I’ll never forget the drive up to Llandudno that crisp autumn afternoon – the leaves turning those gorgeous shades of amber and gold along the A55, making the whole journey feel like a proper scenic drive. Me and the missus were buzzing with anticipation, picturing cosy evenings by the sea as the days got shorter. But typical me, I took a wrong turn just outside Colwyn Bay, ending up in some narrow lane with tractors blocking the way. We laughed it off, though – a classic holiday mishap that only added to the excitement.

Pulling into the off-road parking spot bang in the centre of Llandudno felt like striking gold. This first-floor apartment, with its private entrance after a quick climb up the stairs, hit us with great first impressions right away. Stepping into the stylish sitting room, we flopped onto the leather sofa, fired up the Smart TV for a bit of Strictly Come Dancing catch-up, and just soaked it in. Next door, the contemporary kitchen with its dark navy cupboards and wooden worktops screamed ‘home-cooked feasts’, complete with a rustic fold-away dining table perfect for toasting with a glass of mulled wine. It was spot on for us two and our mates who joined later – welcoming without being fussy.

Autumn in Llandudno shaped everything in the best way. The promenade was alive with that bracing sea breeze, whipping up the waves just enough to make the pier’s helter-skelter look even more inviting under grey skies. We wandered down there first evening, the air crisp and salty, munching on hot chips from a stall while the sun dipped low, painting the Great Orme in fiery hues. No summer crowds meant we had the place half to ourselves – pure bliss for a gentle stroll, dodging the odd puddle from morning showers.

Next day, we hit the beach, which was transformed by the season: wide, empty sands scattered with seaweed, ideal for a windy kite-flying session that had us in stitches when mine nose-dived into the surf. The town’s eateries were a godsend too – within easy walking distance, we ducked into a cosy café for cream teas and Welsh cakes, warming up with steaming pots as rain pattered outside. Evenings called for pier shows at the Pavilion Theatre; that nostalgic variety act under twinkling lights felt magical with the off-season chill seeping in, making hot chocolate afterwards taste like heaven.

One quiet moment on the balcony, watching fog roll in over the bay, had me reflecting – holidays like this remind you how the quieter seasons bring out the simple joys. No frantic sun-chasing, just proper unwinding with good company. We cooked up hearty stews in the kitchen, planned impromptu walks up the West Shore where the turning trees rustled like whispers, and even caught the Halloween ghost train on the tramway for a laugh. Llandudno in autumn? It’s understated magic – breezy days, flickering evenings, and that fresh Welsh nip that makes you feel alive. Can’t wait to go back next year.