Top 10 Things to do in North Wales

Things to do in North Wales

Welcome to North Wales, a land of rugged mountains, stunning coastlines and ancient castles. If you are planning a trip to this magical place but don’t know where to start, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will be sharing with you the top 10 things to do in North Wales. From exploring medieval fortresses and national parks to hiking through majestic peaks and discovering hidden gems, there’s something for everyone in this beautiful part of the UK. So, without further ado, let’s dive into our list of must-see attractions that will make your visit truly unforgettable!

1. Conwy Castle

Conwy Castle is a medieval fortress located in the town of Conwy, North Wales. Built by Edward I during his conquest of Wales in the late 13th century, it stands as one of the most impressive examples of military architecture from that era.

One notable feature of Conwy Castle is its massive walls and towers, which were designed to withstand attacks from both land and sea. The castle’s eight towers offer incredible views over the estuary and town below.

Visitors to Conwy Castle can explore its many rooms and passages, including the Great Hall, Chapel Tower and Queen’s Chamber. The castle also hosts various events throughout the year such as medieval re-enactments and ghost tours.

For history buffs or those simply looking for a unique experience while visiting North Wales, Conwy Castle is definitely worth adding to your itinerary. With its rich history and stunning architecture, it offers visitors an unforgettable glimpse into a time long gone.

2. Snowdonia National Park

Nestled in the heart of North Wales is one of the most beautiful national parks in the UK – Snowdonia National Park. With its rugged mountains, breath-taking lakes, and stunning waterfalls, it’s no wonder this park attracts millions of visitors every year.

One of the highlights of Snowdonia is Mount Snowdon itself, which is the highest mountain in Wales and England. The trek to reach its summit can be challenging but rewarding. A train ride to the top provides an excellent alternative for those not up for a hike.

The park also offers plenty of opportunities for adventure seekers with activities such as rock climbing, kayaking and zip lining available. For nature lovers, there are many trails that wind through forests and around serene lakes where you can spot rare wildlife like peregrine falcons or red kites.

If you’re looking for something more low-key than hiking or adventure sports, there are charming villages within easy driving distance from Snowdonia that offer unique experiences like traditional Welsh cuisine or glass-blowing workshops.

Snowdonia National Park has something to offer everyone who visits with its natural beauty and endless possibilities for exploration both on foot and by other means.

3. Aber Falls

Located in the beautiful village of Abergwyngregyn, Aber Falls is a breath-taking waterfall that offers visitors stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere. The walk to the falls takes you through a lush forest with streams flowing beside you.

The path leading to the falls is well-maintained and easy to navigate making it accessible for all ages. Once you arrive at Aber Falls, you’ll be mesmerized by its beauty as water cascades down from 120 feet above.

If hiking is your thing, there are several trails around the waterfall that lead up into the mountains where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of Snowdonia National Park. It’s also an excellent spot for birdwatching as many different species can be seen flying around the area.

After taking in all that Aber Falls has to offer, why not head over to nearby cafes or pubs where delicious traditional Welsh food awaits? This makes it an ideal spot for those looking for a day out in nature followed by some quality time enjoying local cuisine.

Visiting Aber Falls is a must-do activity when exploring North Wales. From hiking and birdwatching opportunities to simply soaking up its serene beauty – it truly has something for everyone!

4. National Slate Museum

The National Slate Museum is a must-see attraction in North Wales. Located in the charming town of Llanberis, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of slate mining.

Guests can explore the former workshops that have been transformed into exhibits showcasing how slate was extracted from mines and then processed into roofing materials. The museum also features working machinery such as water-powered sawmills and incline planes that were once used to transport heavy slates.

Visitors can take a guided tour or wander around on their own, soaking up the rich history of this industry. In addition to learning about slate mining practices, guests can participate in craft demonstrations including letter carving and calligraphy using locally sourced Welsh slate.

Don’t miss out on visiting this unique attraction during your trip to North Wales. The National Slate Museum offers an educational experience for all ages while immersing you in local culture. Plus, it’s free admission!

5. Great Orme

Great Orme is a massive limestone headland, situated on the north coast of Wales. It stands 207 meters high and offers breath-taking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. One of the best ways to experience Great Orme is by taking a ride on the Great Orme Tramway, which has been running since 1902.

The tramway takes visitors up to the summit where they can explore ancient copper mines that date back thousands of years. For those who prefer walking, there are several hiking paths that lead up to the top as well.

Atop Great Orme, you will find one of Britain’s largest prehistoric mines known as The Bronze Age Mines. You can also visit The Summit Complex with its café and gift shop or take in some bird watching at RSPB reserve on site.

The scenery from atop Great Orme is simply stunning; there are unobstructed views over miles upon miles of coastline and countryside below that make for perfect photo opportunities!

6. Home Front Museum

If you’re interested in history, the Home Front Museum is a must-visit attraction when exploring North Wales. The museum provides an immersive experience into what daily life was like for civilians during World War II.

Upon entering the museum, visitors are transported back in time to wartime Britain through recreated living rooms and kitchens decorated with authentic furnishings from the 1940s. The exhibit showcases how rationing affected everyday life and how people coped with shortages of food and other essential goods.

One of the most intriguing aspects of the Home Front Museum is its collection of artifacts donated by local residents who lived through World War II. These items range from gas masks to blackout curtains, giving visitors a tangible glimpse into what it was like to live under threat of air raids.

The museum also features interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience different scenarios such as listening to radio broadcasts or trying on military uniforms. It’s a great way to engage younger generations in learning about this significant part of history.

The Home Front Museum offers a unique perspective on WWII history that can’t be found anywhere else in North Wales. Whether you’re a history buff or just curious about life during wartime, this attraction is worth adding to your itinerary.

7. Eryri National Park

Eryri National Park is a breath-taking natural wonderland located in North Wales. This stunning park covers over 800 square miles of beautiful mountainous landscapes, lush forests, and sparkling lakes. It’s no surprise that Eryri is one of the most popular national parks in the UK.

One of the main attractions in Eryri National Park is Mount Snowdon – the highest peak in Wales at over 3,500 feet. The hike to the summit can be challenging but offers spectacular views from above. If you’re not up for a strenuous climb, there are plenty of other walking trails available throughout the park.

In addition to its extraordinary scenery, Eryri National Park boasts an impressive variety of flora and fauna. From rare birds like peregrine falcons and red kites to unique plant species like woolly willow and Arctic-alpine flowers, this park has something for every nature lover.

If you’re looking for adventure activities beyond hiking or enjoying scenic drives through mountains then Eryri also offers rock climbing opportunities on Clogwyn Du’r Arddu as well as water sports such as kayaking along Llyn Gwynant lake!

Visiting Eryri National Park should definitely be on your list if you want to experience some truly awe-inspiring natural beauty during your time in North Wales!

8. Penmon Point

Penmon Point is a picturesque spot on the easternmost tip of Anglesey. It’s a must-visit place if you’re looking for some tranquillity and natural beauty. The rugged coastline, clear blue sea, and stunning views make it an ideal location for nature lovers.

One of the main attractions here is the Penmon Lighthouse that has stood tall since 1838. You can take a walk around the lighthouse while admiring its iconic architecture and learning about its history from informative plaques.

Another unique feature at Penmon Point is St Seiriol’s Holy Well, where visitors come to collect holy water believed to have healing powers. Nearby, there’s also an ancient church called St Seiriol Church which dates back to the 12th century.

If you’re interested in wildlife, then keep your eyes peeled for seals basking on rocks at low tide or dolphins leaping out of the water during high tide. There are plenty of walking trails around Penmon Point as well where you can enjoy breath-taking coastal views.

Penmon Point offers a perfect escape from busy city life with its serene environment and beautiful surroundings making it one of North Wales’ top ten places to visit!

9. Parys Mountain

Parys Mountain is a unique and fascinating location in North Wales that offers visitors the chance to explore an otherworldly landscape. This former copper mine has been left abandoned for many years, but the remnants of its industrial past still remain.

Visitors can take a guided tour of the site or explore on their own, following well-marked trails through the stunning scenery. The bright red and orange hues of the rocks create a truly spectacular sight, making it no surprise that Parys Mountain served as inspiration for Jules Verne’s “Journey to the Centre of the Earth”.

Aside from being visually striking, Parys Mountain also holds significant historical value. It was once one of Europe’s largest producers of copper ore and played a crucial role in shaping trade across Britain during its heyday.

Parys Mountain offers an unforgettable experience for anyone looking to discover more about North Wales’ rich history and diverse landscapes.

10. Gwrych Castle

As our journey comes to an end, we must not forget to mention one of the most fascinating attractions in North Wales – Gwrych Castle. This 19th-century Gothic-style castle is located near Abergele and overlooks the Irish Sea. It has a rich history and was even used as a training ground for World War II soldiers.

Today, visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and ruins of this once grand castle. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk through its winding staircases, towers, and courtyards.

In addition to being a popular tourist destination, Gwrych Castle has also gained worldwide attention recently due to the popular reality show “I’m A Celebrity… Get Me Out of Here!” which was filmed there in 2020.

In conclusion (just kidding!), North Wales truly has something for everyone with all these amazing attractions waiting to be explored. Whether you’re looking for stunning natural landscapes or fascinating historical landmarks, this region will not disappoint.