Making the most of what’s on our doorstep has never been so important.
This love for what’s local is why we’re bringing to you our top ten tourist attractions in North Wales this Winter. From historic castles and canals to Wales’ overwhelming natural beauty.
If you’re on a weekend break in the countryside, or you’re on a day trip to chase fresh air, this list of our top 10 North Wales tourist attractions is an absolute must.
1. SeaQuarium
This open seafront aquarium in Rhyl offers a rare opportunity to explore the amazing underwater world. One-way systems, open air-only exhibitions and limited attendance means you’ll be able to get up close too the underwater creatures – not other people.
2. White Rabbit Tour Llandudno
Alice in Wonderland fans listen up! There’s a physical white rabbit tour dedicated to the fictional little girl. Rumour has it, she’s based on the ‘real’ Alice Pleasance Lidell (The real Alice in Wonderland.) Lidell lived during the summer at her holiday home in Llandudno.
The augmented world of the Alice Town Trails is perfectly in the spirit of Lewis Carroll’s fantasy novels and is an ideal way to see the best of Llandudno’s Victorian resort. Download the app on iOS and Android.
3. Snowdonia
What more needs to be said about Wales’ majestic mountain range? Not only is Mount Snowdon the highest mountain in England and Wales and Wales’ largest national park, but it’s also home to the largest natural lake in Wales. Plan your trip to avoid busy times – and remember, avoid parking your car on restricted roads and take home your rubbish!
4. Conwy Castle
Take a look at this local famous fortress that’s still standing after 700 years! Located in the medieval town of Conwy, the 1,400-yard ring of town walls and eight lofty towers overlook the rugged mountains of Snowdonia and the lapping shore of the Irish Sea.
5. Pontcysyllte Aqueduct
You’ve heard of water under the bridge, but have you heard of a bridge with a canal on top of it? This aqueduct brings together the Llangollen Canal and the River Dee in a stunning 18km long UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whether you walk across the 38m bridge on foot or travel via canal boat, be sure to take your camera to snap those glorious views.
6. Aber Falls
Perfect for those looking for a leisurely walk with minimal effort. This 5k short popular route is perfect and can be walked in around an hour. This winter, visitors should be treated to those perfect periods of views after heavy rainfall, or better still, those rare sightings when the 120ft waterfall is frozen solid.
7. Great Orme
The Vikings named this mini mountain the ‘Sea Monster.’ And its English Name means ‘sea serpent.’ No wonder, with its 207 metres of limestone jutting straight from the Irish Sea, and its scaly dolomite skin visible from miles away. It takes around two hours to walk up the Orme. But if you fancy a more leisurely trip to the viewpoint, travel by car is possible.
8. Cwm Idwal National Nature Reserve
The first nature reserve in Wales, dating back to the 1950s, actually has a history dating back 450 million years! The Ice Age carved and gouged the valley’s cliffs and slopes. Even the wildlife has survived from this reign! Follow the circular route on the public footpaths for about 3.5 miles long and take in the wondrous sights – just remember to take home your rubbish and respect the park.
9. Welsh Mountain Zoo
This local animal kingdom, situated high in the mountains of Colwyn Bay, is home to dozens of creatures and areas of conservation. The zoo spans over 37 acres with mainly open air and outdoor habitats. Pre-booking is required to avoid overcrowding or lengthy queues.
10. Prestatyn & Rhyl Beach
Even in the winter, these blue flag award-winning beaches boast miles of beautiful sands and wonderful open-air views. Ideal for all the family – and a special favourite of dogs – Rhyl and Prestatyn’s coastline stretches over 10km. Perfect for an outdoor stroll for a glorious UK Winter break.
