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…

  • Porth Towyn

    Porth Towyn

    Tudweiliog
    Pwllheli
    Llyn Peninsula
    North Wales
    LL53 8PD

    Nestled on the northern coast of the remote Llyn Peninsula, Porth Towyn makes for a peaceful escape. A farm sits behind the beach and the sloping grassy cliffs of the bay, making it an idyllic spot for walks or picnics.

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  • Porth Trwyn

    Dog Friendly

    This tranquil beach just north of Holyhead boasts stretches of both sand and pebbles, and offers excellent rock-pooling conditions for the more inquisitive.

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  • Porth Ysgo, Pwllheli

    Porth Ysgo

    Pwllheli
    Llyn Peninsula
    North Wales
    LL53 8AN

    If it’s peace and tranquillity you’re searching for, head to this secluded National Trust beach on the Llyn Peninsula. Discover the waterfall in the centre of the surrounding headland and the golden sands that are revealed at low tide.

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  • Portmeirion Village

    Portmeirion Village

    Portmeirion
    Minffordd
    Penrhyndeudraeth
    Gwynedd
    LL48 6ER

    01766 770 000

    Overlooking the Dwyryd Estuary, Portmeirion is a fascinating resort built in the style of an Italian village, which is well-known for being the setting of the 1960’s cult television series The Prisoner, as well as for the popular music event, Festival No.6.

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  • Powis Castle and Gardens, North Wales

    Powis Castle and Gardens

    Powis Castle and Garden
    Welshpool
    North Wales
    United Kingdom
    SY21 8RF

    01938551944

    Powis Castle was built in the mid-13th century by Welsh prince, Gruffudd ap Gwenwynwyn. Famous for its mild climate, fertile soil and gently rolling hills, the kingdom of Powys was once known as ‘the paradise of Wales’ and was the perfect spot for such a magnificent castle. Bequeathed to the National Trust following family tragedy, all can now enjoy the beauty of Powis Castle.

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  • Prestatyn Beach

    Prestatyn Beach

    Nant Hall Road
    Prestatyn
    LL19 9LN

    Park of a network of Prestatyn Beaches, Prestatyn Central sits between Ffrith and Barkby beaches, just half a mile from the town centre. Popular for water sports, head to Prestatyn Central Beach to try your hand at surfing or sailing.

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  • Tennis players

    Prestatyn Tennis Club

    22 Gronant Rd
    Prestatyn
    LL19 9DS

    01745 852114

    Prestatyn Tennis Club is a family-friendly tennis club situated in the popular seaside resort of Prestatyn. The club hosts regular ladies’ mornings, junior coaching sessions and one-to-one coaching, making it a great place to go to top up your tennis skills.

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  • Pwllheli Beach Feature

    Pwllheli Beach

    This sand and shingle beach hugs the coastline bordering Pwllheli, looking out towards the striking mountains of North Wales.

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  • Red Wharf Bay, Llangefni
    Image Credits: Joe Hayhurst - CC BY 2.0

    Red Wharf Bay

    Llangefni
    North Wales
    United Kingdom
    LL75 8RJ

    Nestled between the villages of Pentraeth and Benllech on the isle of Anglesey is this idyllic bay. At low tide, a 10 square mile expanse of golden sand is revealed, providing plenty of space for sunbathing and beach games.

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  • Rheilffordd Talyllyn Railway, North Wales
    Image Credits: Markus Trienke - CC BY-SA 2.0

    Rheilffordd Talyllyn Railway

    Wharf Station
    Tywyn
    North Wales
    LL36 9EY

    01654710472

    Visit Talyllyn Railway, the world’s first preserved railway. Steeped in history, the line was built to convey slate to the national railway network in the 1800s. Today, you can ride the train from Tywyn to Nant Gwernol.

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