Our Picks
We’ve been exploring (and eating) our way around North Wales for decades, so we’ve collected a few of the places we love and trust. And if you discover somewhere you think we simply must include, then let us know.
Enjoy!
porthdinllaen (PHOTO credit: tycoch.co.uk)
The Ty Coch Inn
PUB + BEACH + WALK + VILLAGE
One of the Top 10 Beach Bars in the world serving local ales and rustic food! The pub’s tiny village home of Porthdinllaen is only accessible by foot through the golf course (~20 mins). If you fancy a longer walk, the walk around the bay will take about 45 mins. A must-see!
More info here.
Llanbedrog beach (PHOTO CREDIT: National trust)
Llanbedrog Beach
BEACH + FOOD
Perfect for kids with its own bistro/café. It’s at the bottom of a pedestrian-only access with paid-parking by National Trust.
abersoch beach (PHOTO CREDIT: thebeachguide.co.uk)
Abersoch Beach
BEACH + SHOPPING + CAFES
A pleasant ‘up market’ beach with a selection of boutique shops and cafes. And it’s only a 20-minute drive from Criccieth.
beddgelert (photo credit: www.beddgelerttourism.com)
Beddgelert
VILLAGE
A village rife with legends, mountain splendor and plenty to do. Catch the scenic rail, or drive up in about 20 minutes. Be warned - it does get busy in the summer.
More info here.
llyn mair (PHOTO CREDIT: WIKIPEDIA)
borth-y-gest (photo credit: www.walknorthwales.com
Tan-y-Bwlch
WALK + TRAIN
A 30-minute (flat) wander around the idyllic lake of Llyn Mair. Park for free at the Tan-y-Bwlch railway station. Or better yet, catch the scenic rail from Porthamadog.
More on that here.
Borth-y-Gest
WALK + BEACH + FOOD
A long walk along one of the most beautiful estuaries in Wales. Here’s a handy print-out with a map, so you can decide if you do the whole thing, or just drop onto the sandy coves from the Borth car park.
Castles & Culture!
criccieth castle (Photo credit: https://cadw.gov.wales)
Criccieth Castle
CASTLE
Although you can see it from our bay window, we’d recommend you get up close for a proper look. It’s been coveted by English monarchs and Welsh princes for centuries. With a view like this one, can you blame them?
Find out more here.
caernarfon castle (Photo credit: https://cadw.gov.wales)
Caernarfon Castle
CASTLE
Probably the best restoration job of the castles we’ve picked, and it’s right in the centre of Caernarfon.
Here’s some more info.
harlech castle (Photo credit: https://cadw.gov.wales)
Harlech Castle
CASTLE
You can see this one across the bay from Cambrian House. Well worth a visit, with unbelievable views from the ramparts.
More info here.
castle art gallery (photo credit: https://www.inspirock.com)
Castle Art Gallery
GALLERY
Just opposite Criccieth Castle. The gallery is privately owned, selling art, collectibles and gift items. When you visit, ask for Merv – he’ll help you out.
Something for the kids - big and small!
glasfryn parc (photocredit: glasfryn.co.uk)
Glasfryn Parc
ACTIVITY + ADVENTURE + KIDS
A one-stop adventure land with everything from Go Karts to archery, kayaking to wake-boarding.
Find out more here.
ZIPWIRE VELOCITY (PHOTO CREDIT: ZIPWORLD.CO.UK)
Zip World Velocity
ACTIVITY + ADVENTURE + KIDS
The fastest zip-wire in the world, in what was once the largest slate quarry in the world.
Here’s a bit more info.
criccieth multigolf (photo credit: www.cricciethmultigolf.com)
Criccieth Multigolf
ACTIVITY + KIDS
Frisbee golf, football golf, pitch and putt and now with a bunch of water activities in the mix. It’s located right on the esplanade in Criccieth, in front of Dylan’s restaurant.
criccieth bowling green (photo credit: @cricciethbowlingclub on facebook.com)
Criccieth Bowling Green / Pitch & Putt
ACTIVITY
Very pleasant, community-run bowling green and basic pitch + putt located just behind the High Street, near Criccieth Railway Station.
