Conwy Castle

Things to do in North Wales

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Discover the best attractions and things to do in North Wales

There are many diverse places to visit in North Wales where you can appreciate both history and natural beauty in its finest form. There are things to do in North Wales for all ages, tastes and times of the year, so use our guide for some inspiration!

Things to do in North Wales

Dramatic scenery and a distinct cultural identity are found in North Wales’ epic settings. Learn about one of Europe’s oldest living languages and enjoy the best experience in Britain while you’re doing it!

One of the must things to do in North Wales is to discover many stunning castles, including those in Gwrych, Caernarfon and Conwy which are preserved immaculately within a Wales’ World Heritage Site. If you prefer stately homes, Erddig near Wrexham and Plas Newydd on Anglesey are perfect days out in North Wales. The latter even possesses a collection of works by artist Rex Whistler, including the UK’s largest canvas painting.

The stunning coastline is a must thing to do in North Wales for families and for those looking for things to do with dogs! From the sheltered and safe waters of Abersoch Beach to the golden sands of Colwyn Bay, these North Wales beaches are sure to impress a family of all ages!

Other things to do in North Wales include hiking up Snowdon, meandering the pretty Alyn Waters Country Park and strolling along the Llangollen Wharf. While North Wales is the outdoor capital with tonnes of outdoor activities, its weather is notoriously unpredictable, so it’s always good to have indoor activities ideas to hand!

Continuing to impress, our guide features some great free things to do in North Wales too, including North Wales museums, National Trust Properties, walks and castles in North Wales!

Places to visit in North Wales

There is an array of lovely places to visit in North Wales, including quaint towns and villages, and bustling cities. Visit the historical towns of Conwy and Llangollen or spend your day relaxing in the coastal settings of Llandudno and Abersoch.

Alternatively, visit the exciting city of Wrexham to catch a game at the Racecourse, which was acquired by famous actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenny. And, if you’re coming during the festive season, Wrexham offers access to lots of wonderful things to do in the nearby Snowdonia National Park during winter.

Another superb place to visit in North Wales is the beautiful Portmeirion village. The village is famous for being the setting of the cult ‘60s series The Prisoner. This Italianate resort is one of the quirkiest places to visit in North Wales, overlooking the marvellous Dwyryd Estuary.

Treating your partner to a special getaway? If so, use our guide to places to visit in Wales for couples!

Continue reading to visit superb things to do in North Wales…

  • conwy water gardens

    Conwy Water Gardens

    Glyn Isa
    Rowen
    Conwy
    LL32 8TP

    01492 650063

    Located within the Snowdonia National Park in the picturesque Conwy Valley, Conwy Water Gardens boasts fully stocked coarse fishing lakes, numerous ponds, woods and waterfalls. Wildlife lovers can spot otters, ducks, chickens and fish as they walk the nature trail and find over 100 species of fish in the onsite Aquatic Centre.

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  • Couple browsing at a crafts fair

    Corris Craft Centre

    Corris
    Machynlleth
    SY20 9RF

    Made up of nine individual craft studios, Corris Craft Centre is the place to get creative in Wales. Talented artists, crafters, designers and makers gather here to create one-of-a-kind pieces and host workshops for those keen to try their hand. With wonderful walks and an on-site café and deli, the centre makes for a fantastic day out.

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  • Steam engine in countryside

    Corris Steam Railway & Museum

    STATION YARD
    Machynlleth
    SY20 9SH

    01654761303

    Experience a bygone time with a ride on an old-fashioned steam railway. Corris Steam Railway carries passengers down the beautiful Dulas Valley, past grazing sheep and riverside slopes. Spot buzzards as you go and learn all about the railway’s fascinating history at the onsite museum.

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  • Craig Bwlch Y Moch

    Craig Bwlch Y Moch

    WVVJ+MP
    Porthmadog
    LL49 9SN

    Craig Bwlch Y Moch is one of the best climbing crags in Wales and features many different climbs of varying difficulty. This area is known for its ‘rain shadow’ crags that are often dry when the rest of Snowdonia is wet.

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  • Criccieth castle

    Criccieth Castle

    Castle Street
    Criccieth
    LL52 0DP

    03000 252239

    Allow Criccieth Castle to capture your imagination. This stunning castle ruin sits atop the rocky headland between two beaches and boasts magnificent views across Cardigan Bay. Built by two illustrious Welsh kings, Llywelyn the Great and Lylwelyn the Last, Criccieth is a must-see for those interested in Welsh history.  

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  • Deganwy Beach, Conwy

    Deganwy Beach

    Deganwy Beach
    Deganwy
    Conwy
    Wales
    LL31 9YR

    Nestled between Llandudno and Conwy is the village of Deganwy and its idyllic sand and shingle beach. One of few beaches in North Wales that faces south west, Deganwy is the perfect place to catch some rays.

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  • Tennis players

    Denbigh Tennis Club

    Lower Park
    Ruthin Rd
    Denbigh LL16 3HD

    07920 197084

    Denbigh Tennis Club boasts four courts in Lower Park, Denbigh. The courts were resurfaced in 2021, making them usable year-round and in adverse weather conditions. Here, you can book one of the four courts for a game or enrol little ones in a coaching holiday camp.

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  • Dinorwic Slate Quarry

    Dinorwic Slate Quarry

    National Slate Museum
    Llanberis
    LL55 4TY

    Located between the village of Llanberis and Dinorwig, and home to the National Slate Museum is Dinorwic Slate Quarry. Here, you can explore the large former slate quarry, promising breath-taking views.

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  • Discover Llyn van

    Discover LlÅ·n

    Discover LlÅ·n
    Pwllheli
    Gwynedd

    07713 029205

    Discover LlÅ·n welcomes you to explore the LlÅ·n peninsula by e-bike or paddleboard. They also provide guided trips for those interested in discovering hidden gems! They will deliver and collect all equipment, as well as advise on places, routes, and points of interest, allowing you to enjoy a hassle-free time.

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  • Dolbadarn Castle, Llanberis

    Dolbadarn Castle

    A4086
    Caernarfon
    North Wales
    United Kingdom
    LL55 4UB

    01443336000

    Standing in an elevated position, overlooking the waters of Llyn Padarn, Dolbadarn was once a vital part of the defence of the ancient kingdom of Gwynedd. Built in the late 12th or early 13th century, the tower stood watch over the route inland from Caernarfon to the upper Conwy Valley. This castle is a truly fascinating slice of Welsh history.

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