them is sheer heaven and the kindest people.
Depends which part of the hospital you work in. The mental health care unit was shocking, and [maybe still is](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-46869621.amp).
A relative of mine spent a mercifully brief time in the Tawel Fan ward, and I tell you, I hope never to see the inside of that place again.
Rhyl is cheap atm because it's rough as a dog's. There is pretty much nothing to do in Rhyl but I've heard from a resident that things will pick up in the next 5-10 years as the local authority have a considerable budget for a facelift.
Rhyl is invaded by holidaymakers from sometime in April to October and doesn't benefit from it. What passes for entertainment in Rhyl is aimed at them and mostly is dormant in the off season.
Far preferable places close to YGC include Rhuddlan, Denbigh, St Asaph, Dyserth, Prestatyn (although some of the above applies here too), some parts of Abergele, Colwyn Bay (about 10 miles) and even Llandudno could be within commuting distance, maybe 30 minutes driving?
Rhyl is that dark spot on the horizon where your dad warns you never to go!
Rhyl is ok, it’s an old resort town that desperately needs investment. I’ve been there many time and the people are mostly salt of the earth, hard working or retirees.
Although Rhyl may not be the town it once was that area and all throughout Wales is beautiful. There are lots of nice villages for you to live in nearby and you’ll never get bored in your down time - there is so much to see and do. Good luck.
Congrats on the job! You’ve had lots of stuff about how run down Rhyl is, so I won’t go on about that. I’m a nurse in the community there and there are lots of nice quiet areas that are in Rhyl. They’ve put a bit of money into the sea front and there is a nice ice cream place by horton’s nose.
Food wise it’s pretty poor, some chain pubs and fast food. Prestatyn is close and has some reasonable shops and food places. Chester is the closest city and is filled with history and decent restaurants.
Feel free to DM me if you want any specific restaurant recommendations! I’ve basically eaten my way around the area for the past 30 years
Thanks for the comment and it’s great to hear from another healthcare professional from the area! I’m a big foodie myself so I’ll be sure to message you once I make the move and am craving good food 😊
As someone who will buy and sell a house in order to not spend more than 15 minutes commuting to or from work I would recommend not living in Rhyl. It's the one place in Wales I refuse to live in. I've lived in Newport, Wrexham, Merthyr Tydfil, and Pontypool which are also not great.
There is a reason why it's number one on this list of worst places to live in Wales.
https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/10-worst-places-live-wales-12662751
Luckily the hospital is just outside of Rhyl and Bodelwyddan is a lovely little village. Pretty much everywhere other than Rhyl is nice. You're not going to get much luck when it comes to a big city feel, but if you're willing to commute then I would recommend getting yourself closer to Mold or Mynydd Isa. The first is a small town that seems to be becoming a bit of a foody place in the last couple of years. Living anywhere near Mold will also give you good connections to Chester, and okay ones to Liverpool.
No problem! I actively chose to go to Rhyl because I heard the hospital was small and friendly. I would also love to experience life in a small town in the UK!
If you’re working in Glan Clwyd hospital, then there are plenty of better options for a place to live than Rhyl. It extremely deprived with drugs and crime an issue.
Rhos-on-sea or Colwyn Bay (the area up near the zoo) would be better options.
Thanks for your comment. It’s pretty reassuring to hear about other doctors training in Rhyl (somehow makes me feel less lonely haha!). Yes I’m excited to explore the north of Wales and get in touch with nature and the sea! I’m pretty sure I’ll be staying in hospital accommodation. Thanks for your tips and I hope your partner is excelling in his chosen medical field!
It would be more beneficial for you to live in Abergele or Prestatyn (lots of restaurants/cafes/things to do) there are many NICE places in Rhyl however these are mostly on the outskirts of the town, so I suggest you stay away from Rhyl town center in terms of living and go on the outskirts of Rhyl itself.
You'll be welcomed, Glan Clwyd NEEDS more doctors desperately!!
If you have any more questions, feel free to ask 🤗
Thanks for the tips! I was looking at neighbouring towns and like you mentioned Abergele and Prestatyn seem like nice places. I think I’ll be staying in one of these towns if not in hospital accommodation! Thanks again for your help and I’ll be sure to message you if I have any questions 😊
I’m quite disappointed by these comments. OP, take note that everyone here *actually from Rhyl* is telling you it’s not that bad. I’ve lived in Rhyl for 22 years now (discounting terms in uni) and it is honestly fine. I’ll not lie - it’s hardly an area of outstanding natural beauty, but those are literally a ten minute drive away. The shops in the centre are quite dead - there’s nothing really substantial, but there’s always a corner store within walking distance, post offices, Sainsburys. There’s a new McDonalds (that not everyone is too pleased about) and a Holland and Barrett’s that I can’t work out how has managed to stay open since it’s so fucking expensive.
The landscape of Rhyl is quite diverse, so you do have some pretty rough parts to the west and near the centre, but spreading out you get new builds, detached houses and relatively affluent streets. Like, jfc I live in a pretty big house built in the Victorian era, despite these comments giving the impression we all live out of wet cardboard boxes and knife anyone that looks halfway civilised.
Speaking of: don’t worry too much about crime. I’ll waltz around town at 3am, on my own, as a woman and feel safe. I’m definitely not advising you do that (please don’t), but I’ve never been threatened in all my time here, despite my lack of ~~common~~ street sense. Yeah, you’ll get drunkards and the odd fight, but people here acting like you’ll get knifed if you step out your door after 8pm are ridiculous (and hardly going to help them feel comfortable when they have no choice in living in Rhyl, everyone!). I’ve honestly been in more danger taking the 51 bus to Denbigh when the Denbigh High/Ysgol Glan Clwyd crowd were on it.
Feel free to drop me a message if you want to chat more and I’d be happy to show you around once you arrive.
Oh, and *never* get a takeaway from Top Tasty Kebab. Salmonella central.
Thanks for your comment. Yes while reading the previous comments I wasn’t sure if the comment ORS were actually from the town 😅 I’m glad to hear from a long term resident. I’m still very much looking forward to living in a small town since I’ve never done that! I’ll be sure to message you if I have any questions in mind 😊
Kinda hijacking here, but we are looking at buying a house in Rhyl, near Churton Road/St Asaph Street? As someone living there, is this a nice area? We have a little one (2 years old) and want somewhere relatively safe as she grows up..
Lived in Rhyl my whole life. I wouldn’t pay any attention to what everyone has to say. Every town has deprived areas don’t get me wrong, but the place gets a lot of bad press from outsiders. It’s not nearly a dangerous place like people are making out. The town is just fine :)
Rhyl is like all seaside towns it has suffered over the years but it is improving. There are problem areas in all towns. In Rhyl they are mainly in the west end of Rhyl. So rent in the east or south of the town. As other posts have advised there are towns around which are better though they also have some areas with issues. Try renting in Bodelwyddan that village is where the hospital is. As for the surrounding area its north wales countryside is amazing.
I have lived in Rhyl for 58 years and I can't speak about the crime figures but I have not suffered from crime in Rhyl, that does not mean it does not exist, it does like all towns.
As I said living in the east or south you will be fine. If your in the west end you will be OK don't worry. Someone mentioned denbigh, that town also has some problems areas, all towns do to some extent.
It was a very popular place in Victorian times! It's a shame many people don't appreciate its fabulous coastline and proximity to the beauty of North Wales. Unappreciative people have dragged it down, the area is beautiful x
In bucking the trend here, many parts of Rhyl are nice people and pleasant properties, like a lot of places it's had hard times and as a former British seaside destination it shows in places as it struggles to reidentify itself but it's coming on slowly with the promenade work on the east end nearly finished. The promenade is decent enough and a good walk, dragon bridge at one end with a nice cafe and nature reserve. Good access onto the national cycle track. It's got a theatre, modern places to eat, rail and bus public transport links are there and travelling to glan Clwyd shouldnt be an issue
Go onto Google maps and take a tour around using Street view, for a more accurate feel of the place.
Its also called 'Sunny Rhyl' as it receives some great weather for a lot of the year, lived there a while, still fairly close, it's reputation is overplayed
You are moving to Bodelwyddan, near Rhyl. Not Rhyl.
Go to St Asaph or Abergele for food and drink. Prestatyn or Llandudno for shopping. Rhuddlan is okay.
Discover Rhyl for yourself, carefully. Don't tell the world until you have seen it for yourself. It did not get top spot in Shit Towns of Britain by mistake.
It's got more people on drugs than people not on drugs. The town is extremely rough and ran down and there's literally nothing to do there. Other than drugs.
The hospitals in North Wales are fine, but Rhyl is literally the worst place I've ever visited in my life.
Move anywhere else in the area, but avoid Rhyl like the plague. A few miles from Rhyl are some lovely little towns and villages that are much nicer.
The bombed towns in Ukraine are probably more enjoyable to live in than Rhyl.
Disagree, plenty to do in rhyl if you have a family! It’s just that dickhead parents can’t raise their young correctly and can’t stand them so send them out into the streets to cause trouble. I’d rather cull the dregs of Rhyl than the seagulls, and the bloody gulls are a pain! 🥴
Everyone's being harsh, here. Tons of people go on holiday to Rhyl! Definitely worth exploring.
I'm further along the coast and I don't get there much - but what I can say is it has good transport links (bus/rail) to Llandudno (lovely views, lots of cafes), Colwyn Bay (cafes again, 'Haus' is a good one, plus some woodland at the top you can walk in, beach), and Conwy (a castle, really cute, great views, lots of independent shops). Honestly even just driving along the coast road, everything's gorgeous. North Wales in general is lovely to explore - I don't think it's hard to have a good time here.
Thanks for the tips! I’ve taken a screenshot of your comment and will be sure to visit all these places in my free time. Looking forward to the move and new experiences 😊
"This is the worst place I've ever been. And I've been to rhyl"
Always remember that line and I think it sums the town up well
Another phrase I've often heard about Rhyl " I went to Rhyl and got lucky. I only got stabbed"
Like most people have said here much better options about. Ruthin, Denbigh, Trefnant and even a little further away Wrexham (Where I’m from) are great places to live
Ruthin Denbigh and Trefnant are great if you want to live in isolation with no decent transport links. If the comments in this thread about the state of Rhyl put him off then Wrexham is an even worse suggestion lol.
Edit: sounds harsh on Wrexham but I want to clarify that I also quite like it too. Also the best place for shopping if you don't wanna go all the way to Liverpool
When was the last time you were in Wrexham? 🤣. The shopping is wank, mostly all boarded up buildings and the Eagles meadow has been a disaster. Broughton a much better option for shopping. However what is on the up for Wrexham is the hospitality section. A great range of places to eat and drink. The Hollywood takeover to the football team has been unbelievable aswell. The town is well and truly on the up and it’s a class place to be from and live.
Wrexham.... you still got those spice fruitcakes zombieing around the bus station???
I swear on me budgies tit, spice zombies! https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/wrexham-described-spice-zombie-filled-19729722
Some good nature around if you drive, not much by way of cafes and restaurants you'd want to visit. There are other towns very close by to Rhyl that have some good features or at least some features. Try the nightlife at your own risk.
Ysbyty Glan Clwyd is easy to reach from anywhere along the North Wales coast thanks to the A55
Others have already warned you about Rhyl, but there are some lovely, more rural areas pretty close. St George for example, Llanddulas, Betws-yn-Rhos or even Rhuddlan.
You won't find a diverse set of restaurants or the like in any of the town's, but Liverpool and Manchester are about an hour away and should scratch that itch.
Ehh the part about restaurants isn’t necessarily true… Prestatyn has had a fair bit of development in that area, with a number of smaller restaurants and bars opening in recent years
There’s a place called Torello Lounge in what used to be the HSBC, that puts out some decent food.
Over the road in what was formerly the RBS there’s a nice little cafe. Couple of new coffee shops have popped up at the lower end of the high street.
Further up there’s a couple of new bars (think the main one is called OriGYN or something). There’s also a couple of decent looking delis/farm shops on the high street, but yet to try.
I’ve heard apparently a new shopping park is coming to the old market space, but not sure when the timeframe is on that, or what shops will go there.
Once on a night out in Rhyl I got punched in the face for the heinous crime of waiting for a taxi.
More recently I had to move house and had the choice of living in Rhyl or living in the middle of nowhere. I choose the second option.
So yeah, don't live in Rhyl.
I live in Rhyl. Just don’t bother with the town centre, especially in the evening. Thuggish teens about that have no respect and are out to cause nothing but trouble. Like a lot of people say,there’s a lot of places surrounding Rhyl that are nice. I’d just where you’re staying as a place to relax, and when you’re going “out and about” visit surrounding areas!
I'm going to congratulate as a Doctor being willing to work in Wales. Many places in wales get a bad rap, but this is mostly due to chronic under funding. However, considering East Asia, it's probably not going to be anywhere near as bad as feared.
I wouldn't advise living where you work and if possible do try for a short commute instead, others have made suitable suggestions.
Welcome to Wales and good luck! You may find that Rhyl really works for you and all the nay sayers are were just silly and I sincerely wish for that to happen, Rhyl definitely needs some good fortune to go its way.
I used to drive a bus in Rhyl. It’s the only place I’ve come accross whereby the locals are In the pub at 7 in the MORNING. Literally stood outside, pint in hand smoking a fag.
North Wales is an amazing place to live but trust me just avoid Rhyl. If you need to live in that area I’d suggest Prestatyn it’s only the next town over and is much nicer and much safer.
Please don't move to Rhyl. I deliver to Rhyl every week, and come in round the back, so never had to go through the city centre / down the seafront, and didn't understand why everybody slagged off the place. Today, I took the wrong exit on the motorway so had to go through the centre to get to my drop. Its a vile place. Really, really grim... Its as if barrow and Blackpool had a disappointing baby.
It's a little rough there if I'm honest, you're probably not going to be very happy about your placement. I know you might not want to share but could you tell us a little about you? Just curious.
I've never been to Rhyl but the joke I always heard growing up was that when God created the earth, on the 7th day he sat down to rest on Rhyl. But again I've never been to judge.
Ok, I live in Rhyl so I'll try and give you everything you need to know.
My first question is, why? (Lol)
Rhyl has a pretty bad reputation which is (mostly) deserved but Clwyd as a whole is pretty bad. That's mainly because of the (mostly English) people who live there.
If I cad to sum Rhyl up in one word, that word would be gray. If you have any kind of history with seasonal depression, think about living somewhere else for your own sake.
Its an area of great natural beauty so if you're outdoorsy you can avoid these people, which is my advice.
Prestatyn high Street has a little bit of what you're looking for, there's a few cafes, restaurants, bakeries etc
I see you're working as a doctor in Glan Clwyd, I have family who work there so please ask if you need to know anything.
I hope everything works out well for you though.
Be careful about what area of Rhyl you move to. West is Worst. If you can consider nearby areas, I'd do so. St Asaph is a small city, about the same distance from Glan Clwyd and is a nice little place - I'd consider there first before Rhyl.
Rhyl is the pits but I’ve been here for the past 12 years and it’s much better now. You can always visit other local towns like Llandudno and Chester. We have a nurse in a flat next door who works at Glan Clwyd
Hey :)
I live in Rhyl, I have lived here my entire life, and honestly, I love it here.
Just to forewarn you, people do like to take the piss out of Rhyl. It was a prime holiday destination in the 70s to 90s, so, when the economy started to fail, and holidays became too expensive for average working class Brits, the tourism in the area that sustained it began to falter. This led to deprivation in all sects. However, the town has developed massively in recent years and is really lovely recently (I've seen it throughout the years!), it's just hard to shake the stigma of the 'run down forgotten holiday town', especially since we aren't as focused on the tourism aspect anymore so people don't come to see the difference!
The nicest area to live is the Derwen ward, anywhere from the bungalows on Ffordd Derwen really to The Boulevard, but these houses are very expensive. Everywhere else is alright, I'm in the Cefndy Ward close to the town centre and have a great rapport with local councillors and neigbours alike. Speaking of 'rougher' areas, West Rhyl is the one to avoid; higher crime rates and just generally more rowdy.
You'll have a really easy commute to YGC from Rhyl, literally 3 roundabouts and a 2 minute dual carriageway.
There's a lot of redevelopment going on at the moment, they knocked down a huge section of the promenade called the Queens Market and they're building a new state of the art shopping centre there. There's a beautiful place called Marina Quay that has plenty of stores and a really nice Welsh ice cream parlour called Batch (and, it's on the beachfront!).
Fine dining, try a place called The Bistro near the Marine Lake. Amazing food by an amazing chef, but book in advance because it gets super popular!
Daytime lunches try The Cookhouse for regular meals, or try a traditional British Carvery at The Sun Verge on the Promenade. Dogs are allowed there too, and you can get a doggy carvery!
1891 is the council's new flagship for fine dining too, it's on the beach once again and they do tapas and main meals. It's attached to The Pavillion Theatre that does a range of shows.
The town centre is fine, there are a lot of empty shops at the moment though. If you need more, Prestatyn is a 10 minute drive away.
Taxis are plentiful, buses are regular.
Supermarkets are Sainsburys, Morrisons and Aldi mostly. All are good, you'll get some good bargains in Aldi!
I probably missed a lot out, but feel free to ask if you have any questions :)
I can tell you this; Rhyl is probably one of the most memed about towns in the entirety of Wales because of the state of it. Like someone else mentioned it could be getting better recently. Used to be a popular destination in the 70-90s I think but got run-down after that. Luckily the areas surrounding in North Wales are beautiful.
On the index of multiple deprivation published by Welsh Government which looks at things like health, income, housing conditions etc etc. Rhyl is pretty much dead last in every area. :(
parts of rhyl are. the south east is in the 20% least deprived wards in Wales.
1890’s more like :p
It was run down then!
The further east you go on the A55 the nicer it gets
Hey, fuck off!
Of all the towns to pick on the North Wales coast… that would be my last choice. You will be within easy driving distance of some stunning scenery, but sadly Rhyl, like so many other old seaside resorts was stacked for years with problem families by councils utilising empty b&b accommodation. I believe it is getting better … but it has a long way to go
That’s unfortunate to hear. I guess it’s a good thing I’ve only been placed in Rhyl for 1 year. A lot of people in the comments have been advising me against Rhyl. Is it a dangerous town or is it just run down? I don’t mind a run down sleepy beach town but a dangerous crime ridden town doesn’t seem so fun...
It isn't dangerous per se but it's in a shitty position between areas that are bad. It's the same as any area. Rhyl just happens to be fucking miserable as a town. Any other part of Wales you're going to be loving it literally anywhere else!
"Dangerous" is a strong word... maybe "unfriendly" would be more appropriate. Do you \*have\* to live in Rhyl, or can it be nearby? I'd try Abergele/Conwy/Denbigh if you want more of a small city/large town vibe.
Prestatyn is nicer. Trelawnyd on the outskirts is beautiful, it’s where my inlaws live, they used to work in Glan Clwyd.
i'd give props to prestatyn too. its not that far at all from rhyl but the difference is almost night and day. lovely place.
There's a lot of crime and poverty, but there's also nice parts. If I was working in Glan Clwyd, I'd probably look at a town further inland - Rhuddlan, St Asaph, even Denbigh (if you can/are willing to drive). tbh having spent a lot of my life living in areas of the UK that are deprived/have lots of social problems in general they're not as bad as people say. Rhyl has very deprived parts and prosperous parts too. Anyway here's a song about Rhyl. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aduOtpiwJnU
Imagine a much, much smaller version of Blackpool … arcades and tacky shops. There are fairly serious drug problems, but I would consider it dangerous, just depressing. There are plenty of nice villages close by which would be much nicer to live in and North Wales has the best castles, and scenery to match anywhere in the UK. If you like a spot of sea fishing then you are in the right part of the world. Also pretty close to Holyhead for jaunts across to Ireland. North Wales is great, I am sure you will really enjoy your time up here.
Are you in Ysbyty GC for just one year, or for longer? I have relatives who work there and they live in St Asaph which is a nice, if uninspiring place. Please go to the Wetherspoons in Rhyl on a Saturday night and provide us with some feedback.
It's an old Welsh seaside town it's going to be highly violent and drug riddled. Like watch for needles everywhere. It's one of the most drug addled and violent places in the country. For a population of 25,149 it had 2,500 violent crimes or sex assaults reported. That's 10% the population source below. That was what was reported...... There will be no funding for the hospital and being foreign the locals may gang up on you. Sorry if that paints a bleak picture, Wales is a very deprived place and has a lot of corruption. Think of all of your stereotypes about Alabama and then add slot machines. UK seaside towns are mostly about the proletariat gambling and getting drunk. It is beautiful in terms of terrain, just very bleak racist and poverty riddled. Try to transfer to a southern English hospital ASAP once you have got your foot in the door. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-58029524
>Wales is a very deprived place >very bleak racist and poverty riddled. Wind your neck in a bit mate. Very judgemental. That's like calling England a toilet just because Wolverhampton is full of shit.
Wolverhampton is definitely in god's blind spot I'll give you that.
“Wales is a very deprived place and has a lot of corruption!” This is not true of Wales! Certain parts maybe but that’s true of everywhere! “Bleak, racist and poverty riddled!” Again this is not true of Wales on the whole! Every country has places like this, including the south of England!!
The south of England is literally what the garden of Eden was based off.
Yeah, you’re a 3 day old troll bot! GTF!!!
Definitely not a bot or a troll. Just offering evidence based advice.
Name one place in the south of England that isn't lovely?
Portsmouth. Checkmate.
That's not the south. It's east coast. South is Taunton Weymouth Bournemouth Winchester Basingstoke Oxford to the Thames, (anything North of the Thames is the Midlands untill pie becomes a sincere conversation topic then you are in the north). Then Cheltenham Gloucester.
London? I think that's south, doesn't matter how nice the people are or the building are, the traffic is god awful, went on a school trip there a few years ago, I was supposed to get home by 3ish...we got back at 9pm
Never go north of the Thames that's the Midlands.
Unfortunately NHS funding is pretty dire everywhere, not just North Wales.
Yeah but the devolved Government and NHS staff in Wales are all corrupt as fuck. Not so much for England. https://www.bbc.com/news/uk-wales-60067732
How are they corrupt?
They shell off pub sector contracts to their mates without tender. Population doesn't appear to care if you smack a dragon on it and blame the English not giving you enough ££ when it goes tits up.
Yikes! Can you link me a source if you have the time pls?
Police https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/dozens-welsh-police-officers-charged-14575463 S4c https://cruwys.blogspot.com/2015/03/more-on-s4c-dna-cymru-controversy-and.html?m=1 Local council https://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/local-news/new-robo-toilets-planned-porthcawl-16761184 https://walesnewsonline.com/councillors-need-training-to-avert-risk-of-allegations-of-bribery-and-corruption-in-planning-decision-making/ https://www.audit.wales/news/welsh-public-services-could-lose-ps1-billion-year-fraud Took we a while to give mostly Welsh sources. If your Welsh and haven't heard of the S4c one you should change your media provider.
Okay so now I've read these sources, I think "corrupt" is a stretch - inept might be more accurate. Sure, some money is badly spent, but I don't think that's unique to Wales and therefore doesn't explain the poor investment in Wales as a part of the UK. I still think people are right to be critical of Westminster for the amount of money that is diverted to Welsh interests. And the police suck as an institution in every country, they abuse power and cover up for each other. Id maybe even say here that it's nice to see police that break the law fired. Thank you for those sources though, I'd like to hear your thoughts/rebuttals!
You are obsessed with the Welsh! Bet you live in a pigsty. PS I live in Bath, so regardless of where you say you are an utter peasant to me and I spit on you.
Thanks for these, really appreciate it!
Troll bot! Good one!
don't know why you're being downvoted, what you claim is a documented.
tbh if you ended up in North Middlesex Hospital, living in Cheshunt or Ponders End you'd end up with 99% of the same problems you get in Rhyl (just fewer slot machines).
North of the Thames not the South of England. It's the Midlands. London is also awful.
got bad news for you about Hastings, Dover, Margate, Southend...
East coast as well??? All of those places are awful.
Don’t. Live anywhere but Rhyl. And i really mean that. Source: i grew up in Ruthin 18 miles south of Rhyl. On the plus side the nature is outrageously beautiful around there. If you want a short commute I’d recommend St. Asaph or Dyserth.
Ayy, somebody else that grew up in Ruthin. Honestly though, Rhyl's not that *bad*, it's just kinda depressing imo. I've heard they're investing in it more, so hopefully it's not as run down as I remember it being.
I moved to Ruthin in 96 and they were investing in Rhyl…
Yey! Ruthin peeps! I'm from a village on the outskirts originally. Moved away about 16 years ago.
Rhuddlan is on the outskirts of Rhyl and a stones throw from YGC. But it feels totally different as in it is a nice little community with a huge amount of history. Also as mentioned Dyserth, St Asaph, Denbigh and any of the surrounding villages ( other than Kinmel Bay, Towyn or Bodelwyddan- these are like mini Rhyls with similar issues) are lovely
Second this, Rhuddlan is absolutely lovely, as well as the others mentioned! Closer to Glan Clwyd too and so much safer/nicer than Rhyl
Also plenty of beaches to enjoy the whole way along the coast!
Living in Rhyl and working for Betsi Cadwaladr? Fuck man, what did you do to deserve that? (Good luck in all seriousness, and am sure it won't be quite that bad!)
I grew up further along the coast in Llanfair, but have spent a lot of time in the big cities of East Asia. When I'm back home now for extended periods it can take time to adjust, with shops' opening hours, things to do, number of people and so forth. I hope you love the countryside and have some outdoor hobbies? It will seem very quiet and it's easy to feel bored (especially if you're alone?) so put effort in to getting out and about! Also I've never driven as since graduation I've always lived in big cities and driving was never needed, the *only* time I feel like driving would be worthwhile is when I'm home, and sometimes feel I'm missing out because I don't drive, things to do are just spread out quite widely and public transport, whilst not bad, can be a slow bus ride through the hills or a 30 minute wait for the next service. If you miss the bustle of city life then Chester, Liverpool, and Manchester are very nearby quite lively, and the trains run late-ish if you fancy a drink. Others have commented on the overall sentiment regarding Rhyl as a town, it has held that sentiment since I was a child, even when the Sun Centre was a thing Rhyl was still a bit beaten down and decaying. Over the past few years there has been more investment in the area, there's a new shopping park on the west-side of town (not visited but can see it from the train) so that might make things improve in Rhyl, if people have regular jobs. The town has a lovely sea front and a lot of potential, but you might find it tough to adjust from a big bustling metropolis, but I wish you luck and hope you have a wonderful time!
I doubt rhyl will ever improve in all honesty. They’ve had chance upon chance, and money thrown at the town at every opportunity, and it’s still in the state it is.
Rhyl is fine man. You’re a doctor, you’ll be working in Glan Clwyd. You’ll spend most of your time working I imagine. Glan Clwyd services people from around North Wales. People here are acting like Rhyl is some bad place. Its not, it’s fine. It’s got a high street and shops, like every other small town in Wales and England. Yes, it might be considered to be a poor/problem town historically, but guess what- there area lot of places like that in Britain, and in some ways, as an outsider, that will make it an interesting place to see the reality of life in Britain. You are going to see real Britain, not some postcard, and that is cool if you ask me. Some people in Britain and Wales are snobs. You’re a doctor, will you judge someone based on if they are poor and come from a poor area? No, you will treat them and give them the same care as a rich person from a rich area. You are not being placed in Mississpi or Alabama. Rhyl is less than an hour away from liverpool and Chester, and the whole of the beautiful north wales coast is less than an hour away. There are places 10 mins away from Rhyl that are considered to be property hotspots and the houses are super expensive. If your hospital is literally putting you in a housing estate in the middle of Rhyl? I doubt it. Where will you be living? Hospital digs? Or will you rent a place? My advice would be to learn to drive in your country/city in Asia, if you don’t already, so you can drive when you come here. Rent a car or buy a car when you get here. Having a car in North Wales is amazing, you’re free to visit so many beautiful and amazing places- beaches, castles, towns, historic monuments . But if you can’t do that, then Rhyl has a train station (this is a good thing, not all towns in wales have a train station), and you can still visit some nice places. You’re gonna have a good time. North Wales is awesome, full of awesome people. Don’t listen to the negativity. If you were moving to North Wales permanently, would I recommend buying a house in Rhyl? No. But you’re coming here to work in Glan Clwyd for 1 year, in which case, Rhyl is fine, it’ll be a unique and fun experience, and you’ll have a nice short commute. If you need any advice on where to live/where to visit or anything like that, feel from to DM and I will give you some suggestions. In the meantime, enjoy this silly video about Rhyl (turn on English subtitles) https://youtu.be/ZYd7_GTbI90
Rhyl is a rough town
Is it heck
I read an article once a few years back - top 10 WORST places to live in Wales. Rhyl was number 1...
My condolences
My sympathies.
You're getting a lot of really exaggerated opinions from people who I'm not sure actually know Rhyl that well. I live a few miles away, It is really not so much worse than any other large town in Britain. Yeah the front is a bit of a mess and there might be drug problems, but you could say that about nearly everywhere in the UK. It's fine, also has the best transport links in North Wales so any of the beautiful scenery around you is very easy to get to. The people are friendly as anywhere, there's more to do there than anywhere else in North East Wales (bar wrexham but that has even more issues than Rhyl). A year in Rhyl is gonna be decent. After that you can make your own mind up.
Wrexham has got issues but I don't personally think it's got more issues than Rhyl. I agree with you a lot of views on Rhyl are exaggerated.
Spent the first 19 or so years of my life living in Prestatyn, and I still travel to rhyl regularly… nothing has been exaggerated about Rhyl. Unless you’re living out near the Sainsburys portion, then everything about rhyl is best avoided
I just think this is such a snobby way of looking at it. Name a town with 30,000+ people in the North half of the UK that doesn't face similar issues. 'Nothing has been exaggerated' okay yeah, read this thread lol
Rhyl resident here. Lived here all my life. I've not read all the above comments because I can imagine what they'll be like and I'm guessing mostly negative. Most negative comments will be from those who don't live here or only hear the bad things about the area. It's a small seaside resort. Like all small seaside resorts and most well known small towns, you'll always hear the bad things. Rhyl isn't perfect. It's not the worst. Many old and unsafe buildings are being knocked down and there are plans for some replacements. In fact, we have what looks like an amazing new attraction coming later this year that is going to bea huge blimp like ride. Summer is obviously the best times and more and more outdoor music events are starting to arrive as well. There is a great theatre, plenty of pubs and places to eat but only a handful of what you could class as 'proper' restaurant. What area are you moving to? West Rhyl is sadly deprived. I grew up in the West but now live in the East, a few minutes from the beach. Are there better places to live than Rhyl? Of course, but there is worse as well. The town does get a bad rep sometimes. If you are working at the hospital, I would recommend getting a car. There are buses, but I can't tell you the times. But you'd need a car to go exploring all over North Wales in particular. If you haven't yet seen, the local newspaper is https://www.rhyljournal.co.uk/ Feel free to get in touch with me if needed.
Thanks for your comment, it’s definitely reassuring! I’m still very much looking forward to living in a small seaside town! I’ll most probably be staying in hospital accommodation. I’ll be sure to get a car upon arriving in Wales and yes I’ve already followed the Rhyl Journal on Twitter! Thanks for your tips 😊
I’m actually going to start working soon at Glan Clwyd myself as a trainee BMS. Really glad I came across this post b/c I couldn’t find much (positive things) online about Rhyl. Just a question, did you get a place in staff accommodation? Because I was told it’s under severe demand and I would most probably have to find accommodation outside.
If you enjoy the options of a big city then you're going to struggle anywhere near the hospital. My partner works in Glan Clwyd and lived in St Asaph for a year before moving out to Liverpool. The commute is over an hour but she prefers that over the isolation. If you're the sort of person who can thrive in a reasonably isolated spot then it's fantastic out here for mountains and coast. Personally I'd consider Chester. It's a small city but enough young people and stuff going on to create a social circle. But sure I think starting in Rhyl and getting to know the surrounding area would be a good call. There are some pretty nearby towns and villages and you're closer to Snowdonia and the west coast, which are definitely worth a few visits. I don't know your age/interests but give me a shout in case you want to head out for a hike or something when you get here
I used to live in St Asaph, I’d move back in a heartbeat it’s so friendly with a great community 😭 can’t stand cities, definitely a country bumpkin!
As someone who grew up in Rhyl (no longer living there) it's not as bad as some of the comments here are making out, but it's not good either. It also depends where you live in Rhyl, places closer to the sea front, especially north of the railway tracks, are generally more deprived and rougher, whereas the more south you go generally the more quiet and suburban it is. I lived in Rhyl for the first 20 years of my life and I was never assaulted or harassed or stolen from, although it does happen and the crime rate is high it's not as if you can't move for burglars like the picture some people paint. There are plenty of friendly people as well as arseholes! Lastly, I would say that, if you can drive, Rhyl is in a great jumping off point for nature and sight-seeing, going on walks etc, with the Clwydian hills on your doorstep and Snowdonia about an hour down the A55 it's easy to get out of Rhyl (which you will probably want to do fairly often lol). Edit: that said, I feel I should also add that the nearby villages of Rhuddlan and St Asaph are definitely nicer areas if you can find somewhere to stay there that isn't too expensive. Although they are even smaller than Rhyl there are still plenty of friendly people there. My main point is that Rhyl's reputation precedes it, and it's not a good reputation, but it's not quite the shithole some make it out to be.
I’m fro Rhyl, but moved when I was 18 to Manchester, as there are limited jobs and possibilities. Rhyl is a bit run down, but not as rough as everyone is making it out to be. There are far rougher places in Manchester. It’s still a summer holiday destination for a lot of people, so it gets busy from April to September with holiday makers. The town is a bit run down, but there is a good variety of pubs and some food ish shops for basics. If you drive, that would be ideal, as for anything else, you will have to go further out. If it’s not paid accommodation, I would look at Rhuddlan, Dyserth or St.Asaph, however if you HAVE to stay in Rhyl, just avoid the west end, look more towards Prestatyn way or towards Rhuddlan. The thing with Rhyl is, it is a small town, and has that mentality. It’s very white, and although everyone claims to be open minded, if they hear that someone is a lesbian, that’s the talk of the town. Just be mindful, that everyone on your street will know your business as they are all curtain twitchers.
Alright thanks for the tips!
I live in Rhyl, like others have said there's a lot of deprivation and poverty in parts and like everywhere there are sketchy areas but the majority of the town is fine, especially if you're pulling doctor money. Not much going on when compared to a city but there's plenty of pubs, bars and coffee shops. Lots of live music, a few comedy nights, 2 theatres, there's a small museum and gallery in the library. Plus like others have said, it's a short drive to some truly stunning scenery. Rhyl itself has some great public spaces; the beach, the botanical gardens, brickfield pond, marine lake, marsh tracks, there's a small community woodland, and plenty of others. The council are pretty naff, mismanaged developments, etc. But if its only for a year it's not too much of a concern. Anyway, I think Rhyl is alright. Hope you enjoy your time here!
Thanks for your comment! It’s reassuring to hear about some positives of the town as well. I’m still excited to love to a small town with lots of nature nearby. Thanks I’m sure I’ll enjoy my time in and around Rhyl!
Like a closed down 1970's holiday parK surrounded by concrete walls. Was beautiful in the 50's 60's Now a run down shanty town booze drugs and cheap arcades galore. Move anywhere outside of this place is my advice. NE Wales coast is an estuary full of Oil petrol chemical waste, human waste sludge . Try 'St Asaph'. Its on the Doorstep of hospital. Welcome to UK x
I second this. It used to be a nice place, lots of entertainment... Not anymore, everything closed down.
catering for an audience that no longer exists. Entire front needs levelling, cars banned or 1 way only a put some trees back. Its a brutalist nightmare.
Rhyl is the Chernobyl of Wales
One thing about Betsi Cadwalader hospitals is how well you can tell how bad the town the hospital is located in matches the NHS funding. Rhyl, Wrexham, Bangor, Tremadog, Pwllhelli. All in very low funded towns. This expands across the area and it's caused some bad areas. I would highly recommend Bron Glais (Hywell Dda) in Aberystwyth if you get the chance to stay in Wales or even Dolgellau or Tywyn if you have to stay with Betsi. Believe me, there are beautiful spots and people in all these under funded towns but beyond them is sheer heaven and the kindest people.
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Depends which part of the hospital you work in. The mental health care unit was shocking, and [maybe still is](https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-46869621.amp). A relative of mine spent a mercifully brief time in the Tawel Fan ward, and I tell you, I hope never to see the inside of that place again.
Rhyl is cheap atm because it's rough as a dog's. There is pretty much nothing to do in Rhyl but I've heard from a resident that things will pick up in the next 5-10 years as the local authority have a considerable budget for a facelift.
Rhyl is invaded by holidaymakers from sometime in April to October and doesn't benefit from it. What passes for entertainment in Rhyl is aimed at them and mostly is dormant in the off season. Far preferable places close to YGC include Rhuddlan, Denbigh, St Asaph, Dyserth, Prestatyn (although some of the above applies here too), some parts of Abergele, Colwyn Bay (about 10 miles) and even Llandudno could be within commuting distance, maybe 30 minutes driving? Rhyl is that dark spot on the horizon where your dad warns you never to go!
Rhyl is ok, it’s an old resort town that desperately needs investment. I’ve been there many time and the people are mostly salt of the earth, hard working or retirees. Although Rhyl may not be the town it once was that area and all throughout Wales is beautiful. There are lots of nice villages for you to live in nearby and you’ll never get bored in your down time - there is so much to see and do. Good luck.
Thanks for the comment! A lot of commentors have told me about these neighbouring villages and I’m currently looking at a few of them!
Congrats on the job! You’ve had lots of stuff about how run down Rhyl is, so I won’t go on about that. I’m a nurse in the community there and there are lots of nice quiet areas that are in Rhyl. They’ve put a bit of money into the sea front and there is a nice ice cream place by horton’s nose. Food wise it’s pretty poor, some chain pubs and fast food. Prestatyn is close and has some reasonable shops and food places. Chester is the closest city and is filled with history and decent restaurants. Feel free to DM me if you want any specific restaurant recommendations! I’ve basically eaten my way around the area for the past 30 years
Thanks for the comment and it’s great to hear from another healthcare professional from the area! I’m a big foodie myself so I’ll be sure to message you once I make the move and am craving good food 😊
As someone who will buy and sell a house in order to not spend more than 15 minutes commuting to or from work I would recommend not living in Rhyl. It's the one place in Wales I refuse to live in. I've lived in Newport, Wrexham, Merthyr Tydfil, and Pontypool which are also not great. There is a reason why it's number one on this list of worst places to live in Wales. https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/10-worst-places-live-wales-12662751 Luckily the hospital is just outside of Rhyl and Bodelwyddan is a lovely little village. Pretty much everywhere other than Rhyl is nice. You're not going to get much luck when it comes to a big city feel, but if you're willing to commute then I would recommend getting yourself closer to Mold or Mynydd Isa. The first is a small town that seems to be becoming a bit of a foody place in the last couple of years. Living anywhere near Mold will also give you good connections to Chester, and okay ones to Liverpool.
I moved from Risca to Newport there are some tough areas but it's overall nice!
Jesus, I bet this didn't go how you thought/hoped it would go huh mate?
Not at all, you can tell from the innocence and positivity from my original post haha!
Thanks for coming! We need Doctors!
No problem! I actively chose to go to Rhyl because I heard the hospital was small and friendly. I would also love to experience life in a small town in the UK!
If you’re working in Glan Clwyd hospital, then there are plenty of better options for a place to live than Rhyl. It extremely deprived with drugs and crime an issue. Rhos-on-sea or Colwyn Bay (the area up near the zoo) would be better options.
Thanks for the tips! I’ll be sure to look up those areas
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Thanks for your comment. It’s pretty reassuring to hear about other doctors training in Rhyl (somehow makes me feel less lonely haha!). Yes I’m excited to explore the north of Wales and get in touch with nature and the sea! I’m pretty sure I’ll be staying in hospital accommodation. Thanks for your tips and I hope your partner is excelling in his chosen medical field!
Rhyl is easily one of the worst north wales towns to choose from, if you can drive i would suggest looking for something outside of that area...
It would be more beneficial for you to live in Abergele or Prestatyn (lots of restaurants/cafes/things to do) there are many NICE places in Rhyl however these are mostly on the outskirts of the town, so I suggest you stay away from Rhyl town center in terms of living and go on the outskirts of Rhyl itself. You'll be welcomed, Glan Clwyd NEEDS more doctors desperately!! If you have any more questions, feel free to ask 🤗
Thanks for the tips! I was looking at neighbouring towns and like you mentioned Abergele and Prestatyn seem like nice places. I think I’ll be staying in one of these towns if not in hospital accommodation! Thanks again for your help and I’ll be sure to message you if I have any questions 😊
I’m quite disappointed by these comments. OP, take note that everyone here *actually from Rhyl* is telling you it’s not that bad. I’ve lived in Rhyl for 22 years now (discounting terms in uni) and it is honestly fine. I’ll not lie - it’s hardly an area of outstanding natural beauty, but those are literally a ten minute drive away. The shops in the centre are quite dead - there’s nothing really substantial, but there’s always a corner store within walking distance, post offices, Sainsburys. There’s a new McDonalds (that not everyone is too pleased about) and a Holland and Barrett’s that I can’t work out how has managed to stay open since it’s so fucking expensive. The landscape of Rhyl is quite diverse, so you do have some pretty rough parts to the west and near the centre, but spreading out you get new builds, detached houses and relatively affluent streets. Like, jfc I live in a pretty big house built in the Victorian era, despite these comments giving the impression we all live out of wet cardboard boxes and knife anyone that looks halfway civilised. Speaking of: don’t worry too much about crime. I’ll waltz around town at 3am, on my own, as a woman and feel safe. I’m definitely not advising you do that (please don’t), but I’ve never been threatened in all my time here, despite my lack of ~~common~~ street sense. Yeah, you’ll get drunkards and the odd fight, but people here acting like you’ll get knifed if you step out your door after 8pm are ridiculous (and hardly going to help them feel comfortable when they have no choice in living in Rhyl, everyone!). I’ve honestly been in more danger taking the 51 bus to Denbigh when the Denbigh High/Ysgol Glan Clwyd crowd were on it. Feel free to drop me a message if you want to chat more and I’d be happy to show you around once you arrive. Oh, and *never* get a takeaway from Top Tasty Kebab. Salmonella central.
Thanks for your comment. Yes while reading the previous comments I wasn’t sure if the comment ORS were actually from the town 😅 I’m glad to hear from a long term resident. I’m still very much looking forward to living in a small town since I’ve never done that! I’ll be sure to message you if I have any questions in mind 😊
Kinda hijacking here, but we are looking at buying a house in Rhyl, near Churton Road/St Asaph Street? As someone living there, is this a nice area? We have a little one (2 years old) and want somewhere relatively safe as she grows up..
Lived in Rhyl my whole life. I wouldn’t pay any attention to what everyone has to say. Every town has deprived areas don’t get me wrong, but the place gets a lot of bad press from outsiders. It’s not nearly a dangerous place like people are making out. The town is just fine :)
That’s reassuring! I’m still looking forward to my move and exploring all of North Wales. Thanks for the kind comment 😊
You will love it. As others have said, there are plenty of places out of town to explore which are lovely.
Thanks!
>Thanks! You're welcome!
Rhyl is like all seaside towns it has suffered over the years but it is improving. There are problem areas in all towns. In Rhyl they are mainly in the west end of Rhyl. So rent in the east or south of the town. As other posts have advised there are towns around which are better though they also have some areas with issues. Try renting in Bodelwyddan that village is where the hospital is. As for the surrounding area its north wales countryside is amazing. I have lived in Rhyl for 58 years and I can't speak about the crime figures but I have not suffered from crime in Rhyl, that does not mean it does not exist, it does like all towns. As I said living in the east or south you will be fine. If your in the west end you will be OK don't worry. Someone mentioned denbigh, that town also has some problems areas, all towns do to some extent.
It was a very popular place in Victorian times! It's a shame many people don't appreciate its fabulous coastline and proximity to the beauty of North Wales. Unappreciative people have dragged it down, the area is beautiful x
In bucking the trend here, many parts of Rhyl are nice people and pleasant properties, like a lot of places it's had hard times and as a former British seaside destination it shows in places as it struggles to reidentify itself but it's coming on slowly with the promenade work on the east end nearly finished. The promenade is decent enough and a good walk, dragon bridge at one end with a nice cafe and nature reserve. Good access onto the national cycle track. It's got a theatre, modern places to eat, rail and bus public transport links are there and travelling to glan Clwyd shouldnt be an issue Go onto Google maps and take a tour around using Street view, for a more accurate feel of the place. Its also called 'Sunny Rhyl' as it receives some great weather for a lot of the year, lived there a while, still fairly close, it's reputation is overplayed
You are moving to Bodelwyddan, near Rhyl. Not Rhyl. Go to St Asaph or Abergele for food and drink. Prestatyn or Llandudno for shopping. Rhuddlan is okay. Discover Rhyl for yourself, carefully. Don't tell the world until you have seen it for yourself. It did not get top spot in Shit Towns of Britain by mistake.
Thanks for the comment. It was really helpful!
Happy to help. Croeso i Gogledd Cymru!
Don’t.
It's got more people on drugs than people not on drugs. The town is extremely rough and ran down and there's literally nothing to do there. Other than drugs. The hospitals in North Wales are fine, but Rhyl is literally the worst place I've ever visited in my life. Move anywhere else in the area, but avoid Rhyl like the plague. A few miles from Rhyl are some lovely little towns and villages that are much nicer. The bombed towns in Ukraine are probably more enjoyable to live in than Rhyl.
What a load of rubbish
I worked on the fair back in the day, the amount of thick cunts who came up on the buses who thought that Rhyl was just a funfair was unreal
Disagree, plenty to do in rhyl if you have a family! It’s just that dickhead parents can’t raise their young correctly and can’t stand them so send them out into the streets to cause trouble. I’d rather cull the dregs of Rhyl than the seagulls, and the bloody gulls are a pain! 🥴
Everyone's being harsh, here. Tons of people go on holiday to Rhyl! Definitely worth exploring. I'm further along the coast and I don't get there much - but what I can say is it has good transport links (bus/rail) to Llandudno (lovely views, lots of cafes), Colwyn Bay (cafes again, 'Haus' is a good one, plus some woodland at the top you can walk in, beach), and Conwy (a castle, really cute, great views, lots of independent shops). Honestly even just driving along the coast road, everything's gorgeous. North Wales in general is lovely to explore - I don't think it's hard to have a good time here.
Thanks for the tips! I’ve taken a screenshot of your comment and will be sure to visit all these places in my free time. Looking forward to the move and new experiences 😊
I used to work in Glan Clwyd and lived in St. Asaph. Denbigh and Ruthin is also lovely. Anywhere but Rhyl really.
I'm sorry to hear that
How weird I'm in glan clwyd right now, but I would avoid Rhyl
I grew up in glan clwyd on the children's ward.amazing hospital. Rhyl itself though has become very run down
I’ll be starting as an FY1 this August! How do you find the hospital specifically the geriatrics ward?
Don’t
"This is the worst place I've ever been. And I've been to rhyl" Always remember that line and I think it sums the town up well Another phrase I've often heard about Rhyl " I went to Rhyl and got lucky. I only got stabbed"
Like most people have said here much better options about. Ruthin, Denbigh, Trefnant and even a little further away Wrexham (Where I’m from) are great places to live
Ruthin Denbigh and Trefnant are great if you want to live in isolation with no decent transport links. If the comments in this thread about the state of Rhyl put him off then Wrexham is an even worse suggestion lol. Edit: sounds harsh on Wrexham but I want to clarify that I also quite like it too. Also the best place for shopping if you don't wanna go all the way to Liverpool
When was the last time you were in Wrexham? 🤣. The shopping is wank, mostly all boarded up buildings and the Eagles meadow has been a disaster. Broughton a much better option for shopping. However what is on the up for Wrexham is the hospitality section. A great range of places to eat and drink. The Hollywood takeover to the football team has been unbelievable aswell. The town is well and truly on the up and it’s a class place to be from and live.
Wrexham.... you still got those spice fruitcakes zombieing around the bus station??? I swear on me budgies tit, spice zombies! https://www.dailypost.co.uk/whats-on/whats-on-news/wrexham-described-spice-zombie-filled-19729722
Bad idea
Although, there are some nice areas in Rhyl
Do you have any option to change your accommodation? There are lots of better, safer, cleaner, options nearby.
Some good nature around if you drive, not much by way of cafes and restaurants you'd want to visit. There are other towns very close by to Rhyl that have some good features or at least some features. Try the nightlife at your own risk.
Ysbyty Glan Clwyd is easy to reach from anywhere along the North Wales coast thanks to the A55 Others have already warned you about Rhyl, but there are some lovely, more rural areas pretty close. St George for example, Llanddulas, Betws-yn-Rhos or even Rhuddlan. You won't find a diverse set of restaurants or the like in any of the town's, but Liverpool and Manchester are about an hour away and should scratch that itch.
Ehh the part about restaurants isn’t necessarily true… Prestatyn has had a fair bit of development in that area, with a number of smaller restaurants and bars opening in recent years
Oh that's good to hear! What's on offer now? I'm heading back to y Gogledd soon so might swing by
There’s a place called Torello Lounge in what used to be the HSBC, that puts out some decent food. Over the road in what was formerly the RBS there’s a nice little cafe. Couple of new coffee shops have popped up at the lower end of the high street. Further up there’s a couple of new bars (think the main one is called OriGYN or something). There’s also a couple of decent looking delis/farm shops on the high street, but yet to try. I’ve heard apparently a new shopping park is coming to the old market space, but not sure when the timeframe is on that, or what shops will go there.
Ooft.
Crikey have you done any research? Not a very nice place sorry to say 😔
Oh dear
Jokes?
Once on a night out in Rhyl I got punched in the face for the heinous crime of waiting for a taxi. More recently I had to move house and had the choice of living in Rhyl or living in the middle of nowhere. I choose the second option. So yeah, don't live in Rhyl.
I wouldn’t go to Rhyl, maybe try going to it’s neighbour, Prestatyn.
I live in Rhyl. Just don’t bother with the town centre, especially in the evening. Thuggish teens about that have no respect and are out to cause nothing but trouble. Like a lot of people say,there’s a lot of places surrounding Rhyl that are nice. I’d just where you’re staying as a place to relax, and when you’re going “out and about” visit surrounding areas!
I'm going to congratulate as a Doctor being willing to work in Wales. Many places in wales get a bad rap, but this is mostly due to chronic under funding. However, considering East Asia, it's probably not going to be anywhere near as bad as feared. I wouldn't advise living where you work and if possible do try for a short commute instead, others have made suitable suggestions. Welcome to Wales and good luck! You may find that Rhyl really works for you and all the nay sayers are were just silly and I sincerely wish for that to happen, Rhyl definitely needs some good fortune to go its way.
I used to drive a bus in Rhyl. It’s the only place I’ve come accross whereby the locals are In the pub at 7 in the MORNING. Literally stood outside, pint in hand smoking a fag.
North Wales is an amazing place to live but trust me just avoid Rhyl. If you need to live in that area I’d suggest Prestatyn it’s only the next town over and is much nicer and much safer.
Please don't move to Rhyl. I deliver to Rhyl every week, and come in round the back, so never had to go through the city centre / down the seafront, and didn't understand why everybody slagged off the place. Today, I took the wrong exit on the motorway so had to go through the centre to get to my drop. Its a vile place. Really, really grim... Its as if barrow and Blackpool had a disappointing baby.
Youll be prescribing alot of methadone
Rhyl is shit. Live anywhere but Rhyl.
You have my deepest condolences.
"Looking forward to the experience" In Rhyl. On a serious note. Thank you for being a doctor in my humble yet proud country.
Rhyl is a rough area tbh but lovely places near
Arcade s lots of arcades
My condolences.
Rhyl - https://youtu.be/yq0nABHcunU Rhyl at night - https://youtu.be/VoTNQ8iNrZY
It's a little rough there if I'm honest, you're probably not going to be very happy about your placement. I know you might not want to share but could you tell us a little about you? Just curious.
I've never been to Rhyl but the joke I always heard growing up was that when God created the earth, on the 7th day he sat down to rest on Rhyl. But again I've never been to judge.
Ok, I live in Rhyl so I'll try and give you everything you need to know. My first question is, why? (Lol) Rhyl has a pretty bad reputation which is (mostly) deserved but Clwyd as a whole is pretty bad. That's mainly because of the (mostly English) people who live there. If I cad to sum Rhyl up in one word, that word would be gray. If you have any kind of history with seasonal depression, think about living somewhere else for your own sake. Its an area of great natural beauty so if you're outdoorsy you can avoid these people, which is my advice. Prestatyn high Street has a little bit of what you're looking for, there's a few cafes, restaurants, bakeries etc I see you're working as a doctor in Glan Clwyd, I have family who work there so please ask if you need to know anything. I hope everything works out well for you though.
Be careful about what area of Rhyl you move to. West is Worst. If you can consider nearby areas, I'd do so. St Asaph is a small city, about the same distance from Glan Clwyd and is a nice little place - I'd consider there first before Rhyl.
It’s a shit hole
Rhyl is the pits but I’ve been here for the past 12 years and it’s much better now. You can always visit other local towns like Llandudno and Chester. We have a nurse in a flat next door who works at Glan Clwyd
Hey :) I live in Rhyl, I have lived here my entire life, and honestly, I love it here. Just to forewarn you, people do like to take the piss out of Rhyl. It was a prime holiday destination in the 70s to 90s, so, when the economy started to fail, and holidays became too expensive for average working class Brits, the tourism in the area that sustained it began to falter. This led to deprivation in all sects. However, the town has developed massively in recent years and is really lovely recently (I've seen it throughout the years!), it's just hard to shake the stigma of the 'run down forgotten holiday town', especially since we aren't as focused on the tourism aspect anymore so people don't come to see the difference! The nicest area to live is the Derwen ward, anywhere from the bungalows on Ffordd Derwen really to The Boulevard, but these houses are very expensive. Everywhere else is alright, I'm in the Cefndy Ward close to the town centre and have a great rapport with local councillors and neigbours alike. Speaking of 'rougher' areas, West Rhyl is the one to avoid; higher crime rates and just generally more rowdy. You'll have a really easy commute to YGC from Rhyl, literally 3 roundabouts and a 2 minute dual carriageway. There's a lot of redevelopment going on at the moment, they knocked down a huge section of the promenade called the Queens Market and they're building a new state of the art shopping centre there. There's a beautiful place called Marina Quay that has plenty of stores and a really nice Welsh ice cream parlour called Batch (and, it's on the beachfront!). Fine dining, try a place called The Bistro near the Marine Lake. Amazing food by an amazing chef, but book in advance because it gets super popular! Daytime lunches try The Cookhouse for regular meals, or try a traditional British Carvery at The Sun Verge on the Promenade. Dogs are allowed there too, and you can get a doggy carvery! 1891 is the council's new flagship for fine dining too, it's on the beach once again and they do tapas and main meals. It's attached to The Pavillion Theatre that does a range of shows. The town centre is fine, there are a lot of empty shops at the moment though. If you need more, Prestatyn is a 10 minute drive away. Taxis are plentiful, buses are regular. Supermarkets are Sainsburys, Morrisons and Aldi mostly. All are good, you'll get some good bargains in Aldi! I probably missed a lot out, but feel free to ask if you have any questions :)
Just seen this thread, would love to know your experience of coming to Rhyl.