Conwy Castle

Things to do in North Wales

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Discover the best attractions and things to do in North Wales

There are many diverse places to visit in North Wales where you can appreciate both history and natural beauty in its finest form. There are things to do in North Wales for all ages, tastes and times of the year, so use our guide for some inspiration!

Things to do in North Wales

Dramatic scenery and a distinct cultural identity are found in North Wales’ epic settings. Learn about one of Europe’s oldest living languages and enjoy the best experience in Britain while you’re doing it!

One of the must things to do in North Wales is to discover many stunning castles, including those in Gwrych, Caernarfon and Conwy which are preserved immaculately within a Wales’ World Heritage Site. If you prefer stately homes, Erddig near Wrexham and Plas Newydd on Anglesey are perfect days out in North Wales. The latter even possesses a collection of works by artist Rex Whistler, including the UK’s largest canvas painting.

The stunning coastline is a must thing to do in North Wales for families and for those looking for things to do with dogs! From the sheltered and safe waters of Abersoch Beach to the golden sands of Colwyn Bay, these North Wales beaches are sure to impress a family of all ages!

Other things to do in North Wales include hiking up Snowdon, meandering the pretty Alyn Waters Country Park and strolling along the Llangollen Wharf. While North Wales is the outdoor capital with tonnes of outdoor activities, its weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s always good to have indoor activities ideas to hand!

Continuing to impress, our guide features some great free things to do in North Wales too, including North Wales museums, National Trust Properties, walks and castles in North Wales!

Places to visit in North Wales

There is an array of lovely places to visit in North Wales, including quaint towns and villages, and bustling cities. Visit the historical towns of Conwy and Llangollen or spend your day relaxing in the coastal settings of Llandudno and Abersoch.

Alternatively, visit the exciting city of Wrexham to catch a game at the Racecourse, which was acquired by famous actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny. And, if you’re coming during the festive season, Wrexham offers access to lots of wonderful things to do in the nearby Snowdonia National Park during winter.

Another superb place to visit in North Wales is the beautiful Portmeirion village. The village is famous for being the setting of the cult ‘60s series The Prisoner. This Italianate resort is one of the quirkiest places to visit in North Wales, overlooking the marvellous Dwyryd Estuary.

Treating your partner to a special getaway? If so, use our guide to places to visit in Wales for couples!

Continue reading to visit superb things to do in North Wales…

  • Happy Valley Botanical Gardens, Llanduno
    Image Credits: NoelWalley - CC BY-SA 3.0

    Happy Valley Botanical Gardens

    Happy Valley Rd
    Llandudno
    North Wales
    United Kingdom
    LL30 2QL

    Walk through these 19th century public gardens on the east side of the rocky headland at Great Orme. With spectacular views over Llandudno Bay, it’s a beautiful space to while away an afternoon.

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  • harlech beach

    Harlech Beach

    Harlech Beach
    Harlech
    Gwynedd
    LL46 2UG

    Head to this four-mile stretch of golden sand for stunning Snowdonia Mountain views and a glimpse of a 13th-century castle. From wildlife spotting to swimming, there’s plenty to do here once you’ve taken in the views.

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  • Harlech Castle

    Harlech Castle

    Harlech Castle
    Harlech
    Gwynedd
    LL46 2YH

    Harlech Castle is an imposing Welsh fortress overlooking the town and the sandy dunes that rest far below. For a historical thing to do in Snowdonia, visit the breath-taking Grade I-listed medieval castle!    

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  • group of people mountaineering

    Higher Climbing Wales

    Bryn Y Wawr
    Parkia Lodge
    Ffordd Bangor
    Caernarfon
    LL55 1TP

    01286677073

    There’s nowhere better to start climbing than in the mountains and crags of North Wales. At Higher Climbing, you’ll learn to climb in the spectacular Snowdonia Mountains under the instruction of a qualified mountaineering and climbing instructor.

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  • Horse Drawn Boat Centre

    The Wharf
    Llangollen
    LL20 8TA

    Visitors have flocked to Llangollen Wharf since 1884 to experience the unique horse-drawn boat trips. Meet the horses and climb aboard, for a day in the Welsh mountains that you’ll never forget.

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  • group of four friends enjoying the dodgems

    Knightly’s Fun Park

    Knightly's Fun Park
    Sandbank Rd
    Towyn
    Abergele
    LL22 9LD

    Head to this family run fun park for rides, arcade games and live entertainment. From go karting and waltzers to dodgems and a mini train ride, there’s plenty for thrill seekers here. For those wishing to keep their feet firmly on the ground, there are plenty of arcade games to try and live entertainment to enjoy!

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  • Linden Farm Riding and Trekking Centre

    Linden Farm
    Bwlch
    Holywell
    CH8 8JT

    07821 386193

    Linden Farm Riding & Trekking Centre offer private, semi-private and group riding lessons with qualified BHS instructors as well as trekking during the weekdays and weekends.

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  • Llanbedrog Beach Feature

    Llanbedrog Beach

    Dog Friendly

    Parking Available

    This sheltered, sandy beach welcomes families to the south coast of the stunning Llyn Peninsula, just outside of Pwllheli.

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  • Llanberis Lake Railway

    Llanberis Lake Railway

    Gilfach Ddu
    Llanberis
    Caernarfon
    LL55 4TY

    01286 870549

    Journey through the heart of Snowdonia on a beautiful steam train from Llanberis Lake Railway. Pass the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, Llanberis’ twin lakes and the shores of Lake Padarn as you take in views of Snowdon. Stop off for a picnic in the idyllic Cei Llydan and take a stroll around the National Slate Museum.

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  • llanberis path

    Llanberis Path

    Llanberis
    Caernarfon
    LL55 4TU

    Llanberis Path is the most popular route to Yr Wyddfa’s summit. One of six major routes to the top, the Llanberis Path is a popular choice due to its long yet gradual climb. While it may be more accessible than other routes, it’s still a major challenge requiring a good level of fitness and some determination.

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