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Secret Llandudno offers a unique insight into the ‘Queen of the Welsh Resorts’ through a series of little-known and forgotten stories, facts and anecdotes. Local author and historian John Lawson-Reay takes the reader on a fascinating journey from prehistoric times to the present day, blending dark deeds and strange tales from Llandudno’s long and often unlikely past, as well as introducing us to some interesting characters along the way, from the Queen of Romania to a former Australian prime minister and from Buffalo Bill to Alice in Wonderland. Fully illustrated in colour throughout, the book delves beneath the surface of this ever-popular North Wales seaside resort, revealing a lesser-known history that most local people don’t know.

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'Llandudno is more stylish than either Rhyl or Blackpool and not dearer', observed Edwardian author Arnold Bennett. Prime Minister Lloyd George considered the resort a perfect tonic, advising colleagues 'to come to Llandudno is a great pick-me-up'. An 1890 visit by romantic novelist and erstwhile Queen of Romania, Carmen Sylva prompted a description so apt it was adopted as the town's official motto, 'A Beautiful Haven of Peace'. To everyone Llandudno evokes an era of quiet traditional seaside pleasures but has the town entirely escaped the destructive winds of change? The 1933 Official Guide to Llandudno advised prospective holidaymakers, As a holiday centre Llandudno has no rival. All the glorious scenery of North Wales is easily accessible by train, coach, motor or steamerA" and the Broadway Garage, Craig-y-don was at hand to supply motors or drivers as required. Times change and Broadway Garage no longer supplies Rover cars, charabancs or chauffeurs but instead sells German and Japanese cars and self-service petrol. This collection of then and now photographs meticulously compiled and researched by the Chairman and Vice-Chairman of Llandudno & Colwyn Bay History Society offers a unique insight into the changing fortunes of 'The Queen of the Welsh Resorts'.

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