best place to visit north wales

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19 of the Absolute Best Places to Visit in North Wales

• Last Updated 4 September 2023

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Over the last few years, many of us have been planning holidays a little closer to home.  I’ve always been a big advocate for UK travel, so I couldn’t be happier! If you want to explore a few new places, this guide to the best places to visit in North Wales is full of awesome recommendations.

I asked locals and top travel bloggers for their favourite must-visit spots! From the wild and rugged landscapes of Snowdonia National Park, to quaint villages and pretty seaside towns, there are a lot of incredible gems to discover in this stunning region of Wales.

Although this list is by no means extensive, it certainly covers a few of the most incredible places to visit in the North of Wales. Get ready for some serious travel inspiration!

Places to Visit in North Wales – Map

Snowdonia national park, north wales.

• Mount Snowdon

Llandudno, Conwy

Portmeirion, gwynedd, isle of anglesey coastal path, caernarfon castle, gwynedd, betws-y-coed, conwy, talacre, flintshire, pontcysyllte aqueduct, wrexham, trearddur bay, anglesey, amlwch, anglesey, menai strait, anglesey.

• Harlech Castle,

Beddgelert, Gwynedd

• Aber Falls,
• Porthmadog and Ffestiniog via Welsh Highland Railways, Gwynedd
• Llechwedd Slate Caverns, Gwynedd
• Llandwddyn & Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir, Powys

Coed y Brenin Forest Park, Gwynedd

• Llyn Peninsula, Caernarvonshire 

READ MORE: A Wild Wellness Retreat in North Wales

19 Best Places to Visit in North Wales

Recommended by: Laurence, Travel Photography Course

The Snowdonia National Park is the largest national park in Wales, and one that I’m very familiar with as my grandparents lived here for all the time that I knew them. Whilst many people are familiar with the park for its titular mountain, there is a great deal more to see and do here.

Obviously, hiking and hill-walking are some of the most popular activities. There are many routes to choose from, but one of my favourites is the hike up Cader Idris . This is a fairly easy day hike that departs from near the cute town of Dolgellau at the head of the Mawddach river estuary.

If you’re not a hiker, fear not. From cute seaside towns to impressive castles to copper and slate mine tours to steam-driven rail tours, there is something to do in Snowdonia for everyone!

Mount Snowdon, North Wales

Recommended by: Sophie and Adam, We Dream of Travel

Mount Snowdon is located in the heart of the eponymous Snowdonia National Park in North Wales. Known as Yr Wyddfa in Welsh, it stands at 3,560ft (1,085m) and is the highest mountain in Wales and England.

Reaching the peak of Mt Snowdon is one of the best  things to do in Snowdonia . For those that are able, hiking is perhaps the most rewarding way of reaching the peak.  There are a number of tracks of varying difficulty, and all provide breathtaking views. The Llanberis trail is considered the easiest route. Whichever you choose, expect to be hiking for 5-7 hours.

For a quicker and easier alternative, from April-October you can travel 3/4 of the way up on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. You will still need to hike another hour to reach the summit. Although you can just admire the scenery from the train if you prefer!

READ MORE: Best Things to do in Llanberis

Recommended by: Travel Dave

A trip to North Wales wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the delightful and charming coastal town of Llandudno.

Walk along the North Shore Beach and the 19th-century Llandudno Pier. But make sure you protect your fish and chips from the local seagulls who love a chip or two!

Walk along Mostyn Street for a spot of shopping. Its stunning Victorian facade has been well kept throughout the years and adds a cosy vibe to the town’s main street.

From town, take the tramway constructed in 1902 to the top of the Great Orme for some incredible views overlooking the North Wales coastline.

Keep your eyes open for the local celebrities too! The world-famous Kashmiri goats that live on top of the Great Orme are often roaming about… unless they’re causing havoc in town when it’s empty!

Llandudno is also well connected to Conwy Castle, with a coastal path that will take a few hours from the Westshore.

It’s as though someone has selected the best parts of lots of different styles and mixed them together to create this random but magical village. There are Italian style houses, pastel colours from the British seaside, art-deco designs, Christian monuments next to golden Buddha’s and palm trees next to fern trees. Monica Stott, The Travel Hack

Portmeirion is a magical Welsh village known for its eclectic, colourful architecture and romantic vibes. This Italianate-style village on the coast of North Wales is well known as one of the best places to visit in the country.

This stunning town is so exclusive it requires a day ticket  to visit (£12 per adult when booked in advance)! But it’s worth it for the chance to visit one of the prettiest towns in North Wales.

Porthmadog’s Heritage Railways, Gwynedd

The picturesque seaside town of Porthmadog is the historic centre of two of North Wales’ stunning heritage railways. Almost 200 years old, The Ffestiniog Railway is the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railway, connecting Porthmadog harbour with the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Then there’s the Welsh Highland Railway, the UK’s longest heritage railway, running for 25 miles between Caernarfon and Porthmadog. Along the way, the railway passes through some of Snowdonia’s most spectacular scenery.

Porthmadog on its own is one of the best places to visit in North Wales, with its pretty harbour and rich history. But the two heritage railways mean you can create some amazing day trips as well, making the town an ideal base for exploring the area.

Llanwddyn & Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir, Powys

Llanwddyn has a pretty fascinating history. The original town was completely submerged when the Lake Vyrnwy Reservoir was created in the 1880s. Llanwddyn was rebuilt on the shores of the lake, but the remains of the original village still stand at the bottom of the lake!

On the shores of the reservoir is a very pretty tower rising out of the water. It looks like part of a half-submerged fairy tale castle, but it’s actually the straining tower, where the water leaves the reservoir and enters a 70-mile-long pipeline to Liverpool.

Recommended by: Nathan, All About Glamping

The Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path is a 200km long-distance route that winds along the North Wales island’s coastline. Most visiting walkers tend to partake in a section at a time. But those that complete the entire path are awarded a badge of completion. 

There are approximately 20 towns and villages along the coastal walk with the official starting point at Holyhead. The region is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and provides an array of dunes, cliffs, farmland, marshes and woodlands to enjoy.

Although you can arrange a local tour company to set up your adventure, each section can be completed using public transportation. You can book B&Bs or glamping spots along the way for each night if you are travelling fairly light. 

It takes about 8-15 days to complete the whole thing for most people. There are visible blue tern way-markers along the path to find your way. Make sure to plan your trip from March to September as some sections close in the Winter.

Recommended by: Victoria, Guide Your Travel

Caernarfon Castle was constructed in the 13th century and is one of the most significant medieval buildings in the world. At the time, the construction of the castle cost more than 90% of the country’s annual income! The building took nearly 50 years to complete.

Today tourists can visit this incredible landmark and explore its impressive interior for a £9 entry fee. Located at the estuary of the River Seiont it’s hard to miss this beautiful building.

You can still see a lot of the castle’s original construction and get a glimpse of what life here used to look like. As one of Wales’ most famous landmarks, this castle is definitely one of the best places to visit in North Wales. Especially if you’re interested in Welsh history.

READ MORE: Top things to do in Caernarfon

Recommended by: Dylan, Shoot From the Trip

A mountain village surrounded by pine forests, Betws-y-Coed is the gateway to Snowdonia from the north. A haven for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, the village is a lively hub of activity. It features numerous natural and purpose-built attractions.

There are riverside walks and beauty spots such as the Fairy Glen and Swallow Falls – one of the most spectacular waterfalls to visit in North Wales. For outdoor adventurers, attractions such as Zip World Fforest and Go Below are on the doorstep.

With a great range of accommodation and hospitality options within the village, Betws-y-Coed has a true alpine vibe. It also makes a great base for visitors to North Wales.

Recommended by: Kathryn, Wandering Bird

If you’re visiting North Wales, be sure to add the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct to your itinerary. 

This impressive aqueduct carries the Llangollen Canal across the large valley and can be seen from miles around. It was built around 1800 and is now a World Heritage Site. 

There are two ways to experience the aqueduct. You can walk from the carpark (which has a museum nearby sharing the story on how it was built). But by far the best way to experience it is by crossing over the aqueduct on the water at the top – either by hiring a canal barge or paddling across in a kayak. The views across the valley and the welsh countryside are well worth the effort. 

There is plenty of parking near the aqueduct. There’s space for larger vehicles, so you can still visit even if you’re on a  motorhome holiday . There’s also plenty more to see nearby, so be sure to spend a day or two exploring the local area.

Recommended by: Ucman, BrownBoyTravels

Trearddur Bay and its beach are both absolutely stunning. The view of the entire bay on a clear day is with crystal clear water, with emerald green colours slowly dissolving into a sapphire blue.

The beach is barely 20 minutes away from the airport so it’s quite easy to reach. Trearddur Bay also has a caravan park, parking and a cafe close so you’re sorted for logistics. The beach at Trearddur is vast with over 2 miles of soft sand. It is an ideal place for swimming, surfing or just chilling out on a nice day with a good book.

It is not just a beach though. Trearddur also hosts the oldest working lighthouse in the UK: South Stack lighthouse. The view of the entire bay from the old house of Craig Y More is worth the visit alone.

Recommended by: Alex, Career Gappers

In Amlwch, nestled on the peaceful north coast of Anglesey, you can discover the island’s industrial history while enjoying its charming seaside scenery. This pretty town is close to some of the UK’s loveliest secluded coastal spots; Lligwy Beach, a ten-minute drive away, is a particular beauty.

In the 18th century, Amlwch was a thriving mining town and an important port, standing on the doorstep of Parys Mountain, which was the world’s largest copper mine at the time. You can visit the site today and wander its colourful pathways. A new Copper Kingdom Centre in the town itself tells the story of the local mining history dating back to the Bronze Age, featuring a reconstruction of an underground mine.

Amlwych is, in fact, the northernmost town in Wales. With its peculiar harbour, quaint cottages and three old windmills it is perfect for a quiet getaway on the coast.

Recommended by: Jenni, Monopoly Land

Talacre is a village in Flintshire on the North Wales Coast. The main reason to visit Talacre is the beautiful sandy beach. It’s absolutely huge, with plenty of space for kids to play. It’s also dog-friendly all year round. Behind the beach are some sand dunes which are a lot of fun to explore.

The main focal point of Talacre Beach is the lighthouse which dates back to 1776. You can walk to it when the tide is out, but you must be careful not to get cut off as the sea comes in!

In this seaside village, you’ll find a few nice cafes and pubs that serve food, some tourist shops and a couple of arcades. The village is popular with holidaymakers staying in the nearby caravan parks. But it still remains something of a hidden gem and is well worth a visit if you’re in the area.

Conwy, Conwy

Recommended by: Shobha, Just Go Places

The small town of Conwy is not only dominated by the enormous shadow of its UNESCO Heritage site listed castle, but also encircled by medieval city walls that reach out from the castle. There is plenty to do in Conwy other than  visit Conwy Castle  and walk the city walls.

Conwy is full of historical houses, including the smallest house in the UK according to the Guinness Book of World Records. Open for tourism, this small house is only 6 feet wide but has a prime location on Conwy Harbor.

There is also a small Mussels Museum because the area is renowned for pearl fishing. You can also visit the Conwy Suspension Bridge and Tollhouse, one of the first suspension bridges in the world.

Beddgelert is known as one of the loveliest villages in Snowdonia. This picturesque stone-built village, nestled amongst mountains and forests, is ideally positioned for exploring the National Park.

It’s also a place of incredible legend and history. According to local tradition, this pretty village in North Wales is t he final resting place of Gelert, the faithful hound of the medieval Welsh Prince Llewelyn the Great.

The story may have more myth than truth to it, but it’s a good story nonetheless. And a tombstone along the banks of the Glaslyn river is one of Beddgelert’s most famous attractions.

Recommended by: Katharina, Beautifully Travelled

If you’re planning a trip to North Wales, then you should definitely consider spending some time on the Menai Strait. This 25km narrow stretch of tidal water separates Anglesey from the mainland. And it’s a wonderful place to spend a day immersed in nature with the family. There is so much wildlife to spot from seals and sea lions to birds, including egrets, oystercatchers, curlews and redshanks.

Furthermore, there’s plenty of history. The Menai Suspension bridge certainly is a highlight. Opened in 1826, it was the first of its kind in the world. Another fantastic historic building on the Menai Strait’s shores is Plas Newydd House. Built in the 18th century, it is now home to a military museum, Whistler’s painting and an Australian Arboretum.

The most fun and adventurous way to  explore the Menai Strait is, without a doubt, on a rib ride . But be warned this isn’t for the faint-hearted!

Harlech Castle, Gwynedd

Recommended by: Larch, The Silver Nomad

When it was first built in 1283, one of four royal castles built by Edward the First, the sea came up to the foot of the rocks below Harlech Castle. With a background of the hills of Snowdonia, Harlech Castle still stands on a rocky crag looking out towards Ceredigion Bay, but the sea has now receded.

One of four castles that have been designated as a World Heritage Site, Harlech Castle is an interesting day out. Cross over the floating footbridge into the castle and explore the double-walled interior.

Throughout the castle, there are boards explaining the history and the construction of the castle. As you climb up through the towers, you see slivers of the surrounding area through the windows and arrow slits.  On the ramparts, you get to enjoy the spectacular 360-degree view.

Down in the southern half of Snowdonia National Park, the Coed y Brenin Forest Park is known for its world-famous mountain biking trails.

The park was Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre. There are eight trails starting from the visitor centre, ranging from easy to expert level. So this is a brilliant destination if you’re looking for a biking adventure!

It’s not all about bikes, though. There are many walking and running trails in the forest, as well as orienteering courses and geocaching trails.

Llyn Peninsula, Caernarvonshire 

Known as “Snowdon’s Arm”, the Llyn Peninsula is a 30-mile stretch of land curling out into the Irish Sea from North West Wales. It’s an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, known for its stunning beaches, rich wildlife, and brilliant watersports.

Expect pretty seaside towns like Abersoch, Porthdinllaen, and Pwllheli. Spot wildlife from seabirds to seals and dolphins. Or get out in search of adventure: hiking, biking, watersports, and camping are all prolific here.

With so much to see and do, and some seriously stunning scenery to enjoy, it’s easy to see why the Llyn Peninsula is one of the most popular places to visit in North Wales.

READ MORE: Best Beaches on the Llyn Peninsula

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4 thoughts on “19 of the Absolute Best Places to Visit in North Wales”

Dear Sir/Madam, I am putting together a project for Penderyn Welsh Whiskey, which is about the beauty and purity and the uniqueness of Wales, and I want to kindly ask if I can include the image of The Snowdonia National Park at the head of your page. I realise that, rightly so, this image may be subject to copyright. Would it be possible to send me a high res image or perhaps give me the contact details of the owner of the image. I/we really do appreciate your help in this project. Warmest regards..

Hi Andy – thanks for commenting. I’m afraid I don’t own the rights to that image so I can’t give you permission to use it. It’s a stock image which I bought from Adobe Stock. If you need stock photos on a regular basis I can recommend a subscription with them, I use mine frequently. Hope that helps :)

Beautiful places and very useful information for visitors especially for first timer traveller n love nature. Perhaps more info on good time to visits n accommodation.

Thanks for the feedback! I’ll try to add some more practical info into future posts :)

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North Wales

The epic landscapes of North Wales are alive with action, and a rich, distinctive culture. Find World Heritage, one of Europe’s oldest living languages, and the UK’s best adventure. Within the region of North Wales you'll find Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire, Gwynedd, Wrexham and Ynys Môn (the Isle of Anglesey).

In this region :

Unmissable experiences along the north wales way.

Discover epic castles, high speed RIB rides, huge mountain views and spectacular theatrics.

• Historic buildings
• UNESCO Heritage

© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Adrenaline-pumping adventure in North Wales

Enjoy a two day mountain biking and zip-lining adventure in Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Bus and train adventures on the Wales Coast Path

Vivienne Crow explores stretches of the Wales Coast Path around Cardigan Bay on foot, bus and train.

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Get active in Eryri (Snowdonia)!

Try something new or enjoy your favourite activity in the amazing setting of Eryri (Snowdonia).

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Be surprised by bustling Llangollen

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Spotlight on Portmeirion

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Walking, exploring and enjoying the Llŷn Peninsula

Dylan Jones, from Shoot From The Trip, shares his favourite Llŷn Peninsula spots.

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Explore accessible places to stay in North Wales

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Six quirky things we learned on the water at plas menai.

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30 BEST Places to Visit in North Wales & North Wales Attractions!

Categories U.K , Wales

North Wales is such a great part of the UK to visit. I love it because there are so many different places to visit in North Wales and so many activities in North Wales to do!

Whether you want beaches, mountains, villages, towns, waterfalls, zip-lining, water-sports or train journeys, North Wales has it!

And best of all, many of the top things to do in North Wales are close enough so you can see and do quite a lot with just one day in North Wales if that’s all you have.

Plus, with North Wales being so easily accessible from cities like Manchester, Liverpool and Birmingham, it’s a great place to go to get into nature and see some of the best beautiful scenery we have here in the UK!

In this guide to North Wales, I give you my best and favourite places to go in North Wales and a variety of top tourist attractions in North Wales to help you plan your visit, holiday, or day out!

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here!

Places to Visit in North Wales

North Wales Map

Here is a map of North Wales with all of the North Wales places to visit that I have mentioned below. This will help you work out where to visit in North Wales with the time that you have and where you are staying.

How to get to North Wales

Getting to north wales by car:.

From England, North Wales is most easily accessed from Northern cities such as Manchester and Liverpool (which is one of the reasons I love living in Manchester!).

Birmingham to North Wales is relatively easy too because you can go through Shrewsbury and into North Wales that way.

From South Wales to North Wales , depending on where you travel from and to, you can go along the West Coast of Wales which provides some epic coastal views, through mid-Wales , or you can head into England and take the motorway up to North Wales.

Getting to North Wales By Train and bus:

As I’ll mention below, North Wales has much less public transport options than South Wales or England, because it has far fewer big cities. Bangor is the main city in North Wales and a place you might want to use as a base if using public transport to get around Wales.

Bangor it is well located by Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) and Anglesey where many of the top places to visit in North Wales are, but it is right in the far Northern corner of North Wales!

Looking to take the train to Wales??

For more help on where to visit in Wales by train? Read my 10 best places to visit in Wales by train post!

How to get around North Wales

Driving is definitely the best way to get around North Wales and if you have a car, you’re all good!

If you need to hire a car for your North Wales trip you might want to search for car hire in places like Liverpool, Manchester, Birmingham or Cardiff and then drive into Wales since North Wales doesn’t have an airport or any big cities where car hire is usually better.

There are plenty of places to hire a car in Cardiff if you decide to get public transport to Cardiff from where you live if you don’t own a car. Check out car hire from Manchester Airport here and from Liverpool Airport here .

If you don’t drive or you are visiting overseas and don’t want to drive, the public transport in North Wales isn’t the best because many places are much more remote. South Wales is much better for transport in my experience and opinion.

That being said, there is a train line that runs along the North Coast of Wales, along the West Coast and into Snowdonia. And there are many bus stops and stations in North Wales. Both bus and train will take you longer to get around and will be a bit limiting on where to go in North Wales.

If you have to rely on trains in North Wales, check out The Train Line first to see where you can go before planning your trip too much! And check out Arriva Bus for buses in North Wales.

Roads in North Wales

As for the roads in North Wales, we use the North Wales Expressway to get from Chester along the top of North Wales and it is such a good road and gets you across to North West Wales quickly and easily.

There are many A roads in North Wales too which are good and not hard to navigate. As you get into the countryside and mountain areas though there are many country lanes which you often have to take at the end to get to your final destination. These can be tight and a bit tricky but fine if you are cautious and careful.

CAR HIRE IN WALES

If you’re reading this post with future dreams of doing a Wales road trip but don’t have a car, visit Rentalcars to get a quote. They search all of the top rental companies like Budget and Hertz to get you the best price!

Search car rental prices for Wales here!

North Wales Attractions

North Wales is where the action happens, there are so many activities in North Wales to do , especially adrenaline activities and water activities!

North Wales has a bit of something for everyone which you’ll soon see in this list of best places to visit in North Wales.

If you want a trip into nature with lots of long walks and barely any phone signal you can do that!

If you want a trip where you can keep the kids busy , there are lots of things to do in North Wales with kids like this , so you can do that!

If you want a romantic getaway in a nice hotel, you can do this too!

North Wales Itinerary

Maybe you want to spend 1 week in North Wales, stay in 1 places and do lots of North Wales day trips. Or maybe you are visiting for a few days and want to do a Wales road trip visiting many different places to go in North Wales.

Or maybe you have just one day in North Wales and are looking for the best North Wales days out .

This list of North Wales places to visit will help you work out where to visit in North Wales with the time you have and depending on how fast you want to travel,

I also recommend checking out my North Wales itinerary posts below to give you a better idea of how much of North Wales you can see in 1 trip.

1 Week in Wales itinerary – North & South Wales!

2 Day in North Wales Itinerary!

Perfect 3 Day Wales Itinerary!

• More of my Wales posts to help you plan your trip:
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad
• Best Time To Visit Wales By Weather & Things To Do
• 11 Amazing North Wales Glamping Pods with Hot Tubs!
• TOP 20 T hings To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!
• Wales Road Trip Itinerary & Places To Stop On Your Wales Road Trip!

Best Places To Visit in North Wales

Now let’s go into my complete list of the best places to visit in North Wales to help you plan your North Wales trip or holiday!

1. Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

If the weather is on your side, climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) should be on top of the list on your North Wales itinerary! Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) is the highest peak in Wales and although climbing it is hard work, it is do-able for many people and such a great achievement!

There are a few routes to the top, I have done it from Pen Y Pass a few times which I recommend, and if you don’t fancy the walk you can use the Snowdon Mountain Railway train to help you which is especially good if you’re in North Wales with children.

Related Post: Climbing Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) From The Pen Y Pass Snowdon Route!

2. Llanberis (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Llanberis is the town most people will pass through on the way to Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) and many people park in Llanberis and start the hike up Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) from here too.

Therefore if you are looking for things to do near Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon), Llanberis is a good place to visit.

Llanberis has a huge lake which is popular for watersports and many families come to relax on the grassy bank along the lake which has play areas too.

Tourist attractions in Llanberis include the Llanberis Lake Railway , National Slate Museum and Dolbadarn Castle . Overall it’s a perfect place for families to visit in North Wales.

3. Dinorwig Quarry (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Also in Llanberis is Dinorwig Quarry but I’m adding this as it’s own place to visit in North Wales because it’s a full day out on it’s own.

We had a great afternoon hiking here last year. We parked up in Llanberis main car park and headed straight into the forest between the two lakes here. If you search for Dinorwig Quarry on Google maps, you’ll find it easily.

We were so surprised by what we saw here. There are lots of old mining buildings within the forest, also known as the Anglesey Barracks as workers from Angelesey used to stay here. Dali’s Hole is a lake right at the top of the mountain and forest which you can walk to and then you can head over into the footpaths through the old Quarry.

On google it’s hard to see where to go, but trust me when you are there there are many places for walking here, with amazing views of the Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) Mountains in front.

4. Watkins Path Waterfalls (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Now wild swimming is all the range, one of the super unique and cool places for wild swimming in North Wales and in Snowdonia is the Watkin Path Waterfalls!

The Watkins Path is another route to the top of Yr Wyddfa (Mount Snowdon) but close-ish to the start of the walk you’ll find lots of pools one after each other than run down the mountain. They’re basically natural infinity pools in North Wales and the best places for swimming in Snowdonia .

5. Cwmorthin Lake (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) is made up of so many lakes and it will be hard to drive past them on your North Wales trip without wanting to stop! One of the good lakes to stop at is Cwmorthin Lake because of its history.

This used to be a slate mine so when you visit the lake you can see the former Cwmorthin Slate Mine, there is also Cwmorthin Waterfall down the river from the lake so it makes a great place to stop for a walk in nature.

If you fancy some wild swimming in North Wales , this place is for you too!

6. Betsw-y-Coed (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

If you’re travelling around North Wales by train , tourist villages in Snowdonia like Betws-y-Coed are great places to visit because of the central train station they have and from here, although you are not completely remote in North Wales, you can still do walks up to viewpoints, lakes and probably find a waterfall.

Betws-y-Coed has lots of facilities compared to other smaller villages so it’s a great place to stop on a Wales Road Trip too!

You can walk up to Cyrau Viewpoint , walk across the beautiful Pont-y-Pair bridge , visit Conwy Valley Railway Museum and take a bus further into the depths of Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) if you wish.

7. Zip-Line at Zip World (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

One of the top places to visit in Wales for a lot of fun is Zip World in North Wales.

Zip World have 4 locations in North Wales 3 of which are in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park).

The activities in each of them change from a roller coaster through the forest, sky rides, velocity ziplines and so much more, so pick which ones sound most appealing to you and book in because this will give your Wales road trip a huge adrenaline hit!

We recently went on Aero Explorer at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry which was a great family activity in North Wales!

8. Slate Cavern Gold and Bouncing at Zip World (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Zip World have revamped their North Wales activities quite a lot recently and now, in their Slate Cavern location in Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) you can play underground golf and go on trampolines inside the cavern!

It’s best to book all Zip-World activities in Wales online in advance so you don’t miss out, especially for weekends and school holidays!

9. Adventure Parc Snowdonia (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

Adventure Parc Snowdonia has something for everyone in the family and you don’t have to have children to enjoy it! It’s an adults adventure playground too!

For high-class, adrenaline activities in North Wales like surfing on a man-made surfing pool , rock climbing walls, high ropes, indoor caves, soft play, paddle boarding , zip lines, biking and coasteering, check Adventure Parc Snowdonia out for all of the best water activities in North Wales !

10. Mount Tryfan (Eryri National Park – Snowdonia National Park)

If you are up for an intense hike, be sure to add Mount Tryfan to your list of places to go in North Wales and places for hiking in North Wales.

In fact, it’s not a hike, it’s a scramble to the top! It took me 5 hours and although it was hard and scary at times, it was so rewarding!

My Related Post: A Guide to Climbing Tryfan & Hiking Tryfan for Non-Climbers in North Wales!

11. Portmeirion Tourist Village (Gwynedd)

Aside from Snowdon, I’d say this is the top of the list in tourist attractions in North Wales.

For a slice of Italy in Wales, you can visit Portmeirion . It is a pretty iconic place so you may have seen photos of it before online and it’s definitely one of the most iconic places to visit in North Wales.

It is a tourist village and it does get very busy so don’t go expecting a quaint village, it also costs £12.00 per adult to enter but for a unique experience to see some nice buildings and gardens it’s worth going.

Porthmadog is the closest town to Portmeirion which is quite a popular tourist town, so this place works as one of the great places to visit near Porthmadog .

12. Harlech Beach (Gwynedd)

For one of the best beaches in North Wales with a beautiful stretch of white sand and clear blue water head to Harlech Beach ! It’s one of the most beautiful beaches in Wales I have seen and I love that it has the sand dunes behind it.

Whilst you’re in Harlech you can check out the local town and definitely take a visit to Harlech Castle which stands prominently on the hill and another great North Wales attractions.

Harlech is a good place to visit before or after Portmeirion as they are quite close together.

13. Black Rock Sands Beach (Gwynedd)

Black Rock Sands Beach is a really cool and different beach to visit because you can drive onto it !! It’s so amazing and fun, especially if you have always wanted to experience driving on a huge beach !

It costs £5.00 to enter the beach and after that, you have the whole beach to decide where to drive and park up. There is a chance you could get stuck in wet sand but there are people there to help pull you out!

This is another one of the good places to visit near Porthmadog as it isn’t far away at all.

14. Aber Falls (Gwynedd)

Wales is all about waterfalls and one of the most visited waterfalls in North Wales is Aber Falls! It’s a great place to stop as you are leaving Snowdon to go into North England or Conwy or Llandudno because it’s just off the main North Wales Expressway.

Aber Falls is popular because it is fairly easily accessible so it’s good for kids to walk with an impressive waterfall at the end so get this on your list of things to see in North Wales !

15. Abersoch Beach (Llyn Peninsula)

The beaches in North Wales are some of the top places to visit in North Wales all year round.

For a calm and sandy beach , Abersoch is the beach for you. You can head here in all seasons for a sunny day on the beach and a winters walk.

If you have children this is a good beach to add to your places to visit in North Wales with kids as it is family friendly and safe.

16. Ty Coch Inn (Llyn Peninsula)

A Beach Bar might not be what you expect to see in North Wales, but this is why this part of the UK is so great because it offers surprise after surprise.

Ty Coch Inn has been voted in the  top ten beach bars in the world because this typical Welsh pub is located on a beautiful stretch of beach.

It’s definitely one of the unique places to visit in North Wales because there are not many other places you find a pub in such an incredible location.

17. Traeth Porthor (Llyn Peninsula)

Porthor Beach on the far coast of the Llyn Peninsula is known for its whistling sands !

This bay of beautiful sands is one of the fairly secluded beaches in North Wales and is a total gem because of that. When the weather is good and the waves are good and safe, it is perfect for sports like surfing, bodyboarding and kayaking .

The National Trust say that Dolphins and Seals can often be seen too so it’s a great beach for a family day out in Wales in a beautiful location.

18. Pen-Llyn Riding Centre (Llyn Peninsula)

If you want to add some horse riding in North Wales to your list of things to do in North Wales, I went out on a hack with Pen-Llyn Riding Centre last year and it was such a great way to see see this part of the Llyn Peninsula which is called Pwllheli.

19. Beaumaris (Anglesey Island)

Anglesey is an island off of the North-West coast of Wales connected by a bridge in Bangor, and if there is one place you should visit in Anglesey it’s Beaumaris.

Beaumaris is a charming seaside town with a mix of medieval, Georgian, Victorian and Edwardian architect ure and lots of them are painted in bright colours!

For tourist attractions in Anglesey, you can visit Beaumaris Castle , take a Puffin Island boat trip , walk along the seafront and get some fish and chips from one of the many shops!

20. Newborough Beach (Anglesey Island)

This is one of my favourite beaches in North Wales! To get there you drive through Newborough National Nature Reserve, followed by a quick walk over sand dunes before getting to a long stretch of white sand !

The Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park) Mountains provide a stunning backdrop to this beach. It’s perfect for water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding and you can do a great walk to the end of the peninsula to see the lighthouses.

21. Holyhead (Anglesey Island)

Holyhead is the harbour port where you get the boat over to Ireland . It is the biggest town on Anglesey Island and a great place to base yourself on this Wales road trip if you want to see a lot of Angelsey.

It has a bustling town with nearby beaches and activities like cycling, golf, a lighthouse walk and a Maritime Museum!

22. South Stack Lighthouse (Anglesey Island)

This is one of my husbands top places to visit in North Wales. He just loves seeing South Stack Lighthouse perched right on the last edge of the West Coast of Wales so remotely and it’s amazing that it was built in 1809 .

We also love the drive to South Stack Lighthouse , it’s so scenic and totally worth the extra time it takes you get here as it’s a one of the best places to see in Anglesey .

Once here, you can visit inside the lighthouse with a ticket , there are walking paths along the coast and you can check out Elin’s Tower.

23. Parys Mountain (Anglesey Island)

This is a really unique place to go North Wales and in Anglesey! It’s an historic copper mining site and because of this the ground and rocks are striking colours of gold and copper!

It’s a great place to go walking on Anglesey Island!

24. Conway City (Conwy)

Conway is a walled market town and worth visiting a few reasons. The main reason being Conwy Castle . There are many Castles in North Wales but this one is hugely impressive and if you only visit one castle in Wales it should be this one!

Conway is also home to the smallest house in Great Britain and still has it’s town walls intact so it’s a great place to visit for history in North Wales if you don’t fancy a beach day or the weather is not on your side for exploring the wild outdoors.

25. LLandudno (Conwy)

Llandudno is an old British seaside resort but it is still thriving today and is clean and tidy to visit.

I love the old victorian buildings that line the huge promenade and beach. Llandudno pier is easily the top of the list of Llandudno tourist attractions is a good place for some typical seaside fun!

It is a resort town so there are lots of activities near Llandudno like a ski slope and one of the popular things to do in Llandudno is to drive up to and around the Great Orme rock that stands out beside the town. Be sure to look for seals in the ocean below too!

For one of the great places to visit near Llandudno you can go to Conwy city or one of the many nearby beaches like Colwyn Bay Beach.

We have some paddle boards and recently took them out onto the sea from Llandudno beach. We found it easy to park right by the beach and get to the water carrying the boards. The water was a bit choppy for us but if it was a nice still day, this is a great paddle boarding spot in North Wales .

26. Gwrych Castle (Conwy)

Another one of the top Castles to visit in North Wales is Gwrych Castle. This is a beautiful castle to visit anyway, however it has now become even more popular due to it being where “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” was filmed for two consecutive years.

You need to purchase tickets to enter Gwrych Castle and if you want to know what it’s like to stay overnight in a castle, you can book to stay in one of their lodges !

27. Rhyl (Denbighshire)

From what I have seen and heard, Rhyl isn’t one of the prettiest places in North Wales and is quite commercial, it’s a bit like the Barry Island of South Wales. Some people will enjoy it, others won’t.

However, for North Wales with children, you will find some attractions in Rhyl to keep children busy like the beach, water parks, Aquarium and there’s also a zip world in Rhyl for some adrenaline activities in North Wales!

28. Llangollen (Denbighshire)

Llangollen has become one of my favourite places in North Wales recently . It’s really well located on the border or England and Wales making it really easy to get to from Manchester.

We went first to see Dinas Bran Castle (more on that below) and then popped into the town for some food.

After seeing the River Dee rushing through Llangollen we decided to plan a white water rafting day out with friends in Llangollen and it was great fun! We booked it through White Water Active who I recommend.

Not only does Llangollen offer lots of nice cafes and amazing water activities in North Wales but it as aqueduct which is so unique to see!

A canal runs along the aqueduct high above the trees and you can walk along it, take a canal boat trip or kayak along it with one of the companies in town. Click here for visitor info.

Make sure you include Llangollen on your places to visit in North Wales, especially for a day trip coming from England as it’s so easy to get to !

29. Castell Dinas Bran (Denbighshire)

Perched high above Llangollen is Castell Dinas Bran and you can’t miss it as you drive into the town.

Luckily, there is a windy country lane you can drive up away from the town with places to park at the top, this means you don’t have to walk as far and as high to reach the castle.

The castle is completely in ruins and therefore free to enter . The ruins are from a 13th century castle built on an earlier Iron Age hill fort.

We loved walking up here recently and taking in the spectacular views.

Its one of the good places to visit in North Wales with children but do be warned that it’s a steep walk to the top!

30. Wrexham

Wrexham doesn’t compare to the beautiful beaches and the prettiest villages in North Wales but if you are visiting Wales for a few days, a stop in a city offering culture might be good for you and it’s definitely a good place to consider if you’re travelling with children and looking for things to do in North Wales when it rains!

There are a number of things to do in Wrexham like visiting Churches, Castles, Parks, Country Parks and Museums like Xplore Science which is a great place to take children!

FAQ about places in North Wales

What is the best time to visit north wales.

The summer is always going to be the best time to visit Wales in general for good weather, however I have visited North Wales on some beautiful spring and autumn days too.

In terms of crowds and cars, if you can go to North Wales mid-week it will be less busy that weekends.

Here is my full post on the best time to visit Wales and why !

Is North Wales worth visiting?

Absolutely! If you have ever doubted that the UK isn’t spectacular then you haven’t been to North Wales! I love that you can see so much natural beauty in Wales and it’s all fairly accessible and easy to get to with limited time.

What is the most beautiful part of North Wales?

I’d have to say Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park). Seeing the rolling mountains, all the lakes and pretty villages makes it easily one of the top most beautiful places in the UK!

Is North or South Wales better?

Both are stunning! I do love South Wales, particularly because of Pembrokeshire which is filled with beaches, but North Wales has incredible beaches too! To be honest, I think the best side is the side that is easiest to get to for you. Although North Wales is much more natural and less built up than South Wales so it does win in this sense!

I hope this list of places to visit in North Wales and North Wales tourist attractions has helped you plan your trip!

• For more of my Wales posts see:
• 30 TOP Places To Visit in South Wales & South Wales Attractions!
• How To Spend 3 Days in Wales! Perfect 3 Day Wales Itinerary!
• 16 Beautiful Staycations in Wales To Feel Like You’re Abroad!
• TOP 20 Things To Do In Cardiff, Cardiff Bay & Near Cardiff!
• 16 Beaches Near Cardiff To Visit. All 1 Hour From Cardiff!
• How To Climb Snowdon From The Pen Y Pass Snowdon Route!

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15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in North Wales

Written by Bryan Dearsley Updated Mar 30, 2022

North Wales, one of Britain's oldest and most established tourist regions, offers an abundance of excellent holiday attractions within a relatively small area. Road signs proclaiming "Croeso i Gymru" (Welcome to Wales) greet visitors as they enter the country and bear witness to the warm, inviting hospitality of the Welsh.

The elegant little town of Llandudno is one of Britain's oldest and most popular seaside resort towns, and the North Wales coast roads offer a tremendous variety of scenery. Add to this its numerous large open stretches of sandy beaches and lively resorts, scenic rugged cliffs, quaint fishing villages, and countless secluded bays, and it's not difficult to understand why North Wales is among the most popular places to visit in the UK .

Perhaps the best-known attraction here is spectacular Snowdonia National Park . Here, Wales' highest mountain, Snowdon, stands 1,085 meters tall and has for centuries attracted climbers and walkers, while the Lleyn Peninsula and the Clwydian Range are also designated as areas of outstanding natural beauty.

The area also boasts many historical sites and charming little towns, deep ravines, and picturesque valleys, which turn any outing into a voyage of discovery.

Learn about fun things to do in this beautiful corner of the UK with our list of the top tourist attractions in North Wales.

1. Snowdonia National Park

2. caernarfon castle, 3. conwy castle, 4. llandudno, 5. portmeirion, 6. the isle of anglesey, 7. pontcysyllte aqueduct & the llangollen canal, 8. porthmadog & ffestiniog & welsh highland railways, 9. the national slate museum, 10. beaumaris castle, 11. harlech castle, 12. bodnant garden, 13. llechwedd slate caverns, 14. penrhyn castle, 15. erdigg hall, wrexham, map of tourist attractions in north wales.

Snowdonia National Park covers a great deal of North Wales, extending inland from the coast between Penmaenmawr and Caernarfon by way of Bethesda, all the way to Bala Lake and Llanfairfechan. Visitor access to the most beautiful part of this area, including the summit of Snowdon itself, is made easier by the wonderful Snowdon Mountain Railway, which starts in Llanberis and is considered one of the world's top railway journeys.

This beautiful park is one of the best places to visit in Britain for hiking and climbing adventures, and offers plenty of extremely rugged and scenic mountain vistas along the way. But there's more to explore in Snowdonia than just stunning mountain scenery. The park also boasts many lovely sandy beaches and dunes, countless picture-perfect Welsh valleys, as well as over 50 lakes and smaller pools of water.

Fans of British history are attracted, too. Here, you'll find evidence of a rich cultural heritage that includes everything from Roman ruins, prehistoric circles, ancient stonewalls, and traditional Welsh farms.

Address: Penrhyndeudraeth, Wales

Official site: www.snowdonia.gov.wales/home

Caernarfon Castle was begun by Edward I in 1283 as a seat for his eldest son, Edward of Caernarfon, the first Prince of Wales. The structure took almost 37 years to complete, and the power and might of the English throne is symbolized by the great stone eagles on the Eagle Tower and the layout of the castle's walls and towers.

With its 13 towers and two gates, this massive building is one of the most impressive and best-preserved medieval fortresses in Europe. As you'll learn during one of the castle's highly-recommended tours, it occupies the site of an earlier Norman castle that once stood here protecting the waters of the River Seiont and the Menai Strait.

The castle has had an eventful history and has withstood many sieges. More recently, it was the scene of Prince Charles's investiture as Prince of Wales in 1969, an event marked by a special exhibition. While you're here, be sure to explore the magnificent Queen's Tower, home of the Royal Welch Fusiliers Regimental Museum .

If you are traveling with kids be sure to spend time at the newest addition to this top attraction: Legends of the Sky . This fun 3D experience allows you to take control of a "virtual dragon" and swoop, dive, and even breathe fire over the castle. Afterwards, be sure to visit the on-site gift shop.

Address: Castle Ditch, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, Wales

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/caernarfon-castle

Conwy Castle, located only a short distance from Manchester, is a masterpiece of medieval architecture that took an estimated 2,000 workers to build between 1283 and 1289. And it was completed just in time, as in 1290 Edward I was besieged behind its 3.6- to 4.5-meter-thick walls and eight towers by the Welsh.

While the 38-meter-long Great Hall is now roofless, one of the eight original arches that supported it has been rebuilt and demonstrates the original magnificence of the structure. It's now considered one of Wales' most picturesque fortresses, and is in fact one of the best preserved 13th-century fortresses in Europe. Along with fine examples of medieval royal chambers, Conwy Castle features an excellent exhibition on the history of Edward I and his numerous Welsh castles.

Afterwards, be sure to explore the old town itself. Conwy's other highlights include its well-preserved 13th-century town walls, which offer superb views of the surrounding area, and Aberconwy House. This 14th-century merchant's house was one of the first buildings to be built within the town walls. Also worth seeing are the superbly preserved Elizabethan home, Plas Mawr , and what is reputedly the Smallest House in Great Britain.

Address: Rose Hill Street, Conwy, Wales

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/conwy-castle

Lovely Llandudno is one of the most popular seaside resorts in all of Wales, in part due to its two sandy beaches (one on either side of the town) and picture-perfect promenade. With the advent of tourism in the last century, this Victorian town became a gathering place for the new middle class, who came here from the nearby industrial regions of Liverpool and Manchester.

The more easterly of the two beaches, North Shore, is bounded by another headland, Little Orme. One of the most popular things to do here is hopping aboard the Great Orme Tramway . The only cable-hauled tramline in Britain, it has been taking visitors on a lovely journey to the top of the Great Orme, with its superb views over the Irish Channel, since 1902.

Alternative means of getting to the top of Great Orme include hiking along any one of the scenic trails available or aboard the mile-long Llandudno Cable Car.

The town's magnificent late Victorian pier has been mercifully spared the modern fairground influences so typical of many resorts on the south coast and is a popular hangout for anglers (fishing gear is available for rent at the pier entrance). It's also a great place to simply sit and enjoy the sea air, especially if accompanied by a hot drink or snack from one of the food outlets here.

A must-do if traveling with kids is stopping and watching one of the fun "Punch and Judy" puppet shows, performed frequently along the promenade. Mostyn Street, with its superb shopping arcades, is well worth a visit and is home to a wide range of cultural events and entertainments.

Located in Tremadog Bay on a wooded peninsula between Porthmadog and Harlech, Portmeirion is famous the world over for being a replica in miniature of a picturesque Italian village.

Portmeirion was the brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis (1884-1978), who dreamed of recreating an Italian village in Wales and had it built on his own private promontory, together with a mansion (now a hotel) and beautiful Gwylt Gardens .

Also on-site are a number of boutique shops, plus dining options in the tearoom, café, and restaurant. The village was also where the famous Portmeirion pottery line originated. Now made in Stoke-on-Trent in England, these Portmeirion-inspired products adorn tables and shelves the world over.

This unique property is best visited as part of an overnight stay; when the gates close for the evening, guests get the whole place to themselves to explore, from its beautiful gardens, fountains, and church, to the coastal paths of the lower village. The location for numerous films and TV programs, including the cult show The Prisoner , Portmeirion is a must for any sightseeing visit to North Wales.

Address: Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, Wales

Official site: https://portmeirion.wales

The Isle of Anglesey, separated from the mainland by the nearly mile-wide Menai Strait, is spanned by two imposing bridges, the most interesting of which is the Menai Suspension Bridge (1818-26). Along the coast are a series of small seaside resorts that have grown out of fishing villages, the most significant being Holyhead . Head inland, and you'll find five market towns and many tiny villages all linked by numerous narrow roads.

In addition to its mild climate and fresh sea air, Anglesey is blessed with over a hundred miles of exceedingly attractive coastline, its rugged cliffs interrupted at intervals by picturesque sandy bays. Inland, hills provide fertile pasture for vast flocks of sheep.

Highlights include South Stack Lighthouse , built in 1809 and now open to the public. Visitors can take the stairs to the top for great views over the coast and the Irish Sea.

Other popular attractions include Beaumaris Castle (see the full listing below for further details), and Holy Island. This smaller island is linked to Anglesey by bridge and is a popular holiday resort, with two promenades, one of them 2.4 kilometers long. Puffin Island at Penmon Point is especially popular among bird-watchers.

Anglesey is also famous for having the world's longest place name: Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllandysiliogogogoch. A great way to truly experience the island and its many attractions is by hiking the 200-kilometer Anglesey Coastal Path , part of the much longer Wales Coastal Path.

Official site: www.visitanglesey.co.uk/en/

One of the most recognizable landmarks of the industrialization that took place across Great Britain in the early 19th century, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a spectacular 18-arched stone and cast iron aqueduct built to carry coal barges across the Vale of Llangollen.

Designed by engineer Thomas Telford and finished in 1805 after 10 years of construction, the aptly nicknamed "stream in the sky" has been classified as the world's highest navigable aqueduct, and at 336 yards is the longest such structure in the country. Today, the structure is used only by pleasure craft, canal boats, and pedestrians.

Part of the Llangollen Canal, it is perhaps unsurprisingly one of the most popular stretches of inland waterway thanks to its magnificent scenery, and, of course, the chance to boat across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Now a World Heritage Site, this spectacular edifice is also open to pedestrian traffic and makes for a fun outing.

Pleasant boat rides are available that cross the aqueduct regularly. Better still, go whole hog and rent a canal barge for a few days to explore this magnificent part of Wales at a very leisurely pace, as canal barges have average speeds of approximately eight kilometers per hour.

Address: Station Road, Trevor Basin, Wrexham, Wales

Official site: www.pontcysyllte-aqueduct.co.uk

Located at the mouth of the River Glaslyn are the twin towns of Porthmadog, often referred to simply as Port and Tremadog, tiny industrial centers that attained international importance for the shipping of slate. Today, they have developed into pleasant seaside resorts with a number of great sandy beaches.

From Ynys Tywyn, near the harbor, there are wide views of the surrounding area where the poet Shelley lived for some time, as did Lawrence of Arabia, who was born here. The Coed Tremadog woods, a designated nature reserve, are worth visiting and offer many great walking and hiking trails.

Porthmadog is perhaps best known as the terminus for the oldest narrow-gauge railroad in the world, built in 1836 to transport slate from the mines at Blaenau Ffestiniog. Today, the wonderful Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways offer visitors a chance to explore this beautiful area on more than 64 kilometers of narrow-gauge railway.

Address: Harbour Station, Porthmadog, Wales

Official site: www.festrail.co.uk

You'll find the National Slate Museum, a superb museum dedicated to what's been dubbed the most "Welsh of Welsh industries," in Padarn Country Park. This collection of well-preserved 1870s workshops formerly housed the men and machinery of the once busy Dinorwic slate quarry.

These days, the buildings and the still-operating heritage narrow-gauge railway that served the quarry paint a vivid picture of the workings of the slate mine, and the tough conditions for those that toiled here. Highlights include the original machinery used to mine and prepare the slate for export, including a huge working waterwheel, as well as four preserved workers' cottages.

You can, in fact, reach the museum via the Llanberis Lake Railway, which frequently makes the journey to and from Llanberis. Guided tours are available, and a gift shop and café are located on-site.

Location: Llanberis, Caernarfon , Wales

Beaumaris Castle, a magnificent moated edifice with sturdy walls and defensive towers located on the Isle of Anglesey, is well worth including in your list of must-see Welsh fortresses. Begun in 1295, it was the last and largest of the fortresses that Edward I built in Wales (a display in the chapel tower details the story of their construction).

Its exterior walls are some five meters thick, with solid corner towers, and enclose the square inner courtyard. The water-filled moat presented an impressive first-line defense outside the ring of walls.

Address: Castle Street, Beaumaris, Isle of Anglesey, Wales

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/beaumaris-castle

Built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Irish Sea, Harlech Castle is another of the chain of fortresses built by Edward I in the late 13th century to seal his conquest of Wales. The castle endured numerous sieges through the centuries, including during the English Civil War in the 17th century, after which it was left mostly to fall into disrepair.

Despite these years of neglect, the castle is now considered by UNESCO to be one of Europe's best surviving examples of military architecture from the 13th and 14th centuries. Today, the castle - the subject of the unofficial Welsh anthem, Men of Harlech - is a delightful place to explore, with its rich history on display at the visitor center.

For a real treat, book one of the castle's luxury apartments housed in the center, once a former hotel. Be sure to also explore the delightful adjacent village of Harlech, too, along with its long stretch of sandy beach.

Address: Harlech Castle, Harlech, Wales

Official site: https://cadw.gov.wales/visit/places-to-visit/harlech-castle

Gardeners shouldn't pass up the opportunity to pay a visit to Bodnant Garden, one of the oldest and most visited formal gardens in Wales. Now a National Trust location, Bodnant is situated on a hillside overlooking the Conwy Valley near the small village of Tal-y-Cafn.

In addition to its many fine floral displays, it offers superb views over the surrounding Carneddau peaks. Covering an impressive 80 acres, Bodnant was established in 1874 and retains to this day many facets of the original explorer collections that were deposited here. These include its fine Italianate terraces, a gorge garden, collections of trees and shrubs, plus an attractive waterfall. Newer additions include a winter garden and a very pleasant riverside garden.

The big draw, though, is the garden's magnificent 55-meter-long laburnum arch. Planted in 1880 and flowering each May and June, it continues to draw large crowds who travel here to enjoy its splendid display.

Other notable highlights include its two restaurants, two tearooms, guided walks and talks, along with fun workshops. Those traveling with dogs are welcome to visit with their canine friends on select days.

Address: Bodnant Rd, Tal-y-cafn, Colwyn Bay, Wales

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/bodnant-garden

Another of North Wales' mining-related attractions and one of the region's most visited tourist attractions, Llechwedd Slate Caverns is located in the quaint town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Often referred to simply as "Llechwedd" this fascinating attraction paints a very vivid picture of the history and importance of slate mining to the region, and focuses around the Llechwedd quarry.

A highlight of a visit is the Llechwedd Deep Mine Tour. This thrilling experience involves taking the country's steepest narrow gauge railway some 152 meters down to some of the property's most spectacular slate caverns. Also fun is the Quarry Explorer, a 4x4 vehicle experience that carries guests on a fascinating tour around the vast mine area.

The inclusion of other notable features, such as mountain biking trails, underground ziplining, and an underground trampoline experience make this one attraction in Wales the kids are definitely going to love.

Address: Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Wales

Just because it's one of the newest castles in all of Wales – really a "mock castle" as it was completed in 1837 – doesn't mean beautiful Penrhyn Castle is any less deserving of a visit. This well-preserved National Trust property offers plenty of reasons to linger, from its magnificent grounds to its elegant interiors.

It's a vast structure, built in a Norman fortress style with only its larger lower drawing room windows suggesting it's a relatively recent construction. Interior highlights include a rich décor boasting plenty of elegantly carved wood and stone, detailed plasterwork, plus a large art collection (including a Rembrandt). There's also a notable collection of furniture to match its Norman influences, including a huge bed made entirely of slate for Queen Victoria.

Notable features that make this a fun family day out include a number of delightful gardens; picnic areas (including beautiful views over the Snowdonia mountains); and a playground for kids.

The Penryhn Castle Railway Museum , home to a large collection of artifacts, rolling stock, and engines once employed in the former estate owner's nearby mines, is also worth seeing.

Address: Bangor, Gwynedd, Wales

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/penrhyn-castle

Erdigg Hall near Wrexham is another charming National Trust property worthy of being added to your North Wales itinerary. Constructed in 1687, it's considered to be one of the best-preserved stately homes in Britain.

A great way to enjoy Erdigg is via a guided tour, which will lead you through the servants' quarters, as well as the rather more opulent living areas occupied by the owners themselves. Along the way, you'll enjoy a wide variety of historic furnishings and artwork, and learn a great deal about life on the estate throughout the centuries.

Exterior highlights include an exquisite walled garden laid out in the 18th century (one of the oldest in the UK), and a number of outbuildings worth visiting, including a blacksmith's shop, a joiners, and the stables.

Of special note, too, is the unique cascade referred to as "Erdigg's cup and saucer." There's also a fine collection of historic cars and bicycles.

Address: Erdigg Hall, Wrexham, Wales

Official site: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/erddig

More on Wales

15 Incredible Places To Visit In North Wales!

Ready to get inspired? Whether you’re planning a road trip, an outdoor adventure, or just looking for a change of pace, North Wales is the perfect destination. From amazing landscapes to historical sites and plenty of activities, this stunning region has something for everyone. In this post, you’ll discover 15 incredible places to visit in North Wales that will leave you with memories that’ll last forever!

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There are countless reasons why North Wales makes a fabulous holiday destination or even a fantastic day out for those like me lucky enough to live close by! North Wales is a stunningly beautiful region with plenty of natural attractions to explore. Outdoor enthusiasts will find plenty to keep them busy here, whether hiking in Snowdonia National Park , mountain biking in Betws-y-Coed , or simply taking a scenic drive along the coastline. In addition, North Wales is home to some of the best-known historical sites in the United Kingdom, including the ancient castles at Caernarfon and Conwy.

15 Incredible Places To Visit In North Wales:

1. snowdonia national park:.

Snowdonia National Park  is a stunningly beautiful place to explore, and there are plenty of things to do to entertain visitors of all ages. One of the most popular activities is hiking up Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. The summit offers breathtaking views and several different routes, depending on fitness levels. 

If you’re feeling energetic, why not take on the  Snowdon Horseshoe,  a 10-mile loop that takes in eight summits? Or, for something more relaxed, try the  Llanberis Path , a relatively gentle 6-mile hike that follows the path of an old railway line. For those who are less able or want an easy route, why not ride the famous Snowdon Mountain Railway?

Once you’ve reached the summit, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views across Snowdonia National Park. On a clear day, you can even see as far as Ireland! After taking in the views, the descent of Snowdon via either the  Snowdon Ranger Path or the  Pyg Track offers different perspectives of this incredible landscape.

For those who prefer to stay closer to ground level, there are plenty of other walking and cycling trails to enjoy. There are also several historic sites and adrenaline adventures, such as  Velocity 2  at Zip World, the fastest zip line in the world!

Snowdonia National Park is a truly magical place, and it’s easy to see why it’s one of Wales’s most popular tourist destinations.

2. Portmeirion Village:

Portmeirion Village  is a magical place that feels like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Nestled on the North East coast of Wales between Porthmadog and Harlech, Portmeirion is a mini replica of an Italian coastal village. It truly is a hidden gem that is full of character and charm. 

Designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1973, Portmeirion Village was Clough’s dream for many years; even from the age of six, he dreamt of being an architect and building his own town. He also knew early on that if his dream were to come true, he would need to depend on tourism for income. After scouring multiple sites, he found the perfect location on the Snowdonia peninsula, a neglected estate called Aber la. He later changed the name to Portmeirion, “Port” due to its coastal location and “Merion” from its county.

The village has also been used as a film and television location, most famously as the setting for the 1960s TV series The Prisoner. Today, Portmeirion is owned by a charitable trust and loved by tourists and locals alike. Its unique design makes it one of the most recognisable villages in the world.

From the colourful houses to the scenic coastline, there is plenty to explore in Portmeirion. Visitors can take a stroll through the village, enjoy a cup of tea at one of the cafes, or even take a dip in the Portmeirion pool. With so much to see and do, Portmeirion Village is the perfect place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Read more: A guide to visiting Portmeirion in North Wales

Conwy is a small town in North Wales with a big history.  Conwy Castle,  built in the 13th century, is one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in Britain. The castle walls encircle the town, and the eight massive towers offer stunning views of the surrounding area. 

Conwy is also home to the  smallest house in Great Britain.  The house, which measures just three meters wide and two meters deep, was built in the 18th century and originally served as a one-room dwelling for a local fisherman and his family. Today, it is open to the public as a museum. 

Conwy is a charming town with a lot to offer visitors. Whether you’re interested in history or just looking for a quaint place to wander, Conwy is worth a visit.

4. Llandudno:

Llandudno is a popular seaside resort town in North Wales filled with things to see and do. One of the most popular attractions is the beaches and picture-perfect promenade. The town has two beaches, the North Shore and the West Shore, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. 

For those who want to explore the area, several hiking trails wind through the picturesque countryside. For those who want to experience some history and fantastic views, why not take a trip on the  Great Orme Tramway  or the  Cable Car up the Great Orme ? Both offer breathtaking coast views, including Conwy Castle, on a clear day! If you’re feeling energetic, you can always take the old-fashioned walking route!

Other notable attractions include the Victorian Pier, which offers a variety of shops and restaurants, as well as several museums and galleries. No matter what your interests are, Llandudno has something for everyone.

5. Beaumaris:

Beaumaris is a beautiful town in North Wales with plenty to see and do. Situated on the island of Anglesey, Beaumaris is one of my favourite places in North Wales!

For history buffs, a visit to  Beaumaris Castle  is a must. Built during the 13th century by King Edward I, Beaumaris Castle represents the height of medieval military engineering. It was the last of Edwards’s castles to be built, but unfortunately, unlike other castles in North Wales, Beaumaris Castle was never completed due to a lack of funds. However, its partially finished state is still impressive. The near-perfect symmetry of its design makes this castle so unique. It really would have been the castle to end all castles!

For something truly unique, take a  Puffin Island boat trip  and see these adorable birds up close. Numerous local companies offer boat trips from the pier, which take around 90 minutes to circumnavigate the island. As well as the puffins, guides will also point out other wildlife, if you’re lucky you may even get to see some seals relaxing on the beach.

If you’re interested in history, visit the  old gaol,  which once held some of the most notorious criminals in Wales. Finally, don’t miss out on a stroll along the pier. It’s the perfect place to take in the stunning views of Beaumaris Bay. 

6. Llangollen:

Llangollen is a beautiful town well known for its stunning scenery and friendly locals, making it a popular place to visit in North Wales. The town is located along the River Dee’s banks and surrounded by the Berwyn Mountains. Llangollen is a great place to stay if you want to explore North Wales, as it is centrally located and has plenty of amenities. The town has various shops, restaurants, and pubs, with plenty of tourist attractions to entertain you. 

One of Llangollen’s more famous attractions is its  steam railway,  the only standard gauge railway in North Wales. It is situated within an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) and runs alongside the River Dee for its entire length. Sit back and watch the stunning scenery pass by.

Other activities in the town include canal boat trips and numerous outdoor activities, such as hiking, whitewater rafting, tubing or canoeing, and exploring some local historic sites.

7. Porthmadog & Ffestiniog Railway:

Porthmadog & Ffestiniog Railway  is a narrow gauge railway between Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog in North Wales. It’s considered one of the most scenic railways in the UK, with stunning views of Snowdonia National Park along the way. The railway has been operating since 1868, making it one of the oldest continuously running railways in the world.

The railway was initially built to transport slate from the quarries back towards Porthmadog. Before this, slate was transported by animal and farm carts over rough roads down to the River Dwyryd. Here, the slate was loaded into river boats for transport downstream, where it was loaded yet again, this time into sea-going sailing ships. This long-winded system was expensive both in terms of time and the number of broken slates during transport.

Originally, the railway was operated with a gravity system, and horses would pull the empty carts back up the hill to the quarries to be refilled again. Eventually, as demand increased, steam engines were introduced onto the line, and then, in 1866, new carriages were also introduced to transport quarrymen. Many of these carriages have survived, been restored, and are still used today. 

By 1872, other routes were built, and the slate was transported along more efficient railway lines. Around this time, the railway started to transport tourists up and down the line rather than slate; however, when war broke out in 1939, the service stopped, and the railway was left abandoned. In 1951, a group of people led by Leonard Heath-Humphrys met up to find a way to restore and reopen the railway; a few years later, the Ffestiniog Railway Trust was set up. Since then, the line has been rebuilt and extended, and a new station has opened, ensuring the railway can be enjoyed for generations to come.

The railway takes you on a 13½ mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. These historic trains climb over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures and magnificent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, round horseshoe bends (even a complete spiral) clinging to the side of the mountain or even tunnelling through it.

Ruthin is a beautiful market town in North Wales with a long and fascinating history spanning over 700 years, including scandal, battle and siege. 

One of the most dominant features of the town is its Castle. Although it is now a  hotel,  you can still walk around its grounds. It also has a lovely outside terrace where you can enjoy a drink or afternoon tea whilst watching the peacocks roam around you. It is idyllic.

However, the castle you see today was only built in the 19th century as a country house. The original castle, built by King Edward I, was destroyed during the English civil war in 1646. Some of the original castle remains can still be seen today close to the main entrance. If you want to explore a real castle, then  Denbigh Castle  is only a short drive away and definitely worth a visit.

Other attractions include the gaol museum, which was once a working prison.  Moel Famau,  the highest point in the Clwydian Range and Loggerheads Country Park,  is a must-see for those who love nature. The park is home to various wildlife, including red kites, buzzards and otters. There are also several walking and cycling trails. 

The town is also worth a visit with numerous historic buildings like the half-timbered Old Court House built in 1401 and the Nantclwyd House, the oldest known townhouse in Wales, with timbers dating back to 1435.

9. Betws-y-Coed:

Another one of my favourite places to visit in North Wales is Betws-y-Coed. Best known for its beautiful location within Snowdonia National Park, It’s the perfect base for exploring and adventure in North Wales.

Surrounded by the dense Gwydir Forest, it has an almost Alpine feel, with numerous waterfalls and the River Conwy winding through its centre. This idyllic location makes it ideal for outdoor activities such as water sports, mountain biking, and walking or hiking.

Betws-y-Coed also has several historical attractions, including an early 14th-century church and the Pont y Pair Bridge, originally built around 1500. 

Being a popular tourist destination, Betws-y-Coed also has many excellent restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as plenty of independent shops selling various crafts, clothing, gifts, and local homemade produce. 

10. Pontcysllte Aqueduct:

Pontcysllte Aqueduct  crosses the River Dee near Llangollen in North Wales. At 1,007 feet (307 m) long and 126 feet (38 m) high, it’s one of the longest and highest aqueducts in Europe. Construction of the aqueduct started in 1795 by Thomas Telford, opened in 1805 and still operates today, carrying water from Lake Bala to Liverpool.

The Pontcysllte Aqueduct forms part of the Llangollen Canal, which is 11 miles long and makes up an outstanding piece of industrial and engineering heritage recognised by UNESCO World Heritage since 2009. One of the best ways of checking out the Aqueduct is to take a trip along it on a canal boat. One of the easiest options is a boat tour from Llangollen Wharf. Other boat tours can take you along some of the canal’s most beautiful parts. 

If you have a head for heights, you can also walk along the aqueduct.  An excellent circular Pontcysyllte Aqueduct walk starts and finishes at the Trevor Basin, at the Northern end of the aqueduct. It follows good paths down from one end of the aqueduct, along the partially wooded banks of the River Dee, to the Cefn Viaduct and Ty Mawr Country Park. It then follows a road past the village of Pentre before using the towpath of the Llangollen Canal to cross the aqueduct and return to the starting point.

11. Harlech Castle:

Harlech Castle  is a medieval fortification located in Harlech on the west side of the North Wales coast. The castle was built on a rocky outcrop overlooking the dunes and sea below. This location is undoubtedly the most spectacular of King Edward I’s many castles. You can easily understand why it got UNESCO World Heritage status alongside Conwy, Caernarfon and Beaumaris.

Like other castles in the area, Harlech had a fascinating history, and its ‘walls within walls’ design made it one of the strongest. So much so that while besieged during the rebellion of Madog ap Llewelyn, the castle held out. This was thanks to its 108 steps down its rocky cliff face to the sea, which allowed the besieged defenders to be fed and watered by ship.

Today’s visitors can explore the castle’s many rooms and towers and enjoy stunning views of the coastline from the top of the keep. Harlech Castle is a fascinating piece of history, and it is well worth a visit.

12. Llyn Peninsula:

The Llyn peninsula extends into Cardigan Bay and is home to beautiful coastline villages such as Aberdaron, Abersoch, and Criccieth. The area covers over 100 miles of coastline and has gained Area of Outstanding Beauty Status. It is made up of sweeping bays and cliffs, perfect for lovers of the outdoors. 

For beach lovers, the Llyn Peninsula has some of the most beautiful beaches in Wales. Whistling Sands  is one of my favourites. It is extremely peaceful, with a long sandy bay and many rocky inlets to explore. If you want something a little more lively, head to Porthdinllaen Beach, where you can listen to some chilled-out beats while enjoying the outside bar of the  Ty Coch Inn.

For history lovers, check out the   Llyn Maritime Museum  in Nefyn, the  Porth y Swnt Visitor Centre  or the beautiful  Plas yn Rhiw , a 17th-century manor house with stunning gardens overlooking Cardigan Bay.

13. Trearddur Bay:

Located on Holy Island just off the coast of Anglesey in North Wales, Trearddur Bay is one of the most beautiful places in the country. With its dramatic cliffs, serene beaches, and crystal-clear waters, it’s no wonder that the bay is a popular tourist destination. There are plenty of things to do in Trearddur Bay, from swimming and sunbathing on its Blue Flag beach to sailing, fishing and kayaking. 

Just a little drive up the coast from Trearddur Bay, you will find one of Anglesey’s most visited tourist attractions, the  South Stack Lighthouse.  The lighthouse was built in 1809 to mark this tiny island off Anglesey. The lighthouse is a great place to visit, especially on a clear sunny day. However, be warned, it is only accessed by descending 400 steps down a cliff face!

14. Caernarfon Castle:

Caernarfon Castle  is another medieval castle built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales. Its purpose was to serve as both a military stronghold and a seat of government. Caernarfon Castle is considered one of the most impressive castles in Britain and has UNESCO World Heritage status alongside Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech.

Caernarfon is one of the biggest castles in Wales. It cost £25,000 and took 47 years to build. One of its most prominent features is the Eagle Tower, which has 18-foot-thick walls! It was here that its most famous residents would live in lavish luxury. Its most notable resident was King Edward II, born at Caernarfon and the first Prince of Wales. Since then, every Prince of Wales has been invested here, including Prince Charles, who was famously invested here in 1969.

Visitors to Caernarfon can explore the castle’s many features, including its massive gatehouse, towers, and Great Hall. They can also learn about the castle’s rich history, including its serving as a prison during the English Civil War and being successfully besieged by Welsh forces in 1404. Caernarfon Castle is an essential part of Welsh history and offers visitors a rare opportunity to see a well-preserved medieval castle.

15. Erdigg Hall, Wrexham:

Erdigg Hall  is a historic house located in Wrexham, North Wales. Although originally built in 1680, it was massively remodelled after John Mellor, a successful London lawyer, bought the property in 1714 after its previous owner went bankrupt. 

What makes this house unique isn’t its beautiful architecture or stunning landscaped gardens; it’s how its owners treated its servants. They created an unmatched record of domestic life in a stately home through paintings, printed documents, and even poems. So we can see not nameless servants but the individual people who served at Erdigg, who they were, and how they lived.

The family started a tradition of painting portraits with verses about each servant. The family gradually replaced these paintings after photography came into vogue, but they still needed something to go alongside them, so they composed separate poems for every photo to memorialise their lives. Some of the originally painted portraits, including a gamekeeper, blacksmith, and housemaid, still hang on the walls in the servant’s hall.

Read more: Erddig House, a visitor guide

Where To Stay In North Wales: 

There is no ideal place to stay in North Wales. It just depends on what you plan to do and how remote you want to be. If you have access to a car, you can pretty much stay anywhere and still be within an hour’s drive of most of the popular tourist destinations. However, if you don’t, staying in one of the bigger towns like Conwy is probably your best bet, as there’s a pretty good public transport network that will get you to most places. 

Some of my favourite places to stay include:

• Llanberis:  The perfect place to enjoy Snowdonia National Park.
• Llandudno:  An ideal location for those visiting Llandudno, Colwyn and Caernarfon.
• Ruthin:  Stay in Ruthin if you want easy access to Loggerheads, Chirk and Wrexham.
• Llangollen:  A tourist destination on its own but has easy access to the Pontcysllte Aqueduct.
• Beaumaris:  Best place for exploring Anglesey.

For booking accommodation, I recommend using  Booking.com.  This website offers the best-priced accommodation catering for all budgets and styles. Just pop in your requirements, and it will give you a list of available accommodations. Perfect for picking out the best hostels, B&B or even some luxury escapes.

• 8 Incredible castles in North Wales
• Chirk Castle, the perfect day out in North Wales
• 10 Wonderful things to do in Aberystwyth

Thanks so much for stopping by; I appreciate everyone who takes the time to read and make it to the end! I have lots of exciting new content in the next few weeks, so make sure you pop back to catch up! 

Remember to follow our social media accounts for more travel inspiration and updates. 

Happy travels!

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The 14 best things to do in North Wales

From adrenaline-filled adventures to absolute tranquillity on the beach, these are the best things to do in North Wales

It doesn’t get any more Welsh than North Wales. Don’t believe us? Hit the road and explore the villages, and come back to apologise afterwards. North Wales is an absolute treasure trove of magic, from the glittering coastline to the top of the country via incredible libraries, fascinating history and a Mediterranean village . No, that isn’t a typo. Wales doesn’t do typos. The best things to do in North Wales cover lots of ground, from extreme sports to quaint fishing villages and more. Natural beauty, buckets of character and poetry around every corner. It doesn’t get any more Welsh than North Wales.

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Best things to do in North Wales

1.  Climb to the very top of Wales

Where is it?  Yr Wyddfa, Snowdonia National Park

What is it?  Only the highest mountain in all of Wales

Why go?  The beating heart of Snowdonia National Park, Yr Wyddfa thrusts 1,085 metres into the sky, making it the highest peak in Wales and the third highest in the UK. Conquering the peak sits somewhere between a doddle and a real challenge, although underestimate this hike at your peril. It takes anywhere between five to seven hours to climb, although the less adventurous can always take the scenic one-hour train ride to the top of Wales.

2.  Transport yourself to a quaint Mediterranean village

Where is it?  Portmeirion, Gwynedd

What is it?  A tourist village constructed in the style of sleepy Italy.

Why go?  Sir Clough Williams-Ellis should be plenty proud of his work. Built between 1925 and 1973, Portmeirion is the brainchild of the Welsh architect, a man who wanted to show that a naturally beautiful location could be developed without spoiling it, and this gorgeous collection of architecture and atmosphere is proof that he was correct. The end result can be construed as a sort of Welsh Disney minus the kitsch, a quaint village that exists for those who come to visit and those alone: a homage to the serenity of Mediterranean fishing villages found just a couple of miles from Porthmadog in North Wales.

3.  Marvel at an iconic piece of civil engineering

Where is it?  Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Llangollen

What is it?  An 18-arch aqueduct that deservedly joined the Unesco World Heritage list in 2009

Why go?  Another piece of magic from the mind of Thomas Telford, the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is much easier to admire than it is to pronounce (pont-kuh-sithl-tuh, or thereabouts). Opened in 1805, this 18-arch beauty is the highest navigable aqueduct in the world, a gorgeous piece of architecture that allows the Llangollen Canal to safely navigate the River Dee below. A footpath leads along one side of the canal for those after a bird’s eye view of the surrounding scenery, although the aqueduct itself is arguably best enjoyed from afar.

4.  Sink a pint before walking the pier

Where is it?  Bangor, Gwynedd

What is it?  The second-longest pier in Wales handily placed next to one of the finest pubs in North Wales.

Why go?  It might not be quite as long or idyllic as Llandudno’s pier, but Bangor’s walkway is well worth a ramble, especially as the sun edges closer to the horizon. Officially known as Garth Pier, the promenade has seen its fair share of problems over the years but is fighting back, with public support and goodwill aplenty. The Tap and Spile Pub is perfectly placed at the entrance to the pier and is as genuine as old pubs get, with a great beer list, better pub grub and no shortage of pub-centric activities.

5.  Explore a gorgeously isolated peninsula

Where is it?  The Llŷn Peninsula

What is it?  An Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty that attracts walkers, hikers and all the rest

Why go?  Of the five AONB in Wales, something about the Llŷn Peninsula draws deeper breaths than the rest. Maybe it is the serenity, the tranquillity, the unbroken peace of the place, a part of Wales that is every bit as unspoilt as the description suggests. Criccieth is the ideal base for exploring the peninsula, a rugged land best enjoyed on foot and at a leisurely pace. In great contrast, nearby Abersoch has developed a vibrant reputation for wakeboarding and other water-based adventures.

6.  Pay the toll at Conwy Suspension Bridge

Where is it?  Conwy, Clwyd

What is it?  A stunning suspension bridge connecting Conwy Castle to all who enter

Why go?  Conwy Suspension Bridge was constructed by Thomas Telford in the early dawns of the nineteenth century, and its picturesque compatibility with Conwy Castle is no coincidence. The bridge (one of the first road suspension bridges in the world, no less) was designed with its neighbouring fortress in mind, making for a combined aesthetic that is as sumptuous as North Wales gets. The bridge is now open only to pedestrians, and walking across it before exploring charming Conwy is a must.

7.  Learn to say ‘Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch’

Where is it?  Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch, Anglesey

What is it?  The longest town name in the UK and a popular train station photograph

Why go?  There isn’t much to do in this famous Anglesey village outside of taking a photo of the sign at the train station, but that doesn’t stop Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch from being one of the most popular niche tourism destinations in Wales. For the record, the name translates as ‘St Mary’s Church in the hollow of the white hazel near a rapid whirlpool and the Church of Saint Tysilio of the red cave’, if you were wondering.

8.  Get lost in a book at the UK’s finest residential library

Where is it?  Gladstone’s Library, Hawarden, Flintshire

What is it?  A national memorial to former prime minister William Gladstone and a gorgeous residential library, all in one

Why go?  Gladstone’s Library is more than just a library, although it is very much a place where literature takes charge. There are more than 250,000 books here, so there’s no shortage of words to get lost in, but this beautiful Grade I-listed building is also a memorial to four-time PM William Gladstone, the man who founded it way back in 1894. There is also an on-site restaurant and plenty of comfortable rooms for when the heady mixture of history and fiction becomes too much.

9.  Support the oldest football team in Wales

Where is it?  Wrexham, Clwyd

What is it?  The third-oldest football club in the world and the oldest in the country, with celebrity owners.

Why go?  Interesting times lie ahead for long-neglected Wrexham. Once the largest town in Wales and an industrial powerhouse, Wrexham has long been a town in need of some good news, but nobody would have guessed that it would come in the guise of Hollywood actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The two comedians took over the oldest football club in Wales in early 2021, proving once again that anything is possible in the wacky world of professional football. Head to the Racecourse Ground for a match before stopping for lunch at the gorgeous Grade II-listed Lemon Tree hotel and restaurant.

10.  Sample world-beating salt

Where is it?  Halen Môn, Brynsiencyn, Anglesey

What is it?  An independent company producing salt that has been enjoyed by Barack Obama, among others

Why go?  Salt is integral to the story of humanity, and the story is just one of the reasons why Halen Môn Anglesey Sea Salt is an absolute must-visit in North Wales. Established in 1997, the family company has since won awards and provided salt for presidents and sporting events alike, but there is a down-to-earth quality to its tours and products that is enduringly charming. Head to the on-site shop and pick up some culinary gold before trying out one of the many recipes posted on Halen Môn’s website.

11.  Learn about faithful Gelert in a gorgeous village

Where is it?  Beddgelert, Gwynedd

What is it?  A beautiful village of fewer than 500 people that is home to one of the nation’s most beloved folk tales

Why go?  Beddgelert is well worth a visit in its own right: it’s a toy-town village of stone buildings and verdant scenery at the confluence of the Glaslyn and Colwyn rivers. According to legend, the village is named after the folktale of the faithful hound Gelert, Llywelyn the Great’s protective dog, who met a most unfortunate end. Beddgelert literally means ‘Gelert’s Grave’, although there are differing opinions on the accuracy of the town’s name. Even so, Beddgelert is packed with darling cafés and makes a great starting point for climbing nearby Moel Hebog, another peak in the Snowdon mountain chain.

12.  Follow the White Rabbit in Llandudno

Where is it?  Llandudno, Clywyd

What is it?  An Alice in Wonderland-themed way to discover a royal Victorian resort

Why go?  Llandudno was where Alice Liddel spent her summer holidays, and there is plenty of speculation that family friend Charles Dodgson was inspired enough to write a book about it all. Of course, Charles Dodgson is better known as Lewis Carroll, and the book in question has become one of the most popular on the planet. The legitimacy of the connection is continually up for debate, but that didn’t stop the town from making the most of it, devising a White Rabbit trail that traverses the many sights in the centre of Llandudno.

13.  Get the adrenaline pumping in the underworld

Where is it?  Blaenau Ffestiniog

What is it?  Extreme, subterranean bouncy-castling.

Why go?  Bounce Below has set up shop with a Goonies-style kidulting adventure in a vast cavern in Blaenau Ffestiniog. As you step inside, colourful lighting illuminates the towering slate walls. Then, you’ll bounce across web-like nets and slide down six different levels -–the tallest of which is comparable to two double-deckers. Good luck if you’ve got an aversion to heights. 

14.  Conquer the Ring of Iron

Where is it?  Various locations on the north coast and Anglesey

What is it?  A collection of Edwardian castles that represent the beginning of English rule over Wales

Why go?  The Welsh relationship with its famous castles is notoriously complex, but that doesn't change the aesthetic majesty of these twelfth-century fortresses. Built by King Edward I to solidify his conquest of Wales, the castles in Conwy, Harlech, Caernarfon, Beaumaris and the rest are among the most visited and photographed structures in the nation. The fortifications also act as a handy itinerary for exploring the best that North Wales has to offer.

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10 of the Most Charming Towns & Villages in North Wales

North Wales is a land of epic terrain, with unbroken chains of undulating hills, ancient woodlands, and miles of untouched beaches. Peppered across this dramatic landscape are dozens of enchanting towns and villages, each packed with personality and Celtic charm. 

Conwy Castle (Photo: Visit Wales)

Stretching from the borderlands of Wrexham and Llangollen in the east to the wind-whipped coast of Anglesey in the west, North Wales is filled with myth, legend, poetry and song. You can drive from one side to the other in just two hours, but that means missing out on a litany of grand Victorian seaside towns, fashionable beach resorts, historic walled settlements and film set-perfect villages. And, each of these has its own distinctive character and charm, be it Mediterranean-inspired porticoes or medieval castles. To help you on your way, we’ve rounded up ten of the most charming towns and villages in North Wales.

Abersoch (Photo: Visit Snowdonia)

The undoubted highlight of fun and fashionable Abersoch is its sheltered blue flag sandy beach, tucked into the southeast corner of the Lyn Peninsula. Come summer, it plays host to a jazz festival, and regatta, as well as pony treks, boat trips and sailing adventures. Nearby Hell’s Mouth, Porth Neigwl, attracts thousands of surfers who hotfoot here for swells of up to 1.5 metres. Venture inland, and there’s a string of small shops, bars, cafes and restaurants to explore too. Boat trips around St Tudwal’s Islands, owned by Bear Grylls and home to grey seals, bottle-nosed dolphins, otters and porpoises, are a popular pastime too. 

Beaumaris (Photo: Visit Anglesey)

One of Anglesey’s prettiest coastal towns, Beaumaris is speckled with pastel-washed fisherman’s cottages, Georgian architecture and brightly-painted shop fronts. It boasts the last and largest of Edward I’s “iron ring” castles, constructed in his bid to rule the Welsh. Designed to be his crowning masterpiece, the fortress is immense, with four concentric rings of formidable defences and a moat with its own dock. A stroll along the pier offers sweeping views over the Menai Strait and Snowdonia, while inland there are lively cafes, pubs, restaurants and shops to potter around. Boat trips run daily to Puffin Island, home to Atlantic grey seals, puffins, razorbills, kittiwakes and the odd porpoise. 

Betws-y-Coed

Betws-y-Coed (Photo: Visit Conwy)

Found at the confluence of three rivers on the fringes of Snowdonia National Park, Betws-y-Coed is a film-set perfect village that has captured the imagination of artists for centuries. Little wonder why: between its meandering rivers, surrounding forests and hidden valleys, it’s one of Wales’ most magical spots. The rural idyll is completed by a handsome 14th-century church, a traditional Welsh tapestry mill and several charming pubs. The biggest draws for adrenaline junkies are the surrounding glacial valleys and craggy canyons offering up canyoning, gorge walking, abseiling and zipline adventures aplenty.  

Conwy castle (Photo: Visit Conwy)

Surrounded by gently rolling hills and overlooked by the mighty mountains of Snowdonia, this walled market town is rich in history. There’s the foreboding 13th-century Conwy Castle and Walls, Bodysgallen Hall and medieval watchtower, and the magnificent Plas Mawr, said to be the finest standing house of its era. Conwy is also home to the smallest house in the UK, a pillar-box red one-up, one-down house measuring 10 x 6 ft. The quayside offers up the perfect setting for a sunny stroll or scenic perch for fish and chips, while a short drive over the Sychnant Pass to Conwy Mountain offers far-reaching views over the estuary and Iron Age hillfort. 

Dolbadarn Castle (Photo: Visit Wales)

Llanberis sits at the foot of Mount Snowdon, alongside Lyn Padarm, one of the largest glacial lakes in Wales. It’s the starting point for the Llanberis Path up Snowdon, which makes it a popular stopping-off point for ramblers but there’s plenty to keep less active souls busy. The ruins of Dolbadarn Castle, a 13th-century fortress built by Llewelyn the Great, were the subject of paintings by Richard Wilson and J.M.W Turner and continue to draw artists today. The Snowdonia Mountain Railway squeezes between the village’s twin lakes and runs non-stop through Padarn Country Park and along the shores of Lake Padarn to Penllyn, offering show-stopping views of Snowdon, the highest peak in England and Wales. 

Llandudno coast (Photo: Visit Wales)

Billed as “the Queen of the Welsh Resorts” since the 19th century, Llandudno is a quintessential bucket-and-spade seaside town. The sweeping promenade is lined with rows of wedding-cake Victorian homes on one side and a vast golden sandy stretch on the other. At the end of the beach is the pier – the longest in Wales – which comes complete with Punch and Judy stalls, penny arcades and traditional Welsh gift shops. Alice Liddell, the inspiration for Lewis Carroll’s fictional Alice, used to holiday here, and there are now statues of the book’s characters and 55 bronze rabbit footprints dotted around the town. On its doorstep is the Great Orme, a vast patch of near-wilderness with three waymarked trails that offer spectacular views of Snowdonia. 

Llangollen 

Llangollen (Photo: North East Wales)

The beautiful, bustling town of Llangollen is renowned for the International Musical Eisteddfod and Fringe Festival, but there are dozens of reasons to visit outside of July. Its charming winding streets are filled with locally-owned bookshops, homeware boutiques, fine food shops, cafes and pubs. The babbling River Dee cuts right through the heart of the town, which makes for dazzling riverside views at every turn. The town is part of the Unesco-listed eleven-mile stretch from Gledrid to the Horshore Falls, and the starting point for many of the area’s finest walks, from Castell Dinas Bran to the soaring Berwyn Mountains.  For more information visit NorthEastWales.com

Pont Fawr and Tu Hwnt i’r Bont tea rooms in Llanrwst (Photo: Visit Conwy)

This tiny town snuggles into the verdant Vale of Conwy, flanked by thick forest and heather moors. The three-arched bridge, which rises elegantly over the River Conwy, is attributed to architect Inigo Jones. Just beyond it is one of the country’s best-looking tearooms Tu Hwnt i’r Bont, a restored 15th-century farmhouse that now sells homemade ham sandwiches, traditional bara brith and warm buttery Welsh cakes. Gwydir Chapel dates back to the 15th century and houses a heavy stone coffin, said to be that of the revered 13th-century Prince of Gwynedd, Llywelyn the Great. A short walk through a row of 15th-century almshouses leads to the handsome Gwydir Castle, one of the country’s few grand Tudor manors. 

Portmeirion

A plaza in Portmeirion (Photo: Portmeirion)

Picture-perfect Portmeirion is possibly northern wales’ most peculiar village. Built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 to 1975 on a private peninsular just outside the Snowdonia National Park boundaries, the 130-acre village is an ode to the multicoloured magic of the Mediterranean. Colourful villas are grouped around a central piazza, surrounded by sparkling sea views and extensive woodlands. To create the Italianate village, Clough used endangered buildings and unwanted artefacts from all over the globe and repurposed them as loggias, grand porticoes and terracotta-roofed houses. Surrounding the piazza, you’ll find a Town Hall, gelateria, a handful of cafes and two four-star hotels. 

Ruthin (Photo: Visit Wales)

A pocket-sized town in the Vale of Clywd, Ruthin is the epitome of picturesque. Set against the Clywydian hills, it’s filled with Tudor houses, Georgian homes and characterful pubs. At the town’s heart is the 13th-century Ruthin Castle, which survived a revolt by Owain Glyndwr and a sixteen-week siege during the English Civil War, and now boasts a 21st-century spa, restaurants and Italian gardens. But while the town’s roots may be ancient, there’s nothing staid about this community, with annual events like the Gwyl Rhuthun Music Festival and Greg Aid Charity Music Festival. The Ruthin Craft Centre encompasses three galleries and six studios, while the newly opened historic market hall is a showcase for local arts, crafts and food. Ruthin made the 2022 edition of the Sunday Times Best Places to Live list too.

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15 Best Villages in North Wales to visit

Seaside gems, Italy-inspired indulgence and a World Heritage Site - discover the best villages in North Wales to visit with us.

About the author: David Angel , is a Welsh photographer, writer, and historian with 30+ years of experience, and previously Art Director for Visit Wales. His work is regularly featured in the BBC, the Guardian, and Condé Nast Traveler. He is fluent in English and Welsh.

This is my guide to the villages in North Wales from country boltholes to coastal gems like Portmeirion and Porth Dinllaen, these are some of the best places to visit in North Wales.

It’s probably best known for its castles, mountains and beaches, but there are also some amazingly beautiful villages in North Wales to explore. 

I’ve covered virtually every main road and back road in the region over the years, and visited so many great North Wales villages.  

We’ve ranged from remote mountain valleys near the English border to the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula, and from the mountains of Snowdonia to the  beaches of Anglesey  to seek out the best villages in North Wales.

Here is my whittled-down list of the best 15 villages in North Wales for you to visit.

Table of Contents

Most Beautiful Villages in North Wales

1. betws-y-c oed.

There are so many  things to do in Betws-y-Coed  and around. It has long been the gateway to the Snowdonia National Park, situated at the confluence of three rivers and the lush green hills of the Conwy Valley.

It grew from a hamlet to an artists’ colony, with painters inspired by the Picturesque ideal of the 19 th  century.

From there it has become hugely popular, with attractions like  Conwy Castle and walled town  half an hour away in one direction and the highest mountain in Wales and England, Snowdon, half an hour away in another. 

The area around Betws-y-Coed is more forested than mountainous, but the Gwydir Forest holds many North Wales attractions, from the famous foaming Swallow Falls to the narrow ravine at Fairy Glen. 

Read more in our full guide to Betws-y-Coed .

2. Portmeirion

Unique Portmeirion is one of the most famous villages in Wales, and we rate it one of the most beautiful villages in Europe .

It’s a fantasy village created by local architect Clough Williams-Ellis, intended as a holiday village and a refuge for ‘rescued buildings’. These range from an Italian-style campanile (bell tower) to a Neoclassical colonnade and a 17 th  century wooden roof to a meditating Buddha.

Good to know: It helps that it overlooks a gorgeous estuary with views to some of the Snowdonia mountains, of course.  

Insider Tip: You can visit the village on a day ticket, but one of the best  things to do in Portmeirion  is to stay overnight there, whether in one of the cottages around the village Piazza, or at the Hotel Portmeirion or its sister up the hill, Castell Deudraeth, which is one of the best castles to stay in Wales .

3. Beddgelert

Beddgelert, in the heart of Snowdonia, is one of the prettiest villages in Wales. It’s a lot smaller than Betws-y-Coed, but just as quirky. Its buildings are mainly quaint stone cottages and include several pubs and restaurants.

The village sits on the river Glaslyn, just above the Aberglaslyn Pass and Gorge, through which the Welsh Highland Railway passes on. Its stunning route from Caernarfon via Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. 

The village’s name means ‘Grave of Gelert’ – the story goes that Gelert, a dog owned by Welsh prince Llywelyn the Great, was killed by his owner, who believed he had killed his baby – when he had saved the child from a wolf. The grave is beneath a tree just to the south of the village.

Insider tip: It’s one of the best villages in Snowdonia , close to some of the most beautiful lakes in Europe , with Llyn Dinas and Llyn Gwynant both a few minutes’ drive away.  

See Also: Facts About Snowdonia

4. Porth Dinllaen

Porth Dinllaen is one of the most picturesque villages in Wales.  It’s a tiny hamlet on the north coast of the Llŷn, tucked into the leeward side of a rocky peninsula that’s part of one of the best golf courses in Wales, Nefyn & District.

There only a dozen or so buildings, including a lifeboat station and its main draw card, one of the best pubs in North Wales, the Tŷ Coch Inn, which sits right next to the beach.  

In a parallel universe, Porth Dinllaen could have been the main ferry port in North Wales for Ireland. However, Holyhead (on Anglesey) was selected for that, and Porth Dinllaen has remained in blissful sort-of-obscurity ever since.

It’s only accessible on foot, either along the beach from Morfa Nefyn at low tide or along the path through the golf course and down the hill from there.

Undoubtedly one of the best villages of Wales, a must-see if you’re anywhere nearby, and one to add to your  Wales bucket list . 

5. Abersoch

Abersoch was a small fishing village on the south coast of the Llŷn Peninsula that is very different in feel to the rest of the area. It has become something of a chichi enclave over the last twenty years or so, with hotels and restaurants markedly more expensive than others nearby.

Visit for the reason it became popular in the first place – its two beautiful beaches, one of which is lined with higgledy-piggledy painted beach huts.

It’s also well worth exploring the Wales Coast Path nearby, taking in isolated Porth Ceiriad beach and Porth Neigwl – better known by its English name, Hells Mouth – that is one of the best places to surf in North Wales.   

6. Aberdaron

Aberdaron is the Land’s End of North Wales. It’s located at the tip of the Llŷn Peninsula, a tiny village that, in the Middle Ages, was the departure point for pilgrims to nearby Bardsey Island (Ynys Enlli in Welsh), one of the most fascinating of all  Welsh islands .  It has long been one of our favourite places to visit in Wales.

You can stop by at Porth y Swnt, the new National Trust visitor centre which gives a very good introduction to the area, then call into Y Gegin Fawr (‘The Big Kitchen’), a medieval hostelry that’s now a wonderfully evocative café. Just around the corner, medieval St Hywyn’s Church overlooks the lovely sweep of Aberdaron beach.

Several other beautiful  Llŷn Peninsula beaches  are close by, including Porth Oer (Whistling Sands) to the north and Porth Ysgo to the east.   

7. H arlech

Harlech is a delight. Harlech Castle is one of the best  castles in North Wales , occupying a commanding position on a steep rocky outcrop that was once a sea cliff, guarding the coastline and the route towards Snowdonia. 

The Castle is superb, one of the masterpieces of genius military architect James of St George that comprises the Castles of Gwynedd UNESCO World Heritage Site. Seek out ‘The Graig’, a small public park just to the south for the best views. 

Harlech High Street is one of the most pleasant in Wales, with several cafes, restaurants and independent shops.

Insider tip: The Plas Café has a lovely garden with a great view of the Castle.

Good to know: Harlech should also be visited for its stupendous beach, a massive sweep of superb sand stretching all the way to the Dwyryd estuary on which Portmeirion sits. It’s one of the best beaches in Wales, giving even mighty  Rhossili Bay  a run for its money.

There’s a small flower-filled field at the southern end of the beach with awesome views of the beach and Snowdonia.  

See Also: 22 Amazing Things To Do In Harlech

8. Llwyngwril

Llwyngwril is probably one of the least familiar villages of Wales on our list. It’s in the southern part of Snowdonia, on the coast between  Aberdovey  and  Barmouth .  The village is incredibly pretty, with many painted cottages and flower-filled gardens.

It’s fairly off the beaten path, and a great base for exploring south Snowdonia.  Llynnau Cregennen, among the  most beautiful lakes in Europe , are a 15-20-minute drive away, and the Mawddach estuary, one of the most beautiful in the UK, is even closer.

The beaches of Aberdovey and Tywyn are nearby, as are the  Talyllyn Railway – now part of the Welsh Slate Landscape UNESCO World Heritage Site – and the blissful Dysynni Valley.  

There’s just one reason this small village in north-east Wales is on our list – the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, the third place in Wales to be accorded UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

This remarkable ‘bridge in the sky’ was built by Thomas Telford to carry the Llangollen Canal across the Dee Valley, and was completed in 1805.

The Trevor Basin just to the north of the Aqueduct has a convivial pub and café perfect for a pit stop, and you can walk across the Aqueduct or take a gentle narrowboat ride across.  

The Aqueduct is 38 metres (126 feet) above the River Dee, and there’s no barrier between you and the view – so vertigo sufferers might be better off standing at the end to admire the architecture and ingenuity instead.

The Aqueduct is one of the best things to do in Llangollen , a gorgeous town four miles upstream in spectacular mountain scenery.   

See Also: The Most Beautiful Bridges In Europe

 10. Clynnog Fawr

During the Middle Ages three pilgrimages to Bardsey Island were deemed to bring the same spiritual benefits as one to Rome. 

The trails to Bardsey were well-trodden indeed, and several fine pilgrims’ churches can be found, mainly along the north coast of the Llŷn Peninsula.

The most impressive of these is St Beuno’s Church in Clynnog Fawr, a village just off the A499 road down from Caernarfon. It’s among the finest churches North Wales has, and much of the present building dates from the 15 th  century, on the site of a monastery founded by Beuno in the 7 th  century.  

Clynnog Fawr is close to one of the most beautiful stretches of the North Wales coast, with a great beach just up the road at Aberdesach.

There’s also a great walk up the hill to the Clynnog Fawr dolmen, a Neolithic burial chamber overlooking the sea.  

11. Llanbedrog

Llanbedrog has to be one of the best days out in North Wales. It’s a massive family favourite with us, with a superb beach sheltered by a headland that blocks out the prevailing winds.

The beach is wondrous, a mile of soft golden sand at the bottom of a leafy lane, with a stream trickling into the sea. There’s a small bistro right on the beach, and a row of brightly painted beach huts, with a lovely old white house at the base of the cliff, reflected in the calm water.

There’s a steep stepped path up through the wood to a viewpoint at the top of Mynydd Tir-y-Cwmwd, next to the second incarnation of the Llanbedrog Iron Man sculpture.  

Llanbedrog village is also home to Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, one of the oldest art galleries in Wales.     

12. Rhoscolyn

Rhoscolyn is a scattered, straggling hamlet at the southern end of Holy Island (Ynys Gybi), the small island to the west of Anglesey proper and home to Holyhead port. 

Rhoscolyn is a world away from the busyness of the harbour. It has two wide sandy beaches, a rocky beach (Porth Saint), a holy well and some of the most varied, spectacular sections of Anglesey coast.

The best section is around 1 km west of the village church, with the white sea arch, Bwa Gwyn, the highlight. At the other end of the village, The White Eagle is one of the best gastro pubs in North Wales.    

13. Church Bay

Church Bay – Porth Swtan – is a tiny village on the remote north-west coast of the island. It’s named after the church of St Rhyddlad, whose spire is a local landmark. If you visit Anglesey, seek it out.

The beach is one of the very best beaches in North Wales, with a great mixture of sand, scenery and rockpools to explore.

Also look out for the thatched cottage, Swtan, the last one remaining on Anglesey, which is now a small folk museum. The Lobster Pot restaurant and pub, a little further along the same street, is one of the best places to eat in North Wales. 

14. Llanfair PG

I’ve always felt a twinge of sympathy for Llanfair PG, a small village on the isle of Anglesey that would get very few visitors but for the fact it was given (or perhaps saddled with) the longest place name in Wales.

Formerly known as Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, it was extended in the 19 th  century to Llanfairpwllgwyngyllgogerychwyrndrobwllllantysiliogogogoch in a bid to attract tourists. Most people visit to shoot selfies at the railway station sign or the somewhat depressing shopping centre across the car park.

There are plenty of things to see around Llanfair PG, including the best viewpoint of the Menai Bridge (close to the village of the same name). Check out our Anglesey walks article for a walk from Llanfair PG to Menai Bridge, where you see all the landmarks that gave the village its name.

You can also climb the Marquess of Anglesey’s Column on the edge of the village, visit the superb Bryn Celli Ddu Neolithic burial chamber, explore Plas Newydd, one of the finest National Trust houses in Wales, or  Llanddwyn Island , one of the top places to visit in Wales and most beautiful islands in Europe . 

15. Llanarmon Dyffryn Ceiriog

Llanarmon DC is hidden away in the remote hills south of Chirk Castle, close to the English border. It’s at the end of the B4500 road, and after that there’s just a minor road leading you to the hills to the south. It’s a gorgeous backwater, just the place to immerse yourself in Welsh country life for a while. 

It’s a tiny village which somehow has two wonderful inns, The Hand and The West Arms, which face each other across the village square. Both serve excellent food, and make wonderful rural boltholes. 

Villages in North Wales Map

I’ve created this map in google maps so you can see the exact location of each of the villages I’ve written about in this guide. Just click on the map and it will take you to google maps where you can see locations and get directions.

Villages In North Wales – Final Words

I hope that my guide to the best villages in North Wales has given you some inspiration to visit the region.

These villages are among the best places to visit in North Wales , and some make great bases to explore much more.

Check out more of my North Wales guides, including the best Castles in North Wales and Best Beaches in North Wales .

If you’re thinking of a beach holiday in North Wales, then check out my guide to the best seaside towns in Wales .

Also check out my guide to the seven Cities in Wales . Three of them – Bangor, St Asaph and Wrexham – are in North Wales.

And if you’re looking to explore Eryri, more widely known as Snowdonia, then take a look at my Snowdonia road trip itinerary guide.

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

Be sure to check out our other guides to North Wales, one of the most beautiful areas to visit in Britain.

Best Places in North Wales

• Best beaches in North Wales
• Best castles in North Wales
• Llŷn Peninsula beaches  – The Llŷn Peninsula beaches are among the best in Wales
• Best things to do in Conwy  – A stunning UNESCO Heritage town on the edge of Snowdonia National Park
• Betws-y-Coed  – A picuresque Welsh mountain town in the spectacular Snowdonia National Park
• Portmeirion  – A gorgeous Italianate village on an estuary on the North  Wales  coast
• Barmouth Beach  – A wonderful Welsh seaside resort
• Welsh Slate Landscape – UNESCO World Heritage Site North West Wales

Magical Anglesey – the Biggest Island in Wales

• Llanddwyn Island  – One of the most special of all Welsh islands
• Anglesey beaches & coastline  – Home to some of the best beaches in the UK
• Best walks on Anglesey  – Eight of the best Anglesey walks to help you discover more of this magnificent island.
• Lighthouses on Anglesey  – Well worth seeing & great places for walks
• Best things to do on Anglesey  – the largest of Welsh Islands

More Beautiful Places to visit in Wales

• Landscapes in Wales – Breathtaking landscapes in Wales you must see
• Rivers in Wales – Some of the most beautiful scenery in Wales
• Lakes in Wales – Where you find some of the best views in Wales
• Landmarks in Wales – famous places in Wales to Explore

Fun facts about Wales

• Welsh food guide
• Fascinating Facts about Snowdonia
• Fun Facts about Wales

10 unmissable National Trust Attractions in North Wales

By: Author Monica

Categories Blog , UK

If you’re planning to visit some National Trust attractions in North Wales then I’ve got 10 of my favourites that you can’t miss!

I live in North Wales and I’ve been a National Trust member since my eldest son was born seven years ago. I now have three children and I love taking them to National Trust attractions around North Wales. As a National Trust member, it’s an affordable family day out as many of the North Wales attractions for families can be really expensive! We pack a huge picnic, fill the car with spare coats and wellies and snacks and off we go.

Here are 10 of my favourite National Trust properties and attractions in North Wales.

If you’re looking for more things to do in the area, here are 25 things to do in North Wales and 30 things to do in Llangollen .

1. Bodnant Garden

Best time to visit: Early summer when the flowers are in bloom

Bodnant Garden in Conwy is one of the most beautiful National Trust properties in North Wales. There’s a beautiful house but it’s the grade I listed 80-acre garden that is the real attraction. The roses and flower beds, ponds, waterfalls, hidden areas, enormous trees, secret footpaths and trickling streams make this a magical place to visit. 

There’s a lovely cafe, great ice cream stall and there are often interactive activities and games for the kids so it’s one of our favourite North Wales places to visit!

I’d recommend saving this one for a sunny day because it’s particularly gorgeous when the sun is shining.

2. Chirk Castle

Best time to visit: Christmas when the trees are all up + February when the snowdrops are out

This Grade I listed castle in Wrexham is a firm favourite for our family and we visit all the time. You’re able to look inside the castle which is immaculately preserved and explore the castle gardens. There are often events at Chirk Castle, such as an Easter hunt and Christmas celebrations. The castle is decorated beautifully at Christmas with the most magnificent trees in every room.

Chirk Castle is one of the best places in North Wales to see snowdops. The forest floor is covered with them and it really looks like snow! There’s a beautiful woodland walk that we try to visit every year around early February.

Best time to visit: Autumn for the apple festival

Erddig is another Grade I listed property in Wrexham and it’s a huge hall with beautiful gardens. You can go inside and see how the family once lived, including the old kitchens and then the beautifully decorated rooms upstairs. The gardens are also lovely and there’s a woodland area where kids love to play.

4. Penrhyn Castle

Best time to visit: Late summer when the Fuchsia arch in the walled garden is in bloom

Penrhyn Castle near Bangor has got to be the most incredible National Trust in North Wales. It’s a magical fairytale castle filled with incredible and historical items as well as splendid decor. There’s even a one-tonne slate bed within the castle! The castle also has lovely gardens and meadows where kids can run free. On Thursdays you can play tennis on the lawn!

5. Powys Castle

Best time to visit: Autumn for the pumpkin trail

Powys Castle in Welshpool is a gorgeous mediaeval castle built in 1252. This is one of my favourite National Trusts in North Wales and I think they do a great job at hosting family-friendly events that attract younger generations to the historical property.

The castle is filled with paintings, sculptures, antique furniture and tapestries while the lavish gardens will impress you with Italian terraces and their famous yew hedges.

Read more of my North Wales blog posts

1 week itinerary to see the best of North Wales

Visiting Portmeirion: The Italian style village in North Wa les

Tips for visiting Conwy Falls Waterfall

Porth Iago Beach: My favourite beach in North Wales

Aber Falls Waterfall: My favourite family day out in North Wales

The best places to camp in North Wales

Family Christmas events in North Wales and Cheshire

6. Plas Newydd House and Garden

Best time to visit: March when the tulips are in bloom

Plas Newydd House and Garden in Anglesey is a beautiful mansion with gardens and a tearoom. There’s also 129 acres of woodland and parkland where my kids love to run and explore. The Grade I listed landscape overlooks the Menai Strait and the Snowdonia mountains so there’s a gorgeous view whichever way you look. 

I also like to visit in spring when the Rhododendron Garden is looking incredible!

The area also has the largest population of red squirrels in Wales so keep your eyes peeled!

7. Conwy Suspension Bridge

The Grade I listed Conwy Suspension Bridge was one of the first road suspension bridges in the world, so not only is it beautiful but it carries much historical significance too.

The bridge is 100m long and looks down over Conwy River. It is open to pedestrians and cyclists and the bridge is cared for by the National Trust.

8. Llanbedrog Beach

Llanbedrog Beach is one of my favourite beaches in all of North Wales. This beach is cared for by the National Trust and there’s a National Trust car park that is free for members.

The beautiful beach is dotted with colourful beach huts and there’s a cafe and toilets near the entrance. It’s a calm bay so the sea is great for swimming and paddle boarding and there’s a great little walk you can do up to the Tin Man.

Read more: Llanbedrog Beach + hiking to the Tin Man

Make sure you explore the Llyn Peninsula and the North Wales coast while you’re here because it’s just gorgeous. I’ve linked some of my favourite places on the Llyn Peninsula below.

9. Plas yn Rhiw

Plas yn Rhiw on the Llyn Peninsula is a small but charming National Trust in North Wales. The Georgian manor house with ornamental gardens has a lovely tea room and gorgeous woodland, orchard and meadow. You can take a beautiful coastal walk from Plas yn Rhiw into the village of Rhiw.

10. Porthor/Whistling Sands

Porthor, or Whistling Sands as it’s known in English, is another stunning beach on the Llyn Peninsula which is cared for by the National Trust and has a car park that’s free for members.

The beach got the name ‘Whistling Sands’ thanks to the pure white sand that seems to ‘whistle’ underfoot. (I’d actually say it’s more of a squeak but ‘Squeaking Sands’ doesn’t sound quite as romantic!)

It’s a lovely beach with a cafe and some caves to explore at the far end.

If you’d like to read more about North Wales, check out these posts…

10 of the best things to do in North Wales

By Discover More UK

Published: 25 July 2021

Last updated: 27 november 2021.

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North Wales is a popular location for British families to enjoy day trips out or longer Wales staycations for their annual holidays, and for good reason.

With plenty of beaches to discover, fabulous towns and cute villages, North Wales has something to offer everyone. It doesn’t matter whether you want adventure, hiking, walking, the best beaches in North Wales or things to do in North Wales for families, you will find what you are looking for visiting North Wales. 

So if you have a trip booked to North Wales, then you may be wondering how best to spend it. With that in mind, here are some of the best things to do in North Wales and the best activities to do in North Wales.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something. While clicking these links won’t cost you anything, they will help us to keep this site up and running! See the full disclosure policy for more details.

Best Places to visit in North Wales

Great orme, llandudno.

Llandudno is a popular location to visit and stay when visiting North Wales, but there is one attraction that is high on the list for when you get there: The Great Orme. 

The cliffside and headland trail not only offers amazing views and walking trails, but it’s a popular thing to do as you can step onboard the only cable-hauled tramline in Britain to take you to the top.

 It takes you to the top of the Great Orme where you can see stunning views of the Irish channel as well as picturesque views of Llandudno itself. There are also plenty of scenic trails that will allow you to walk to the top, or you can even get in the cable car if you prefer.

It is an excellent attraction, and while there are plenty of other things to do here, this has to be top of your list. 

The cable car doesn’t have a website so you can’t book online, tickets were £11 per adult for a return ticket in 2020 but call 01492877205 to check the latest prices or turn up and pay – they take cash only.

The Snowdonia National Park, Snowdonia

You can’t visit this area of Wales without including Snowdonia in this list of top things to do in North Wales.

At the Snowdonia National Park, you will find it gives you the perfect opportunity to climb Snowdon. Ideal for any avid hiker or walking enthusiast, this is on the list of the many mountains in which people want to conquer. At the top, you can see some of the most spectacular views. 

But, if walking isn’t your strong suit, you can still experience the summit. The old Victorian train will take you right to the top, meaning you can then walk down at a leisurely pace, or even take the train back down again. Tickets cost £26 for adults and £16 for children (correct at time of writing). 

The summit also has a cafe on the top, so it can be a real treat on a very clear day. 

Conwy Castle, Conwy

Conwy is a fantastic location in North Wales and for things to do in Conwy, North Wales, one of the highlights of the area is Conwy Castle.

It has been described as a masterpiece of medieval architecture. Parts of the castle, including the great hall now have no roof, but there is still plenty to discover here. While you are there, you will get to witness the exhibition dedicated to Edward I and his many other Welsh castles. However, while in Conwy there are other things to explore, including our next suggestion. 

The smallest house in Great Britain, Conwy

Conwy is home to the smallest house in Great Britain and yes it is definitely worth a visit while you are in Conwy as it’s recently been refurbished.

One of the lesser visited tourist attractions in North Wales, here you will find the history of it as well as some interesting facts regarding the property. Formally known as Quay House, it overlooks the Quayside and it’s definitely one of the more unusual things to do in North Wales.

Conwy has much to offer as well as the castle, including lots of bars, shops, and restaurants, so you will likely never run out of things to do here. 

Portmeirion

Located in Tremadog Bay, between Porthmadog and Harlech you will find Portmeirion, one of the most unique and best places to go in North Wales.

It is famous for being a replica of an Italian village, only this is on a smaller scale which all started as a visionary thought by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis who wanted to create an Italian village in Wales. It started with his property and gardens and then enhanced beyond that.

There are stunning coastal paths, the church, and beautiful gardens to explore and the colourful houses and town buildings are such an unexpected surprise to find in North Wales. A unique destination and easily one of the top 10 things to do in North Wales to add to your list.  

Caernarfon Castle, Caenarfon 

With 13 towers and two gates, Caernarfon Castle is an amazing sight and one of the most fascinating places to visit North Wales has to offer.

This huge 13th century castle was built by Edwards I as a seat for his eldest son Edward of Caernarfon, who was the first Prince of Wales. There are many evidential references to this including eagles in the stonework. The history of the castle is very eventful and all of this is documented throughout the tour and also in special exhibition areas where you will get to really understand the history and information presented to you. 

Tickets are £9.25 for adults and £6.60 for children (correct at time of writing). You can check the website here for the most up to date prices and opening times.

Caernarfon itself is a lovely town to explore, so while visiting the castle you may want to explore the town and surrounding area. 

Day trip to Anglesey

While staying in North Wales you may want to consider a trip to the island of Anglesey. There are so many things to do on the island itself including heading to some of the best beaches in North Wales such as Lligwy Beach, Benllech Beach or Aberffraw Beach.

There is also Beaumaris Castle for any history lovers out there, as well as plenty of walking trails and countryside to explore. 

Anglesey can be a destination you stay at in its own right, but if you’re exploring North Wales generally then you may want to add it to the list if you’re planning days out in North Wales.

The Welsh Highlands Railway, Porthmadog

Best known for having the oldest narrow-gauge railroad, once used as the only way to carry slate across the terrain, the Welsh Highlands railway now gives visitors the chance to jump on board the trains and see the countryside from a different perspective.

There are several routes you can take, including routes starting from Porthmadog and others from Caernarfon. Train routes vary in length from 2.4 hours to 6 hours, making it a really great option for days out in North Wales for adults and children.

It is a completely unique experience and one not to be missed. 

Zip World, Conwy 

In a stunning woodland location in the Conwy valley, you will find Zip World. With many locations across the UK, this one in Wales is the only one to have an Alpine Forest coaster, so don’t miss this for things to do in North Wales with kids.

You can ride through the trees in a totally unique way. However, there isn’t just that. For other thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, you have Europe’s highest swing, tree-top challenges, and ziplining to enjoy. It is a location that the whole family can enjoy in different ways. 

Summary: The Best things to do in North Wales

Hopefully this list has given you plenty of inspiration for places to go in North Wales and ideas to add to your Wales trip itinerary.

North Wales is really a beautiful area of Wales with so much to offer for families, couples or groups, whether you’re looking for history, adventure, towns or nature.

Pin this to save it for later and help you plan your future trip!

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THE 10 BEST Hidden Gem Attractions in North Wales

Best north wales hidden gem attractions.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Hidden Gems
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for Couples
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Honeymoon spot
• Adventurous
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Portmeirion Village

2. GreenWood - Gelli Gyffwrdd

3. South Stack Lighthouse

4. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct

5. Chirk Castle

6. Plas Mawr

7. Swallow Falls

8. Great Orme Copper Mine

10. Aber Falls

11. Manorafon Farm Park

12. Beaumaris Gaol

13. Home Front Museum

14. Harlech Beach

15. South Stack Cliffs RSPB Reserve

16. Cader Idris

17. Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens

18. Castell Dinas Bran

19. Newborough Warren & Ynys Llanddwyn

20. Foel Farm Park

21. Plas Newydd Historic House and Gardens

22. Tacla Taid - Anglesey Transport and Agriculture Museum and Cafe

23. Llanddwyn Beach

24. Gwrych Castle

25. Dyserth Waterfall

26. Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve

27. Fairy Glen

28. Dinas Dinlle Beach

29. Wepre Park

30. Holyhead Maritime Museum

What travellers are saying

The Promise Of North Wales A Land With Something For Everyone

Visit north wales today.

This site will help you plan your North Wales holiday from the castles you explore to the restaurants where you’ll eat, to the places where you’ll sleep.

Boasting dramatic landscapes and gorgeous countryside; North Wales makes for a stunning day trip, weekend retreat or full-blown holiday. With activities to suit all ages and abilities, there’s no reason why the whole family can’t enjoy every moment with one another.

North Wales offers an extensive range of leisure and tourism opportunities, from traditional cultural events , historical exploration and heritage sites to outdoor activities and sightseeing . North Wales may be small, but our list of attractions are big . So, whether the purpose of your break is to unwind or inspire, make 2018 the year you visit North Wales.

Heritage, Language & Culture

Great outdoors.

– North Wales is famous for its scenery. Our landscapes are some of the best in the world. Woodland, parkland and grassland. Fast-flowing rivers and miles of coastline. North Wales has a range of things to do .

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Click here for an extensive list of places to stay in North Wales .

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16 Best places to stay in North Wales (Location & Accommodation Guide)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: November 23, 2023

Are you planning a visit to North Wales but not sure where to stay? In our location and accommodation guide discover the best places to stay in North Wales for every travel style and budget.

Are you planning a trip to North Wales ? With so many places to choose from including historical towns, countryside towns and picturesque villages plus a multitude of accommodation options in each how do you choose the right location for your trip?

In this article, you will discover the best places to stay including accommodation for all travel styles and budgets. From luxury hotels ( and even a Welsh castle or two) to budget-friendly bed & breakfasts, we have it covered!

Whether you’re a family or a couple our guide has something for everyone. We have also included information about local attractions such as castles and museums so that no matter where you choose to stay, there will always be plenty of things to do and see nearby.

Price guide

£ – Budget less than £75 a night

££ – Mid-range £75 – £125 a night

£££ – Luxury £125+ a night

Where to stay in North Wales – Quick picks

Caernarfon (carnarvon), betws-y-coed, llandudno & colwyn bay, portmeirion, enjoy your visit to north wales, best places to stay in north wales.

Located on the River Seiont, Caernarfon is one of the best places to stay in North Wales. It is an ancient market town known for its steep-walled castle perched high above it.

Home to some of Wales’s most spectacular ruins and history, the castle was built in 1283 by Edward I after he invaded Wales through nearby Degannwy. It lies at the end of a narrow strip of land between the River Seiont and Afon Goch. The moated black-and-white castle remains the centre of Caernarfon and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Take a walk around the castle walls for some great views across Caernarfon and the coastline beyond.

Bron Menai Guest House

Close to the castle, free wifi superb breakfast. Perfect for couples.

The Celtic Royal Hotel

££

Great location. Free wifi and access to leisure club with pool

Totters Hostel

Shared kitchen and lounge, Free wifi, good location.

Conwy is a walled town on the River Conwy in Conwy county borough. It has a population of approximately 5,000 people. It is a popular tourist destination with many people visiting for its famous walls.

For the best view of Conwy Castle, take an early morning stroll along the Town Walls and enjoy spectacular views over Conwy town and Snowdonia.

The Castle Hotel

£££

Luxurious 4-star hotel with spa facilities and several dining options.

Bed & breakfast accommodation in a converted chapel.

The Gallery at Bull Cottages

18th-century property in a great location. Popular with couples.

Snowdonia National Park

Snowdonia National Park is located in the northwest corner of Wales, bordered by England to its east and the Irish Sea to its west. It includes Snowdon (Welsh: Yr Wyddfa), the highest mountain in Wales, which stands over 1,085 metres above sea level. The park was established as one of three national parks in Wales in 1951 and is over 1085 square kilometres wide.

Enjoy mountain biking, horse riding and hiking trails in the foothills of Snowdonia National Park as well as peaceful walks through the beautiful scenery including lakes and rivers which are perfect for fishing.

Situated within the Snowdonia National Park, Betws-y-Coed has a wonderful array of things to see and do for everyone. The village has developed out of copper mining in the area with several mines still open today.

The visitor centre at Betws-y-Coed is the starting point of numerous walks, with opportunities for ramblers and mountain climbers alike, while those who prefer watersports can enjoy windsurfing, kayaking and sailing on Llyn Padarn.

Aberconwy House B&B

B&B has stunning views of the surrounding Gwydir Forest, with cycle and walking routes.

Plasglasgwm

An historic Welsh farm nestling in the Glasgwm valley.

Mary’s Court Guest House – Mairlys

Guest House situated in the heart of the Snowdonia National Park and offers free Wi-Fi, off-road parking and views of the surrounding area.

Located in Snowdonia National Park, Beddgelert is surrounded by magnificent mountain ranges and forested slopes. Popular places to visit in Beddgelert include nearby Aberglaslyn Pass Nature Reserve, Mount Snowdon or Rhyd Ddu Bridge (a perfect spot for spectacular photographs).

Bryn Eglwys Hotel

A former Georgian country farmhouse has stunning views.= with free WiFi throughout and free parking on site.

Bryn Dinas Camping Pods Ltd.

Camping accommodation with a patio and terrace.

Plas Tan y Graig B&B Guest House

Features a shared lounge, garden, terrace, and free WiFi throughout the property.

Situated on the coastline of the Irish Sea with a backdrop of mountains, Llandudno is the perfect destination for all travellers. The most affluent part of North Wales, Llandudno is home to the longest promenade in Wales which is perfect for a bracing seaside walk or taking an ice cream along the beaches and marina.

Situated on the coastline of the Irish Sea with a backdrop of mountains, Llandudno is a perfect destination with plenty of things to see and do including visiting Llandudno Pier, which is the longest pier in Wales.

The cable car trip to Great Orme offers panoramic views of the resort and coastline.

Château Rhianfa

⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ ⭐️

With a private beach and panoramic views over the Menai Straits, Château Rhianfa is set in a Grade II listed Victorian villa.

Space Boutique B & B

Each luxurious room at Space Boutique B&B has an individual design, a large flat-screen TV, power shower, bottled water and L’Occitane toiletries.

Coastal Gem Apartment

Beachfront accommodations with free WiFi. The property has city views and is 701 m from Llandudno Pier and 400 m from Leisure Parks.

Porthmadog is situated on the edge of Snowdonia National Park and is a great place for walking and outdoor activities with breathtaking views of Snowdonia. There are plenty of things to see and do in Porthmadog including taking a trip on the Ffestiniog Railway which is one of the world’s oldest narrow-gauge railroads.

The town also has a lot of antique shops, galleries and cafes to visit as well as harbour tours for those who want to discover Porthmadog’s rich maritime history.

Aberdunant Hall Country Hotel

⭐️⭐️ ⭐️⭐️

17th-century property set within 200-acres of woodland.

The Golden Fleece Inn

Bed and breakfast accommodations spread across 3 historic buildings.

Aberdunant Hall Holiday Park

Accommodations with free private parking, units feature a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with shower.

A popular tourist destination for families, Llangollen has a wonderful array of things to see and do for everyone. Llangollen is located at the edge of the Berwyn Mountains and Dee Valley.

The many attractions of Llangollen town include Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, the largest festival of its kind in Europe. The festival attracts over 160,000 visitors every year for 10 days from all around the world to hear international music and dance acts.

Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa

The hotel is a peaceful and relaxing location with comfortable accommodation and superb, luxurious spa facilities

Cambrian House

Historically listed former coaching house with a large, secure free car park, and free Wi-Fi

B&B with river views and free WiFi, flat-screen TV and a private bathroom. With à la carte or Full English/Irish breakfast.

Located on an island close to Anglesey, Beaumaris is one of North Wales’ most picturesque towns.

There are plenty of things to see and do in Beaumaris including exploring Beaumaris Castle, a perfect example of a concentric castle (a castle with two walls enclosing another castle). 

The Bull and Townhouse – Beaumaris

Grade II listed, with a traditional bar and a stylish restaurant.

The Liverpool Arms Hotel

Boasting a bar and views of the city + located only 300 m from Beaumaris Castle.

Castle Court

Guest house with bar, terrace facing the castle and shared lounge with TV.

Located in North Wales is the town of Wrexham. There are plenty of things to see and do in Wrexham including visiting Plas Coch, a mansion built in 1780 with fantastic views of the Berwyn Mountains.

Wrexham is also a popular shopping destination with plenty of retail outlets for all budgets.

The nearby Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain. The aqueduct was built by Thomas Telford, a renowned civil engineer, and took eleven years to complete.

Merlin House

3 bedroomed holiday home with kitchen with a dishwasher, a microwave and a fridge, a living room with a seating area and a dining area.

Ramada Plaza Wrexham

Air-conditioned bedrooms and a Health and Fitness Suite.Free wifi and parking – close to Vale of Llangollen in Wrexham.

The Lemon Tree

Set in a gothic Victorian building with free wifi and parking. Spacious rooms with a private bathroom.

Barmouth is a small seaside resort town situated on the mouth of the River Mawddach. Things to see and do in Barmouth include taking a ride on one of the North Wales narrow gauge railways, exploring Dolgellau gold mine or visiting Black Rock Sands, a perfect place for sunbathing.

££ £

Air-conditioned rooms with free wifi. Parking on-site and restaurant with good food. Excellent location.

B&B with free wifi. Excellent breakfast. Rooms with private bathrooms. Terrace, bar and garden for guests.

Tal Y Don Hotel

 Hotel located 2 minutes’ walk from Barmouth Rail Station and from the beach. All bedrooms with ensuite.

Prestatyn is one of North Wales’ most picturesque seaside towns. Things to do in Prestatyn include enjoying the beautiful sandy beaches, walking the Offa’s Dike Path, taking in a performance at the Pavilion Theatre or taking a ride on the Rhyl Miniature railway.

The Beaches Hotel

Located on the sea front with free parking, steam room and gym.

Lyons Nant Hall Hotel

19th-century listed building which features an on-site restaurant, free WiFi and free on-site parking.

Pen-y-Patch

3 bedroomed holiday home with garden, barbecue facilities, free WiFi and free private parking.

You can’t mention Prestatyn without Rhyl its coastal neighbour. Head to the beach for the day or on a rainy day why not visit the SeaQuarium. It is located on the eastern point of Rhyl beach and is worth a visit whatever your age. Rhyl Harbour is a great spot for a stroll. Pop in at the Harbour Hub Cafe for a spot of lunch or a coffee and cake.

Rhyl’s Miniature railway is the oldest in the UK and fun for all the family.

Sandy Pad’s Apartments 

2 bedroom apartment with sea and city views. 3-minute walk from Rhyl Beach.

Berwyn Guest House

4 star rated bed and breakfast accommodation with free WiFi and free parking

Paradise St Apartment Rhyl

3 bedroom apartment with a flat-screen TV, and a kitchen. Towels and bed linen are provided.

Portmeirion is a picturesque village in Gwynedd built in the style of an Italian village. While open to visitors (for a charge) the best way to enjoy this enchanting village is to book into the hotel and enjoy the gardens, architecture and beauty over a few days.

Portmeirion Village & Castell Deudraeth

The hotel offers a spa and wellness centre, an on-site mini-market, a bar and a restaurant.

Harlech is a popular seaside resort, steeped in history and surrounded by mountains. Popular things to do in Harlech include exploring the town’s medieval castle, taking a boat trip along the coast or visiting Harlech Beach, a secluded cove perfect for sunbathing.

Dol aur Bed and Breakfast

£ £

B&B with outstanding sea views, free WiFi throughout and free onsite parking. It also has a large sun terrace with seating and barbeque facilities.

Castle Cottage Inn

Features a restaurant, free WiFi and a bar. Choice of continental or an à la carte breakfast.

Pwllheli is a seaside resort situated on the tip of the Llyn Peninsula. The town’s main attraction is its long sandy beach and pleasant coastal walks that provide fantastic views over Cardigan Bay and towards the Llŷn Peninsula.

The pier at Pwllheli has several fish and chip shops, cafes and pubs, while the town centre is home to a few shops and supermarkets.

Located close to the beachfront in Pwllheli. All rooms have a flat-screen TV with cable channels and a private bathroom.

Rooms at Martha Jones

Deluxe double bedrooms with a flat-screen smart TV and private en suite equipped with a shower. A continental breakfast basket for two is included in each room.

A popular destination for walkers and mountain bikers, Bala is a historic market town near Arenig Fawr Mountain. Popular things to do in Bala include a variety of watersports on Llyn Tegid (Wales biggest lake), walking or fishing.

Plas Yn Dre

Bar. Private bathroom. Tea & coffee making facilities. Free WiFi. Free private parking on site.

Palé Hall 

£ £ £

Victorian manor house hotel with Michelen green star restaurant.

The Bryntirion Inn

Restaurant, bar, garden, and free WiFi throughout the property.

You can find more information to help you plan your visit to Wales in these helpful posts:

• Wales Travel Guide
• Wales Accommodation Guide (hotels, apartments, & castles!)
• Cardiff Travel Guide
• Best castles in Wales to explore

If you wish to spend a night or two (or longer) in a castle you will find your perfect castle stay in these posts

• Welsh castle hotel stays
• English c astle hotel stays
• Scottish castle hotel stays

You may be interested to know that there are 3 Unesco World Heritage sites located in North Wales.  The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct and the castles of Beaumaris and Harlech are seen as a group of three sites. If you enjoy history you will find that the castles in North Wales are well preserved and provide a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area. They also make for some great pictures as they look out over the Welsh countryside!

15 Best Places to Visit in New South Wales, Australia

G rowing up outside Sydney, I thought I had seen all the best places to visit in NSW. But that was a bit premature because we’d only ever really visited Sydney and the North Coast.

After we spent 18 months road-tripping around Australia, we covered more of NSW and finally visited the South Coast NSW , the Hinterland , and Country NSW .

I now realize that NSW is not just about east coast beach towns and Sydney. There are so many more places to visit in New South Wales that are off the beaten path, that are just as beautiful, if not more beautiful, than the places I knew growing up.

New South Wales has some of the best beaches in Australia, the highest mountain, the most relaxed beach towns, and one of the best cities in the world.

If you’re planning a trip around New South Wales and want some incredible places to add to your itinerary, then keep reading for some inspiration…

1. Jervis Bay

2. the snowy mountains & mount kosciuszko, 4. kangaroo valley, 5. the blue mountains, 6. byron bay, 7. the hunter valley, 8. coffs harbour, 9. armidale, 10. newcastle, 11. kingscliff, 13. lord howe island marine park, 14. broken hill outback, 15. mungo national park, tours of new south wales, save this to pinterest:, the best places to visit in nsw.

Whether you want to visit country towns, wine regions, mountain areas, and of course beach towns, you will find all this and more in our favourite places to visit in NSW below…

Jervis Bay is magical. Definitely the highlight of our visit down the South Coast and a place we’d like to explore more.

The beaches in this region are as good as anywhere in NSW, if not Australia. Hyams Beach has the Guinness World Record for the whitest sand in the world, and there is a thriving coral reef not too far from the shoreline.

The only downside is they don’t offer the surfing opportunities you’ll find on the north coast , and the water temperature is cooler.

But the great thing about Jervis Bay is it’s not overdeveloped with high rises and tourist gimmicks, the sand is white and pure, and they aren’t heavily populated like Sydney and the north coast beaches.

Jervis Bay is also a popular spot for whale watching, kayaking, canoeing, and walks.

For tips on Jervis Bay check out these posts:

• What a Day at Famous Hyams Beach looks like
• The Sensational White Sands Walk
• The Amazing “Scottish Rocks” in Booderee National Park

On our road trip was the first time Caz and I had visited the Snowy Mountains in Kosciuszko National Park.

We’ve never been into skiing, and have only done it once in the States, but visiting the Snowies in the summer months really opened up our eyes to how much there is to do there.

From driving the Alpine Way, to exploring Yarrangobilly Caves and Jenolan Caves, to climbing part of Australia’s highest peak (Mount Kosciusko), to seeing wild brumbies and bike riding the trails – all this got us excited to return for a winter at the Thredbo ski fields.

If you’re looking for a place to hike, this is the ideal place to visit in NSW.

Check out these other guides to the Snowy Mountains:

• Things to See on a Snowy Mountain Drive
• Thredbo YHA Hostel – Budget Accommodation in the Snowy’s

How good is Mudgee? Damn good!

We still can’t believe we grew up only 4 hours from this town and have never visited. It’s our new favourite country town in NSW .

If you’re a lover of wine, Mudgee is a great alternative to the famous Hunter Valley . We loved how you could cycle between the wineries, and it doesn’t have the tourist buses like the Hunter, yet.

And you’ll fall in love with its heritage buildings, wide streets, parks and country charm. I know it’s a cliche, but Mudgee is a hidden gem, only 3.5 hours drive from Sydney .

Read more: Things to Do in Mudgee

When we asked you guys for suggestions on where to go in Southern NSW, so many of you suggested Kangaroo Valley so we just couldn’t ignore it.

And we’re glad you did.

If you haven’t been to Kangaroo Valley yet, you should. The valley is as green as Ireland with Australian bush escarpments and wildlife (they have plenty of wombats).

Throw in a charming town centre, historic bridges, waterfalls, nature walks, and country pubs, and Kangaroo Valley makes for a great detour from the coastlines.

For more inspiration, read this guide on things to do in Kangaroo Valley.

Caz had never visited the Blue Mountains, and it’s been 30 years since I last visited, and we both wondered what all this fuss was about as a must-see day trip from Sydney?

Turns out, the Blue Mountains is more than just the Three Sisters and you should stay longer than one day!

The Blue Mountains have a depth greater than the infamous Three Sisters. We snapped our I was here photo and then went down, 900 steps into the valley below into a forested fern bower

Go hiking down amongst the rainforest-covered valleys into the valley below and you’ll feel like you’re a million miles away.

A local friend Dave told us about the ‘ Blue Mountains Chocolate Cafe ’ on Lurline St, where to find the best beer ( Carrington Hotel ) and to have a long lunch at the Ambermere Rose Inn – the signature dish “rabbit pie” was a hit for me!

There is relaxation, adventure, and rejuvenation in the Blue Mountains, and we were impressed by the unbelievably good local produce, cafes, cosy pubs, and restaurants. It’s a foodie’s paradise.

Our favourite place in Northern NSW, Byron Bay is that legendary beach town that has been attracting thousands of surfers from around the world for years.

But it’s not just for surfers.

All types of people come for the National Parks, the arts and culture, the markets, the festivals, the food, the shopping, the health retreats, to hang with hippies, to be seen, and the vibe.

And you will see the most spectacular sunsets and sunrises. Byron Bay has a lot going for it. So many people come, and many never leave.

Check out these other guides for more inspiration on visiting Byron Bay:

• The Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk
• 11 Byron Bay Beaches You Must Set Foot On
• 12 Reasons to visit Byron Bay with kids

It’s hard not to relax and enjoy yourself in this infamous wine region only a two hours drive north of Sydney.

The Hunter Valley is one of Australia’s most famous wine-growing regions and a place we have visited many times.

But it’s not just about the wineries. There’s fine dining, gourmet chocolate, adventures like hot air ballooning, and relaxing spa treatments and massages.

Don’t miss the Lovedale Road Trail, it’s quiet and unhurried with many boutique wineries, the chocolate factory, and fine restaurants.

And believe it or not, there is also something in the Hunter Valley for families – mini golf, playgrounds, beautiful gardens, and family singing time driving through the vineyards.

So taste some wine and take a drive.

I recommend the Mountain View Trail , driving up to Bimbadeen Lookout for spectacular views of the valley and the Brokenback Range.

For more tips on visiting the Hunter Valley, check out this guide on wine tasting tours in Hunter Valley .

Coffs Harbour is roughly half-way along the Sydney to Brisbane road trip route and a popular stop for road trippers.

For us, the town of Coffs doesn’t do much for us (unless you want to take a selfie with a Big Banana), but what we do really like is the surrounding region. So when we talk of Coffs, we’re thinking about the Coffs Coast Region!

The nearby beaches are great, especially Red Rocks Beach to the north, and the town of Sawtell is charming and where we choose to base ourselves.

Dorrigo National Park makes for a great day trip (visit Dangar Falls on the way up), then once in the park enjoy the rainforest and tree-top canopy walks.

If you can time your visit right, don’t miss the Bellingen Markets held every third Saturday of the month in the lovely town of Bellingen.

For more tips check out this guide: Best Things to Do in Coffs Harbour

There’s something about University towns, as we discovered living in the USA, and the University town of Armidale located in the picturesque New England region is my kind of town.

We only had two days to explore, our stay was kind of cut short due to Kalyra breaking her arm in the playground, but we really enjoyed the history, the heritage buildings, the tree-lined streets, and the nearby waterfalls and gorges.

Armidale is also a lovely place to visit for its reputation for good food and wine, and we can see ourselves returning for another stay.

Read this guide to learn how to spend 2 Days in Armidale – Things to See and Do

Newcastle is Australia’s 7th biggest city and has undergone a transformation in recent years, especially the CBD.

Whilst it has always been a great beach town with lively pubs and a big University, it has moved on from its primary industry of steel and has implemented a few creative programs to bring back the culture and arts to the city, plus a lively cafe and restaurant scene, particularly along the waterfront.

It’s not just about pubs and industry anymore. There is richness, and a relaxed vibe, and it is exciting to see Newcastle offering much more for travellers these days.

Just under an hour away is the sand dunes of Port Stephens which are excellent for sand boarding on.

Learn more tips from this guide: Things to Do in Newcastle

The town of Kingscliff is high up on the NSW North Coast (you’re almost in Queensland) and it’s one of those great beachy towns with a relaxed vibe that’s just enough off the beaten track that it doesn’t lose its appeal.

It’s a very liveable kinda place with a nice beach and cafe strip, friendly locals, and the pretty Cudgen Creek is a top spot for the kids to enjoy some water activities.

If Byron is too much for you, consider staying here to explore the rest of the North Coast region, and just down the road you have Cabaritta Beach and Fingal Head.

Read more : Things to do in Kingscliff a coastal town in NSW

Last, but certainly not least, is the big smoke. Sydney sits high on any international destination hit list, let alone being the draw card and gateway to NSW.

If you are going to visit Australia , then you can’t miss Sydney.

It has something for everyone: stunning harbour side location, the iconic beaches (such as the famous Bondi Beach), excellent restaurants, fantastic cafes and pubs, world heritage sites, terrific shopping, incredible festivals, a multicultural population, and good year-round weather.

Not to mention the most iconic attractions in the country, the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Rocks District near the Circular Quay is one of our favorite destinations in Sydney to explore because it’s not only historic but has a chilled vibe.

But don’t just use Sydney as a gateway to NSW and Oz, give it at least 3 days.

For our best tips on Sydney, check out these guides:

• The Ultimate Guide to Sydney – Things to See & Do
• 15 things to do in Sydney with kids

Take a ferry over to Lord Howe Island which is famous for its natural beauty, incredible beaches, and thriving wildlife.

It’s one of the most untouched and unspoiled places in New South Wales, but because it’s 600km off the mainland of New South Wales, not many people visit here.

This makes it a remarkable hidden gem.

It’s most famous for its Seven Peaks walk, which takes you past places known for featuring in David Attenborough documentaries.

The trail is long but it’s not extremely tough but takes several days to complete. It’s one of the best multi-day walks in Australia.

Broken Hill is an old mining town that has a history dating back to the 1880s, making it Australia’s oldest mining town.

As well as being a place to discover precious metals, it’s also an area of outstanding natural beauty.

Being in the outback, you can find expanses of vast desert plains that shimmer in the sunlight. There is also the Living Desert State Park where you will find impressive rock formations and sculptures.

If you’re looking for places to visit in NSW where you can switch off and enjoy being in seclusion and solitude, this is the place to be.

Another popular place to see the NSW outback is Mungo National Park, which is famous for its prehistoric history.

This is where archaeologists found the remains of a Mungo Man and Woman that date over 40,000 years old. This makes it the oldest known area where humans have inhabited, in the entire southern hemisphere.

It also has amazing rock formations.

Before You Go to New South Wales

There you have it, those are our favourite places to visit in New South Wales for any visitor to Australia.

Whether you’re looking for some of the most popular destinations or hidden gems, you will find something for everyone on this list.

I hope that this list gave you some inspiration for places to add to your NSW itinerary and helped you plan your Aussie trip.

More NSW Travel Tips

Are you looking for more inspiration for visiting NSW? Then you may find the below resources useful…

• 10 day trips from Sydney (or weekend getaways)
• 22 Things to Do in Port Macquarie
• 14 Awesome Things to Do in Bathurst, NSW with kids
• 11 of the Best NSW Beaches to visit
• North Coast NSW Road Trip – Lennox Head to Gold Coast
• Things to do in Wollongong – the Gong gets us into the groove!
• Things to do on the Central Coast of NSW
• Yamba NSW: Is this Australia’s best kept secret?
• South West Rocks NSW and the Big 4 Caravan Park
• Sydney to Brisbane Road Trip Highlights
• Weekend Getaway in a Historic Lighthouse Cottage – Seal Rocks, NSW

What are your favourite places in NSW? Share in the comments.