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Jump to …<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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- 24 Things to Do in North Wales<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Things to do in North Wales when it Rains<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Places to Stay in North Wales<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\n\n\n\n\n\n1. Climb Snowdon<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Hikers, couples, families with older children<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Standing at 1,085m, Snowdon is the highest peak in Wales. And if you’re anything like me – a must-do activity in North Wales!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Choose from several scenic hiking trails or take the Snowdon Mountain Railway for an easier route to the summit. Reaching the summit on a clear day? Pure magic!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"A](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/08\/Blog-Images-68.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n2. Explore Conwy Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Conwy<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Families, history lovers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This UNESCO-listed medieval fortress offers a fascinating glimpse into Wales\u2019 rich history.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Walk along the castle walls for incredible views over Conwy\u2019s charming harbour and town.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"Conwy,](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/05\/iStock-482456766.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n3. Experience Zip World Snowdonia<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Bethesda, Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Adrenaline seekers, couples, groups of friends<\/p>\n\n\n\n
For a heart-pounding adventure, head to Zip World and take on Velocity 2<\/strong><\/a> – the fastest zip line in the world! Soaring over Penrhyn Quarry at speeds of up to 100mph is an unforgettable experience.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Having done it myself, I can confidently say it\u2019s an absolute must for thrill-seekers! Zip World also offers a range of other exciting experiences, including underground trampolines and high-rope courses.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Zip-World-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n4. Wander Around Portmeirion<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Porthmadog, Gwynedd<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Couples, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
We absolutely love Portmeirion! Designed in an Italianate style, Portmeirion<\/strong><\/a> is a colourful and whimsical village that feels like a Mediterranean escape. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wander through its beautiful gardens, browse the unique shops, or enjoy afternoon tea with stunning estuary views. My toddler loves exploring Portmeirion. Top tip: Visit in winter for a quieter, more peaceful experience away from the crowds.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"Portmeirion](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/06\/portmeirion-north-wales.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n5. Walk to Aber Falls<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Abergwyngregyn<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Families, walkers of all abilities, nature lovers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Aber Falls is a stunning waterfall walk that\u2019s accessible for all abilities, making it a great choice for families with young children. The well-maintained path leads through beautiful woodland to the breathtaking 37m waterfall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
My little one loves this walk – it\u2019s an easy yet rewarding adventure with plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife along the way.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Aber-Falls-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n6. Ride the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Porthmadog<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Families, railway enthusiasts<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hop aboard this heritage steam railway for a scenic journey through Snowdonia\u2019s valleys, forests, and mountains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway<\/a><\/strong> is a magical experience for all ages!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Ffestiniog-Railway-North-Wales-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n7. Visit Ty Coch Inn<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Porthdinllaen, Llyn Peninsula<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good for<\/strong>: Couples, pub lovers, beachgoers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In my opinion, Ty C<\/a>och<\/a><\/strong> Inn has the best beer garden in the UK! Nestled on the sandy shores of Porthdinllaen, this legendary seaside pub offers incredible views, great drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Accessible only by foot or boat, getting there is part of the adventure. Whether you’re enjoying a pint after a coastal walk or simply soaking in the scenery, this is a must-visit spot on the Llyn Peninsula.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Ty-Coch-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n8. Relax on Llandudno\u2019s Promenade<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Llandudno<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good for<\/strong>: Families, couples, dog-walkers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Looking for classic things to do in North Wales? Stroll along Llandudno\u2019s traditional Victorian pier, ride the historic Great Orme Tramway, or simply enjoy fish and chips with a stunning sea view.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"Llandudno](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/05\/iStock-1496701784.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n9. Visit Manorafon Farm Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Abergele<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good for<\/strong>: Families with young children, animal lovers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Manorafon Farm Park<\/a><\/strong> is a fantastic day out for families, offering hands-on animal encounters, play areas, and seasonal events.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Kids can meet farmyard favourites like goats, pigs, and alpacas, while the adventure playground and tractor rides add to the fun. With indoor and outdoor activities, it\u2019s a great choice, come rain or shine.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"Visiting](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/08\/Blog-Images-64.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n10. Explore The Great Orme<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Llandudno<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good for<\/strong>: Walkers, history enthusiasts, families<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Great Orme is a dramatic limestone headland offering stunning coastal views and plenty of attractions. Take the historic Great Orme Tramway to the summit, explore the ancient copper mines, or enjoy a scenic walk along one of the many trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The area is also home to wild Kashmiri goats and fascinating local history.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"The](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/07\/iStock-1138910658.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n11. Discover the Welsh Mountain Zoo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Colwyn Bay<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Families, animal lovers, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Perched on a hillside with panoramic views, The Welsh Mountain Zoo<\/a><\/strong> is home to an array of exotic and endangered species. Watch captivating animal talks and feeding sessions, meet red pandas, snow leopards, and sea lions, or explore the beautifully landscaped gardens.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A fun and educational day out for all ages!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"Wildlife](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/08\/Blog-Images-66.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n12. Explore Beaumaris Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Beaumaris, Anglesey<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: History lovers, families, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beaumaris Castle<\/a><\/strong> is one of Wales\u2019s most impressive medieval fortresses, with perfectly symmetrical walls and a picturesque moat. Built by Edward I, it\u2019s a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit for history enthusiasts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wander through the towers, explore the hidden chambers, and take in stunning views over the Menai Strait.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Beaumaris-Castle-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n13. Kayak on Llyn Padarn<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Llanberis, Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Adventurers, watersports enthusiasts, families<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Llyn Padarn is a breathtaking glacial lake perfect for kayaking and paddleboarding. Surrounded by Snowdonia\u2019s dramatic mountain scenery, it\u2019s a peaceful yet exhilarating way to experience the great outdoors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Whether you’re a beginner (like me!) or an experienced paddler, exploring the lake by kayak offers a unique perspective on this stunning part of North Wales.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Llyn-Padarn-North-Wales-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n14. Visit Betws-y-Coed<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Betws-y-Coed, Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Walkers, families, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Often referred to as the gateway to Snowdonia, Betws-y-Coed is a charming village surrounded by forests, waterfalls, and walking trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Browse the independent shops, enjoy a meal in a cosy caf\u00e9, or take a scenic riverside stroll. With easy access to attractions like Swallow Falls and Fairy Glen, it’s the perfect base for exploring Snowdonia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Betws-y-Coed-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n15. Explore Beddgelert<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Couples, walkers, history lovers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Beddgelert is one of Snowdonia\u2019s prettiest villages, with stone cottages, a scenic riverside setting, and a fascinating legend.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Visit Gelert\u2019s Grave, stroll along the picturesque Aberglaslyn Pass, or simply enjoy a meal in one of the village\u2019s cosy pubs. It’s a great spot to soak up the beauty and history of North Wales.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Beddgelert-North-Wales-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n16. Visit the Smallest House in Wales<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Conwy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Families, history lovers, quirky attractions<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Measuring just 1.8m wide, the Smallest House in Wale<\/a>s<\/a> is a unique attraction tucked away on Conwy\u2019s quayside. Despite its tiny size, it was once a lived-in home!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Step inside to see how people once lived in this cosy space, then take a stroll along Conwy\u2019s historic waterfront.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/11\/Quay-House-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n17. Explore Bala Lake<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Bala, Snowdonia National Park<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Watersports enthusiasts, families, walkers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) is the largest natural lake in Wales, offering a stunning setting for sailing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you prefer to stay on dry land, the lakeside trails provide scenic walks with breathtaking mountain views. Bala itself is a lovely market town, perfect for a relaxed day out.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Bala-Lake-North-Wales-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n18. Discover Harlech Castle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Harlech, Gwynedd<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: History buffs, families, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Perched dramatically on a rocky outcrop, Harlech Castle<\/a><\/strong> offers spectacular views across Cardigan Bay and towards Snowdonia’s peaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
During our visit, we explored the well-preserved ruins and walked the castle walls. The exhibition brings the castle’s rich history to life, explaining how it withstood the longest siege in British history. The nearby town of Harlech is charming too, with lovely caf\u00e9s perfect for a post-exploration cuppa.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Harlech-Castle-North-Wales-Unsplash.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n19. Visit Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Powys<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Nature lovers, families, photographers<\/p>\n\n\n\n
At 240 feet high, Pistyll Rhaeadr is Britain’s tallest single-drop waterfall and truly a sight to behold.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
There’s a sense of tranquillity here that’s hard to find elsewhere, with crystal clear pools and surrounding woodland offering lovely walking trails. The small tea room provides a perfect spot to relax while soaking in the views. Note that the approach road is narrow in places if you’re driving a larger vehicle.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Pistyll-Rhaeadr-North-Wales-KD.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n20. Explore Llanberis Slate Museum<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Llanberis, Gwynedd<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: History enthusiasts, families, rainy day activities<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Housed in the former Dinorwig Slate Quarry workshops, the National Slate Museum<\/a><\/strong> offers a fascinating glimpse into North Wales’ industrial heritage. The slate-splitting demonstrations show how skilled quarrymen would have worked. Restored Victorian workshops with original machinery bring the past to life. What’s most compelling are the stories of the quarrymen’s lives \u2013 their dangerous working conditions and tight-knit communities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The museum effectively tells these human stories alongside industrial history. Entry is free, making it perfect for a day in Llanberis, especially during typical Welsh weather!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n21. Enjoy Bodnant Garden<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Near Colwyn Bay, Conwy<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Garden lovers, photographers, peaceful walks<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bodnant Garden<\/a><\/strong> is one of Britain’s most beautiful gardens. The famous Laburnum Arch \u2013 a 55-metre tunnel of golden flowers \u2013 is spectacular in late spring. Created over 150 years, the garden features grand terraces, wildflower meadows, and woodland walks, with stunning views across to Snowdonia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Summer brings a fragrant rose garden, while autumn showcases stunning colours in the rare trees. Owned by the National Trust, members get in free, and there’s a lovely tearoom serving homemade cakes. Perfect for anyone who appreciates natural beauty.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Bodnant-Garden-North-Wales-Canva.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n22. Hike Moel Famau<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Clwydian Range, Denbighshire<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ideal for<\/strong>: Walkers, outdoor enthusiasts, spectacular views<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As the highest peak in the Clwydian Range, Moel Famau offers rewarding walking with breathtaking views \u2013 on a clear day you can see Liverpool, the Wirral, and Snowdonia.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Jubilee Tower remains at the summit, creating a perfect photo opportunity. What’s appealing is its accessibility for various fitness levels \u2013 several routes<\/a><\/strong> include a relatively gentle one from the Bwlch Penbarras car park. Pack a picnic to enjoy at the summit while soaking in those magnificent views!<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.sykescottages.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/21\/2024\/09\/Moel-Famau-North-Wales-KD.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n\n\n23. GreenWood Forest Park<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Location<\/strong>: Y Felinheli, near Caernarfon<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Things to do in North Wales when it Rains<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n