north wales tourist spots

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

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North Wales

Why we love North Wales

The north of Wales is packed with castles and they provide just some of its stunning backdrop. The rest comes from its coastlines, valleys, hills and towns. From the impressive vistas of Portmeirion, a mini replica of the Italian Riviera, to the island of Anglesey with 125 miles of coastline, to an amble along Wales’ longest pier in the Victorian resort of Llandudno. Whether it’s photographing Britain’s longest place name or its smallest house, paddle-boarding under dark skies or taking on the world’s fastest zipline, the north of Wales gives you a generous slice of it all. Try sleeping on a cliff’s edge, visiting anything from prisons to galleries, feasting on fresh lobster to locally foraged seaweed, or partying the night away, and all in easy reach of Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park.

Explore Wales’ Italian side

Portmeirion is an architect’s vision of the Italian Riviera brought to life. Seventy acres of woodland surround colourful buildings, a central piazza, shops, cafes and Hotel Portmeirion.

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Dare you brave the world’s fastest zipwire ? Soar 1.5 km speeding over the Penrhyn Quarry lake and take in epic views of Snowdonia at a mere 100mph.

Things to do in North Wales

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Llŷn Peninsula, North Wales

For beautiful beaches and charming seaside villages, look to the Llŷn Peninsula on the North Wales coast.

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Portmeirion

In questo lato felicemente stravagante del Galles, in una penisola privata, troverai una piccola fetta della riviera italiana.

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Conwy Castle, Conwy

Standing tall for more than 700 years, this Medieval fortress overlooks the pretty town of Conwy – both a joy to explore.

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Holyhead Mountain, Anglesey

From the top of Holyhead Mountain, you can see the entire Anglesey coastline – and even as far as Ireland.

South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey

Since 1809, this tiny white lighthouse has saved thousands of lives. Discover its stories in the museum, and enjoy epic views from the top.

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Bardsey Island

Look out for remarkable wildlife sightings – including puffins, peregrines and a 200-strong grey seal colony.

Rock the Park

With its line up of rock, pop and dance, this music festival in Wrexham is a true crowd-pleaser.

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Aqueduct Canoeing in Llangollen

this is no ordinary watersports trip: the Pontcysyllte is one of the tallest navigable aqueducts in the world.

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Beaumaris, Caernarfon, Conwy and Harlech Castles

Known as the ‘Iron Ring’, these mighty Welsh castles date back to the 13th century.

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Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod

Part festival, part competition, this is a great way to experience Wales’s rich national heritage.

Adventure Parc Snowdonia

Discover an amazing lagoon with guaranteed surf, plus a skate park, climbing walls, zip lines and more.

Enjoy thrilling high ropes courses, underground trampoline parks and the fastest zip line on the planet.

Mostyn Gallery

This contemporary art gallery has serious cultural clout, representing artists from all over Wales – and beyond.

Llandudno Museum

From a 5,500-year-old skeleton to precious Roman coins, which historic treasures will you discover?

This playful restaurant has been awarded two Michelin Stars for its epic, multi-course tasting menus.

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Portmeirion: The Prisoner

Fans of this cult classic show will love the official The Prisoner shop, amid Portmeirion’s iconic architecture.

Gwrych Castle: I'm a Celebrity

Explore the courtyard where the contestants stayed, the telephone box, the Clink – and even the privy!

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Welsh Highland Railway

All aboard! Travel back in time on steam-powered locomotives, through glorious North Wales countryside.

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Gay Pride Wales

From events and club nights, to film screenings and craft markets, see what’s on during your visit.

Great Orme TramwayYour ticket to invigorating walk

Your ticket to invigorating walks, picnics and birdwatching – all with breathtaking views of the sea.

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FOCUS Wales

Film screenings, gigs, DJ sets and workshops: this three-day festival is packed with entertainment…

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Halen Môn - Anglesey Sea Salt Company

Learn the secrets of Anglesey’s top-quality salt, on a surprising behind-the-scenes adventure.

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Centre for Alternative Technology

Take part in inspirational activities and practical workshops – all with the aim of living more sustainably.

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Dyfi Distillery

Taste award-winning gins made from foraged Welsh botanicals – such as pine tips, apples and bilberries.

Bryn Elltyd Eco Self Catering

Choose an eco-friendly stay – with 100% renewable energy, rainwater harvesting and electric car chargers.

Go Ape Dalby Forest

Unleash your inner adventurer on forest segway tracks, high ropes courses and multiple zip lines.

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Joe Cornish Gallery

Discover the work of award-winning landscape photographer Joe Cornish, as well as other local talents.

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Featured things to do

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Glide over north Wales

Take to the skies and fly over North Wales in a glider. See the ground below shrink and the big skies open before you.

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Paddleboarding in Anglesey

Paddleboard under the dark velvet skies around Anglesey, in one of the few dark skies spots and find your spiritual side.

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Troglodytic Trampolining

Deep inside the belly of some slate caverns is the vast underground chamber at Bounce Below. Three trampolines, one spaced above the other, connected with slides and ladders.

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Conwy Castle

One of Wales’ spectacular medieval fortresses and a World Heritage Site. Explore its towers, iconic spiral staircase and unlock over 700 years of history.

Places to stay in North Wales

Conwy makes for a good base, and is central to the north Wales area. It also offers easy access to Snowdonia. And for such a small place it offers a lot to see, from the castle to the estuary, cottages with slate roofs, long beach walks nearby, town walls and buzzing cafes, and pubs and restaurants .

This island offers everything from a on-cliff camping experience through to stays at country houses with spas or even a chateau.  Take in its lighthouses, to its beaches and coastal paths, or look to food festivals and the chance to cross the Menai Suspension Bridge. Check out Beaumaris for its shops and cafes, pitch up a picnic at Penmon or enjoy a B&B in Benlech Bay.

A dream-worthy place to stay. Running along the fringes of the Creuddyn Penisula, this Victorian seaside destination is bursting with historic tales, outstanding nature and Wales’ longest pier. Check out Great Orme, the area’s mini-mountain and journey 207 metres high to the summit on a ride on Britain’s lengthiest cable car. 

Explore nearby

From The Beatles to Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Liverpool is a UNESCO City of Music with seriously cool credentials.

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Snowdonia (Eryri)

Full of adventure, from its sky-scraping peaks to plunging glacial valleys, Snowdonia's scenery is guaranteed to blow your mind.

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World-class football and a music scene that brought Oasis to centre stage – there’s lots to love about Manchester.

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Wales Coast Path

A route to adventure, culture and wildlife hugging the shorelines of Wales.

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Getting to North Wales

The closest international airport to North Wales is  Liverpool John Lennon Airport , around 75 miles (121 km) from spots such as Conwy and Llandudno. Direct train services from London Euston to Holyhead, the largest town on the Isle of Anglesey, take fewer than four hours.

Getting around

Fflecsi  Bus operate across North Wales and can be booked by app.  Dee Valley Picturesque Bus  service is a circular route and runs every Saturday until 30 October, the route links Llangollen and the surrounding villages to popular local attractions.

The  Snowdon Sherpa  is a unique bus service that travels around the foot of Snowdon, the service is fully accessible.

A scenic and eco-friendly way to travel around North Wales is by train. The  North Wales Coast Railway  hugs the coastline, and stops off at places such as Prestatyn, Rhyl, Colwyn Bay, Llandudno, Conwy, Bangor and Holyhead.

The Conwy Valley line runs from Llandudno through Snowdonia to Blaenau Ffestiniog.

A lot of North Wales is calling out to walkers, amblers and hikers . Check out the North Wales section of the Welsh coastal path .

Want to know more?

Check out Visit Wales for top insider tips and travel inspiration.

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!

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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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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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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.

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15 Best Villages in North Wales to visit

• David Angel
• Wales , United Kingdom

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

North Wales Travel Guide

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: September 2, 2023

Our North Wales Travel Guide includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for this beautiful area of Wales. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to North Wales!

Plan your visit to North Wales

North Wales is an ideal holiday location with a range of attractions including mountains, coast and countryside.

You can enjoy surfing, hiking, golfing and visiting castles. In North Wales, you will find a wide variety of places to stay from caravan parks to luxury hotels.

This region is particularly good for anyone who wants to spend time in the great outdoors – North Wales has some of the most spectacular walkways and abundant natural beauty – visitors come back time and again to explore the area’s rolling hills, hidden valleys, popular seaside resorts and secluded beaches.

Whether you’re planning a short visit or staying longer, this travel guide will help you get the most out of your trip!

What you will find in this North Wales Travel Guide

Map of North Wales

When is the best time of year to visit north wales, what is the best way to explore north wales, 🚆 by train, 🚗 by car (road trip option), snowdonia national park, train trips, places to visit in north wales, accommodation in north wales, north wales travel guide – best tours and day trips, enjoy your visit to north wales, north wales travel guide – faq’s.

Summer is a great time to visit North Wales as the weather is typically mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities on offer, including mountain biking, rock climbing and horse riding.

If you’re looking for a more relaxed holiday, then autumn can be a great time to visit as the leaves change colour and the region is not as busy.

Read more about the best time to visit the UK in my detailed guide.

There are a number of ways to explore North Wales, depending on what you want to do. If you’re interested in hiking and trekking, then the mountains offer some of the best trails in the country.

The coastline is also great for walks, as well as surfing and swimming. You can also hire a bike to explore the region’s many cycle paths

For those who want to explore the area’s history and culture, there are plenty of castles and other historical sites to visit. Car hire is a great way to see as much of North Wales as possible.

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What is the best way to travel to North Wales from London?

By train – The train journey to North Wales takes around 4 hours. From London Euston Station to Llandudno it will require two changes of trains (at Crewe and Chester)

Tip – If this is your first time catching a train in the UK read our complete guide to UK train travel which includes all the information you need to know to make travelling around the UK by rail a relaxing and stress-free experience.

It’s around a 5-hour drive from London to Llandudno in North Wales.

National Express offers direct services to North Wales from London, Manchester and other major cities.

Attractions and things to do in North Wales

Snowdonia National Park (an area of outstanding natural beauty) is dominated by Snowdon’s highest peak, towering 1085 metres above sea level. There are plenty of trails to hike and you can also take advantage of the excellent mountain biking facilities.

For those who like water activities, there are a number of lakes for fishing or kayaking. Plas y Brenin, the National Adventure Centre, is also located in Snowdonia and offers a range of activities including archery, climbing and orienteering.

Caernarfon Castle is one of the most popular tourist destinations in North Wales. The imposing castle along the North Wales coast was built by Edward I in the late 13th century and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Beaumaris Castle is another interesting castle located in North Wales and today the site is mostly open to the public and includes a visitor centre, tours and historical re-enactments during the summer months.

Conwy Castle was built in 1283 by Edward I and much of it can still be seen today, including its iconic gateway. You can also take part in historical re-enactments during the summer months.

Harlech Castle is another of Edward I’s Welsh castles and it is located near the town of Harlech in Gwynedd. The castle is open to visitors and has a museum featuring artefacts and armour from its history and also offers scenic views over the Snowdonia mountains.

North Wales is home to some of the country’s most beautiful train routes. The Ffestiniog Railway is a narrow-gauge heritage railway that runs for 41 miles from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog. The route is known for its winding tunnels and spectacular mountain scenery.

The Welsh Highland Railway is another heritage railway in North Wales, running from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. The route offers some of the most scenic views in the country and is also popular with cyclists.

SNOWDONIA NATIONAL PARK

➡️ Location and accommodation guide for North Wales

This guide will have provided inspiration plus practical information to help plan your visit to North Wales . You will find more inspiration and ideas to help plan your travels around Wales and the rest of the UK in these travel guides:

• Top 10 places to visit in Wales
• Best castle hotels in Wales
• Guide to Welsh castles
• Cardiff Travel Guide

Find more inspiration for your travels in my Wales Travel Guide which includes information about what to see, where to stay, how to get around, travel tips, recommended reading and more to make the most of your trip.

• North Wales
• Historic buildings
• UNESCO Heritage

© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Conwy Castle, North Wales

Highlights along The North Wales Way

The North Wales Way is a journey right across the top of Wales. Epic castles, high speed RIB rides, huge mountain views, wildlife encounters and spectacular theatrics all feature along the way.

You can’t miss the castles (literally: they’re enormous). Nor should you miss out on the many other culture and countryside highlights. Here are some of the top things to do on The North Wales Way , ordered along the route from east to west.

Take in a play a Theatr Clwyd

Based in Mold, Theatr Clwyd is a highly effective regional arts centre. Housed in a muscular complex of 1970's- era brick and glass, it includes two theatres, a cinema and studio spaces offering all sorts of performances. Cinema, dance, art exhibitions and live music all feature, but it's theatre that's the really big draw. It’s home to one of Wales' major drama companies, staging productions throughout the year.

Read more: 10 top theatres in Wales

A performance in full swing at Theatr Clwyd.

© Sam Taylor

Learn about conservation at Welsh Mountain Zoo

The Welsh Mountain Zoo stands high above Colwyn Bay, with panoramic views, breathtaking scenery, beautiful gardens and plenty of insights into some of the world's most unusual and at-risk species. Relax in the surroundings and get closer to wildlife with daily bird shows, animal feeding sessions and talks.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Welsh Mountain Zoo (@welsh_mountain_zoo)

Hit the town in Llandudno

The lovely seaside Victoria spa resort of Llandudno offers lots to do and some great places to stay and eat too. Wander along the historic pier, hop on the San Fran-style tram up the Great Orme , take in some modern art at the Oriel MOSTYN Gallery or sample some fine Welsh whisky at the Penderyn Distillery . If you’ve time see what’s on at Venue Cymru – it’s one of the top venues in North Wales with performances by Welsh National Opera among many others.

Read more: Things to do on holiday in Llandudno and Colwyn Bay

Venue Cymru and Oriel Mostyn, Llandudno, North Wales

© Venue Cymru

Climb the towers at Conwy Castle

Visible for miles away as you approach Conwy, this 13th century Conwy Castle is one of several local masterpieces by Edward I’s builder, James of St George. The castle still utterly dominates the town, which has one of the finest sets of town walls in Europe. The views from the tops of the towers across the estuary are without parallel. The town is well worth a visit too with lots of independent shops and eateries.

Read more: Top things to do in Conwy

Explore the UNESCO Slate Landscape

You’re on the edge of the magnificent UNESCO world heritage Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales here. There are lots of ways to explore, but perhaps the best is on foot. You can do the first section of the Snowdonia Slate Trail from Bangor to Bethesda for some spectacular mountain scenery and epic views of slate mining workings carved into the hillside. Section One is about six miles (10km) one way and you can hop on a bus back.

Read more: Visit our UNESCO world heritage sites

The slate landscape near Bethesda, North Wales

RCAHMW / © Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright Crown 

Get up close to the Menai Bridges

You won't be able to miss the two magnificent bridges spanning the Menai Strait – Thomas Telford's Suspension bridge was built in 1826, and Robert Stephenson's Britannia design arrived in 1840. You can find out more and discover the history of the Strait in the Menai Heritage Experience , then take a closer look for yourself with a stroll along the bank or hop aboard a high speed RIB boat !

The Britannia and Menai Suspension bridges, Anglesey, North Wales

Storm the battlements at Beaumaris Castle

The last of Edward I’s chain of fortresses is still the most technically perfect castle in Britain, with an ingenious ‘walls within walls’ layout. Edward never got round to finishing Beaumaris (he was distracted by unruly Scots). Even so, UNESCO ranks Beaumaris Castle as one of ‘the finest examples of military architecture in Europe’, and together with Edward’s other Welsh castles, this is a World Heritage site.

Read more: A trail of majestic castles

Beaumaris Castle, Anglesey, North Wales

Find a leg at Plas Newydd House & Gardens

The Plas Newydd House & Gardens on the shores of the Menai Strait is the seat of the Marquesses of Anglesey, and has the largest collection of artist Rex Whistler’s works, a military museum, and a fine spring garden. The 1st Marquess led the cavalry charge at the Battle of Waterloo, losing a leg to cannon fire. His wooden leg is displayed here (to be precise, it’s his ‘walking’ leg; he also had legs for riding and dancing!).

Plas Newydd House and gardens, Anglesey, North Wales

See amazing wildlife at South Stack Lighthouse

When the South Stack Lighthouse was built in 1809, visitors had to cross in a basket slung under a rope; today there’s a slender bridge from Holy Island, reached by a 400-step descent down the cliffs. It’s worth the effort: the surrounding South Stack Cliffs Nature Reserve is home to thousands of breeding seabirds including guillemots, razorbills and puffins, while seals, dolphins and porpoises are often spotted offshore.

Read more: Wonderful Welsh lighthouses

South Stack Lighthouse, Anglesey, North Wales

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North Wales 'dream' village named among most beautiful places in Britain

A North Wales village described as "like something out of a dream" has been named among the most beautiful places in the Britain. 

The expert travel writers at Time Out have called on their personal "pinch-me" moments from locations across the country to come up with a list of the most beautiful places in Britain.

From the Forest of Dean’s moss-covered woodland to the cobbled streets of Oxford and everywhere in between the list has a wide range of "surprising beauty spots to add to your travel bucket list".

Introducing the list, Time Out said: "For all of the stick we give the UK – the grey skies, the pigeons, the Greggs sausage roll packets littering the pavements – it’s actually a pretty gorgeous country. 

"In London alone, you can be goggling over the Barbican’s brutalist beauty one moment, the next, you might be basking in the tranquility of Hampstead Ponds.

"Add the turquoise coasts of Cornwall, the rugged mountains of Snowdonia and the fairytale wonder of Scotland’s highlands and islands to the mix, and you’ve got a country which is as good looking as they come."

The most beautiful places in Britain

The top 15 most beautiful places in Britain, according to Time Out , are: 

• Puzzlewood, Forest of Dean
• Minack Theatre, Cornwall
• Barbican Estate, London
• Singing Sands, Isle of Eigg
• Avebury Stone Circle, Wiltshire
• Medieval Shambles, York
• Seven Sisters, Sussex
• Fairy Pools, Isle of Skye
• Whitstable Seafront, Kent
• Rydal Caves, Lake District
• Loch Lomond, Highland Boundary Fault
• Central Oxford
• Clifton Suspension Bridge, Bristol
• Portmeirion, North Wales
• Benone Strand, Causeway Coast

You can see the full list and more details about each location via the Time Out website .

"Like something out of a dream": North Wales village named among most beautiful places in Britain

Portmeirion was the only location in Wales to feature on Time Out's list of the most beautiful places in Britain.

The travel experts described the "picture-perfect" North Wales village as "like something out of a dream".

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• The 'time-warp' seaside village in North Wales among most beautiful in Britain
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Time Out added: "That is intentional, as the brainchild of Sir Clough Williams-Ellis set out to bring the peace and pace of the Mediterranean to the northwest of Wales.

"Don’t scoff: the two are more alike than you might first assume. Since its completion in 1975, this unique tourist village has established itself as the most romantic spot in north Wales. 

"Of course, it certainly helps if it comes with Italianate architecture, colourful facades and an unforgettable sense of romance. How could you not fall for Portmeirion?"

If you are planning a visit to "the most romantic spot in north Wales" Time Out recommended trying the gelato from Caffi’r Angel and setting up on the piazza for a spot of people-watching.