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34 Best Stops Between Wrexham and Aberystwyth
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Wanderlog staff
Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
Updated • updatedMar 31, 2023
How long is the drive from Wrexham to Aberystwyth?
The direct drive from Wrexham to Aberystwyth is 80.2 mi (129 km), and should have a drive time of 1 hr 56 mins in normal traffic.
If you’re going on a road trip from Wrexham to Aberystwyth, we did the research for you and compiled some great stops along the way — with Shrewsbury, Betws-y-Coed, Llangollen, and Oswestry, as well as top places to visit like National Trust - Attingham Park and Shrewsbury Prison, or the ever-popular Wollerton Old Hall Garden.
Visiting Wrexham or Aberystwyth? See our Wrexham Trip Planner and our Aberystwyth Trip Planner.
80.2 mi
Total Distance
1 hr 56 mins
Drive Time
34 stops
Cities / Attractions
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Top cities between Wrexham and Aberystwyth
The top cities between Wrexham and Aberystwyth are Shrewsbury, Betws-y-Coed, Llangollen, and Oswestry. Shrewsbury is the most popular city on the route. It's less than an hour from Wrexham and 2 hours from Aberystwyth.
1
Llangollen
Llangollen, located in Denbighshire, Wales, is a charming town set along the River Dee. It sits at the edge of the Berwyn range and is part of the Clwydian Range and Dee Valley Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. The town marks the easternmost point of the Dee Valley Way, offering access to stunning natural landscapes for outdoor enthusiasts.
23% as popular as Shrewsbury
6 minutes off the main route, 14% of way to Aberystwyth
2
Oswestry
Oswestry, a charming market town in Shropshire, England, is situated near the Welsh border and serves as a junction for several major roads. Once the administrative headquarters of the Borough of Oswestry, it offers a rich historical and cultural experience. Visitors can enjoy family-friendly attractions such as Crazy Knights Indoor Play Centre, featuring a medieval theme and providing a safe environment for children to play while parents relax.
28% as popular as Shrewsbury
1 minute off the main route, 16% of way to Aberystwyth
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Shrewsbury
Shrewsbury, located in western England, is the county town of Shropshire. It boasts a picturesque Tudor center with charming half-timbered houses and notable landmarks such as the medieval Shrewsbury Castle housing the Shropshire Regimental Museum. The town also features unique churches like St Chad's Church with its circular nave and St Mary’s Church adorned with intricate stained-glass windows.
Most popular city on this route
19 minutes off the main route, 28% of way to Aberystwyth
4
Betws-y-Coed
Betws-y-Coed is a charming village and community nestled in the Conwy valley, within the Snowdonia National Park. It's located on the border of Denbighshire and Caernarfonshire, surrounded by the picturesque Gwydir Forest. The village offers a serene riverside walk and a variety of dining options for visitors to enjoy.
42% as popular as Shrewsbury
26 minutes off the main route, 35% of way to Aberystwyth
Best stops along Wrexham to Aberystwyth drive
The top stops along the way from Wrexham to Aberystwyth (with short detours) are Portmeirion, National Trust - Attingham Park, and British Ironwork Centre. Other popular stops include Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls, National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden, and Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways.
1Cecilia F — Google reviewTony T — Google reviewAlison M — Google reviewSimon M — Google reviewAndrew W — Google reviewNorth W — Google reviewMarc S — Google review•
Wollerton Old Hall Garden
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Garden
Nature & Parks
Wollerton Old Hall Garden, located near Market Drayton, is a stunning four-acre old English garden that offers something for every season. The garden features various rooms with a mix of formal and wild plantings, showcasing an array of flora such as anemones, hellebores, tulips in spring, roses and delphiniums in summer, and late bloomers like asters and dahlias in autumn.
A lovely garden to wander in for an hour or so. The formal garden is accessible, whereas the informal garden is on a slope with uneven ground.
A restaurant providing snacks or meals is available with indoor and outdoor seating.
Rgammon12 — Google review
Lovely gardens set out in a series of rooms. With the very hot dry weather some of the plants were a bit stressed and some concerted dead-heading needed on the roses and other blooms as lots of them were going over. Nevertheless some lovely specimens and fabulous scent. Lots of beautiful vistas from well thought out seating.
The man on the entrance till was unnecessarily abrupt. "Are you by any chance an RHS partner garden?" Answer "I'm delighted to say we are absolutely not!"
Cafe mediocre and much of crockery and cutlery not properly washed - a bit grubby. I had pitta and hummus with salad - the pitta was stale and brittle around the edges (I think it had been microwaved to warm it up, and it had been over-done. The salad was disappointing - a small spoon of coleslaw, a small spoon of cold pasta and one small piece of the centre of a lettuce heart and one tomato. Over priced.
Some of the serving staff were very personable and others bizarrely reluctant to help - "Could you please tell me what in the the quiche?" - answer - "No!" [- pause, and silence from us both - ] "...I guess I can ask the kitchen staff"
This was a fabulous experience. The house and grounds are lovely but not open to the public, but the garden is a genuine beauty with so much variation, new delights at every turn, and so much to explore. This is a real gem, and I can't wait to return again. The food was also first class, with a massive plater with the most amazing pate, M+S bread, mixed salad, pasta, and rice salad as well. The elderflower sparkling water was delicious. The plater was well worth the £12.50.
This garden is stunning one of a very few I’ve visited that looks even better when you arrive as opposed to what you see on tv or in books. So it really worth a visit and I planned a mini break around it (and nearby Hodnet too.)
It’s a story of immaculate vistas at every turn and a riotous hot garden.
What makes this garden so brilliant is although it’s compartmentalised the hedges and walls are low enough to embrace the outside spaces enabling a sense of flow rather than claustrophobia. I sense it looks amazing anytime of the year and it’s definitely worth a revisit.
Beautiful gardens. Plenty of benches to sit on as you walk around so you can really take your time. Well worth a visit.
What a lovely garden; a delight around every corner. An extremely pleasant way to spend a couple of hours wandering around; the dedication and work that has gone into creating this lovely 4 acre site has to be seen by anyone with a love for gardens. I visited in late May, 'in between' seasons but there was so much to take in and enjoy. A lovely tearoom too. A warm welcome to boot. Highly recommended.
Extremely beautiful walled gardens split into a series of rooms. Wonderful way to spend two hours
A brilliant garden one of the best in England according to Monty Don and I agree!
4.8
(409)
4.5
(171)
Wollerton Old Hall, Wollerton, Market Drayton TF9 3NA, United Kingdom
2Alison F — Google reviewDyan R — Google reviewAidan W — Google reviewBiz B — Google reviewChris W — Google reviewTodd T — Google reviewRose_Gh — Google review•
National Trust - Attingham Park
Mentioned on
affordable
Park
Attingham Park, located just east of Shrewsbury, is a stunning 18th-century country house estate with beautiful parkland and a large organic walled garden. The property offers behind-the-scenes views of ongoing restoration efforts and features Regency interiors, a deer park, and various collections including paintings, silver, and furniture. The two-acre walled garden is continuously being restored to its former glory and provides an array of sensory experiences throughout the seasons.
We went on a school trip. And it's a huge park. It's the best option for kids to go and explore nature and have fun. Especially with friends. There's a cafe and many washroom facilities. There are different activities for kids and a lot of places to run around. It was my first visit and I highly recommend it. It's so clean and well maintained.
Daphne F — Google review
Visited here today. Very interesting house and lovely gardens. All staff were lovely and friendly, especially a lady called Ann Heritage, I think she said her name was. She showed us around the painting room and we saw the painting in the conservation room. She was extremely knowledgeable, friendly, approachable and so easy to talk to. We enjoyed the talk about the painting upstairs. A lovely visit. We would recommend this place. Wear comfortable shoes.
A grand and impressive house, nestled amongst vast grounds.
Choosing one of the walking routes is a must, as this is such a beautiful estate.
We opted for the woodland & deer park routes & being enveloped by the autumn beauty was delightful. We were lucky enough to see the deer, when sat on a bench eating lunch, can't get better than that.
The house is also a splendour, with gorgeous attention to detail in each room, which still houses original furnishings, etc. You can walk around at your leisure or join a guided tour.
Should you be peckish, there is a lovely tea room in the old stables & as always, a shop & second-hand bookshop.
We thoroughly enjoyed our day at Attingham, hope you do too.
Awesome place. The house itself is stunning but the grounds are beautiful. Tall trees in lush forests with a deer park you walk through. I was able to see them in a large group not far from me. Well worth a visit.
Simply stunning. We’ve visited many NT houses and parks recently and inside the house was the most impressive and interesting. One got a real sense of the families wealth and the plethora of interesting ‘exhibits’ on show.
All the staff were knowledgeable and the front gate volunteers very welcoming.
I would heartily recommend a few hours here.
Fabulous National Trust property on a large Estate just 5 miles south of Shrewsbury. Interesting rooms, scenic walks, several cafës, second-hand bookshop, kids activities. Very friendly and knowledgeable staff.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ If I could give 10 stars, I absolutely would!
I’ve visited Attingham Park many times, but this time truly stood out thanks to Les (at the entrance near the car park) and Matty, the amazing Café Team Leader. These two are the absolute definition of outstanding customer service.
Starting with Les – what an incredible first impression she gives! From the moment I arrived, her friendly smile, welcoming tone, and great sense of humour made me feel instantly at ease. She’s got that wonderful Scottish charm that makes every interaction memorable — warm, genuine, and full of personality. You can tell she absolutely loves what she does, and it shines through in the way she greets everyone with such enthusiasm and kindness. She doesn’t just do her job; she makes people’s days better.
Then there’s Matty, who is nothing short of a superstar in the café. You can see right away that he’s a natural leader — calm under pressure, organised, and always looking out for both his team and the customers. Even when the café is busy, he takes the time to check in, make sure everything is perfect, and serve everyone with a smile. The drinks were spot on, the food was fresh, and the whole atmosphere just felt relaxed and friendly. It’s clear that Matty sets the tone for his team, everyone works hard, but there’s laughter, teamwork, and pride in what they do.
Together, Les and Matty made this visit one of the best experiences I’ve had at a National Trust site. They represent everything great about Attingham Park — friendly faces, genuine care, and an attention to detail that makes you feel valued as a guest.
10/10 – Les and Matty are a credit to Attingham Park and to the National Trust. People like them are the reason visitors keep coming back. 👏
We had an amazing time with family and friends at National Trust’s Altrincham Park, it truly feels like a hidden gem tucked away from the busy world. The grounds are stunning, offering miles of peaceful trails where you can walk, talk, and unwind surrounded by nature. Each route has something different to enjoy, from the beautifully kept walled gardens to the magical sight of deer roaming freely across the park. It’s a place that feels calm yet full of life, making it ideal whether you’re after a quiet stroll or a fun day out with loved ones.
After exploring, the café is the perfect stop. They serve a good choice of hot dishes, sandwiches, and cakes, and while the prices are on the higher side, it’s worth it for the setting and the quality. We finished off our walk with tea and cake, which was the perfect end to the day. Dogs are welcome too, as long as they’re kept on a lead, so it’s a spot the whole family can enjoy.
What makes Altrincham Park so special is that every visit feels different, whether it’s a new trail, seasonal changes in the gardens, or simply spotting the wildlife. It’s somewhere you can return to time and time again and always come away with a fresh experience.
4.7
(7184)
4.5
(2638)
Attingham Park, Atcham, Shrewsbury SY4 4TP, United Kingdom
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3Jack R — Google reviewStephen M — Google reviewThomas B — Google reviewZuzanna K — Google reviewElizabeth H — Google reviewKevin M — Google reviewDean V — Google review•
Shrewsbury Prison
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Escape room center
Shrewsbury Prison, an 18th-century jail closed in 2013, offers visitors the opportunity to explore its empty cells and yard. The prison provides guided tours led by retired prison officers, allowing guests to delve into its intriguing history and experience interactive activities such as a prison-themed escape room. For those seeking a chilling experience, ghost tours are available to explore the dark past and mysterious atmosphere of the prison.
We visited the Shrewsbury Prison today and had a guided tour with Graham, I think it was. And we would thoroughly recommend it! Our tour was very informative and really interesting about prison life, and Grahams 30+ years service in the prison service. My 10 year old was part of the tour, and he gained a lot from it. So that age group is good for debating parents. All in all 5⭐️ a very good and interesting way to spend 2-3hours of your day.
Ashley L — Google review
HMP Shrewsbury, nicknamed "The Dana" after the original Dana Gaol on the site, is a fantastic Tourist attraction and insight into how Prison Life and conditions were. All the staff are wonderful and helpful.
I went on a Self Guided tour on this occasion, although ghost and guided varieties exist if you wish.
There are detailed and plentiful boards giving information about the rooms and topics surrounding that area of the facility.
The only negative is the new chapel and Visitation was closed around the time of my visit, which I would have loved to see.
Great tour today with the 10:30 tour guides. Lots of information and interesting facts and interactions with the group. Now watching Time on BBC iPlayer.
Brilliant day out with easy parking. You get the full run of the prison, it's a real eye opener and well worth it. Wing c is very spooky and sad, the execution room really is sobering.
A fascinating and yet a sad place. Our guides were Malcolm and Alex who told us about the prison's history in an incredibly engaging way. The personal stories of Malcolm, who worked there for many years, are particularly captivating and moving.
Had a great time looking around the Historical Prison. Lots to see and good signage. Just wish we had time to do the guided tour!
A fascinating place , lovely to visit but must have been horrible to be in, with electricity , toilets and water in the cells only added in 1995. This was also 1 of 17 prisons that was allowed to carry out executions. Infoboards are scattered around the site , and are interesting if sparse. There are tours (1 a day) which would be better if you want to understand more. I managed a quick chat with a guide and an ex officer in the jail which was fascinating. There is a resturaunt on site and they do ghost tours in the evening if that's your thing.
Fantastic guided tour by Alex, very informative and his enthusiasm really showed.
Definitely recommend it.
4.6
(1993)
4.7
(5785)
The Dana, Shrewsbury, SY1 2HP, United Kingdom
4Kungfu-pigeon — Google reviewPaul O — Google reviewZoë V — Google reviewPatsy — Google reviewYusra A — Google reviewPhilip A — Google reviewThea T — Google review
The Quarry
Mentioned on
Park
Nature & Parks
The Quarry is a picturesque riverfront green space featuring a sunken garden at its center, as well as a play area and bandstand. It's an ideal spot for leisurely strolls along the riverside, with the opportunity to admire the 1923 Porthill Footbridge and enjoy a picnic on the grassy park. The Dingle, an ornamental garden designed by Percy Thrower, adds to the charm of this Victorian-era destination.
Visited on Easter Sunday.
Very clean and had a funfair which was excellent for kids and the prices were reasonable
The garden area was really nice and well maintained.
Also a nice and well spaced area for picnics
Also plenty of areas where benches are available for people to sit and relax
There is also a nice playground area next to a cafe and ice cream vendor.
Toilets are also accessible and free to use.
Also a really nice and relaxing walk along the river too...
Ibrahim R — Google review
I recently spent some time at The Quarry in Shrewsbury, and it’s one of those places that blends natural beauty with a relaxed, local atmosphere. As a vegetarian who enjoys peaceful green spaces and a bit of people-watching, it really hit the mark.
The park is spacious—around 29 acres—but it’s laid out in a way that feels open and easy to explore rather than sprawling. The River Severn curves around it, adding a lovely waterside touch. I did a slow loop along the riverside path, and it was perfect for a gentle walk. The area had a nice community vibe with people out walking dogs, running, or just lounging on the grass. It never felt too busy, even on a nice day.
I brought along a veggie wrap from a local café and found a great picnic spot by the river. There weren’t many food options directly in the park when I visited, but being close to town means you can easily grab something before heading in. The open spaces are ideal for just stretching out, relaxing, or even reading for a bit.
The Quarry is also really accessible—flat, well-maintained paths make it easy for all mobility levels. It’s a great option whether you want a quiet afternoon, a scenic jog, or just a peaceful walk to unwind. I’d happily return any time I’m in Shrewsbury.
If the weather is good this is a fantastic place to come and relax after a rough day exploring this lovely town. There is plenty of room for the kids to burnnof some energy and the is also a good sized play park and a splash area.
Stepping into The Quarry feels like entering a dream woven from petals, fragrance, and sunlight. Nestled away like a secret whispered by nature, this garden is an exquisite tapestry of colors and textures, where time seems to slow and the soul feels lighter.
What truly sets The Quarry apart is its breathtaking collection of flowers—most notably, the tulips. Rows upon rows of them bloom in vibrant harmony, their silky petals dancing in the breeze like brushstrokes on a living canvas. Every corner of the garden bursts with life: soft pastels, bold crimsons, and delicate whites—each tulip telling its own story. Their gentle sway under the sun is nothing short of magical.
Pathways wind through curated beds and untamed patches alike, offering intimate moments with nature’s artistry. It’s easy to lose yourself here, among birdsong and the perfume of blossoms. The Quarry is more than a garden—it’s a sanctuary of beauty, a celebration of growth, and a reminder that enchantment still exists in the world.
If you’re looking for a place to be inspired, calmed, or simply awed, The Quarry is a must-visit. You don’t just walk through it—you feel it in your heart.
Beautiful park next to the river Severn. Riverside walks, children's play & water parks. Great cafe next to the leisure centre. The Dingle Garden is full of interesting plants and a pond.
We visited Quarry Garden by chance on our way back from Snowdonia, and it turned out to be a wonderful surprise! The park has something for everyone—open spaces, a play area, peaceful gardens, and the beautiful Dingle, a former quarry transformed into a stunning sunken garden. The suspension bridge over the River Severn is a highlight, with lovely views (and a fun little sway when you cross!). There’s also The Boathouse pub nearby with outdoor seating overlooking the river. Full of history, nature, and a warm community feel—definitely worth a visit if you’re in Shrewsbury.
Shrewsbury is a great place to visit, ancient buildings, a lovely walk along the river Severn,the park,and the hidden gem,the dingle,a sunken tropical like scene,flowers,pool,we'll maintained gardens,beautiful.
It's our second time in The Quarry. It has always been stunning and peaceful. Huge playground for the kids. the play ground and wet play area were both clean. I just hope that they offer an all day parking. Can't wait to go back with family and friends.
5Daniel L — Google reviewChristine B — Google reviewLisa-marie H — Google reviewFenna — Google reviewIllia L — Google reviewJan F — Google reviewMelissa D — Google review•
Wepre Park
Mentioned on
Country park
Nature & Parks
Park
Wepre Park, located in Flintshire, North Wales, is a 160-acre reserve featuring a mix of forest and open fields. The park is home to the ruins of the 12th-century Ewloe Castle and a picturesque waterfall. Visitors can enjoy beautiful woodland walks, a fishing pool, and a fantastic children's playground. The park offers pram-friendly paths with various routes suitable for all ages.
I love the peaceful woodland walks following the river and getting to the castle ruins. Following the same path back it's nice to divert to walk to the devil's basin. A little waterfall. It's also a great place if you have children with a play park and fun fairs on the field sometimes. Then it's great that you can have a bite to eat and drink in the cafe. Also always good that there are toilets
Christine C — Google review
An excellent park for a great walk with the family. Free parking is a rare and very welcome start. There's a large skatepark and playground for kids, a visitor centre and toilets.
The walk to the castle is gorgeous, running through a gorge with a stream at the bottom and cliffs that children can climb on, plus dense woods with plenty for young ones to explore. A short 30 min walk ending with a bridge and a few steps get you atop the castle, which you can also climb for a great view of the treeline.
Walking back to the start there's the option of going down to the river on a wooden pathway with many observation points, and a man-made waterfall at the end.
My first visit so my opinion will be an honest one don’t go on B/H w.end I found it too crowded. Parking wasn’t a problem and the scenery was beautiful and clean although I did think there was a lack of bins for human waste and dog bins. Signs or more would have been helpful as I just followed our first path which was a boardwalk and, well maintained the smell of garlic was lovely. Although I found it a little crowded I will re-visit another time so I can explore more.
Since discovering the gem that is Wepre park we have visited several times the playground is amazing there was something for all ages and the castle ruins were lovely with lots of information boards. Cafe seemed a little over priced but has good offering on the last two occasions the toilets have been locked with no sign posts to state why.
Beautiful location for a long walk. Suitable for all kinds of people.
I will say, that more active individuals will enjoy it more, as it can get tiring to see the castle up top.
Except from that, its a very easy and calm walk.
Beautiful place to visit and pretty clean!
Great to get the dog for a walk. A pretty castle at the end of a road as a reward and rest point before going back
Great place to walk your dog, only small area around the visitors centre where dogs are required to be on lead. Lots of spots for safe water play if that’s what your dog is in to. Walk up to the castle under a canopy of trees.
Beautiful place for a walk, including the babbling brook and waterfall, with peaceful paths under a leafy canopy. And of course, Elow Castle. Free parking, cafe and playground. Something for everyone!
4.7
(3974)
4.5
(317)
Visitor Centre, Wepre Park, Connah's Quay, Deeside CH5 4HL, United Kingdom
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6Mark S — Google reviewIan S — Google reviewAsta V — Google reviewSteph — Google reviewCobbydale S — Google reviewSteph B — Google reviewClaire N — Google review•
National Trust - Erddig
Mentioned on
affordable
Historical place museum
National Trust - Erddig is a grand 18th-century manor located in Wrexham, Wales. It offers tours of the family house and its expansive 12,000-acre garden. The property provides a glimpse into the life of the British upper class during the 18th and 19th centuries, showcasing the 'upstairs-downstairs' social hierarchy of that era.
Beautiful house and gardens. Very welcoming staff. So lovely to see the history of the staff in service displayed. My favourite area of the house seeing the servants dining hall and butlers pantry. A very informative lady explained the whole area with such animation it brought it to life for me.
We enjoyed sitting out in the beautiful gardens.
Sarah M — Google review
Another lovely National Trust property. We visited on a saturday morning, car park was very busy, but this was due to an event in the grounds. the house id fascinating, with very helpful staff to explain all the details. The gardens are beautiful, even in the Autumn. The usual national trust facilities such a great little cafe and second hand book shop. Well worth a visit.
Erdigg Hall is an 18th century house and garden near Wrexham, North Wales. It is set in over 1200 acres of woodland.
Entrance to the car park is free and fairly spacious. This gives direct access to the route which, broadly, goes around the edge of the estate. Paths are clear, firm (for the most part) and easy to follow thanks to excellent markers - just follow the red route.
The woodlands are stunning with a mix of trees, some of which are extremely old and wide. Some Yew trees are as much as 800 years old while some oak trees are as much as 400 years old. There are a number of small rivers and streams running through the woods and this all makes for a good dog friendly setting.
As you work your way around you encounter an unusual water feature called the Cup and Saucer. There is a well placed bench there which is a great lunch spot.
This is not a difficult route, no major hills or rough surfaces, and should be suitable for all ages and skill levels.
Full entrance to the hall and other facilities, including the tea room, was rather expensive (around £20 per adult): so quite an expensive cup of tea if that's all you were seeking.
In all, a lovely and typical country house and woodland walk for an easy but entertaining walk.
Stunning country house, surrounding gardens and estate. Would especially recommend to visit in autumn ( beginning of October), during apple harvesting season and related festival. This time of the year the grounds full of stunning colours, true feast for the eyes! Estate grows more than 100 varieties of apples. Some of them sold on festival days. Very delicious and taste like apples from grandma's garden! You can get the apples for baking too and plenty of inspiration for baking a delicious apple cake when back home! During the festive days usually you can try delicious pork& apple baps, locally made apple cider. Last time visited everything was such a delight to enjoy in the last warmth of autumnal sun. Estate & grounds offer countless lovely walks, local coffee shop, restaurant and second hand book shop also lovely to visit.
Went along for parkrun and it’s one of the most scenic courses I’ve ever done. The course spans across the whole grounds, including stunning views from the side of the hill in front of the house, and the lake. They had a brilliant display of all their varieties of apples too and I’ve never seen so many types of apples! The gift shop is fantastic too, carrying National Trust branded accessories and even Erddig specific souvenirs. Would definitely recommend visiting.
This place is great. The gardens are very pretty &well kept. For children there are lots of games &toys scattered about the grounds for them to tackle &a wooded play area. There is a shop.plants for sale.somewhere to get things to eat &lots of seating areas inside &out. Picnic areas if you take a picnic. Toilets.Inside the property is gorgeous. All kept very nice. There is a route you have to follow &it was quite busy.but it hadn't been open long. Lots of guides about to tell you things. Also new things going on in certain rooms. Clocks chime.lights come on.music plays.etc. There is some restoration work going on but it didn't hinder the tour. All very nice. We went with a free pass.
A wonderful sense of life for the family in this home, both upstairs and downstairs. The family's habit of not throwing anything away has provided a complete view of life over several generations with NT still cataloguing the contents of the estate. The gardens are an interesting combination of formal and practical, but for personal reasons, we were unable to walk the extensive grounds, which seem to have several areas of interest.
There was an apple event on when we went which included a folk group playing and singing and lots of apple stalls and events on including a special one for children. It was our first time visiting and a map would have been useful to show where we could go and what we could see. We took the dogs and lots of others were there with theirs and it was really lovely to see. The staff were friendly and the gardens and outside of the house were beautiful (couldn't go in as had the dogs). Would definitely visit again and would be useful to know if there's anywhere to sit to eat inside with the dogs once the weather gets colder.
4.7
(5208)
4.4
(1482)
Erddig, Wrexham, LL13 0YT, United Kingdom
7Anisa A — Google reviewDebbie P — Google reviewLaura J — Google reviewJennie C — Google reviewHeather B — Google reviewLisa C — Google reviewJenna C — Google review•
British Ironwork Centre
Mentioned on
Visitor center
Museums
The British Ironwork Centre, situated in Oswestry, is a captivating destination for families and art enthusiasts alike. The centre boasts an extensive collection of decorative ironwork, ranging from suits of armor to animal sculptures and lamps. Visitors can explore the indoor emporium for unique shopping experiences or wander through the outdoor area adorned with architectural structures and numerous sculptures. Notable attractions include the famous Spoon Gorilla and Knife Angel, serving as the UK's national monument against knife crime.
The BIC is incredible, the exhibits are amazing and all from recycling. Booked afternoon tea at The Forge, which was fabulous, giving free entry to the park. Spent around 90 minutes wandering around beforehand, so much to see, lots of thought provoking exhibits, the craftsmanship is just brilliant. Some great things to buy in the shops, including Christmas decorations. We will definitely be back, don't miss it out if visiting the area or looking for a day trip!
Phill C — Google review
It was truly a wonderful trip. Me and my family absolutely loved seeing the wonderful sculptures! They weren't just magnificent, they were amazing, innovative and I loved how symbolic the pieces were. There were so many to see and the facts they held too was fascinating to learn. Even though it was raining, we still had a brilliant time. We wish you the best and want to say thanks for having us.
Heard about this place from word of mouth and was not disappointed. Did a memory jar Xmas 24 for my dad so we have time together more than gifts. The sun came out and we had a fantastic day. So nice to simply stroll round at our pace, learn things along the way and of course, see the amazing statues. Lunch in the cafe was lovely and the shops were nice to explore. Were there around 3.5hrs in total and to see my dad enjoy it so much was precious! Well worth a visit! I will be back!
What an amazing, and not too expensive day out with the early bird tickets. We were truly taken back by the creativity of some of the sculptures. The time and effort that has gone in to each and every one, was honestly outstanding. It’s a really good day out, even if you “sculptures” aren’t really your thing! There is also a really lovely cafe and shop and as we came round to the end, there was also a man playing some music and singing, his voice was gorgeous! The only downside we found, was the walking between some of the sculptures with a little one. Towards the end, he got quite bored and the walking was tiring for him. This is something that can’t really be helped and I should think most 6 year olds would be the same after an hour or so of walking. Amazing day out otherwise, would definitely recommend!!!
Amazing day, a lot more than I realised. Loved the fact sheets especially regarding the endangered animals! Cafe was amazing and the portions were wonderful. You could tell the coronation chicken was homemade, it was delicious! Brilliant for all the family.
What an amazing place! This was our first visit and we had such a fantastic time. So many amazing sculptures, lots of info to read and get the kids talking about important social and environmental topics, friendly staff and delicious food. We loved it and will definitely be back!
We enjoyed our day here. It was Halloween so the staff were all dressed up and they had scare actors. The food looked amazing especially the afternoon tea but we found our scones a little dry but very nice. Was pleased to be there for the return of the Knife Angel. Not a full day out but well worth a good couple of hours.
Amazing day out!
We got the early bird tickets which meant we had to be there for 9am. Was a great option it was quiet. We were able to have a lovely breakfast in the cafe and it wasn’t busy. Food was great we had 2 breakfast a sandwich and drinks and it came to £30. Well worth it for quality and portion size.
This place is amazing we wondered round for hours so much to see. We did the kids activity sheet so that kept my 9 year interested and active running about getting the clues.
Would 100% recommend a visit. In fact we are planning on going back at Xmas time
4.7
(3258)
4.7
(5438)
Whitehall, Aston, Oswestry SY11 4JH, United Kingdom
8Darrell D — Google reviewEphila J — Google reviewTrisha O — Google reviewJames H — Google reviewAbu T — Google reviewDave P — Google reviewDzdzownicolo — Google review•
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, also known as Traphont Ddwr Pontcysyllte in Welsh, is a remarkable feat of engineering by Thomas Telford. It was completed in 1805 and is the longest and highest aqueduct in Britain. This UNESCO World Heritage Site carries the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee valley in Wrexham, Wales. The aqueduct spans 307m long, 3.6m wide, 1.
Loved it! Wish we had more time to walk down to the water and along the trails too!
The views were amazing!
It's only a short walk across but you can also buy a ticket for the canal boat ride if you're willing to wait as the queues can be long, or hire a canoe (i was told by a passer by it was £39 each - there were 2 of them on the canoe) 😳.
There was a floating market on the other side when we went so that was lovely to see.
There were steps leading down just as we got to the other side, but that literally only goes just under the bridge to the opposite side. Maybe 10 steps down and then up the other side. Nothing to see. Only there so you can get across the aqueduct. Lol!!
As we got to the other side - we didn't go much further - we saw a pub on the hill and it looked lovely for a lunch or something.
Great pit stop for us on the way home. Kids enjoyed it as well.
Tammy B — Google review
The Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a truly breathtaking landmark and a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North Wales. As the highest navigable aqueduct in the UK, it is an incredible feat of engineering and a sight that never fails to impress. Walking along the aqueduct, you are treated to panoramic views of the surrounding Dee Valley, with its rolling hills, winding river, and lush greenery creating a picture-perfect backdrop.
One of the highlights of visiting this iconic site is taking a canal boat trip across the aqueduct. Gliding along the tranquil waterway is an unforgettable experience. The boats are charming, well-maintained, and provide a unique perspective of the structure from above the valley. As you travel slowly across, you can fully appreciate the scale and elegance of the aqueduct, while enjoying the calmness of the water and the gentle sounds of nature around you.
The scenery along the canal is equally enchanting. Wildlife is abundant, and the peaceful waters reflect the sky and countryside beautifully, making it a photographer’s dream. The boat trips are relaxing yet engaging, offering commentary about the history of the aqueduct and the canal system, which adds depth to the experience.
Whether you are walking across, taking a boat trip, or simply admiring the aqueduct from afar, Pontcysyllte is a remarkable place that combines history, engineering, and natural beauty. It is a perfect day out for families, couples, or anyone wanting to enjoy one of Wales’ most iconic and scenic locations.
A masterpiece both an engineering wonder and a stunning scenic spot. Walking across it was such a thrilling experience, with incredible views over the Dee Valley. The height and the narrow canal path make it feel adventurous, yet peaceful at the same time.
The surroundings are lovely for a quiet walk or a picnic, and there are a few nice cafés and pubs nearby for a stop afterwards. It’s amazing to think it’s been standing for over 200 years and still functions perfectly. Definitely worth a visit if you love nature, history, or just a bit of adventure
Fantastic to visit.
We had a boat ride over the aqueduct for 45mins.
The lady guide was exceptional in her knowledge of all the history and details.
She was also a " Skipper" and also lived in her longboat moored there.
Would recommend a tour if your in the area.
Great photograph experience too.
Will be back if on holiday in that area again.
Great place to visit, great views and beautiful scenery all around and a really nice stretch of the river dee too. There's a nice easy walk from the aqueduct to Ty Mawr Park which is great if you've got kids with its little animal park, playground and ice cream shop. At the aqueduct you can even hire a canal boat for the day too. Well recommend.
Pontcysyllte Aqueduct is a breathtaking feat of engineering and a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Welsh countryside. Completed in 1805, it carries the Llangollen Canal across the River Dee on 19 slender stone pillars, soaring 126 feet high. Walking across its narrow towpath offers stunning panoramic views and a thrilling sense of elevation. The aqueduct’s cast iron trough and elegant design showcase Thomas Telford’s ingenuity. Whether by foot or canal boat, the experience is unforgettable—serene, scenic, and steeped in history. It’s a must-visit for lovers of architecture, nature, and heritage, blending technical brilliance with tranquil beauty.
Latest of many visits to the area.
Signed up for canoe trip across the Aqueduct with Ty Nant Adventure.
Well organised experience with a great instructor. Scenery was great with the autumn colours to be seen all around. Fantastic breakfast in the Old Chapel tearoom.
This is over 200 years old viaduct over the River Dee. You can paddle or walk over it. For safety reasons paddle boarders have to push board with the paddle while walking instead is stand up paddling. View from the viaduct is breathtaking. In good conditions you can for many miles. There is a car park nearby in Trevor.
4.8
(7387)
4.7
(1804)
Station Rd, Trevor, Llangollen LL20 7TY, United Kingdom
9Jane R — Google reviewJulie G — Google reviewCameron P — Google reviewEmma B — Google reviewCharlotte N — Google reviewSandra P — Google reviewLyndsey I — Google review•
Talacre Beach Resort
Mentioned on
Holiday park
Outdoor Activities
Talacre Beach Resort is a popular destination for traditional seaside getaways, offering easy access to miles of golden sands and a vibrant seaside town. The resort has been providing family holidays for over 50 years and offers a wide range of activities to keep everyone entertained. Visitors can enjoy the nearby amusements arcades, bakery, and holiday shop, as well as comfortable accommodations including spacious caravans with options for large groups and even hot tubs.
We had a lovely stay at the caravan park! The site was clean and well looked after, and the staff were really friendly. Our Sunflower caravan was spotless, and the main room was surprisingly spacious compared to others we’ve stayed in before. The pool was lovely, and the kids really enjoyed it. We didn’t realise there were paid activities available until it was too late to book, but we’d definitely make the most of them next time. The restaurant on site was very good. Everyone else’s meals were lovely, although mine wasn’t quite as good on this occasion. The chippy on site was also great, and the evening entertainment was really good too, especially for the kids. Overall, a great place for a family weekend away, we’d definitely come back!
Gemma B — Google review
When for a girly weekend to celebrate my birthday and had a blast, even winning some bingo cash. Receptionist were great and friendly as we're all the staff we met. The caravan was clean and presented well, parking spaces available close by but can imagine these are few and far between in the summer. Bar and pool area clean and well kept. Drink prices were very reasonable. The chip shop food was just yummy and a good price. The entertainment are is small, wouldn't like to be in there in the summer!! The singer on the Saturday evening was very good and got everyone dancing. The friday night entertainment not so good!! Would come back for another stay. Be aware there is a walk to the entertainment complex from park2 we were lucky with the weather but would be miserable in the rain and no lighting.
Had a great time at Talacres. Beach 10 min walk, nice wee shops and cafe beside beach too. On site facilities were great, kids loved it. Caravan maybe needed a 'little' tlc but was spotless and had all the facilities you needed of a caravan. Great location to explore Wales and we based ourselves at Talacres as its close to Chester Zoo. Overall i would come back again and eould recommend
I would like to say a massive thank you to the lovely lady on reception. She was amazing from the start and any issues she would make sure it was done. We stayed in 132 foxtail was a lovely caravan but unfortunately with the winds she kindly moved us into 34 and what a beautiful caravan that was. Thank you for making our stay peaceful.
Amazing facilities too heated swimming pools hot tubs and saunas was brilliant use.
Unfortunately we wasn’t aloud in the bar area or the games room due to having our dog with us. As soon as we walked in the door they said you can’t bring your do in here although it was hard flooring and he’s a well behaved dog. But that didn’t stop us.
We tried the fish and chip shop unfortunately the food wasn’t nice at all but it didn’t effect our stay.
From Cameron Jake Millie and Rodney the cockpoo
We’ve stayed at Talacre Beach more times than I can count — it’s a lovely place with loads to do both on-site and off-site. The pool and amenities are great; I even did my swimming lessons here as a kid! It’s amazing to see how much it’s improved over the years.
There’s easy access to the beach (depending on your caravan’s location), and the chippy is brilliant — huge, tasty fish! Talacre village is just a short five-minute walk away with plenty of places to eat, drink, and explore. There’s also a big local bargain shop stocked with everything you might forget, plus souvenirs and beach bits.
We did have a couple of minor issues this time — a loud group that got a bit out of hand overnight (security could’ve stepped in sooner), and our caravan needed a little TLC in dog-friendly areas.
Still, we’ll definitely stay again — it’s a lovely, family- and dog-friendly site with lots to enjoy. Tip: it’s often cheaper to book direct with Darwin Escapes.
Have a lovely stay! 😊
The caravan park itself (especially Park B) is a bit drab and dreary. Not aesthetically pleasing at all. A bit off putting to be honest.
Our caravan (Saffron) was on the outskirts, facing residential properties, and with a lovely view of the gas bottle storage out the main bedroom window- which was quiet noisy at night as the wind was blowing the bottles, so they were all clanging together.
The caravan itself was VERY tired looking. Lots of damage to the corners of the work surfaces, water damage around the sinks in the bathrooms, holes in the bathroom floors, a hole in the main bedroom door, questionable mouldy looking stains to one of the single bed mattresses.
No heating at all in the bathrooms, so it was quite unpleasant.
Pots in the cupboards had remnants of previous guests food on them. Frying pan was falling to bits.
On departure, when I was collecting all our rubbish up, In one on the bins in the bathroom I discovered a previous guests soiled sanitary towel UNDER the bin bag, so lord knows how long that has been there.
We won’t be returning.
Great location, only few minutes walk to the beach. I enjoyed quiet walks at the beach. Quiet and fairly clean resort, the caravan itself was clean with well equipped kitchen, but be sure to take your own toilet roll, they used to provide 1 toilet role, but not this time. I had to get some from the local shop. The staff was great, I had an issue with the caravan, I called reception, they sent someone straightaway and got it resolved.
this is the second time we have been to talacre, it was just as good as last time. W were on park 2 it was only a little stroll to beach, it was so good everything was dog friendly.
We took advantage of the adult only swim, and we had the pool to ourselves.
We had a lovely meal at the bistro all the staff we encountered were polite and welcoming.
We will be back to visit in 2026.
4.1
(1935)
4.5
(307)
Station Rd, Talacre, Holywell CH8 9RD, United Kingdom
10Steven M — Google reviewNeil N — Google reviewS E — Google reviewChris C — Google reviewNicholas M — Google reviewJ B — Google reviewPaul L — Google review•
Moel Famau
Mentioned on
Mountain peak
Sights & Landmarks
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Moel Famau, the highest hill in the Clwydian Range at 554 meters, is a popular hiking destination offering stunning vistas of the Welsh countryside. The summit features the remains of a tower and provides panoramic views stretching across North Wales and into Northwest England. The challenging two or three-day walk to Moel Famau showcases the spectacular scenery of the Clwydian Range, including heather-laden hills and Iron Age hillforts.
Decided to go up the hard way ascending from the north, which got a few moans from the little lady but well worth it when we reached the top as spectacular views. It was blustery and cold in the shade even in July so go prepared as it's not a stroll in the part.
Michael P — Google review
Beautiful place with lovely views great place to go for a walk but quite steep need to be reasonably fit, there are some parking spaces that are free for two hours but any longer and you have to pay in the local council designated area but I can recommend a visit.
Weather walking a circular, linear or point to point route, this is a splendid area. Open mountain tops and easy ridge walking. The views on a clear day are fantastic. A large pay car park has several starting points, including circular walks. If you have dogs, a lead is essential as this is sheep country.
Fantastic walk did the 7 miler very steady going for the first couple of hours then slowly becomes a bit tougher towards the foot of the tower. Hike up to the tower is pretty strenuous but not far. The views are incredible. Car parking and toilets available.
Amazing hike up for sunsets. A little steep but quite easy. Takes about 45 minutes to get up/down each way.
No toilets, can be very windy.
Moel Famau (CH7 5PH) is an absolutely stunning park with breathtaking natural scenery and expansive landscapes that make it a paradise for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts. The area is vast and filled with scenic trails, offering everything from gentle slopes to challenging climbs that reward you with incredible panoramic views. It’s the perfect destination for anyone looking to get away from the bustle of city life and immerse themselves in nature’s peace and beauty.
That said, Moel Famau feels more like a hiker’s park than a typical family day-out spot. It’s ideal for long walks, trail running, or even a weekend camping adventure rather than for playground-style recreation. There are toilet facilities available, and the open spaces make it suitable for a relaxed picnic or BBQ if the weather’s good. Overall, it’s a must-visit for fitness lovers and anyone who enjoys exploring the great outdoors.
We set out for Moel Famau confidently aiming for the yellow route… and somehow ended up happily marching along the blue one. Clearly, our navigation skills peak at “just follow the sheep.” Despite the accidental detour, the climb was brilliant. Even on a foggy day, the views had a magical, mysterious feel—peaks drifting in and out like something from a fantasy film. The Jubilee Tower appeared out of the mist like a reward for our unintended adventure. Whether you take the right path or invent your own like we did, Moel Famau still delivers breathtaking scenery, fresh air, and plenty of laughs along the way.
Great walk in nature. Amazing views when clear. 10km circular to and from Loggerheads with ~500m elevation gain.
4.9
(649)
4.6
(400)
Mold, CH7 5PH, United Kingdom
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11Emily T — Google reviewAbbalina B — Google reviewEmma M — Google reviewLynn ( — Google reviewNicolle D — Google reviewJulie S — Google reviewMichael G — Google review•
Ruthin Gaol Museum - Amgueddfa Carchar Rhuthun
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Local history museum
Museums
Ruthin Gaol Museum - Amgueddfa Carchar Rhuthun is a fascinating place that offers insight into the history of crime and punishment in the 1800s. Visitors can explore at their own pace, read about the exhibits, and even dress up in old prisoner uniforms for a unique experience. The well-preserved building provides an immersive look into the lives of inmates.
I've been waiting for RG to open for the 2025 seson so that I could visit. Paid parking close by.
A friendly welcome from staff.
£9 entry which included an audio tour.
Well laid out and interesting stories and facts throughout.
Great Escaper Trail for kids to do.
There is a lift for disabled customers.
No cafe.
No shop as such but a few reasonably priced souvenirs available.
We spent about an hour and a half at RG but I can imagine if you have kids it would take longer.
Well worth trip.
Really enjoyed it.
Gill L — Google review
Amazing little gem! We found this on a quite rainy bank holiday Monday when everything else in the area was closed!
Staff were friendly, and the jail was aimed at adults and kids alike. My sons loved the audio guides on the way round.
We stayed just over an hour, as it's very small, and over half of it is closed off to the public due to it storing archives.
Worth a visit if you're in the area!
Great value, welcoming staff, historic and educational. Fun and interactive. Lots to learn and several rooms to enter each with their own information. Audio guide as part of your entry was a great touch. You scan and listen or skip on move on to the next bit. Nice gift shop. Set in a quant little town. Car park available nearby within 5 minutes walk for a standard surcharge.
Brilliant afternoon out for all the family. Staff are lovely, the gaol is great, lots of history, dressing up and quizzes for the children and interactive points throughout. Great day
A great find, thanks to Google 😀
We paid our £9 entrance fee. This gives 20% discount when visiting Nant Clwyd Y Dre.
The girls on the desk were lovely. I forgot to ask their names, sorry girls.
Off we went exploring. We declined the audio tour, but it is available with a map.
Plenty of information boards around detailing the history, including its use as a munitions factory during the Second World War.
This is a great place for families. Not just little kids get to dress up 🤣 Yes, we did. Guys, you need to make bigger frocks 😊
Anyway, we enjoyed our visit, well done.
A few souvenirs available, toilet facilities and a lift for those that need it.
Downside, no cafe.
Lovely museum to visit, the audio guides and the interactive screen at the end really added to the experience, and theres interesting things to keep kids interested too.
Fabulous family day out, can the kids escape or will they be caught.... Arts and crafts at the end to ...
When we arrived there was no queue for tickets, and there were not many people in the gaol at all. The staff at reception were very friendly. We picked up audio tour devices and made our way around. It was very interesting looking at how the gaol operated, what life was like, and how it was then repurposed during World War 2. The audio tour was very informative, especially for those people who don't like reading all the long information boards. We spent about 2 hours going around the gaol, and felt like we had seen everything.
4.6
(376)
4.5
(297)
Clwyd St, Ruthin, LL15 1HP, United Kingdom
12Yevhen S — Google reviewTitanium X — Google reviewKevin M — Google reviewJustin M — Google reviewClaire H — Google reviewSonya B — Google reviewTeri R — Google review•
National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden
Mentioned on
affordable
Castle
National Trust - Powis Castle and Garden is a historic stately home with lavish interiors and an impressive Indian collection. Originally a stronghold of the Welsh princes of Powys, the castle dates back to the 13th century and has been remarkably preserved. Visitors can explore the courtyard and deer park for free or choose to pay admission to tour the castle and its well-kept gardens. The site also features amenities such as a coffee shop, book shop, and plant stall for visitors to enjoy.
Just stunning, what a setting! Beautiful castle set in amazing grounds, views and gardens. Very good museum , lovely interior of the castle so work taking place with rewiring in a few rooms. Staff are very helpful and welcoming. Its cloud ( yew) hedging is something to behold- you can actually walk through it! Gardens are excellent and well tended. Good cafe, free parking. Would definitely recommend a visit.
Malcolm T — Google review
If you are in Wales🏴, this place is absolutely recommended to visit.
Despite the castle quite small and you cannot take photos inside, it's a very authentic and historical place. The gardens… they are truly amazing! When we visited this place, the weather was great and we spent about 3 hours walking and admiring the wonderful views.
5 stars from 5🏰
NOTE: Castle and museum closes at 3 pm! Last admission to the garden - 4.30 pm. Not allowed to take photos inside the castle. Backpacks need to be carried on the front, not back to avoid damages.
Beautiful place. Garden is absolutely magnificent. You can get apples from the trees in the garden for donation. Cages are placed near cafe at the bottom of the garden. If you will be lucky you'll see deer near car park.
Powis castle is now looked after by the national trust, so as per normal you get the usual , cafe, shop, etc. The castle is stunning, particularly in autumn when I went. The colours were breathtaking, though getting down to the gardens is quite a climb but well worth it. The castle is high end with some fantastic rooms , though no photos are allowed inside unfortunately. Volunteers were informative and helpful . There is an exhibition to do with Clive of India whose son married one of the daughters of the Herbert family that lived here. Well worth a visit.
It was my first visit to this castle and it really surpassed my expectations. I arrived at 10:30 and there was plenty of car parking all well signed. I had my Rab fleece on, soft shell trousers and Salomon cross trainers on. I was prepared for a lot of walking. There was a coach load of visitors just ahead of me, so I walked briskly to bypass the lot of them. No need as the museum and galleries didn’t open till 11 am!
As you’d expect in a National Trust site, there’s lots of immaculately kept gardens, grounds and they’re very informative. Staff are dedicated and delighted to share the history and details of the castle. Fiona was very wonderful to chat to in the museum section devoted to Indian artefacts and history.
The weather unfortunately was foggy but you still had spectacular views of the grounds, lake and the flowers, hedges and autumnal trees that masqueraded throughout. No photography is permitted inside the castle itself which is a shame. I spent a little under three hours here and enjoyed every minute. A must see spot if you’re in the vicinity.
First time visiting today on a grey drizzly autumn day and I could not have had a more gorgeous day. The most exquisite grounds and castle I have ever seen. Absolutely worth a visit. Beyond beautiful.
Powis Castle is an asolutely amazing place to visit for the whole family. Friendly staff throughout and beautiful gardens to explore with so much to see. The castle looks spectacular from the opposite side of the gardens and was very interesting to look around. The tearooms were superb and served a good variety of refreshments including speciality teas and coffee's, scones and cakes with a good selection of lunch options too. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit and would highly recommend.
Beautifully sculpted grounds with a large array of different plants and trees around the castle , staff were friendly and helpful.
Coffee was decent and coffee shop was quaint.
Bruce the cat was a lovely edition and he also made us welcome on the grounds 😁🐈⬛
4.7
(7813)
4.5
(2315)
Powis Castle, Welshpool, SY21 8RF, United Kingdom
13Hayley E — Google reviewLucky K — Google reviewJB — Google reviewKevin M — Google reviewLewis M — Google reviewJackie R — Google reviewHoward B — Google review•
Montgomery Castle
Mentioned on
Historical place
Sights & Landmarks
Castles
Montgomery Castle, situated on a steep crag above the picturesque Georgian town of Montgomery, was built by the Normans in the 11th century. Initially constructed by Henry III as a replacement for a nearby wooden fort, it featured stone inner wards, defensive ditches, drawbridges, and a walled town. The castle survived attacks from Welsh princes and changed hands multiple times throughout its history. Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.
Standing proud on a ridge overlooking the countryside of the English, Welsh border, and the small but architectural Georgian town of Montgomery, you can see just why this castle was built in such a commanding position!
There’s a small car park which on the day we visited, filled up quick, it’s clearly a popular place to visit when the weathers good.
A good example of a border castle, you can get lost walking the grounds and taking in the sites, sounds and views across the countryside - maybe on a nice day it’s the place for a picnic and making an afternoon of it.
Will H — Google review
Lovely Welsh castle free to visit in the old county town of Montgomery. Lots of history from the war of the roses & an English civil war battle took place here . Amazing views & a lot of the ruins remain. Decent size carpark with electric hook up for one car.
Hi duckies! The first thing i saw on google maps when exploring this place was the castle. Decided to come up on day #5 of our holiday. Absolutely outstanding views and a lovely walk. Would recommend coming here when you’re in the area, love from lucky keyring xx
Free to access, fairly steep walk up from Montgomery although there’s a car park you can use which cuts out the short walk. Very interesting to read about the history of the site and the wars/battles which took place here. Wonderful views.
A free enter castle with limited parking (though one electric charging point) . The castle is in ruins with wonderous views along the hills and valleys. There are info boards throughout but its the views you will remember more than the castle
It was a beautiful day and the views over the surrounding countryside were superb.
There are useful information boards as there wasn't a shop or kiosk to purchase a brochure from. The walk I personally took was steep but the return trip to the main square was obviously easier and shorter by a different route. In addition,there were enough remains of the castle to make it worthwhile. A lovely town crowned by a almost impregnate castle.
Free to enter, impressive even in ruins. Fantastic views. Good information boards. Car parking at the castle. Flat access. Car parking in the square nr town hall. Toilets at back of town hall. Free.
Dogs on a short lead are now allowed around the Castle grounds and ruins.
Well worth a visit. Then a fantastic walk up the hill to the Montgomery monument.
4.6
(835)
4.5
(226)
2 Pool Rd, Montgomery, SY15 6QY, United Kingdom
14Andrew E — Google reviewTim M — Google reviewWilliam B — Google reviewAnne S — Google reviewS B — Google reviewMarie E — Google reviewClive M — Google review•
The Judge's Lodging Powys
Temporarily Closed
Museum
Specialty Museums
The Judge's Lodging in Powys, located in Presteigne, offers a unique opportunity to step back into the 1870s. This award-winning attraction was once hailed as the most elegant apartments for a judge in England and Wales. The building, a Grade 2 listed structure, provides insight into Victorian life and features original fixtures and furnishings. Operated by passionate volunteers, it includes preserved areas such as the kitchen, prisoner cells, and courtroom.
Fascinating ... our second visit. We arrived shortly after opening time and had the whole place to ourselves most of the time. Plenty to see. The audio tour was informative and entertaining. Well worth a visit. £9.95 each is pretty reasonable as it gives entry for a full 12 months. Parking is available a few yards from the entrance.
Colin R — Google review
WOW!.. this will either be one of the best hours to spend looking around the old mid 1850s judges house and courthouse or maybe a bit boring for some.
Never have I visited anywhere that still has genuine oil lamps and gas lamps used as the only lighting giving a first hand experience of just how dark some of these places must have been.
Kitchens, bedrooms all beautifully restored to an “As was” condition.
Great place, lovely hosts and a special mention goes to Joyce who looked after Barney my dog whilst I went around the museum.
Wonderful recreation of an early Victorian grand property. All lighting exactly as it would have been lends an authenticity to a very sympathetically done museum. Thoroughly enjoyable pop up cafe to finish.
This is the best museum I have ever been in! I truly felt immersed. Especially with the gas lamps.
The only thing that I would improve is the modernist café, the cake and coffee was as excellent as the service. If the Café was the same decor as the rest of the house I would of been very happy indeed!!
What a wonderful place. Thoroughly enjoyed the tour with the storytellers on the headsets giving a glimpse of life as it was!
Lovely tea & cake too.
This is the most atmospheric and immersive historical site I have been to in years. It reminds me of the spectacular Dennis Severs house in Spitalfields, London, but far cheaper. If you find yourself within 45 minutes of Presteigne, go!
Fantastic tour, felt like a real step back in time. Wonderful intro by the curator, Gabby, informative and very interesting. Lovely afternoon tea too. Highly recommend.
Absolute delight; worth making quite a detour to visit. The courthouse, cells and judges’ and magistrates’ lodging rooms whilst visiting and preserved with remarkable completeness. Lit by oil and gas lamps, the whole period is brilliantly brought to life. The artefacts can all be handled. There is an informative audio which brings the voices of people of the time to life. Kids would love the place. In addition Presteigne is a charming, historic town well worth a visit.
4.8
(183)
5.0
(192)
Broad St, Presteigne, LD8 2AD, United Kingdom
15Adil R — Google reviewDev — Google reviewMariana F — Google reviewBinu R — Google reviewPhil A — Google reviewSatish W — Google reviewDawid S — Google review•
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
Pistyll Rhaeadr Waterfall, located in the western side of the Berwyn mountain range, is a stunning three-stage waterfall with a total drop of 73 meters. Despite being often mistakenly referred to as Wales' tallest single-drop waterfall, it offers breathtaking views and can be easily accessed via a footpath from the nearby car park. Visitors can also enjoy a tearoom and B&B at its base, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing day trip.
Beautiful waterfall with its very own fairy Bridge. Parking is really close has a set price of £5 per car. Very short walk to the falls you can actually sit out side the cafe and get a lovely view of the falls. There are toilets on site. Staff in the cafe were really nice and attentive. You can climb up to the top of the falls its around a 30 minute trek I'm led to believe from the top you can see a lovely view of the valley. You need to be careful driving down to the falls as its only a 1 track lane but there are places you can pass as parts of the road are wider.
Michael C — Google review
🌿✨ Pistyll Rhaeadr is truly a magical gem in Wales. The moment you arrive, you’re greeted with the breathtaking sight and sound of the waterfall cascading down from the mountains. It’s one of those rare places where time seems to stand still — you can sit for hours upon hours, simply soaking in the beauty and serenity of nature.
The fresh mountain air, the natural flow of water, and the surrounding greenery make it a place of pure peace and reflection. It’s not just a waterfall, it’s an experience — one that leaves you feeling refreshed and deeply connected to nature.
You can park for free outside, but it's a couple mins walk and very limited parking. I just paid £5 inside the carpark.
A must-visit for anyone who appreciates the wonders of the natural world. 🌊🍃
Free entry, you pay for parking by cash or card, I think the parking was around £5. There is a little nice cafe that overlooks the beautiful scenery. The waterfall is most definitely worth the trip if you are heading past. The drive up to the waterfall is very narrow and takes a good 15mins down a narrow road.
Beautiful place to go for a hike, or just watch the waterfall. It's magical! Totally worth it!!
There's a car park right next to the waterfall, £5 the whole day. There's a bed & breakfast also right next to it, which you can go for a meal, or a break, however the toilets are outside and you need to pay 50p for each person, which I advise to take some coins, if you travel big distances like I did.
The waterfall is a beautiful sight, At 240 feet it's the tallest in Wales. It's easy to explore the lower and middle parts but if you wish to explore upwards then you need to be confident with heights.
From the car park it is a 2 minute walk to the viewing area at the base of the falls. Accessible to most people of different athletic abilities, but not accessible by wheelchair users or anyone unable to walk steps.
Please note long narrow road up to the waterfall (approx 3.5 miles), with limited passing places but worth the trip.
Very busy making the 2-3 mile single track road to it stand still traffic jams with as many as 20 cars stuck in both directions unable to reverse to a passing single car passing place. Beautiful spot out of season though❤️. Incredible views but like many beauty spots it has become over saturated with tourists detracting from what would be an incredible spot.
Pistyll Rhaeadr is an absolutely stunning place to visit. The waterfall is breathtaking, especially as you get closer and feel the mist from the water. The walk up is peaceful, surrounded by beautiful greenery and calm nature. It’s a perfect spot for photos, quiet moments, and enjoying the scenery.
The area is well-kept, and the views from the top and bottom are equally amazing. A lovely place for a day out — refreshing, scenic, and truly memorable.
Great spot for easy, scenic hikes. The waterfall is absolutely stunning and well worth the visit. We went on a Sunday, so it was fairly busy with quite a sizeable crowd. Parking is paid at a meter, and note that the toilets require a separate fee. The café is cosy and welcoming, offering a nice selection of sandwiches, panini, and cakes—a perfect stop after a walk.
4.6
(4400)
4.0
(487)
Tanypistyll, Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Oswestry, SY10 0BZ, United Kingdom
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16Brigitta T — Google reviewJack R — Google reviewPete W — Google reviewDave B — Google reviewAndrew C — Google reviewBezeb — Google reviewCraig T — Google review•
Llyn Tegid
Mentioned on
Lake
Nature & Parks
Bodies of Water
Llyn Tegid, also known as Bala Lake, is the largest natural lake in Wales and is located in the picturesque town of Bala. Surrounded by mountains such as Snowdonia and the Berwyn mountains, this serene lake offers a tranquil setting with picnic areas and opportunities for non-motorized boating. The town of Bala itself boasts a rich cultural heritage and provides easy access to popular attractions in the region.
We were looking for a place for paddleboarding and this is how we got to this lake. It was a sunny Sunday, unexpectedly busy 😱 . We were circling around the main car park 2-3 times without any luck to find a tiny place to park. So we drove away and found an other car park not too far. Parking was £5 for the day. At the main car park facilities available, you can get food, burgers etc but very very pricey. Amazing landscape, we had an amazing time and great fun on the lake. Definitely recommended for paddleboarding, kayaking etc.
Petra R — Google review
Perfect for swimming, the water is warm. Ideal for children as it's very shallow for quite a long distance. Great outdoor activities available, free toilet. Also a restaurant, ice cream. Lots of parking available nearby.
Beautiful and peaceful area, I walked around a good part of the lake and rounded off with a coffee in a cafe
A good place for views of various areas.
You can use boats,canoes,wind boards, paddle boards
There are walking areas.
Dog friendly.
Cafe.
Toilets.
Parking areas.
Child friendly.
And there is a steamtrain journey the length of the lake and back.
Awesome campsite right on the lake.
Great atmosphere and views. Very busy at weekends. Great staff
Great for friendly dogs too
Amazing place to cool off, swim, paddle boarding, and other water sports.
What a gorgeous place, kept looking out for the Welsh 'Nessy' but alas no joy. The lake is huge and even bigger as it has been raining quite a bit, but then it is November. Lovely walk up to the cafe which serves good food. Plenty of parking around the lake. Good drive out and great to see. 👍😃
Pulled over from driving upon sight of this lake as it was just beautiful. I will be returning to Bala for a longer visit as it is one of the most beautiful places I have seen in Wales.
4.8
(682)
4.5
(399)
Bala, UK, USA
17Hennie H — Google reviewLoves T — Google reviewRick S — Google reviewDavid L — Google reviewTracy W — Google reviewAbhi K — Google reviewTony H — Google review•
Zip World Betws-y-Coed
Mentioned on
Adventure sports center
Nature & Parks
Zip World Betws-y-Coed, located in the stunning woodland setting of North Wales Conwy Valley, offers a variety of thrilling adventures for the whole family. With six different activities to choose from, including the unique Fforest Coaster and Treetop Nets, there's something for everyone. Visitors can also experience the UK's only alpine coaster, zip lines high in the trees, and even take a tandem freefall jump or ride on Europe's highest giant swing.
What an experience this place is. It isn't cheap and it's frustrating that you have to pay a booking fee and also parking fees in the middle of nowhere!
However, those 2 niggles aside, it is a stunning place in a forest with various things to do. We only went to do the forest coaster and it was just amazing!
There are other activities to do such as tree tops, big swing and there is a cafe for food. There is also a small gift shop and toilets so you can attend without any worries! We took our own food so unsure what the cafe is like...
Staff are also very pleasant and happy to help with anything.
In terms of disabled access, there are designated parking spaces and everything is flat but, it is a forest on a hill so there is a slight incline in places plus the ground would be difficult for wheelchairs.
If you have an electric vehicle, there are charging ports and spaces on the left as you enter :)
Id definitely return! Enjoy!
Shaun — Google review
A fun family day out. The forest coaster is the main attraction of course. Didn't wait more than 25 mins to get on. The scenic ride up to the top is almost better than the coaster itself. Lovely woods and an amazing thriss on the way down. Clean and well staffed. A great time for the family.
We came as a group of 20 and had an amazing time! The Fforest Coaster was brilliant – fast, full of twists, and way more exciting than I expected. The whole place has a great forest atmosphere and feels like a proper adventure spot.
The staff were really friendly and helpful, and even though there was a bit of a queue, everything ran smoothly. There’s plenty to do – we spotted people on the treetop ropes course, which looked like a lot of fun. The tipi bar seemed like a great place to relax too (shame it wasn’t open during our visit).
It’s not the cheapest day out, but definitely worth the money. Highly recommend if you’re in the area – perfect for both kids and adults, and just a really fun day in the trees!
Great fun all the family we had a 5 year and 10 year old both wanted to do activities. Both loved the forest coaster and then zip lines. We moved our booking due to weather forecast this wasnt an issue staff easily did it for us over the phone.
Simply fantastic. Family of four we went on the Alpine coaster, three goes each. Was fantastic. If you want a little bit of adrenaline this is definitely for you looked to be a very well run business friendly staff would go back again thank you very much.
Fabulous, chucking yourself down a hill has never been so fun. Totally recommended. This time of year are great fungi finds, just look to the right on the way up 🍄🟫🍄
Zip World Betws-y-Coed is more than just a place for a single thrill ride; it's a full-day adventure park nestled in the stunning scenery of the Gwydir Forest. We visited with our family and were blown away by the variety of activities on offer, each one perfectly integrated into the beautiful woodland setting.
The star of the show for us was the Fforest Coaster. It's truly a one-of-a-kind experience. You are pulled up a track slowly, which gives you plenty of time to take in the breathtaking forest views, before you get to control your own speed on the way down. The track twists and turns through the trees, giving you a real feeling of being on a thrilling alpine toboggan. Getting three rides with one ticket is fantastic, as it allows you to get more confident and go faster with each run.
Beyond the coaster, we also spent time on the Treetop Nets, which is a surprisingly fun and energetic activity. Bouncing around on huge trampolines suspended high in the trees feels surreal and is a great way for both kids and adults to burn off some energy. The staff were all incredibly friendly and helpful, making sure everyone was safely kitted out and understood the instructions.
The location itself is perfect. There's a cafe on-site for a well-deserved refuel, and the park is a short walk from Betws-y-Coed town centre if you want to explore more. Whether you're an adrenaline junkie or just looking for a unique family day out, Zip World Betws-y-Coed delivers on all fronts. It’s an unforgettable experience and a definite highlight of any trip to North Wales.
Came here last week. We did the safari and the coaster. Safari was OK my little lad got bored after an hour all of it was much the same and very fiddly. Also instructor told us to but one hand on top off the metal on the zip wire I really don't recommend this I pinched my skin on it and got a blister! Be very careful! Also the queuing system for the coaster was unbelievable! You have to que to get on it then once you get on it you have to get on and off another 3 times! Surely there could be a better system? I suspect they do this because after each go you get a ticket where you can purchase a video of your go (£8 each!) Overall it was OK but not my favourite zip world. got free parking online because I booked two activities but got charged a booking fee!! So Overpriced.
4.7
(4502)
4.4
(1812)
A470, Betws-y-Coed, LL24 0HX, United Kingdom
18Billie G — Google reviewMichael C — Google reviewLorraine I — Google reviewNeil — Google reviewChloe F — Google reviewPeter A — Google reviewKeith R — Google review•
Bala Lake Railway / Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Tours
Scenic Railroads
Bala Lake Railway, also known as Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid, offers a delightful nine-mile round trip through Snowdonia National Park on narrow gauge steam trains. Passengers can enjoy stunning views of Bala Lake and the nearby mountains while riding heritage locomotives. The railway also features a charming station cafe and the opportunity to meet a Welsh engine named Winifred from children's books.
Staff / Volunteers are really friendly, knowledgeable and accommodating; The cafe serves tasty snacks and drinks;The trains and carriages are cute; And the scenery is stupendous!
We had a fantastic day here as did many other people of all ages.
Very dog-friendly throughout (everyone was responsible with them) & the dogs also clearly enjoyed it too.
A great family day out!
Kate A — Google review
Always like a trip on a light railway so thought we would come to bala whilst holidaying in North Wales. You can book your tickets online or the nice people can sell you one when the train arrives...the time table for the train is online or on the notice board before you wait for the train. We parked in town and walked to the platform its about a 20min walk, but I think you can park a bit nearer, lovely views of the lakes as you sit on train, you can pay return journey too...then on our return we did the lakeside walk back into bala as we had the dogs with us, yes they too can travel on the train. You can get refreshments at the other station too. We'll worth a trip 😁
Bala lake Railway is now operating daily 4.5 miles by the side of Lake Bala. We arrived at Llanuwchllyn to start our journey a round trip down to Bala. Parking was free there are toilets, Cafe and a gift shop. While we waited for Alice our little engine to arrive we had a tour of the signal box. There was plenty of opportunity to get some great pictures. Views across Lake Bala was lovely all while you can smell the fumes from the engine while plumes of smoke left the funnel. Sure this is how it was in the old days. The engine itself is ove 100 years old and seems to have no problem in pulling all the passengers and carriages. Staff here were very welcoming and hospitable, we had a great talk to the driver who was a wealth of knowledge as was the signalman. Cost was just over £30 for 2 adults which was for the return journey. At the Bala end you can get off and walk into Bala I would say it took us 20 to 25 minutes. Allowing us around 50 mins to an hour if you catch the morning train you would get 4 to 5 hours. We would highly recommend this great experience where Adults and children alike can enjoy Bala Lake from a different view point. All info can be found online also ticket booking if you prefer to pay at the Station then the Train guard can accept payment and issue you a ticket. Thankyou to all the great staff it was made memorable for all these hard working people.
Gorgeous narrow gauge railway. Beautiful engines and spotless carriages. Llanuwchllyn station is a step back in history that had been preserved in excellent condition. The station cafe serves filling snacks and the gift shop is full of interesting items 😀
Excellent experience with the wonderful heritage small guage steam train. Carriages were spacious enough for the two of us plus our German Shepherd. Scenic route by the lakeside to Bala. Would recommend the short walk into Bala and returning at least a couple of hours later to give yourself browsing time in the charming town of Bala. Warm and welcoming staff and many warm and friendly volunteers. Would recommend looking at the heritage museum, cafe and shop on site.
Purchased tickets for a family of four for a full return trip, after waiting and approaching a member of staff about some details on the lake stop our family was told we’d be refused to be let off at the first stop, an EARLIER stop than what we’d purchased. This was communicated so poorly by staff that could barely give eye contact and offered no solution just “ you can’t do that” needless to say on a extremely warm day with towels in tow and swimsuits on ready for a day at the lake we found a hidden gem of a spot from sheer luck.
The station at Bala is literally a bus shelter. The nearest parking is 15 minutes walk away. The train travels very slowly and in summer when the trees are in full leaf you won't see much of the lake. When you get to the terminus there is a lot to see a d beautifully restored station building with lots of parking and a nice camp site. Start your journey here.
Very friendly staff helping customers on the train.
We were lucky that the weather was great.
Lovely cakes are available in the cafe on the station at Llanuwchllyn.
We visited the engine workshop as well - just asked the person there if we could, and we were invited in. He answered lots of questions that my son had.
Lovely view over the lake as we travelled down towards Bala.
There are no facilities at Bala just somewhere to sit if you wait to board the next train.
4.6
(1763)
4.4
(461)
Station Rd, Llanuwchllyn, Bala LL23 7DD, United Kingdom
19Noel K — Google reviewPaul S — Google reviewLyn C — Google reviewPaul M — Google reviewLeanne B — Google reviewEmma — Google reviewGillian E — Google review
Ffos Anoddun (Fairy Glen)
Mentioned on
Nature & Parks
Geologic Formations
Fairy Glen is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, located within the Gwydir Forest. It's a secluded gorge and beauty spot along the Conwy River, offering enchanting views and picturesque surroundings. The hike to Fairy Glen is relatively manageable, with well-maintained paths and benches along the way for resting and taking in the stunning scenery. While some parts of the trail can be slippery and steep, it's generally accessible for most hikers.
A tranquil and quiet area to visit, the area has a small £1 admission fee via a gate, cash only in the box, once down there it can be very slippery so watch your step. Could have stayed there for hours listening to the water.
Ben — Google review
A stunning fairytale like setting and really back with nature at its finest. Today was 23 degrees Celsius and gave me a good hike for an hour. It's the kind of place you would like to keep secret and have it all to yourself. Beautiful.
Fairy Glen – Peaceful and Atmospheric
A beautiful, tucked-away spot with a quiet charm. The steps down are steep, so take care if it’s wet. Parking and entrance are paid via honesty boxes—bring coins and please contribute to help maintain the site. A lovely place for a short walk and a moment of calm.
An extremely beautiful stretch of river in a gorge with rocks and pools. Peaceful and tranquil. The paths are rough with tree roots and the path to the bottom is very steep stone steps that can be slippery when wet. Well worth it to go to the bottom for the tranquil experience. There is a car park near the entrance with an honesty box to pay.
Best to visit early as there is only a small car park which costs £1 plus £1 entry for an adult. You can do a circular walk which is just under 1 mile and easy going it can be slippery in wet weather so wear some decent walking shoes.
Lovely place to visit, very unlevel but that is the whole appeal, and in its natural state.. leading down to gorge there are some steps but sturdy shoes etc needed and would be very slippery if wet. Dry when I visited..would definitely come again🥰
A truly spectacular and dreamlike experience. It doesn’t even feel like you are in the UK when you’re staring down the rapids of the river crashing over the rocks. Well signposted tracks and only £1 to enter - worth far more than that! I adore this place.
The Fairy Glen is well worth the trek but is definitely a proper hike. I was very glad that I had proper grip on my shoes. My travel companion only made it half way down. It was very picturesque.
20Paul M — Google reviewAnthony H — Google reviewLucca T — Google reviewWill M — Google reviewAndrew B — Google reviewShaun B — Google reviewMark S — Google review•
Rhaeadr Ewynnol / Swallow Falls
Mentioned on
Scenic spot
Nature & Parks
Waterfalls
Located in a charming, wooded area in North Wales, Swallow Falls is a breathtaking waterfall with churning waters that can be reached by walking along a narrow and rocky footpath for 2.5 miles from the Tyn Llwyn car park in Gwydyr.
I've been in the blue ridge mountains the rocky mountains and the high searas.
But these mountains and road ways are like nothing I have ever seen it's just beautifully majestic, passing through all the little pictures villages and cottages takes u back to another time and place. I could spend weeks maybe the rest of my life there it's just beautifully beyond words I wish every one could get a chance to see
Robert H — Google review
Stunning waterfalls especially after rain. You enter through an automated turnstile which costs £2 and is card payment only as far as I know you can enter anytime. The car park is free but can get full at peak times an other option would be to go in the Swallow Falls Inn across the road and use there car park which is for customers only so have a drink or something to eat then quickly visit the falls after.
We stopped off at the Swallow Falls on our way home. It was over twenty-five years since we last visited, so long overdue!
We paid the £2.00 entry fee and could believe the noise. We were visiting after Storm Amy has passed through so there was plenty of water flowing at great speed and volume.
Since we last visited, more safety fencing and concrete steps have been laid, making it safe to climb down to the waters edge.
Thankfully, we were wearing waterproofs so kept dry. We were able to walk down to the waters edge and to be so close to such a raging flow reminded me of standing under Niagara Falls in Canada. The noise was deafening and exciting. We stayed for about twenty minutes as we had a two hour journey home.
The steps are steep with handrails for support so good footwear is advisable. A raincoat might be helpful depending on recent rainfall. There are no facilities but there is additional parking across the road at the Swallow Falls Hotel. To be fair, you might want to purchase a drink. We parked in the lay-by beside the Falls.
From here, we drove into Betws-y-Coed and parked by the river. The bridge is narrow and visitors stand either side to view the small Falls.
A magnificent waterfall can be admired from several viewpoints behind the gate (£2). You can sit on a bench and let yourself be carried away. The walk is short, but the beauty will surely captivate you for a while.
Nice enough to stop past and have a look. We thought it was a longer walk to get there but actually you go through the turnstile gate (£2 per person, contactless payment available) and you are more or less there. They have however built a couple of viewing platforms accessed by stairs so overall we spent about 15minutes there. Small free parking lay-by in front of entrance, more parking (pay and display) belonging to hotel which is just across the road.
There are not many attractions in the uk that cost £2 to enjoy and can offer a glimpse of such raw power. Visit if possible after rain. Take your lunch as there is a seating area that very few seem to find. Steps with good hand rail access to lower platforms. Great views to appreciate at the different viewing areas. Allow 30min.
Really beautiful waterfall. Well worth the £2 entrance fee. Relatively easy walk down to the falls. The path and stairs are good. It is slightly steep but manageable even if you are unfit. There is a small free parking area near the falls, but it can get quite busy at times. It's definitely worth a visit.
This is a lovely place to visit, 2 pounds entry is very reasonable. The falls are stunning, even on a rainy day!
4.5
(5434)
4.2
(2276)
Snowdonia National Park, Swallow Falls, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0DW, United Kingdom
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21Harri F — Google reviewHi_Ru — Google reviewTerry C — Google reviewTracey M — Google reviewElizabeth — Google reviewDel W — Google reviewLaura C — Google review
Red Kite Feeding Station - Gigrin Farm - Rhayader Mid Wales
Mentioned on
Farm
Sights & Landmarks
The Red Kite Feeding Station at Gigrin Farm in Rhayader, Mid Wales offers a captivating experience for visitors. This family-run farm hosts daily feeding sessions where hundreds of majestic Red Kites swoop down to feed, creating a magnificent spectacle. Visitors can observe this breathtaking sight from open fields or viewing hides located just meters away from the action. The farm also provides specialist photographic hides for photography enthusiasts.
My wife and I visited during our holiday in the area. It is a fantastic place. To start with, the staff gave us a warm welcome and explained where everything was. The facilities are spot on and there was a nice choice of refreshments. Then when it came to feeding time for the red kites, it was an amazing site to see. Great job all round and I applaud them for what they do there
Stephen H — Google review
A fantastic day out for anyone who loves animals and birds!
When we arrived we only had a few minutes before the Red kite feeding began. A lovely lady rushed out to let us know we hadn't missed it, where to park and that she could book us in asap. The customer service as a whole was incredible! So friendly and accommodating.
The kite feeding itself was beautiful SO many birds showed up and were feeding for about 30-40 minutes. A white leucistic kite even showed up which is a red kite that almost looks like an albino but they have blue eyes! There's only 10 in the world but 3 of them visit this farm!
The food and drinks in the cafe were delicious too! We were able to sit outside with our dogs who were welcome across the farm besides in the gift shop.
There were cats, guinea pigs, donkeys and a dog on the farm! It's a friendly atmosphere with lots to look at.
Overall I'd highly recommend it for a day out! Definitely visit if you can!
An amazing experience! Watching hundreds of red kites feeding at the farm is truly unforgettable. We were very lucky to see the rare white red kite. It’s suitable for all ages, with plenty of parking available. Tickets cost around £11.50, and there are toilet facilities and a café on site.
There’s also seating if you’d like to bring your own food and enjoy a picnic while taking in the stunning views all around. The staff were very friendly and extremely helpful. Highly recommend this experience if you’re into wildlife and nature!
Had an afternoon in the gateway hide, I know it cost a little more but it was definitely worth it, Took some fantastic photos, however, you can just watch the amazing display of 100's of them feeding and the occasional Buzzard.
Will definitely come back and try another hide.
The staff are helpful and friendly.
Well organised and welcoming place! Prebooked our tickets as recommended. Nice gift shop. Beautiful setting and well worth a visit.
Sturdy walking boots to the hides which have benches to sit on throughout the feeding.
Absolutely incredible!! I've visited twice now and I was still blown away with seeing all of the red kites come swooping down. All of the staff were friendly. There are two ways to view the kites, one way is to view them in the viewing field where you sit on a chair, or the second is to sit within a hide (additional charge) which is enclosed and allows you to see the birds closer up. Both have their individual perks, it depends on why you're visiting (e.g. photography or viewing).
They have plenty of parking, on-site toilets, a cafe with seating and a gift shop. They also host two donkeys and a couple of guinepigs. :)
The sanctuary, in my opinion, trully does aid in repopulating' these beautiful birds and highlights the importance of them in our ecosystem. Would recommend to anyone!
Absolutely remarkable experience, a true wonder of nature! Worth every single penny of the entrance fee. Minds blown! Highly recommended if you are in Wales DO NOT MISS THIS!
This was a return visit, and it was as amazing as the first time. Breathtaking display from the Red Kites, even though it was a rainy day! Please don't let the weather put you off as once you are nestled in your hide it really doesn't matter what the weather is doing.
Fabulous shop and cafe area too, really enjoyed our sausage rolls and cups of tea! I am sure we will be back yet again.
22Angela P — Google reviewElaine — Google reviewMathew S — Google reviewMatt S — Google reviewTash M — Google reviewHennie H — Google reviewKirsty B — Google review•
King Arthur's Labyrinth
Mentioned on
Temporarily Closed
Nature & Parks
Visitor center
King Arthur's Labyrinth, located in Corris, Wales, was awarded the best visitor attraction in mid Wales. Visitors embark on a boat ride through an underground waterfall into a mythical world based on the sixth level of Braich Goch slate mine. Led by a boatman, guests navigate through torch-lit tunnels and huge caverns while being immersed in ancient Welsh legends and tales of King Arthur. The experience is described as an old-fashioned storytelling adventure intertwined with myths and legends.
Came here with a group of 5 children aged 5-14. The tour itself was great, lots to entertain the children and the underground boat was great. Spooky/dark enough to keep the teenagers engaged and lots of different things happening at each stopping point. My 5 year old flipping loved it! We had a 10:40 tour and it was very quiet, not sure if we were the first group going out but we didn't have to wait at all, but on our way back we met two groups who were waiting at various points, so might be worth trying to get there early.
The craft centre where thr Labyrinth is situated is also great, lots of lovely independent shops, as well as a cafe and play park. Would definitely come back.
Nerys H — Google review
What an absolutely amazing time. 6 adults and 5 of our grandchildren. Ate in the cafe first, food was ordered, came quickly and was delicious. Then on to the King Arthur Labyrinth. Underground boat journey, walk through the caves, with the story of King Arthur. Back on the boat journey and out. Grandchildren ages were 4 to 12 years. All loved it, as did the adults.
What a fantastic place to spend a few hours. The underground boat ride was great fun, well set up and good story telling. We all had a go at the maze questions and thoroughly enjoyed walking around the magical gardens with dragons & faeries. Really pleased with ourselves that we managed to answer correctly two different sets of questions but the Mabinogion questions defeated us!! The different businesses on site were good value and plenty of nice objects for sale. We bought a few things from different sellers and went into cafe to eat. Great value & good selection. Lots of seating areas to relax and enjoy this beautiful area. All staff were so helpful & friendly.
Highly recommend for any age to enjoy so much to see & do. Well worth every penny
Lovely little adventure that hasn't changed much in years. The guides are funny and add to the event and is reasonably priced. Would be 5 stars if they updated some of the cut scenes and videos, been in use for over a decade now.
Stumbled across this by accident whilst visiting the Mach loop. It was actually really good. Great guides and a good story to follow along with plus there is a sub terranian boat ride which you don’t get to do every day.
Great little place! We took our 2 children aged 15 and 3 and they both really enjoyed it. It is very cold in there which you are told about anyway so would definitely recommend coats. Takes about 45 minutes from beginning to end but there is so much more to do on site. The cafe is pretty expensive but the food was lovely, we got a bacon egg and sausage barm, a bacon and egg barm, a pre made sandwich, sausage roll and 2 drinks and it was £33. There's also a little play area for the kids too. If you took a picnic and did some of the other things that are in there you could make a day of it. We didn't do the mines as the minimum age is 8 but if you book when you go to the Labyrinth I think you get 10% off the price.
So this is a tough one. The story and sad mannekins inside adds nothing to the experience.. in fact I think it detracts from it. If you lit the caverns effectively it would be fine on its own with a guide. Maybe showcase how these caves were used to store food as the cold temps are more interesting than some king arthur nonsense. The staff were excellent and the guid stayed in character which was great. Id do away with the silly Arthur stuff and just do a really cool cave tour. I highly recommend this even though it's very dated.
Myself and my husband visited king Arthur's labyrinth in corris recently.
We arrived at 11.15am after booking online the night before which is recommended.
Parking on site, it wasn't very busy when we visited so lots of spaces available but there is an overflow carpark for busy periods.
You enter through a little village style huts which house shops and a cafe which takes you to the meeting point where the tour starts.
Hard hats are mandatory due to safety reasons and no flash photography/torches permitted but welcome to take pic/video without flash.
Our guide Jake was brilliant and made the experience enjoyable and the stories were interesting.
The route into the mine is uneven and not suitable for those with mobility issues. There is a short boat ride which is dim lit but adds to ambience of the experience, we enjoyed this and it was fun.
Over all a pleasent experience but in need of some upgrades on the visuals in the mine as some of the attractions look a bit tired but the young ones will love it.
4.5
(2324)
4.0
(753)
Unit 11, Corris Craft Centre, Corris, Machynlleth SY20 9RF, United Kingdom
23Simon C — Google reviewAngela M — Google reviewJo — Google reviewCal — Google reviewAdam M — Google reviewTanya L — Google reviewAhmad — Google review•
Centre for Alternative Technology
Mentioned on
Charity
Educational consultant
The Centre for Alternative Technology (CAT) is a pioneering eco-centre located in the Dyfi UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, just north of Machynlleth. Established in 1974, CAT showcases practical solutions for sustainability through its 3-hectare displays on composting, organic gardening, green construction, renewable energy sources, and sewage treatment. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and real-life examples of sustainable living while surrounded by the stunning UNESCO site.
A fantastic day out for the family. Lots to see and quite a few interactive areas. CAT does a very good job of explaining how we can live sustainably and how various technologies work. Very educational and done in way that is entertaining for all age groups.
We also had lunch at their canteen and the food was very good. They only have vegetarian options but the pies we tried were very tasty.
The site is actually larger that we originally thought but is very well laid out with toilets dotted around, really handy if you have kids.
Apo S — Google review
Eco-building or enhancing? CAT is a great information resource, also for sustainable living and food production.
Our early March visit was during the off-season, meaning that we were virtually alone for the duration of both the site visit, and rather wonderful quarry walk.
Come, and be educated.
First time while I was stepping into this nature-made camper/research center, I was sort of surprised, because unlike the update modern civilized master planning the way of constructions and landscape are still quite raw and untamed.
Eco-friendly is the priority here. Unfortunately it was winter time during the graduation ceremony, all I saw just muddy ground, bare forest.
Great interesting place to visit if you are like minded. I found out that I can wee on my compost!! Great food in the cafe, friendly staff. Was raining when we went. But still managed to spend 5 hours there and could have spent longer. The children's activities were great. I also joined in. Lots for kids to do, lots of paths etc to explore, the mole hole was good. Very impressed with their shop, lots of eco products and reasonably priced gifts. The funicular railway was great. Very inspirational place. Adventure playground for kids.
A very informative place to visit, the history of the area, the walks and how new technologies are paving the way to help fight climatic changes within the environment.
Activities for young and old to enjoy, learn and experience.
Staff are very friendly and knowledgeable.
Cafe on site, could be deemed expensive but everything made is fresh, it's wholesome and quality. The smell is delightful as you walk around too. All food is vegetarian or vegan.
Was an OK day out, lots of outdoor space for the kids but it was a bit underwhelming.
The reviews hyped it up, but it's just an OK day out. It all felt very dated.
The food was really bad.
If you had a choice of this place of Arthur's Labyrinth which is another great local attraction, I would suggest the Labyrinth instead.
Fantastic place for all ages.
Learnt a lot about being more sustainable and took away some ideas to implement at home. You can gift aid your ticket cost and get free access for a year.
Cafe does great vegan food and the cakes were awesome.
I cannot understate how incredibly impressed I was during my visit to the CAT centre. Everything was a dream. The staff were all so lovely and welcoming, the accommodation is beautiful and relaxing, the food is flavourful and filling and I was able to learn so much. The work they do is very innovative and definitely worth checking out. I would highly recommend visiting.
4.2
(145)
3.5
(612)
Llwyngwern Quarry, Pantperthog, Machynlleth SY20 9AZ, United Kingdom
24Trudi G — Google reviewDoritos — Google reviewAnastasia C — Google reviewRennie S — Google reviewAndy — Google reviewScott S — Google reviewMichael C — Google review•
Penygader
Mentioned on
Mountain peak
Nature & Parks
Mountains
Penygader, a 2,930-ft. summit of Cadair Idris, is a favorite among hikers for its stunning views of lakes and valleys. The area around the mountain offers various attractions such as the beautiful Mawddach Estuary leading to Dolgellau and the opportunity for mountain biking in Coed-y-Brenin.
Easter Sunday Walk. Great fun with families and dogs. Breathtaking views Highly recommended for beginners as first climb to start the hunger for more.
Airport L — Google review
Great place to visit. Different walks available. We went to the summit which was a lengthy and challenging walk. We did make it on quite a hot day, but took several hours up and down the same route. Amazing to do and kits to see.
Absolutely enjoyed this hike! Peaceful, challenging, with some of the best views and plenty of sheep. The water from the lake is super clean, and I even went for a swim. On top of that, the parking is cheap at just £3 for 4 hours. Would recommend it to anyone, 5/5 stars.
Ps: the water is cold and hiking path becomes a lot more challenging after you reach the lake. Summit is the second peak to the right. Bring plenty of drinks and remember to leave nature better than you found it!
We, as a family of four, did the hardest route and it was so worth the burn. So pretty and the perfect temperature. The hardest part of the hike was definitely the first little bit through the woods but once you get up the first mountain, it’s really easy.
We went into a little shelter for lunch and met some nice people and surprisingly, a mama sheep came in and hung out with us! A few minutes later her baby sheep poked its head in. So cute!!
It took us about 5 hours to do along with little breaks we took every once in a while. The walk down was a bit hard on the knees and some areas are made of gravel so be careful there as they do roll out from underneath your feet. Overall a very fun hike!!
Maybe the best walk in Wales,so much better than Snowdon. The views are spectacular, the lakes christel clear and there are less people. Plus there are loads of side walks to other peaks for the adventurous. Its a steep climb with loose shale in some places so wear solid footwear. You can do the circuit in 4 hours if you really move and don't stop to enjoy the views but for most people its about 5 hours in good weather. Allow 6 if you are not good at climbs or want to do some side walks.
Fabulous walk and didn't want to come back the same way. I decided on the circular but extended it to walk down onto the Mach Loop and see some fighter jets. This was a very steep and sketchy descent. Used the bridleway adjacent to the road to get back to the car park. You do have to walk the last 200mtrs on the busy road though. Well worth the extra effort.
Went to Wales last weekend with the lads and visited Llyn Cau. We climbed Ben Nevis on a previous trip but this time we wanted to mix it up and spend more time actually enjoying ourselves, so we went for the hike up to the lake and gave the full walk a miss. But I’d definitely come back and tick that one off the list.
We spent the day paddle boarding, swimming and flying the drone, which was perfect for mountain surfing around the ridgelines. The scenery was stunning, one of those places where you just stop, breathe it in and feel lucky to be there. The water was cold but properly refreshing after the hike.
Cracking day out. If you’re after a scenic adventure with a good mix of effort and chill, this place is spot on.
A hard slog at times, respect your ability and respect the mountain. I'm 72 and fit for my age and made it to the top. Very, very rewarding, stunning views and you're bound to make friends with other hikers. Take your time, I took 7 hours on the pony path and back and it was worth every step, enjoy
4.9
(432)
4.9
(545)
Dolgellau, LL36 9AJ, United Kingdom
25George F — Google reviewDominique W — Google reviewBrooke H — Google reviewDaniel A — Google reviewSteve H — Google reviewSimon C — Google reviewAndrew D — Google review•
Elan Valley Reservoirs
Mentioned on
Reservoir
Nature & Parks
Dams
Elan Valley Reservoirs offer a series of man-made lakes with picturesque dams, making it a perfect spot for photography and picnicking. The area features a stunning trail that passes by three reservoirs, providing an ideal setting for a memorable picnic experience. Known as the 'Welsh Lake District,' Elan Valley is popular among adventure enthusiasts who can enjoy activities while admiring the breathtaking scenery and watching Red Kites in flight.
The Elan Valley Reservoirs are a breathtaking destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The scenery here is stunning, with rolling hills, lush forests, and crystal-clear water stretching as far as the eye can see. Whether you’re driving through, hiking, cycling, or just taking a leisurely walk, the views are nothing short of spectacular.
There are plenty of well-marked trails to explore, ranging from easy walks to more challenging hikes, all offering picturesque views of the reservoirs and surrounding landscape. The dams are engineering marvels, and the history behind them adds another layer of interest to your visit. There’s a visitor center that provides helpful information about the area’s history, wildlife, and the construction of the dams.
This is a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life, with plenty of opportunities to relax by the water, have a picnic, or simply take in the natural beauty. It’s also a fantastic spot for photographers – you’ll want to bring your camera because every angle offers a postcard-worthy view.
The area is well-maintained, and the facilities are good, though it’s quite remote, so it’s best to be prepared with supplies if you’re planning a longer visit.
If you’re looking for a serene, scenic getaway in the heart of Wales, Elan Valley is absolutely worth the trip. Highly recommended for anyone who loves nature and the great outdoors!
Eranda J — Google review
Beautiful day out. Amazing views. Drivers paradise to see all of them in the surrounding area.
Bike hire shed if you wish to take in the scenery in a different way.
Recommend a definite visit. Will be back.
A beautiful place, with lots of areas to explore. Well worth a visit. There are toilets at the visitors centre and food and drink available
Absolutely outstanding scenery! lovely walks, 6 reservoirs to visit, valleys/rolling hills for miles. The roads are great, you can stop almost anywhere and go for a walk/pictures... 10/10 Highly recommend!
What a fantastic place to explore. Incredible walk around the Elan reservoir valley. Due to a recent knee injury I took a nice easy path passing 3 dams up to the big bugger that you can walk across. 4 hour round trip. Flat paths, plenty of shade and rest stops all the way along. Easily accessible for older folks walking or bike riding, as the average age was about 70 .....fantastic to see the old boys putting me to shame. Great visitor centre when you arrive, giving you info on routes etc with a cafe and shop. Can't recommend this place enough. I know we've had an incredible spring in 2025 but i feel this place could be visited anytime.
Stunning scenery, the amazing dams, small waterfalls, river walks - all in all a fantastic place!
A beautiful part of the world with superb drives and walks everywhere you look.
But, when it rains, boy does it rain!
A day out around Elan valley, great walks and the drive around the reservoirs plenty to see at little cost, take a picnic take your time and enjoy 👍
4.8
(298)
4.8
(1402)
Rhayader, LD6 5HF, UK, USA
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26
Portmeirion
Mentioned on
Sights & Landmarks
Historic Sites
Points of Interest & Landmarks
Portmeirion is a unique tourist village located in Gwynedd, North Wales, near the estuary of the River Dwyryd. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century, this picturesque village features vibrant colors and Italianate styles that set it apart from traditional Welsh villages. Visitors can explore its ornamental gardens, colorful homes, and even a giant chess set that adds to its fairytale-like ambiance.
27Jeffrey S — Google reviewPaul — Google reviewJordan D — Google reviewJenny E — Google reviewChris W — Google reviewHeather M — Google reviewDawn M — Google review•
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
Mentioned on
Heritage railroad
Tours
The Ffestiniog Railway, along with the Welsh Highland Railways, offers a unique experience of traveling through picturesque Welsh countryside on vintage carriages pulled by historic steam engines. The 14-mile journey takes you through rural pastures and forests, providing panoramic views of the stunning landscape. Visitors can also explore maritime history at the Maritime Museum and learn about Britain's first modern Prime Minister at the Lloyd George Museum.
This trip was my daughter’s Christmas present to me and what an incredible experience it was.
We had quite a journey from north Herefordshire and it was worth every mile. We parked in their main carpark, where we had our lunch beside a small reservoir. It is a pay and display carpark and a five minute walk to the railway station.
We arrived and after collecting our tickets, we walked onto the platform and waited for our train to arrive.
A loco was filling up with water and another was offering footplate rides. Our train arrived and we were guided to our carriage. We would be travelling in First Class behind the engine, Merddin Emyrs, the Mountain Spirit, a double engined locomotive and about 140 years old, and still puffing along nicely.
We watched as the locomotive was coupled to our carriage and soon we were on our way.
Our amazing journey starts crossing along a harbour wall known as The Cob, and past Boston Lodge, where the locos go at the end of their busy schedules. From here, we travelled across fields before beginning the the long and picturesque journey to Blaneau Ffestiniog. We travelling past a few stations through very narrow cuttings, with slated sides, through tunnels and around the "Great Deviation", believed to be the only one in Britain. It took 6 years to build, by volunteers and raises the line 35ft in a circle, a real feat of engineering. We eventually arrived at Blaneau Station where the main line meets the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway. Both services terminate here.
A chance to get out, stretch our legs, take more photos of the slate mountains, grab a snack as the engine was moved to the other end of the train for the journey back to Porthmadog.
Thankfully, we had taken plenty of photos on our outward journey because it came to a halt at the next station. As we waited for the next train, Linda was bringing the last train up to Blaneau. She arrived opposite us and departed and still we waited.
Unfortunately we could see smoke across the valley from us and we wondered if it might be a fire. Soon the Train Manager advised us that, due to a potentially large line side fire, our return journey was being turned around. We returned to Blaneau where buses met us to take us all back to Porthmadog.
Everyone was in good spirits and totally understanding. The drive back took about 20 minutes, where as the train took over an hour, allowing for water stops enroute. Yes, we were a little disappointed but everyone was safe and we all enjoyed the experience.
We shall look forward to travelling from Caernarvon to Porthmadog, through the western fringes of Snowdonia.
We received the very best of treatment and support from all the staff at the railway. The bus drivers were amusing and helpful, considering the circumstances.
Anthony H — Google review
Woodland Wanderer: Pretty average route/views, but less expensive than other longer routes.
Visited on Sunday, 7th September 2025, having bought tickets on the Woodland Wanderer service, which started and ended at Harbour Station on the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways in Porthmadog. A little walk from the free station car park, we arrived and exchanged our online ticket for a paper ticket at the ticket office. Unallocated seating in the carriages, but the set-up for this service was to use carriages with separate but unenclosed inside compartments. This was hauled by the steam train from Porthmadog to Tan-Y-Bwlch. We had a dog and were advised we needed to cover the seat if the dog was to sit on it, which was fair enough. There are several services on this railway to different locations, but it is hard to tell what highlights we're going to see on each route, and the journeys are quite long and expensive except for the one we chose. As it was, bar the initial route from Harbour Station to Minffordd, the rest of this route was quite unattractive. Once at Tan-Y-Bwlch we were advised to return in the same carriage and seats. We had less than an hour to explore, but tbh there isn't much there to see, bar an uninspiring lake and the on-station cafe, which we couldn't access with a dog. On the return journey, the weather closed in, which never helps. Something to do, but I would want to pick a prettier route and have better weather if I were to go again.
An absolutely gorgeous day. The scenery along the route is spectacular, and being on the train feels so special. The staff are wonderful, friendly, and helpful. We really enjoyed the stopover in Caernarfon too.
Ensure you book the on-board cream tea for the return trip, it's worth every penny.
The Ffestiniog & Welsh highland railway is a must do!! Clam, relaxing environment in the first class carriage! Staff are polite and professional!
Views along the journey are fantastic! Truly a time to sit back and take in the Welsh scenery. 50 minute layover at Blaenau Ffestiniog, for some light exploring however not a great deal to do.
Plenty of car parking!
Would definitely recommend booking in advance, it gets quite busy!
Great ride!
We travelled on two separate days to two different destinations, at all times the staff were incredibly nice, helpful & attentive. On one journey, to Caernarfon Castle, we shared a carridge with a man named Hywel who works for the company & I must say it was a lovely thing to see him enjoy a train ride on his day off even though he works along side trains every day, he was especially informative, and it made our journey even better, he pointed out the stunning waterfalls and landmarks along the way... Definitely recommend these trips, most of the staff are volunteers and they works hard to please every customer!
We visited today and did the quarryman gold first class Pullman from Blaenau to Porthmadog return. It was absolutely fantastic, we practically had the first class coach to ourselves and it was certainly worth the upgrade. The journey is stunning and I must mention Phil who was our host, he was so friendly and spent the time talking to us about various parts of the journey. Every staff member I came into contact with was the same, it's clear that they love what they do.
The first class is pricey (£70) but absolutely worth every penny. I can also recommend Spooners bar at the station in Porthmadog for food, a really lovely place, great food and nice friendly staff.
Amazing day out! We did the gala day and it was such a great experience. It did get a bit chilly going through the mountains, so I’d definitely recommend bringing a warm jacket if it’s a cold day. Overall, it was a lovely experience! The only downside was the large gaps in the timetable — it would have been even better if we could do it all in one go. Would definitely recommend the mountain route❤️fanatic views. Lovely water falls
Travelled on the Mountain Spirit from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. We paid extra to travel 1st class and it cost £155 return for 2 people for a 3 hour trip. This included a 50 minute stop in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
The station at Porthmadog is great for steam train enthusiasts. Lots of steam engines and carriages to view. The station had toilets, a well stocked gift shop and a cafe.
The staff and volunteers are friendly and helpful.
First Class was clean and comfortable with an armchair style seat and a small table
There is a designated member of staff who gives a brief talk about the railway (and sells guide books) plus offers refreshments.
I ordered a tea abd a piece of cake. I was a little disappointed for it to arrive in a plastic cup and the cake in its plastic wrapper. I was expecting a China cup and a plate, but maybe my expectations were a little high - after all it's not the Orient Express!
The train journey itself is wonderful. You see lots of Snowdonia National Park, which includes lakes and mountains. The seats are very comfortable.
We arrived at Blaenau Ffestiniog, which is famous for its slate production. This was a bit disappointing, even though we only had 50 minutes the village looked a bit run down. We couldn't find a cafe and ended up buying a take away coffee from the local Morrisons.
Overall, a very enjoyable day out.
4.7
(6028)
4.7
(5329)
Harbour Station, 113 Britannia Terrace, Porthmadog LL49 9NF, United Kingdom
28Sher P — Google reviewPaula T — Google reviewMichal P — Google reviewLee W — Google reviewTeresa — Google reviewDavid P — Google reviewBonita H — Google review•
Castell Harlech
Mentioned on
Castle
Sights & Landmarks
Harlech Castle, located in North Wales, is a stunning and imposing fortress with two rings of walls. Built by Edward in 1289 as part of his 'iron ring' of fortresses, it boasts a massive twin-towered gatehouse and outer walls that still exude an aura of impregnability. The castle offers breathtaking views of Tremadog Bay and the mountains of Snowdonia.
**5/5 Stars**
We had a fantastic time visiting Harlech Castle! There is a car park but it is rather small with around 30 spaces, with two disabled bays and two electric car charging spaces, so parking can be difficult if busy but there were signs to other car parks. From the moment we arrived, the staff made us feel very welcome, from the friendly pay desk to the lovely cafe. The toilets were spotless, which is always a nice considering how often they were used.
When we entered the castle over a bridge with a view we were met by narrators, dressed in costume, who really brought the history of the castle to life! Yet with out the narrators we enjoyed the castle and it's amazing views as they were simply breathtaking, especially it you walk around on the top walk way.
After exploring, we ended our visit with tea and cake at the cafe. The service was outstanding, with a lovely, chatty gentleman who served us who made our experience even more enjoyable. I had the coffee and walnut cake, which was absolutely delicious, and my husband had the Victoria sponge, which was also top-notch. A generous slice, too!
Highly recommend this castle for both the history and the lovely cafe experience.
Tlsf — Google review
These ruins are very extensive, the drive up was good, except going up the 1 way street, that is supposed to be 2 way twisty turner turns, at 25% grade. It was a very rainy day. You can imagine the former glamour of the castle, perched on a mountain, overlooking the town, seeing the water nearby. You can check out all the ruins unguided, there is a restaurant and gift store next.
A beautifully stunning and well preserved castle with a rich history of sieges. Built by the coast upon a rocky crag overlooking the sea, Harlech offers amazing panoramic views from every angle. Walk ways along the battlements await, with steep stairways up tall turrets to explore. Narrow steps so good footwear needed. There is information about the castle, cafe, toilets and shop. Small car park with pay meter. The village is very quaint with lovely little shops worth a look around. 'mwynhau'
An interesting and exceptionally well-preserved site. The views from the tower over the sea and the Snowdonia massif are breathtaking. At the entrance, there's a gift shop and a quick bar. It's worth purchasing a booklet about the castle's history with your ticket. Two hours ticket for car park is enough if you don't want to explore the local coffees and shops.
A really well preserved castle with a lot to see.
Parking outside is a little tight so would recommend parking in one of the other car parks and walking (5 mins max).
Well worth a visit.
Worth a visit, on a clear day you have lovely views. Friendly reception staff. Cafe you could sit inside or out. Coffee and scones ☕ I saw quite a few being demolished 😋. Information inside and out castle. Quite a few dogs being walked around inside and outside of castle. Children play area.
Amazing castle, in good condition and with stunning views all around. Wonderfull walk on the walls on 3 sides and from the tallest tower. Best to book online, to get discounted entry, and it's good value for money. Cafe has amazing views from glass fronted modern room. Delicious Welsh rarebit.
£10.50 for Adults worth every penny.You will need at least 2 hours to look around all of the castle,absolutely amazing would recommend.
A lovely sovener shop and cafe with outside picnic area before entering the castle and a playground for children outside the castle wall..
Very very steep bank with bends driving up to the castle,apparently its the steepest bank in the world.
4.6
(7824)
4.4
(1973)
Harlech, LL46 2YH, United Kingdom
29Miguel G — Google reviewKim M — Google reviewGail W — Google reviewJulie C — Google reviewWay B — Google reviewBen T — Google reviewDerek F — Google review•
Black Rock Sands Touring and Camping Park
Mentioned on
Campground
Outdoor Activities
This lovely, large beach at Morfa Bychan is a real draw for nature lovers, boasting golden sands and stunning views. Perfect for a pit-stop between the busy seaside resorts of Criccieth and Porthmadog, you can park your car on the sand and enjoy the beach without having to take any trips to and from your vehicle!
Beautiful location, easy to access beach, mountains and shopping. Great facilities, well maintained. Good range of on-site catering. Staff were friendly and helpful, especially in looking after one of our group with additional needs.
Could not recommend highly enough. On a par with the best French campsites, for those who have camped abroad.
Neil A — Google review
Wonderful site. It has everything you need. The beach a stone throw, the facilities are maintained throughout the day. The staff are wonderful and very helpful. It’s a very quiet and clean camp. One of the best for family with young children. Food available on site too which was an added option.
The town only a few minutes away. We loved our stay. We can’t wait to go back.
Many many thanks to the staff. They work
Very hard to make sure you have a very positive experience. Thank you once again.
Spent a week at this campsite. Location,can't fault it, right on the beach. The beach is lovely, however, it is dirty, rubbish all over the place and young people who think it's ok to ride on the beach with cars racing up and down. I know this is the local councils problem and will be contacting them shortly. They charge you to park on the beach why not spend some money cleaning it?. Now to the campsite itself, the lady who cleans all day needs to be applauded, she works every day to make sure the shower/toilet block is as clean as possible. The site staff clean up rubbish and have to put up with negative comments because they are doing a job that I would not do. Just because you have paid to stay on this site does not give you the right to misuse it. Love it or lose it. Rant over.
This is a stunning location.
The campsite is extremely clean and well looked after.
The staff are all lovely and so helpful.
It's a little piece of heaven, right in front of the beach ❤️
Love blackrock sands. The staff were helpful and chatty.right on the beach.different foods each day to buy on site.only bad thing this year was the toilet and shower issues.they had to keep shutting them at different intervals because of trouble with the water pressure or something. Otherwise loved It.back next year .even saw dolphin one evening .
Very nice beach can stay overnight. But you will get locked in best to drive on when they have gone, so you don't have to pay It's not as if the council used the money back on the beach or some of it, at least to clean the beach up.
Campsite with clean facilities.
Some of the patrons were a little rough and ready but all in all, a great place to camp with a small or large group.
2 minutes walk to the beach.
Supermarkets are close and there are food options on the site for breakfast and in the evening.
Pop's jerk chicken was fantastic.
Lady who runs the site is the most unpleasant person we have had to deal with , she is rude , unwelcoming .. a total disgrace to this beautiful camp site, we will never visit this site again. The welsh council need to remove this manager ASAP as she has no idea how to connect and make people feel welcome.
4.6
(948)
4.5
(1080)
Morfa Bychan, Porthmadog, LL49 9YH, United Kingdom
30Pam G — Google reviewRebecca S — Google reviewRebecca G — Google reviewANDREW M — Google reviewPhoebe W — Google reviewDawn D — Google reviewJummy S — Google review
The Animalarium
Mentioned on
Wildlife park
Outdoor Activities
The Animalarium is a charming educational zoo that focuses on providing a home for previously unwanted captive animals and pets. Visitors rave about the delightful petting experiences, where you can interact closely with friendly animals, including an amusing peacock that adds to the fun. The staff are incredibly welcoming and knowledgeable, making your visit even more enjoyable. While some areas may appear a bit worn down, the overall condition of the animals reflects their care and well-being.
We enjoyed our visit today especially feeding the cheeky goats! There was a good selection of animals to view including goats, pigs, wolf dogs, tortoises, chickens, ducks, birds, turkeys, foxes, rabbits, guinea pigs etc. We could take our dog which was a bonus as we were visiting the area on holiday. Staff were all very pleasant and the animals were well looked after and healthy. A great place to take children and we as adults enjoyed it too. There is a little cafe for food and drinks. Overall, a nice day out.
April H — Google review
We've been here a few times in the past, before they had their troubles.
Always loved it so visited again.
There aren't any 'exotics' there now, and my daughter was a bit gutted that the pigmy marmoset are gone, but we still had a good time, especially feeding the goats...they are hilarious.
Had a lovely chat with the keeper, who told us they are working towards getting their zoo licence back, which takes time and money of course, but I'm sure they will get there because they are determined, and they deserve to.
Great for kids...of all ages 😁
We will visit again next time we are in Wales.
Honestly, pretty rubbish for the price paid. As many others have said, the 'zoo' has a very limited selection of animals to view and some of the enclosures are overgrown and in a run-down state. If you took a picnic you could eek out your time here but if you just want to see the animals you're done pretty quick, 45 mins max.
Also, the play parks don't look the safest, with some splintering wood in places!!!
Three stars given because the goats are extremely cute to feed, the small animals barn is good, the staff who ran the petting session were lovely and the parking is free.
All the animals enclosures were overgrown. The worst one was the foxes, the outer fence to there enclosure backs onto the “car park” and you can see right through. A couple with a dog was stressing the foxes out letting the dog paw at the fence. Yes the foxes are stressed because they are circling and that’s not a natural behaviour.
The wolf dog enclosure was also small and no enrichment at all, just overgrown.
There wasn’t many animals to see unless you want to see goats because that was basically it.
Honestly a waste of money because you’re in and out in 15 min max.
This place underwhelmed, matched and exceeded all of my expections.
It's utterly tragic and yet utterly hilarious at the same time. Seriously read the history of this place before you visit and be in awe of how inept the owners are at being basically competent at their jobs and responsibilities.
It's honestly fantastic that this place is still open but I guess anything is possible isn't it?
Please enjoy the photo of a welsh goat that I used AI to enhance because its better than anything you will see here.
This place should have been shut down years ago! We have photo evidencw feon 5 yrs aho and now, it has got worse.
Animals are kept in poor conditions, place is stinking and unhygienic. Toilets falling apart and staff are rude.
More evidence ro be reported and taken further.
We visited and the place was wonderful, you can see they care for the animals and are actively looking for ways to make more changes with investment. The toasted cheese sandwich was hot and handmade and the tea was piping hot too. Definitely worth a visit. Geared up for kids, but as an adult who loves animals, I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thank you for a lovely time.
Had a great time here . I don't normally do reviews but I seen there's loads of bad ones saying this place is a waste of time . But I completely disagree. I did not expect much from a zoo in the middle of nowhere if we are being honest and afterwords I would have been happy even if it was in a populated area .
The animals looked cared for and the staff were all busy looking after them .
The play areas were not brand new but they were safe .
Included in the £9 entry fee we also got a private petting experience.
In comparison you can go to Chester zoo and spend £200 just to gain entry and not really take anything away from the day .
In conclusion I believe there is a lot of unfair reviews of this place . It is not the biggest but it's good for the kids .
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