Criccieth Travel Guide

A comprehensive tour guide for Criccieth, including places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Criccieth

Criccieth is a small picturesque town located in the Gwynedd area of North Wales. The town is situated between two beaches, and has a rich history and culture that is worth exploring. With its stunning coastal views, welcoming locals, and a plethora of activities to choose from, Criccieth is an ideal destination for travelers looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.

List of Places to Visit in Criccieth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Criccieth Castle: One of the most iconic and important landmarks of Criccieth is its castle. It was originally built by Llywelyn the Great, ruler of Wales in the 13th century and has a rich history, including a role in the Welsh Wars of Independence. The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the town and the surrounding coastline.

  • Lloyd George Museum: A tribute to David Lloyd George, the first Welshman to become the Prime Minister of Great Britain, the museum offers a fascinating insight into the life and legacy of this iconic politician.

Natural Attractions of Criccieth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Criccieth Beach: A long, sandy beach that is perfect for relaxing, building sandcastles, sunbathing and swimming.
  • Black Rock Sands: Another nearby beach, Black Rock Sands is famous for its three miles of golden sands and the backdrop of Snowdonia. It is also popular amongst surfers and kite surfers.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Criccieth

  • The Llyn Coastal Path: This 91-mile long path offers an opportunity to explore the beautiful coastline of Criccieth, along with other towns such as Abersoch and Llanbedrog.
  • Snowdonia National Park: Just a short drive from Criccieth is Snowdonia National Park. With a range of trails and hikes, it is an excellent opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Criccieth.

Best Things to Do in Criccieth: Activities and Tours

  • Criccieth Boat Tours: A fantastic way to explore the stunning coastline is by taking a boat tour of Cardigan Bay, which launches from the town’s pier.
  • Criccieth Golf Club: One of the oldest golf clubs in Wales, this club offers breathtaking sea views and a challenging course for avid golfers.

Week-Long Itinerary for Criccieth

Day Activity
1 Visit Criccieth Castle and enjoy the views
2 Explore the Snowdonia National Park
3 Spend a day at Black Rock Sands beach
4 Take a boat tour of Cardigan Bay
5 Visit the Lloyd George Museum
6 Play a round of golf at Criccieth Golf Club
7 Relax and enjoy the views of Criccieth’s coast

Food and Drink Scene of Criccieth

Must-Try Dishes

  • Welsh Rarebit: A traditional Welsh dish made with a blend of cheese and ale on toasted bread.
  • Bara Brith: This delicious tea-time treat consists of a fruitcake that is soaked overnight in tea.

Local Beverages

  • Real Ale: Criccieth has an impressive selection of local craft breweries, and the town has a range of pubs that serve up traditional real ale.
  • Gin: North Wales is home to a growing number of gin producers, and visitors can enjoy a range of locally-produced spirits in pubs and bars around Criccieth.

Where to Stay in Criccieth: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Lion Hotel: A stunning boutique hotel located in the heart of Criccieth, the Lion Hotel offers luxury accommodation in stylish rooms.
  • Bron Rhiw: A cozy guesthouse with a tranquil garden and stunning views of the coast.

What to Buy in Criccieth: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Welsh Slate: Wales is famous for its slate, and visitors can take home a range of products from slate coasters to house signs as a souvenir.
  • Welsh Language Books and Music: The Welsh language is an integral part of the country’s culture, and visitors can take home books, music, and language learning resources to continue their exploration and appreciation of the language.

Local Culture and Customs of Criccieth

Wales has a rich history and culture, and it is worth taking the time to learn about and respect the customs of the area. Some customs specific to Criccieth include:

  • Eisteddfod: A Welsh traditional festival that celebrates music, poetry, and other arts.
  • Welsh Language: Welsh is spoken widely in Criccieth and visitors should try to learn a few words.

Best Time to Visit Criccieth

The best time to visit Criccieth is during the summer months, between June and August. The town can get crowded during this time, but the warm weather allows visitors to make the most of the outdoor activities and walks.

Do’s and Don’ts of Criccieth

Do:

  • Learn some Welsh phrases.
  • Respect the wildlife and landscape.
  • Be mindful of the environment when hiking and visiting natural sites.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beaches or in other public areas.
  • Disrespect the local customs or culture.
  • Ignore safety warnings when walking on the cliff paths.

Safety and Health

Safety in Criccieth

Criccieth is a relatively safe town, but visitors should still take precautions such as:

  • Locking valuables away in hotel safes.
  • Being mindful of pickpocketing or minor theft.
  • Taking care when walking on coastal paths.

Health in Criccieth

There are no specific health concerns for visitors to Criccieth. It is a good idea to ensure that all vaccinations are up to date before traveling.

Getting to Criccieth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Criccieth

Manchester Airport is the closest international airport to Criccieth, which is approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes away by car.

Bus Stations Near Criccieth

The nearest bus station to Criccieth is in Porthmadog, which is approximately 4 miles away.

Other Options

Visitors can also travel to Criccieth by train, with regular services stopping at the town’s station.

How to Get Around in Criccieth

The best way to get around Criccieth is on foot, as the town is relatively small and can be easily explored on foot. There are also bus services that connect Criccieth with other nearby towns and destinations.

Where to Go Next from Criccieth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Portmeirion: Just a few miles from Criccieth, Portmeirion is a beautiful Italianate village that was designed and built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis.

  • Caernarfon: The historic city of Caernarfon is approximately 15 miles away from Criccieth and is home to the famous Caernarfon Castle.

Conclusion

Criccieth offers visitors a perfect mix of outdoor activities, stunning natural beauty, rich history, and Welsh culture. With its excellent accommodations, transportation options, and welcoming locals, Criccieth is an ideal destination for travelers who want to explore the best of Wales.