From the dramatic mountain ranges to charming little seaside towns, North Wales is one of the UKs most captivating regions. You could be an outdoor adventurer looking for a mountain to climb or a history buff heading to a gallery or museum. Maybe you’re just looking to escape the busy cities and the hustle and bustle of life.
Header photo by Martina Jorden on Unsplash
This corner of the country has something for everybody, and if you’re planning a trip, booking a hotel in North Wales is a great starting point for exploring everything that this remarkable area has to offer. Let’s dig into 10 reasons to visit North Wales on your next travel adventure.
- The Natural Landscapes. North Wales is the home to some of the most stunning scenery in the UK. At the very heart of it all lies Snowdonia National Park, so if you are an adventurer, you’ll love the vast and rugged area here that is filled with mountain peaks, forested valleys and glacial lakes. Whether you’re hiking to the summer of Snowdon, which is the highest mountain in Wales, or you’re looking to take a leisurely stroll around Llyn Padarn, the views are nothing short of spectacular.
- It’s packed with history and heritage. North Wales is packed with history, with countless castles, ancient ruins and historic towns to explore. Caernarfon Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and it’s one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Europe. Conwy Castle and its walled town offers a perfectly preserved glimpse into medieval life too. Visiting North Wales is like stepping into the pages of a history book, but so much better because you get to actually experience it.
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- The adventure and outdoor activities. Adrenaline seekers will love North Wales as it’s a haven for outdoor activities. The area is well renowned for ziplining, mountain biking, climbing and coasteering. Adventure parks like Zipworld and Surf Snowdonia offer world class experiences that attract thrill seekers from around the globe. You can be flying through the air one minute or surfing inland waves, but you’ll certainly find something to get your heart racing.
- Beautiful beaches and coastal walks. The coastline of North Wales is dotted with sandy beaches, hidden coves and rugged cliffs. Anglesey is an island just off the mainland and is a coastal gem with serenity in its beaches like Newborough and Rhosneigr. It’s just perfect for beachcombing, swimming, or just sitting back and relaxing. For walkers, the Wales Coast Path offers jaw-dropping sea views and charming coastal villages to explore.
- Quaint towns and villages. North Wales is full of picturesque towns and villages, and each has its own unique charm. Visit Betws-y-Coed, a gateway to Snowdonia that feels like it’s straight out of a fairy tale. You could even explore Llangollen, which is known for its canals, heritage railway and musical Eisteddfod. It’s these communities that are steeped in culture and they make a great base for exploring the surrounding countryside. The options for accommodation here are huge with Airbnbs, apartment rentals, hotel rentals and camping sites.
Welsh Food & Drink
- Local food and drink. No visit to North Wales is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From cosy country pubs to find dining restaurants, the region takes pride in showcasing fresh local produce. Welsh lamb, freshly caught seafood and cheeses are particular highlights, but don’t miss out on traditional dishes like cawl, which is a hearty Welsh stew, or a slice of Bara Brith, a sweet fruit loaf. Local breweries and distilleries offer some excellent ales and spirits worth tasting.
- Attractions are family friendly. North Wales is an ideal destination for families. There are attractions like Greenwood Family Park, Anglesey Sea Zoo and the Welsh Mountain Zoo that offer fun filled days out for everybody. Many hotels and resorts in the region cater specifically to families too, offering kid friendly activities and amenities. Whether you’re looking for educational experiences or just good old fashioned fun, North Wales truly does deliver.
- Easy access and excellent accommodations. Despite the wild landscapes, North Wales is surprisingly accessible. It’s just a couple of hours drive from major cities like Manchester, Liverpool and train connections make it easy to reach even without a car. Once you’ve arrived, you’ll find a wide range of accommodation options from luxury lodges and charming B&Bs to budget friendly hostels and spa retreats. Booking a hotel in North Wales will give you a central hub from which to explore the entire region with ease.
Anglesey by Lisa Copner on Unsplash
- Stunning gardens and nature reserves. Nature lovers will be so happy with the region’s many gardens and wildlife reserves. Bodnant Garden near Conwy is a horticultural masterpiece with terraced gardens, waterfalls and rare plants. Meanwhile, Penrhyn Castle’s grounds and Plas Newydd house and gardens offer scenic walks bordered by historical elegance. (see on header photo)
- A deep connection to Welsh culture. Where can you get more connected to Welsh culture than North Wales? It’s a stronghold of Welsh language and Welsh culture, and many people here speak Welsh as a first language. Visitors can expect to see bilingual signs and hear Welsh spoken in shops, cafes and markets. Attending a local Welsh music and poetry festival or visiting a museum like St. Fagans will give you a deeper understanding and appreciation for this proud ancient culture. Embracing these authentic experiences makes your visit truly unforgettable.
Planning a Trip to North Wales
Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend or an adventurous escape, North Wales can offer you the mix you need of natural beauty, cultural richness and modern convenience. There are plenty of accommodation choices, which means that you get to see everything from the peaks of Snowdonia to the quiet beauty of coastal Anglesey.
Wales is not just a destination but an experience and it appeals to every type of traveller. You could get started by packing your bags, bringing your sense of adventure and excitement. It’s only then that you can then discover the many reasons why North Wales is the place to be.
