Growing up in the picturesque landscapes of North Wales, I was forever inspired by the adventures that awaited just beyond my doorstep.From the rugged peaks of Snowdonia to the golden sandy beaches of Anglesey, this corner of the world will always have a place in my heart My home. My happy place. So, grab a cuppa and join me as I unveil 24 hidden gems and things to do in North Wales. Visit PortmeirionWhere? Porthmadog, GwyneddFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoPortmeirion, a whimsical Italianate village nestled on the coast, captivates visitors with its colourful buildings, lush gardens, and serene ambiance. Explore its quirky architecture, relax by the waterfront, or attend one of its eclectic events. Portmeirion Website 2. Kayak on Llyn PadarnWhere? Llanberis, SnowdoniaFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoGlide across the tranquil waters of Llyn Padarn, framed by the rugged peaks of Snowdonia National Park. Kayaking offers a unique perspective of the landscape, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and woodlands. Hire Kayaks from Snowdonia Watersports.See also: The Llyn Padarn Circular Walk Hire Kayaks Here 3. Explore Aber FallsWhere? Abergwyngregyn, GwyneddFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesA delightful hidden gem in North Wales. Embark on a scenic hike to Aber Falls, where a stunning 120-foot cascade awaits amidst a lush, green valley. The trail winds through woodlands and meadows, offering glimpses of wildlife and panoramic views of the Welsh countryside. Aber Falls Route Guide 4. Visit Betws y CoedWhere? Conwy Valley, SnowdoniaFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesDiscover the charming village of Betws y Coed, nestled amidst lush green forests and cascading waterfalls. Explore its quaint streets lined with shops, cafes, and galleries, or venture into the surrounding countryside for scenic walks and outdoor adventures. Betws-y-Coed Circular Walk 5. Experience Cwm IdwalWhere? Snowdonia National ParkFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesCwm Idwal is one of my favourite places in the UK. Immerse yourself in the rugged beauty of Cwm Idwal, a glacial valley steeped in myth and legend. Hike along its dramatic trails, past idyllic waterfalls and glimmering lakes, and marvel at the ancient rock formations sculpted by ice and time. Cwm Idwal Circular Walk 6. Enjoy a Pint at Ty Coch InnWhere? Porthdinllaen, Llyn PeninsulaFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesEmbark on a scenic coastal walk to Ty Coch Inn, nestled on the shores of Porthdinllaen Beach. Once voted in the top ten beach bars in the world, Ty Coch can only be reached by foot and has to be one of my favourite things to do in North Wales! Enjoy a refreshing drink or hearty meal at this historic pub, renowned for its stunning views and warm Welsh hospitality. Ty Coch Inn: The Ultimate Guide Zip World, Snowdonia. 7. Feel the Thrill of Zip WorldWhere? Bethesda, SnowdoniaFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoZip World offers adrenaline-pumping adventures for thrill-seekers, including Europe's longest zip line and underground caverns to explore. Whether you're zipping through the treetops or soaring above abandoned quarries, Zip World promises an unforgettable experience. We took on Velocity 2 - the fastest zip line in the world and one of the best attractions in North Wales! Zip World's Website 8. Walk across the Pontcysyllte AqueductWhere? LlangollenFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoStep back in time as you stroll across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and engineering marvel dating back to the Industrial Revolution. Perched high above the River Dee, this aqueduct offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Find Out More 9. Picnic on Llanddwyn IslandWhere? Newborough, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesEscape to the idyllic shores of Llanddwyn Island, where sandy beaches and rolling dunes beckon picnickers and nature lovers alike. Explore its historic lighthouse, ancient ruins, and tranquil pathways, and savour a leisurely picnic with views of the sea. Llanddwyn Island Walks 10. Explore Conwy CastleWhere? ConwyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoStep back in time and uncover the rich history of Conwy Castle, a medieval fortress overlooking the bustling town below. Explore its formidable walls, towers, and chambers, and admire views of the surrounding countryside and coastline. Conwy Castle Info Other posts you might likeBest Walks in North WalesFamily Walks in North WalesThings to do in Snowdonia 11. Explore Newborough ForestWhere? Newborough, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesDiscover the enchanting beauty of Newborough Forest, where towering pines give way to sweeping sand dunes and pristine beaches. Whether you're hiking, cycling, or simply strolling along the shoreline, this coastal gem promises tranquillity and natural splendour. Newborough Forest Info 12. Stroll around Bodnant GardensWhere? Conwy ValleyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoImmerse yourself in the botanical wonders of Bodnant Gardens, a horticultural paradise spanning 80 acres of landscaped lawns, woodland trails, and vibrant floral displays. Explore its themed gardens, glasshouses, and scenic viewpoints, and discover the beauty of the changing seasons. Bodnant Gardens Website 13. Explore ErddigWhere? Wrexham, North East WalesFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesStep back in time and explore the historic halls and gardens of Erddig, a grand country estate steeped in centuries of history and intrigue. Wander through its opulent rooms, formal gardens, and extensive parkland, and uncover tales of family life and servant stories.You can also explore Erddig Parkland for free, without entering the house and gardens. Find out more in the link below. Exploring Erddig Parklands 14. Take a Ride on the Ffestiniog RailwayWhere? Porthmadog, GwyneddFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoEmbark on a nostalgic journey aboard the Ffestiniog Railway, a historic narrow-gauge steam railway winding through the stunning landscapes of Snowdonia National Park. Relax in vintage carriages as you chug past mountain vistas, cascading waterfalls, and quaint villages. Ffestiniog Railway Website 15. Visit the Smallest House in Great BritainWhere? ConwyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoMarvel at the diminutive dimensions of the Smallest House in Great Britain, a tiny red cottage nestled within the medieval walls of Conwy. Step inside this historic landmark and discover the cramped quarters of its former inhabitants, a testament to bygone days. Find Out More 16. Hike up Moel FamauWhere? Denbighshire, North East WalesFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesConquer the summit of Moel Famau, the highest peak in the Clwydian Range, and be rewarded with sweeping views of the Welsh countryside and beyond. Whether you opt for a gentle stroll or a challenging hike, Moel Famau offers a scenic escape for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages looking for adventurous things to do in North Wales. Moel Famau Walking Routes 17. Visit South Stack LighthouseWhere? Holyhead, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesExplore the dramatic cliffs and seabird colonies of South Stack, a rugged headland perched on the northwestern tip of Anglesey. Marvel at the towering lighthouse, spot puffins and guillemots nesting on the cliffs, and soak in the wild beauty of this coastal sanctuary. South Stack Cliffs Nature Reserve 18. Stroll along Rhosneigr BeachWhere? Rhosneigr, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesBask in the natural beauty of Rhosneigr Beach, a windswept paradise renowned for its golden sands, pristine waters, and excellent water sports opportunities. Whether you're surfing, paddleboarding, or simply soaking up the sun, Rhosneigr promises a relaxing coastal escape for the whole family. Or why not enjoy a sauna and wild swim? Sawna Bach is a bespoke wood fired sauna located at Porth Tyn Tywyn. Rhosneigr Beach Guide Other posts you might likeThings to do in Snowdonia National ParkThings to do in CheshireThings to do in The Peak District 19. Hike Cadair IdrisWhere? Dolgellau, Snowdonia National ParkFamily Friendly? Yes (for older kids with hiking experience)Dog-Friendly? YesEmbark on an epic journey to summit Cadair Idris, known as the "Chair of Idris," a majestic mountain steeped in myth and legend. Choose from a variety of trails offering stunning vistas of rugged peaks, glacial lakes, and rolling hillsides. Whether you're seeking a challenging ascent or a leisurely stroll, Cadair Idris promises an unforgettable outdoor adventure for hikers of all levels and is a much quieter alternative to climbing Snowdon. Cadair Idris Route Guide 20. Have Fun at GreenwoodWhere? Y Felinheli, Snowdonia National ParkFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoDelight in a day of family fun at Greenwood, an award-winning adventure park nestled amidst the woodlands of Snowdonia. From thrilling rides and treetop adventures to educational exhibits and indoor play areas, Greenwood offers excitement and entertainment for visitors of all ages. Zip through the trees on a forest coaster, bounce on giant pillows, and learn about sustainability at the Green Dragon Roller Coaster. With a host of attractions and activities, Greenwood promises a memorable day out for the whole family. Greenwood Family Park 21. Discover Swallow FallsWhere? Betws-y-Coed, SnowdoniaFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesWitness the awe-inspiring power of nature at Swallow Falls, where the River Llugwy cascades over a series of dramatic waterfalls amidst ancient woodlands. Follow scenic trails to viewpoints overlooking the falls, and immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of this natural wonder. Discover more popular waterfalls in my guide to best waterfall walks in North Wales. Learn more 22. Jump Aboard the Great Orme TramwayWhere? LlandudnoFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? YesAscend the Great Orme, a towering limestone headland overlooking the resort town of Llandudno, and discover a world of natural wonders and historic attractions. From scenic walks and wildlife encounters to ancient mines and panoramic views, the Great Orme promises adventure and exploration for all ages. The Great Orme Tramway Image Credits: Bs0u10e01 23. Visit Plas NewyddWhere? Llanfair. P G, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoUncover the stories of Plas Newydd, a historic house and gardens set amidst the stunning landscapes of Anglesey. Explore its elegant rooms filled with treasures and artifacts, wander through its scenic gardens and woodlands, and enjoy panoramic views of the Menai Strait and Snowdonia beyond. Plas Newydd House and Gardens Image Credits: Andrew 24. Try CoasteeringWhere? Porth Dafarch, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoDive into the adrenaline-fueled world of coasteering with North Wales Active, where you'll scramble, climb, and leap your way along rugged coastlines and cliff edges. With qualified guides leading the way, coasteering promises thrills and excitement for adventurers of all ages and abilities. Book Coasteering Image Credits: Neil Page 25. Go Wild at the Welsh Mountain ZooWhere? Colwyn BayFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoImmerse yourself in the wonders of wildlife at the Welsh Mountain Zoo, set amidst lush gardens overlooking the picturesque Conwy Valley. Home to a diverse collection of exotic and endangered species, the zoo offers educational exhibits, interactive experiences, and daily animal encounters. Marvel at majestic big cats, playful primates, and colourful birds from around the world as you stroll through landscaped enclosures and conservation habitats. With activities for all ages, the Welsh Mountain Zoo promises a day of discovery and delight for animal lovers of every kind. Welsh Mountain Zoo Website 26. Explore Beaumaris CastleWhere? Beaumaris, AngleseyFamily Friendly? YesDog-Friendly? NoStep back in time and discover the grandeur of Beaumaris Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and masterpiece of medieval architecture. Built by Edward I in the 13th century, this imposing fortress boasts concentric walls, moats, and towers, offering visitors a glimpse into Wales' turbulent past. Explore its labyrinthine passageways, climb to the top of its battlements for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and uncover the stories of knights, kings, and conquests that shaped its history. With interactive exhibits and events throughout the year, Beaumaris Castle promises an immersive journey into the heart of Welsh heritage. Beaumaris Castle Map of Things to do in North Wales North Wales beckons with its rich tapestry of natural wonders, historic landmarks, and outdoor adventures. Whether you're seeking thrills on towering peaks, tranquillity in scenic gardens, or cultural immersion in charming villages, this enchanting region offers something for every traveller to discover and enjoy.Plan your visit today and experience the magic of North Wales for yourself. 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