It looks like an echium of some sort

Thanks for that. It was stunning to look at, but the thing that really caught my eye was the fact that the honey bees obviously loved it. Will I be able to grow it in sunny South Wales?

The larger varieties of echium are biennials or short-lived perennials from warmer areas of the world. In the first year, they form a basal rosette of leaves, and in the second year, throw up the flowering shoot, which can be up to eight feet tall. It depends how cold it gets in winter in South Wales. In well-drained soil, in full sun, and in a mild winter, you may be lucky.
Echium vulgare is only two to three feet tall, but is a British native, so is a much better bet, and just as popular with the bees. But if you're feeling adventurous, try for one of the big ones, and keep your fingers crossed.

Thank you so much, I think I will give Echium vulgare as try first!