Whether you are camping, caravaning or enjoying the space and comfort of a static caravan, Lyons Holiday Parks offer a fantastic base from which to explore the beauty of North Wales. However, choosing day trip destinations suitable for all members of the family can be challenging, especially when there are different age groups and interests to consider. Fortunately, the lakeside town of Llanberis, located in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, offers a magical winter outing, jam packed with scenery, history, culture and festive activities that all the family will love.
Myths, Mining and Magical Scenery
Named after Saint Peris, an early Welsh Saint, Llanberis nestles at the base of the majestic Mt. Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and lies alongside Lyn Padarn, a glacial lake and one of the largest in Wales. It is a place of myths, legends and rich cultural heritage; it was a stronghold for the Celts as they defended against the Roman army and was also the home of great Welsh princes. A once thriving industrial town, at its peak over 17,000 men were employed quarrying the prized local slate which was sent to roof homes, mills and factories across Britain. Now Llanberis renowned for its many outdoor pursuits, but you don’t have to be a mountaineer to experience the town’s rich cultural and industrial history.
There’s Something Special About Steam Trains!
Family members of all ages will love the scenic five mile journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway travelling alongside Lyn (Lake) Padarn and through the Padarn Country Park taking in breathtaking views of Mt. Snowdon. The train passes Dolbadarn Castle, a 13th century fortification built by the Welsh Prince, Llewelyn The Great, its 15.2 metre high stone keep regarded as the finest surviving example of a Welsh Round Tower.
At Gilfach Ddu, stop and discover the history of the Welsh Slate Industry with a visit to the National Slate Museum (free entry). Housed in Industrial Victorian Workshops that once serviced the huge Dinarwig Slate Quarry above, the Museum features the largest water wheel in Britain, daily slate splitting demonstrations traditional quarrymen’s houses to explore and more. Plus, as it’s the festive season, be sure to visit Santa in his grotto and take part in the Elf Trail competition – find all the elves hidden around the Museum to win a prize (£1 entry).
The Llanberis Lake Railway operates daily with tickets available to pre-purchase online. Special Christmas trains operate on 7,8, 14, 15 and 21 December with a visit from Santa, presents for the kids and mince pies for adults to enjoy. Christmas trains book up fast so check the Llanberis Lake Railway website for timetable and ticket availability.
This festive season enjoy your time with family at Lyons Holiday Parks and discover the true beauty of North Wales. A festive family day trip to Llanberis offers an experience that will be cherished by little and big kids alike. As they say in Welsh “Nadolig Llawen”, Merry Christmas everyone!
