North Wales Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, what to eat, and more with this travel guide to North Wales.


Introduction to North Wales

North Wales is a stunning destination located in Wales, United Kingdom. It is steeped in history with a diverse range of attractions and outdoor activities that will leave you breathless. From picturesque mountains and tranquil lakes to beautiful beaches, North Wales offers a range of natural wonders.

List of Places to Visit in North Wales

Here is a list of must-visit places in North Wales:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Conwy Castle
  • Caernarfon Castle
  • Llandudno Museum
  • Plas Mawr

Natural Attractions of North Wales: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Snowdonia National Park
  • Llyn Peninsula
  • Anglesey
  • Great Orme

Hiking/Biking Routes of North Wales

North Wales is an ideal destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some popular routes that you can explore:

  • The Snowdon Horseshoe
  • Tryfan and the Glyders
  • Llyn Ogwen Circuit
  • The Marin Trail

Best Things to Do in North Wales: Activities and Tours

Here are the top things to do in North Wales:

  • Surf Snowdonia
  • Zip World
  • National Slate Museum
  • Bounce Below

Week-Long Itinerary for North Wales

Here is a suggested itinerary to get the most out of North Wales:

Day Activities
Day 1 Explore Conwy Castle, Plas Mawr, and Conwy Town Walls
Day 2 Hike Snowdon via the Llanberis Path
Day 3 Visit Llandudno Pier and the Great Orme
Day 4 Surf Snowdonia and Zip World Fforest
Day 5 Discover the Llyn Peninsula
Day 6 Take a trip to Beaumaris Castle
Day 7 Experience the beauty of Betws-y-Coed and Swallow Falls

Food and Drink Scene of North Wales

The food and drink scene in North Wales is diverse and full of delicious local specialties.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh Rarebit
  • Cawl
  • Bara Brith
  • Welsh Lamb

Local Beverages

  • Welsh ale
  • Penderyn whisky
  • Welsh cider
  • Mead

Where to Stay in North Wales: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

North Wales offers a wide range of accommodation options including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some recommendations:

  • Château Rhianfa
  • The Quay Hotel & Spa
  • Celtic Royal Hotel
  • YHA Snowdon Ranger

What to Buy in North Wales: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For the perfect keepsake from your trip, here is a list of souvenirs and local products to bring back home from North Wales:

  • Welsh woolen scarves
  • Traditional Welsh lovespoons
  • Welsh slate homeware
  • Welsh whisky

Local Culture and Customs of North Wales

The Welsh take great pride in their traditions and language. A typical greeting will include “Shwmae” or “Hello” in Welsh. The locals in North Wales also take their music and festivals very seriously.

Best Time to Visit North Wales

The best time to visit North Wales is from May to September when the weather is mild, and the countryside is blooming with wildflowers.

Do’s and Don’ts of North Wales

Do:

  • Do try local foods like Welsh rarebit and cawl
  • Do learn a few phrases of Welsh
  • Do explore the outdoors and natural wonders of North Wales

Don’t:

  • Don’t underestimate the weather, pack accordingly
  • Don’t assume everyone speaks English, try to learn a few words of Welsh

Safety and Health

Safety in North Wales

North Wales is a safe destination for travelers. However, it is essential to be aware of the weather conditions when exploring the outdoors and to follow safety guidelines.

Health in North Wales

There are no major health issues or illnesses associated with North Wales, but it is always advised to bring any medication and necessary prescriptions.

Getting to North Wales: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near North Wales

  • Manchester Airport
  • Liverpool John Lennon Airport
  • Birmingham Airport

Bus Stations Near North Wales

  • Bangor, Gwynedd bus station
  • Wrexham bus station

Other Options

  • Arrive by train to Bangor railway station

How to Get Around in North Wales

North Wales is easily accessible by bus, train or car. Buses and trains connect most towns and cities, and car hire companies are readily available.

Where to Go Next from North Wales: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Liverpool, England
  • Manchester, England
  • Dublin, Ireland
  • The Lake District, England

Conclusion

North Wales offers a unique blend of history, culture, and outdoor activities for travelers to explore. With numerous attractions, stunning natural wonders, and a range of accommodation options, it is no wonder North Wales is becoming an increasingly popular destination for travelers.