SUMMER IS ON THE WAY

A TRADITION dating back to the Victorians has signalled the "start of summer" at a beautiful seaside village.

- By OWEN HUGHES Business Correspondent [e-mail]

Beach huts and bathing machines actually date back more than 200 years, but it was during the Victorian era that they surged in popularity, alongside the growth in holiday resorts across the UK.

One of those beach resorts was Llanbedrog, which became popular at the end of the 1800s, particularly after the opening of the Pwllheli and Llanbedrog Tramway in 1894.

Tents were initially erected on the beach, with people able to hire them for privacy or protection from the elements.

These were later replaced by beach huts and the wooden shacks have remained a part of the beach since then.

In 2006, the National Trust took ownership of Llanbedrog beach and car park, introducing the colourful beach huts in place now.

Unlike in Abersoch where huts can sell for more than £150,000 these are rented out on an annual basis.