LOCATED alongside the River Clwyd estuary is the Marine Lake, the only saltwater lake in North Wales.

The area was originally marshland, before being transformed into a Victorian fun fair with waterslides and attractions, opening on May 24 1895, which was Queen Victoria’s birthday.

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Rhyl Urban District Council informed by telegram that it had made this “the occasion for turning water into their new Marine Lake in honour of Her Majesty”.

North Wales Pioneer: Crowds gather at Marine Lake for a show. Photo: Rhyl History ClubCrowds gather at Marine Lake for a show. Photo: Rhyl History Club

The culvert at the railway bridge was opened in the morning and the water started to flow into the lake.

In the evening the three valves at the Foryd Bridge culvert were also opened.

A regatta, aquatic fete and gala were held on July 6 that year and described in the local press as one of the most successful days in the town’s history.

North Wales Pioneer: The water chute, a ride at Marine Lake. Photo: Rhyl History ClubThe water chute, a ride at Marine Lake. Photo: Rhyl History Club

The lake was used for sailing, rowing and yachting and became home to Rhyl Swimming Club in 1896.

The Rhyl Amusement Company took over Marine Lake in 1910 and developed fairground rides along part of the shore.

The Rhyl Miniature Railway around the lake opened in 1911 and is now Britain’s oldest such railway, while the lake continues to host activities for visitors and local groups, such as Rhyl Yacht Club and the Ocean Beach Water Ski Club.

North Wales Pioneer: Boats sail on the Marine Lake. Photo: Rhyl History ClubBoats sail on the Marine Lake. Photo: Rhyl History Club