Things to do in North Wales

There’s more than one way to shoe a horse, and indeed there’s more than one way to climb Snowdon as well – just one of our top things to do in North Wales is the famous mountain railway, but our local guide also features Italian terrace gardens, and some of Wales’s wildest wildlife. Put together by our local team, this is the best of North Wales as written by the North Welsh.

Conwy

30-min drive from Bodelwyddan Castle, LL32 8FZ

Conwy’s rich history is preserved within the walls and traditional structures of its buildings. In its heart is the mighty 13th-century castle, whose walls encapsulate this remarkable medieval town. Explore local beaches and visit the 'smallest house in Britain.

Parking is available for £3.20 for 4 hours, £4.70 over 4 hours.

Bodnant Gardens

23-min drive from Bodelwyddan Castle, LL28 5RE

Bodnant Gardens are famous for their five Italian terraces that feature two rose gardens, ornamental pools and pergola walkways. The gardens have undergone extensive conservation work over the last few years and the benefits are clear to see, a beautiful landscape that changes with the seasons.

Snowdon Mountain Railway

50-min drive from Bodelwyddan Castle, LL55 4TT

Definitely the easiest way to climb Mount Snowdon, the mountain railway is also the most picturesque with panoramic views out over the national park. It is the only public “rack and pinion” railway in the UK, allowing the trains to operate on the steep gradient of Snowdon.

The Great Orme

30-min drive from Bodelwyddan Castle, LL30 2ND

The Great Orme is a 207-m tall chunk of limestone rising straight out of the sea, accessible by walking, driving, cable car or the Great Orme tramway. Boasting heathlands, sheer cliffs, grassland and woodland, the area is also home to the Kashmir Goats that have become famous during lockdown times.