One of Britain’s oldest established tourist regions, North Wales offers awe-inspiring scenery and an intriguing history, with activities and attractions to please people of all ages.
Here are 9 fantastic family attractions in North Wales, to help inspire your next Premier Cottages break:
1. SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY, SNOWDONIA
Tourists come to Wales from all over the world to enjoy the priceless experience of climbing Snowdon, its highest peak. Families and rail enthusiasts can hop on an award-winning carriage, and take a ride to the visitor centre at the summit. The breathtaking panorama from here is hard to match! The Snowdon Mountain Railway opened in 1896, and has been operating as commercial tourist railway ever since. The journey takes 1 hour each way with a 30-minute interval at the top, and journeys run every day from mid-March to October. Alternatively, if you are up for a challenge, why not look into climbing Snowdon by foot?
Embark on the journey of a lifetime to the rooftop of Wales during your luxury cottage holiday. Photo copyright of Richard Leonard.
2. PORTMEIRION VILLAGE
The magical Italianate village of Portmeirion is located on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park, where you can indulge in award-winning cuisine and unwind in the spa, amble through the gardens, and take in the glorious views from the sandy beaches. British architect Clough Williams-Ellis dedicated his life to building Riviera-inspired houses, where you will feel like you have entered a charming, fairytale-esque Italian village. You have to see it for yourself!
Stroll through the gorgeous Italianate village of Portmeirion on your day out in North Wales. Photo copyright of Karen Roe.
3. ZIP WORLD BOUNCE BELOW, BLAENAU FFESTINIOG
Zip World Bounce Below is the world’s first subterranean playground, providing an unforgettable, fun-filled experience for the whole family to enjoy. Explore the network of caves that are covered by coloured lights, highlighting the beauty of the once-working slate mine. Photos and head-cam hire are available at an extra cost, perfect for capturing your unique experience to share with your family! After spending some time bouncing around, reward yourself with a treat at the Llechwedd Café - the local produce and delicious homemade cakes here might make your mouth water.
Share a unique experience with the whole family at Bounce Below. Photo copyright of DS Pugh.
4. ALICE IN WONDERLAND TRAIL, LLANDUDNO
Follow in the footsteps of author Lewis Carroll, around the Victorian seaside town of Llandudno to uncover his inspiration for this classic fairytale. Discover 55 bronze-cast Alice in Wonderland sculptures dotted across the town before tucking into a traditional afternoon tea. Whilst here, explore the town’s abundance of quaint independent shops before taking in the views at the calm beach of West Shore.
Follow the whimsical Alice in Wonderland themed trail on your trip to Llandudno. Photo copyright of Gerald England.
5. WELSH MOUNTAIN ZOO, COLWYN BAY
Resting high above Colwyn Bay in one of the most scenic landscapes in North Wales is the country’s oldest zoo. Home to over 140 species and never-ending views of the Carneddau Mountains, the Welsh Mountain Zoo provides a brilliant North Wales day out with the family - and the kids will love it. Spend the day discovering the rare animals from all around the world, including penguins, the Sumatran tiger and snow leopards.
It's not often you see penguins walking across grass! Photo copyright of Jeff Buck.
6. BARMOUTH BEACH, BARMOUTH
Offering breathtaking views towards Cardigan Bay is Snowdonia’s most popular seaside resort, Barmouth Beach – one of the best beaches in Wales. This sandy beach promises a wonderful North Wales family day out, offering opportunities for water sports and bathing, as well as more traditional pastimes such as donkey rides, swing boats and amusement arcades. How fun does that sound?
Pay a visit to the picturesque beach and soak up the vintage atmosphere. Photo copyright of c.art.
7. CONWY
Conwy is a gorgeous town that's packed with history and attractions, in addition to a variety of places to eat and drink - the ideal day out during your family getaway in North Wales. Follow the winding streets and drift in and out of the independent shops before heading to the quay, where you will spot the smallest house in Great Britain - Quay House! This little red house is definitely worth a visit, measuring just 72 inches wide and 122 inches high!! Not far from here, you will discover a majestic piece of medieval architecture, Conwy Castle, where you can go on to discover the 13th-century town walls...
Admire the impressive stone structure of Conwy Castle whilst exploring this alluring town.
8. FAIRY GLEN GORGE, BETWS-Y-COED
The secluded and enchanting Fairy Glen Gorge is located within easy reach of Beaver Bridge on the River Conwy, one of the most picturesque outdoor things to do for families in North Wales. It is a fabulous choice if you are a fan of lushious scenery, and provides a great spot to enjoy a picnic with the family. You will capture some incredible photos here, especially if you are there when the sun is peeping through the trees. If you are lucky, perch on one of the benches, and you might catch a glimpse of salmon jumping the waters, and otters playing around in the pools!
A trip to Betws-y-Coed isn't complete without a visit to one of the principal attractions of the village! Photo copyright of Adam Tas.
9. ABER FALLS, SNOWDONIA
Situated at the foot of the glorious Carneddau mountain range is Aber Falls. The 40-meter-high waterfall is just a short walk from the village of Abergwyngregyn, and offers a fantastic route to enjoy with the family on a day out in North Wales. Follow the well-signposted track through the woodlands before finding the wonderful waterfall. If you are feeling brave, dip into the pool for a refreshing swim. Or you can seek out a tranquil spot to take in the incredible mountain scenery with the sound of the waterfall in the background.
Enjoy one of the most majestic sights of the Welsh mountains at Aber Falls. Photo copyright of Stuart Madden.
Browse our 4* and 5* selection of gorgeous North Wales holiday cottages from which to base your next luxury UK cottage break.
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