Top 10 Things To Do In And Around Llandudno
Finding things to do in and around Llandudno is easy with its rich history, culture and vibrant landscape. Simply put, it’s one of Wales’ best seaside resorts, with heaps to do, see and experience.
Relax on the breathtaking North Shore beach or take in the natural beauty of the surrounding areas on a cable car ride with views of the sea and countryside below. More of a history nerd? Then you might want to pay a visit to one of the most spectacular medieval castles in Europe.
With so many options, you’re probably wondering where to start. So, to give you a helping hand, we’ve compiled a handy list of the top 10 things to do in and around Llandudno. Keep reading to find out exactly what this North Wales town has to offer!
1. Conwy Castle
Built over 700 years ago between 1283 and 1287, Conwy Castle is an absolute must-see attraction near Llandudno for castle lovers.
When King Edward I built Conwy Castle, his intention was to create a dominating presence and he certainly achieved this. Today, the castle still stands in all its power and glory against the Snowdonia skyline. And with the harbour and Conwy’s narrow streets below, there are wonderful views when walking around the battlements too.
Thanks to the restored spiral staircase, you can now walk a complete circuit of the castle. Climb the steep, stone steps for a full medieval experience and explore the most well-preserved Royal apartments in Wales.
2. Llandudno Ski Slope and Snowboard Centre
For the adventurers, Llandudno Ski Slope and Snowboard Centre is one of Llandudno’s best attractions. Offering an array of activities, including skiing, snowboarding, toboggan and sno-tubing, the centre is also home to Wales’ longest Cresta Toboggan.
Start at the base of the hill and ascend 250m to enjoy views across Llandudno Bay. And when you’re done with your activity of choice, take a break in the adjoining bar and restaurant.
3. Scenic Anglesey and Castles Day Tour
Not far from Llandudno over the Menai Strait lies the island of Anglesey. On this Scenic Anglesey and Castles Day Tour, you’ll be taken around all the highlights of the island by an expert local tour guide. Love historic castles? Ancient tombs? Pretty Welsh villages? Then you’ll love this. Leaving from Llandudno’s North Parade, enjoy hours of exciting exploration and discover everything that Anglesey has to offer.
4. The Great Orme Tramway
Britain’s only cable-hauled public road tramway opened in 1902 and is still running today. The Great Orme Tramway is one of Llandudno’s most well-known attractions, taking you on a picturesque, one-mile climb through The Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve to the Great Orme Summit. Over 100 years ago, people took this exact same journey in the same, original tramcars!
Begin your journey at Victoria Station, just off the promenade and end your journey taking in wide-reaching views from the Summit. There’s also a large outdoor playground for children and an exhibition at The Great Orme Country Park Visitor Centre. Alternatively, why not pick up some drinks and snacks at The Summit Complex and admire the view from a picnic table?
5. The Botanical Gardens of Happy Valley Park
Fancy an Alice in Wonderland-esque experience? Happy Valley Botanical Gardens is a wonderful place to have a picnic. These beautiful, landscaped gardens overlook Llandudno Bay with views of the pier, promenade and Little Orme.
On a walk around the park, you can expect to find Alice in Wonderland sculptures, a druid stone circle given to the town by Lord Mostyn in 1887, a bust of Queen Victoria and a camera obscura dating back to 1860.
After a stroll, choose a bench beside the colourful flowerbeds and water foundation, and enjoy a relaxing lunch break in tranquil surroundings.
6. Llandudno Cable Cars
After you’ve finished appreciating the Botanical Gardens, you can find the base of the Llandudno cable cars here too. The longest attraction of its kind in Europe, simply hop on and begin your ascent to The Great Orme Summit Complex.
After 20 minutes, you’ll be taking in panoramic views of the Irish Sea. There’s also a restaurant, bar, souvenir shops, an adventure playground and a golf centre to keep the whole family entertained.
7. Llandudno Pier
When it comes to things to do in Llandudno, the town’s historic pier is not to be missed.
This Victorian pleasure pier dates back to 1878 and is the longest pier in Wales. Take a wander down the wooden walkway and pick up a bucket and spade or a souvenir at one of the many shops. There are also two amusement arcades on the pier, Leisure Island at the promenade end and The Deck Arcade at the other.
Funfair rides and a slide for younger children are halfway down the pier, while the adults can enjoy tea and cake or something a little stronger at the pier head café bar. In summer, an ice cream on the pier is non-negotiable whatever your age!
8. Mount Snowdon
An hour south of Llandudno, you’ll find the highest mountain in Wales. There are six walking routes to choose from if you’d like to reach the summit of Mount Snowdon. For first timers, the Llanberis path is recommended. Check out Your Ultimate Guide to the Six Walking Routes for climbing advice and safety pointers.
You can also access the top by the Victorian Rack-and-Pinion Train and appreciate the unbelievable views over Snowdonia National Park and beyond, from the comfort of a carriage. Once at the top, discover some of the farthest-reaching views over Ireland, Scotland and England, before tucking into lunch at The Summit Café.
9. West Shore Beach
Make sure to take a break at West Shore Beach. You can expect stunning sunsets from the quieter West Shore, so enjoy an afternoon relaxing before watching the sun go down. Stretching for miles, this sandy beach has plenty of space to sunbathe.
If you fancy a bit of exercise, take a walk along the path at the back of the beach leading to Conwy Morfa. With a café, toilets and a large park nearby, exploring West Shore is an ideal thing to do in Llandudno with children.
10. The Great Orme Bronze Age Mines
The Great Orme Bronze Age Mines are regarded as the largest prehistoric copper mines in the world. This is definitely one of the best Llandudno tourist attractions for families, as both children and adults will enjoy this educational experience.
Walk through the tunnels our prehistoric ancestors mined out over 3500 years ago, or tour the oldest, opencast part of the mine. There’s also a visitor containing a selection of Bronze age artifacts and a model of a village depicting what life was like back then.
As you can see, there’s a whole host of things to do in Llandudno, so you’ll never get bored here. Discover some of the best hotels in Llandudno for your stay or browse other fantastic Welsh destinations for more holiday ideas.
