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Sian Victoria © - Dolbadarn Castle from Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park, Caernarfon

North Wales UK Sightseeing & Tourist Attractions

The region of North Wales is nothing short of incredible. From rugged, unspoilt landscapes and idyllic beaches to distinctive culture and heritage, there’s no shortage of things to do and see here. Divided into several counties, – Anglesey, Conwy, Wrexham, Flintshire, Denbighshire, and Gwynedd – North Wales boasts four world-renowned Heritage Sites.

During the summer of 2020, my family and I spent a week exploring North Wales while staying at a rural hideaway in Gwynedd. I walked along the region's iconic coastlines and visited the charming towns and villages to see what North Wales had to offer.

Have a read to see what you can get up to if you fancy planning a visit to this picturesque region. There’s truly something to please everyone, no matter your age. These are just a few of the places I visited that I personally enjoyed.

We also explored the Isle of Anglesey Coastal Path which I highly recommend doing. I’ll be featuring that experience in a dedicated post instead so be sure to add that to your Wales bucket list too.

Beaches in North Wales

Sian Victoria © - Dinas Dinlle Beach, Gwynedd

1. Dinas Dinlle Beach

Home to an abundance of beaches, North Wales has your plans for a seaside getaway covered. Dinas Dinlle Beach is a stone’s throw away from the quaint town of Caernarfon – a spot certainly worth a visit – and couldn’t be more picturesque. Offering a beautiful backdrop of the iconic Snowdonia mountains, the beach is one of the most popular family holiday spots in the region.

The soft sandy beach stretches along the coast and, due to being a ‘Site of Special Interest’, is popular among history buffs, seeking the beach's natural habitats and remains from the Iron and Bronze age.

Walk along the sands of this beautiful beach and look out amongst the mountains to take in the stunning views of North Wales. It was free parking when we visited and there were conveniently shops and toilets so it’s a great choice to spend plenty of hours during your summer break here.

Not far from the carpark when facing the sea look up to the left of you and you’ll spot a short 3-minute uphill walking trail to reach the top of a lovely vantage point.

2. Harlech Beach

With its golden sands scattered across 9 kilometres, Harlech Beach is a popular spot amongst locals and tourists visiting the area in Gwynedd. Surrounded by scenic sand dunes and pristine countryside, the beach is the perfect relaxation spot if you visit on a sunny day.

If you’re a history buff like me, you can experience something unique and fascinating at Harlech Beach. In 1942 an American Lockheed P-38 Lightning bomber plane crashed into the sea, the pilot thankfully walked away from the accident. However, the remains of the aircraft which are mostly intact were left behind and weren’t discovered until 2007 when it had unearthed from the sand.

Depending on the tide and weather conditions etc you may not see this historical landmark when you visit, as we didn’t. Nonetheless, named the Maid of Harlech this significant WWII archaeological discovery has received protected status and is unlikely to be moved unless the sand releases it further.

So, if you visit a couple of times, you may be lucky enough to experience a war aircraft that’s been submerged on the north Welsh coast for over 80 years.

After you’ve taken in the beauty of Harlech Beach, why not visit Harlech Castle? Overlooking the beach itself, this medieval fortification is a World Heritage Site and is a must-see.

Places to hike in North Wales

Sian Victoria © - Views of Dinas Dinlle beach from Caernarfon

Sian Victoria © - Views of Snowdonia National Park from Caernarfon

3. Snowdonia National Park

If you’re keen to do a spot of exercise, look no further than the Snowdonia National Park. Making the UNESCO World Heritage Site list, Snowdonia is home to an award-winning landscape that is frequented by thousands every year.

Across its 823 square miles, the national park boasts rugged mountain tops, beautiful wildlife, coastline walks and rich heritage. Hike up Mount Snowdon, - the highest mountain in Wales – to take in the mesmerising panoramic views around you, before taking a trip to one of the castles within the park to discover fascinating medieval history.

If hiking isn’t your thing, why not hop onto the Snowdon Mountain Railway? It’s perhaps one of the best ways to see just how beautiful Mount Snowdon is. The charming steam train – operating since the late 1800s - travels 4.7 miles, taking you to the summit of Mount Snowdon as you journey through the Welsh hills.

The complete train ride itself takes around 2.5 hours with a 30-minute stop at the summit. It is a journey like no other and is considered one of the best scenic railway journeys, so is a must-do activity when visiting Snowdonia.

Sian Victoria © - Moel Tryfan Slate Quarry, Caernarfon

4. Moel Tryfan mountain

The Moel Tryfan mountain and slate quarry lie within the heart of Gwynedd, and, since its opening in 1800, was utilised to produce slates up until the 1970s.

The quarry stretches across 9 miles and is the perfect hiking spot. On this popular mountain walk you’ll discover the history of the site – including the likes of Charles Darwin, who studied rocks within the quarry.

Moel Tryfan has an elevation of 429 metres high so as you trek up to the summit, you’ll be able to soak up the spectacular views of Anglesey and the Llyn Peninsula.

As you explore North Wales, you’ll find plenty of quarries and mountainous hills piled high with slate. We discovered this lovely viewing spot exploring near our staycation with views looking out to Dinas Dinlle Beach.

Please note when hiking rural off-grid places like this, always follow the signs for the public footpath to avoid being on private property and for your own safety. I’d also advise against swimming in natural pools, especially quarries.

Castles & historic sites in North Wales

Sian Victoria © - Dolbadarn Castle, Caernarfon

Sian Victoria © - Views of Llyn Padarn lake from Dolbadarn Castle, Caernarfon

5. Dolbadarn Castle

Located in Caernarfon, Dolbadarn Castle boasts a history stretching back to the early 13th century. The medieval fortification was built by Llywelyn, the Welsh prince, to control the Llanberis Pass, and stands tall to echo the history of the region to this day.

Towering high at 40 feet, the stone keep, and courtyard are engulfed by thick walls, the monument is now regarded of great historical significance and is one of North Wales’ most poignant sites.

Climb up the winding stairs to the top of the castle, where you’ll be greeted by beautiful panoramic views overlooking the quarry behind and the waters of the glacially formed lake named Llyn Padarn in front which is one of the largest natural lakes in Wales.

We discovered this hidden gem while exploring Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park and passing all the lush green trees. The castle is free to enter and is across the road from a public pay and display car park.

6. Conwy Castle

Built by King Edward I and his trusted architect, this 13th-century fortress is considered one of the best sights in North Wales and ‘one of the most magnificent medieval fortresses in Europe’.

The colossal Conwy Castle boasts eight 70-foot-tall towers, encompassed by high curtain walls. The well-preserved complex can be seen for miles around and offers spectacular views of the rugged mountain peaks of Snowdonia, the picturesque harbour, and the streets of Conwy.

Visitors to the town centre can explore the grounds and discover how the castle was King Edward’s ‘iron ring’ of defence from invasion and climb up the high towers and explore the battlements to take in the fascinating history. Deemed a World Heritage Site, this well-preserved landmark is one to experience.

7. Caernarfon Castle

In the heart of the royal town of Caernarfon, you’ll find Caernarfon Castle. It can be seen from Snowdonia National Park and is considered one of the best attractions in North Wales. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a 13th-century medieval fortress and is one of three others built by King Edward I.

Other local castles built by the royal are Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech. The waterfront castle that acted as a palace for Royals is located on the banks of the River Seiont and is impressive due to the vast scale of this structure built in the Middle Ages.

Admire its polygonal towers and impressive curtain walls, making it an incredible piece of medieval architecture. Pay a visit to this castle and explore the battlements and grounds for yourself or book a walking tour to discover everything there is to know about this world-renowned defensive fortress.

Also, if you continue walking along the waterfront on castle hill you may spot the hanging tower and the Eglwys Santes Fair church at the end, follow this path around and you’ll be walking along the castle town walls.

Upon viewing the castle be sure to take a leisurely stroll along the Pont Yr Aber bridge for a closer view of the port. You’ll also find the Caernarfon Watch Tower and a playground on the other side of the bridge.

Thing’s to do in North Wales

Sian Victoria © - Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park, Caernarfon

8. Llyn Padarn & Padarn Country Park

Stretching across 2 miles, this glacially formed lake is considered one of the largest throughout the whole of Wales. Making up part of Snowdonia’s picturesque landscape, Llyn Padarn lies against the backdrop of the colossal Mount Snowdon and is a popular spot amongst locals. The views are lovely – especially at golden hour.

Have a jampacked day of fun by trying your hand at paddleboarding or kayaking on the lake, while taking in the stunning natural scenery. Then, why not have a stroll around Padarn Country Park? If you’re travelling with family, this park makes for a wonderful day out for kids – follow along the woodland or lake trails or hop onto the Llanberis Lake Railway.

Offering unbeatable views of Mount Snowdon as you travel along the banks of the lake on a five-mile journey, this vintage steam train is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of Lyn Padarn and Snowdonia itself. And don’t forget to visit Dolbadarn Castle for a birds-eye view.

9. Zip World Fforest

Sian Victoria © - Zip World Fforest, Betws-y-Coed

Situated in the woodlands of Conwy Valley and near Betws y Coed a popular Snowdonia village you’ll discover Zip World Fforest.

A must if you’re visiting North Wales with kids, you can embark on an adventure like no other. Take the plunge and journey across the rugged mountainous landscape on a 100mph zipline, where you can soak up the lush green views.

No matter your age, the activities on offer at Zip World Fforest are sure to keep you entertained. Explore the tunnels, climbing walls and rope bridges and experience the scenic landscape of the region from a completely new perspective.

My little niece had the best time here. After some daredevil fun in the sunshine, we all enjoyed a picnic on the benches that are thankfully shaded by the towering trees while we ate and chatted in the beautiful wilderness.

10. Portmeirion Village

Located on the coast of Snowdonia National Park in Gwynedd, you’ll come across the tourist village and hotel resort of Portmeirion. Built by a Welsh architect in the 20th century, the village takes on an Italianate style and offers some of the most beautiful coastal scenery.

Combing the rugged charm of rural Wales and the enchantment of the Italian Riviera, this picturesque village boasts unique eclectic architecture and distinctive culture. The architectural beauty of this place was built as an example to show that developing an area can enhance the natural environment while being kind and considerate to nature.

Visit the popular tourist destination and explore the cobbled streets and clusters of dreamy pastel buildings, before having a bite to eat in the authentic Italian gelateria or the number of award-winning restaurants.

Sian Victoria © - Views behind Dolbadarn Castle, Llyn Peris, Caernarfon

Sian Victoria © - Camping sunset views, Caernarfon

Portmeirion Village is one of the best attractions in North Wales and shouldn’t be missed when visiting the region. You do have to pay an admission to enter, and dogs are not allowed on-site unless they are assistance dogs. Currently, an adult ticket is £17 and family tickets are from £29 so it’s not cheap but does make for a unique experience as a one-off visit.

To conclude

So, there we have it. A rundown of some of the best things to do and see in Gwynedd. Whether you travel solo or with family, there’s something on this list that will be perfect for you. These are just a few of the places, beaches, and activities I experienced and recommend but there’s so much more for you to experience in this picturesque region of North Wales.

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