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As temperatures soar this weekend, many visitors are planning seaside trips, often accompanied by a classic ice cream treat. However, those heading to coastal towns in Wales may find themselves facing some of the highest ice cream prices in the UK. A recent analysis highlights Porthmadog in Gwynedd as the priciest location, with a single scoop averaging £3.85 and a two-scoop cone costing about £5.28. Aberystwyth and Tenby also featured prominently, ranking fourth and eighth respectively in terms of cost.
The data, gathered by credit card company Zable, offers insight into the variation in ice cream prices across 33 seaside destinations. Researchers reviewed menus and made direct enquiries at up to five highly rated parlours in each area to determine an average price for one and two-scoop vanilla cones. While Porthmadog topped the list for expense, Barton-on-Sea in Hampshire emerged as the most affordable spot, where a single scoop typically costs £1.95. This difference can be significant for families; for example, four one-scoop cones in Barton-on-Sea would amount to £7.80, roughly half the equivalent price in Porthmadog.
Locals have mixed reactions to the high prices. Hortense Gregory from Harlech expressed surprise and admitted she would not pay £3.85 for a scoop, commenting, “It’s quite expensive, isn’t it. I can get a lot for that.” Similarly, Kerri Underhill, visiting Porthmadog from Birmingham, described paying £20 for four ice creams with toppings as “expensive,” though she acknowledged that ice cream is a popular seaside treat. Other locals such as Andrea and Ian Merriduw choose to buy ice cream in nearby towns, feeling the value is better elsewhere. However, some, like Lisa, who was heading out for rowing, remain willing to buy despite the cost, especially if it’s genuine quality ice cream.
The rising prices are having a tangible impact on small businesses, with long-time operators like Helen Holland from Anglesey deciding to retire after 18 years running her ice cream company, Môn ar Lwy. She attributes her decision to soaring production and administrative costs, including shortages of vanilla and increased chocolate prices. “The increase has been phenomenal,” Helen explained, adding that paperwork and VAT requirements have also become overwhelming. While she understands why prices have jumped—recalling paying nearly £5 for an ice cream in Llandudno—she recognized this reflects the current economic climate. Despite this, she believes customers appreciate the price increases due to the broader pressures on living costs, noting that treats like ice cream now require more deliberate spending decisions. Helen also suggested that producers collaborating and buying supplies in bulk could help ease future financial strains
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