The esplanade was a key attraction for Victorian and Edwardian holidaymakers.

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The Italian Gardens were laid out in 1926 on the site of some old Boat Houses. The Penarth Society has a group of volunteers who work to maintain high standards of maintenance.

 

The Public Shelter, currently a coffee shop has always housed "Refreshment Rooms". The Mediterraneo restaurant was originally a boat house and there are claims that it housed Penarth's first life boat station.

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The Yacht Club building was built in 1881 and extended in 1884.