Penarth Dock, South Wales - the heritage and legacy

Volume Twelve - Pre-Victorian to the Present Day - further aspects - Even More Moments Captured in Time - [vintage photo and postcard album] . . .


1906 - The Esplanade & Penarth Head, Penarth - Beachcliffe was built only two years earlier than the post date of this postcard. This splendid Edwardian building was designed by a resident of Penarth, Mr. Frederick Speed. Mr Speed came from Shepton Mallet in 1886 at the bequest of a millionaire philanthropist who resided at 5 Beach Road, namely Mr. Kyle Collet. It housed the Beach Cliff Hotel, Grovier's Restaurant, the Gwalia cafe, and the 'Cabin', apparently a typical seaside shop! I recall Rabaiotti's cafe overlooking the beach where we would call in for an ice cream or a 'knickerbocker glory' on one of those warm summers days ; and this was also where Julie and her Dad, Morgan, 'Mog,' used to spend time together before their working day began at least twice a week! Another Edwardian Moment Captured in Time and held within the Penarth Dock Collection. The postcard is an Ozograph - "Series," Bristol publication. [001]


1904 - Beachcliffe, Penarth Esplanade - Under construction! A fine photograph featured on the Wales on-line website. The space for the building had to be partially excavated from the overhanging cliff using dynamite! It was completed in 1904. The photograph was included in an account of the £6m redevelopment scheme of the Edwardian seafront building which was converted to apartments in 2015 following its earlier demise. It was almost lost forever in about 2010 when it was claimed to be structurally unsound and hence, partially demolished! [1283]

	1969 - Penarth Guide - At Your Service - The Caprice Restaurant. Also under the same management are a Grill Room, Venetian and Snack Bar - Rabaiotti's Restaurants by the Sea. [001]



The Esplanade, Penarth - A Valentine's Series postcard posted from Cardiff during September 1908 on 'a beautiful day!' The fine building in its heyday, Beachcliffe, with its ornate wrought-iron handrail around the veranda. [001]