2025 Caernarfon Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in October)
Caernarfon Today's weather
Mostly cloudy 12-15℃
All Trip Moments about Caernarfon
Top 10 photogenic spots in north wales
1. Conwy castle. Definitely one of the most unique places I’ve ever visited, Conwy castles many towers offer sweeping views of both the Menai strait and the mountainous Snowdonia national park among rich historical surroundings.
2. Mount Snowdon, or Yr Wydffa. This hike is a light challenge with numerous different trails up to the peak, or alternatively accessible via the snowdonia rail. I’d personally recommend Pen Y Pass for a steady incline with stops along the mountain lakes for breathtaking scenery.
3. Caernarfon. This small but colourful town really comes to life in the summer months, with full beer gardens and visitors rushing to enjoy the huge Caernarfon castle and its independent high streets. I recommend travelling through here on route to a Snowdon hike.
4. The smallest house in Great Britain is on Conwy pier, and has a lovely little story if you venture inside. The house is also a minutes walk from a route to the towns ancient walls, which protected it from enemy attacks many hundreds of years ago and still stand encircling the city today.
5. Beaumaris is a charming and quaint little seaside town on the isle of Anglesey, with its own castle, and some lovely walking trails along the water.
6. Plas Newydd house and gardens is a must-see in the autumn months when it is covered in red vegetation and the surrounding walking trails are full of fallen orange leaves. Take a tour inside this historic property and wander the grounds, which are also a red squirrel hotspot. (The isle of Anglesey is a red squirrel preserve!)
7. Bodnant gardens. Charming botanical gardens set amongst woodland, make a very relaxing half-day out. Purchase some bird feed and you’ll find yourself followed about by friendly ducks.
8. Portmeirion. This ‘model village’ looks like something ripped out of the Amalfi coast! It’s absolutely beautiful and a one of a kind location. Nobody lives permanently in the village so you can revel in its touristy aspects and explore to your hearts content!
9. Puffin island. Although the island itself is an inaccessible nature preserve, it can be viewed from a seaboard safari cruise setting off from Beaumaris. It holds the monastic ruins of Ynys Seiriol and a colony of Atlantic grey seals basking on the rocks. The main season is between April and July when you are likely to see common guillemots, razorbills, kittiwakes and of course puffins, as well as porpoise and perhaps even dolphins.
10. Newborough beach and Ynys Llanddwyn. On the isle of Anglesey is a beautifully long stretch of beach flanked by the stunning forest. The beach is leading to a pilgrims path across to the small island. This gets cut off by the tide at certain times of day so be sure to time your walk well at low tides, to enjoy the lighthouses, wild grazing ponies, sand dunes and ruins famous for their connection with Saint Dwynwen, patron saint of lovers.
#localguides #historicallandmarks #adventure #hike #nature #100waysoftravel
Emmarhol
24
Crib Goch, Snowdonia’s Funnest Hike
Photos from my trip to Crib Goch in Snowdonia National Park, Wales. The Route up Crib Goch is medium to hard difficulty with a fun and at moments scary walk across the ridges at the top as you make your journey towards Mount Snowdon.
Definitely would advise going on a sunny day so you can have dry rocks and clear skies siding you along the way. One the decent down from Mount Snowdon I’d advise taking the route that leads you to the pool shown in the second photo. After a couple hours hike dipping into the pool is the perfect way to recovery as well as make a memory.
Ultimately the scenery you see whilst traversing Crib Goch is sensational and coupled with a sense of reward which really adds to any spectacular view.
#CribGoch #Snowdon #mountains #wales #Snowdonia
Alex Whittaker
3
Exploring the Grandeur of Caernarfon Castle
#mytraveldiary Caernarfon Castle in Gwynedd is one of those places that makes you stop and stare in awe. Its massive stone walls and towers rise dramatically over the River Seiont, giving you a sense of just how important this fortress once was. Walking through the gates feels like traveling back in time, and it is easy to imagine knights, kings, and guards filling the courtyards centuries ago.
The castle is tied to royal history, especially with its connection to the Princes of Wales, which makes it even more fascinating. The views from the towers are worth the climb, offering sweeping scenes of the town and surrounding landscape. Whether you are a history fan or just love impressive architecture, Caernarfon Castle leaves a lasting impression.
Dinda.Pratiwi
Liverpool to Snowdonia: A Day Among the Peaks
#liverpooltrip
Swap the buzz of Liverpool for the wild beauty of Snowdonia National Park—a land of rugged peaks, sparkling lakes, and fairytale villages. It’s the perfect nature escape just a few hours away.
⸻
🎯 Highlights
• 🚞 Snowdon Mountain Railway – Ride to the summit for breathtaking views of Wales.
• 🥾 Hiking Trails – From gentle lake walks to the famous Snowdon trails.
• 🌊 Llyn Llydaw & Llyn Padarn – Mirror-like mountain lakes perfect for photos.
• 🏘️ Beddgelert Village – A storybook stop with stone cottages and riverside paths.
⸻
🗺️ Getting There
• 🚗 Drive: Around 2–2.5 hours from Liverpool, depending on your route.
• 🚆 Train: Liverpool → Bangor (2 hrs), then catch a local bus into the park.
⸻
🌟 Tips
• ⏰ Start early—this is a big day, and the park deserves time.
• 🥪 Pack snacks or a picnic—scenic spots are everywhere!
• 🥾 Wear sturdy shoes, even for shorter walks—trails can be uneven.
• 📸 Stop by Caernarfon Castle on your way back if time allows.
⸻
💡 Why Go?
In just a day, you can trade city skylines for mountain horizons, breathe crisp Welsh air, and experience one of the UK’s most stunning natural landscapes. 🌄✨
EN the traveller
A Train Ride Away from Liverpool! The Stunning Welsh Village of Llanberis🏴
#liverpooltrip #travel #naturalwonders #thingstodo #familytravel #museums #localfood #Llanberis#Liverpool #myitinerary #citydaytours
Just a short excursion train/car journey from Liverpool Lime Street, Llanberis is a stunning Welsh Village popular for day trips. There is a lake for wild swimming, a castle, museum and two railway stations. It is also base camp for walking the highest mountain in Wales, Eryri or Mount Snowdon. Take the train or walk up the mountain. It is a popular day trip all year round! Popular with Liverpool day trippers you can enjoy a range of homemade food and local home made Ice-cream. A viewpoint from all seasons!
💞Reasons to Recommend:
visit the Castle over 1,000 years old and built in Roman times!
💞Reasons to Recommend:
Llanberis has been used in location for many films and TV series!
💞Reasons to Recommend:
Visit the Lonely Tree, the most photographed tree in Wales!
💞Reasons to Recommend: catch a city day tour from Liverpool
🗓️Itinerary Scheduling:
🏴 AM Start at the Lonely tree on Lake Padarn and take some selfies, and feed the swans! it’s free!
🏴 Take a walk into the village and have Fish and chips on the lake park
🏴PM take the train to the top of Snowdon and admire the view
🏴 have a home made local ice cream!
🏴 Do some local craft shopping and feed the ducks
🏴 visit the Welsh Slate Museum and eat a Welsh Cream Tea in the Cafe
Alison’s Silk Road Travels
1
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Revolving Around the Beauty of Nature: Eyes – United Kingdom
Stop: Dinorwig Slate Quarry
High above Llanberis in Snowdonia lies Dinorwig Slate Quarry, a place where human industry and dramatic mountain scenery collide to create a landscape of both beauty and melancholy. Once the world’s second-largest slate quarry, it now stands silent, its vast stepped terraces carved into the mountainside like a giant amphitheatre, echoing the lives of thousands of quarrymen who once worked here.
Walking through the quarry, you pass rusting machinery, abandoned buildings, and the deep scars left in the rock, all softened by moss, wildflowers, and the ever-changing Welsh weather. Pools of still water reflect the jagged cliffs, while sheep wander among the ruins, reclaiming the ground where industry once thrived. There’s an eerie quiet to the place, broken only by the wind whistling through tunnels and across the stone.
Yet Dinorwig is not only a monument to the past—it’s a place of renewal. The rugged terrain has become a playground for walkers and climbers, while the nearby National Slate Museum preserves the stories of the community that once lived and laboured here. Standing among the ruins, with the peaks of Snowdonia rising beyond, you feel the weight of history and the resilience of nature, together shaping a landscape unlike any other.
#mytraveldiary
xwha
Revolving Around the Beauty of Nature: Eyes – UK
Stop: Crib Goch
Crib Goch is one of Snowdonia’s most thrilling and awe-inspiring ridges, a narrow knife-edge of rock that tests both nerve and skill. Rising boldly as part of the route to Mount Snowdon, it is famed for its exposed scramble, where the mountains fall away steeply on either side. Standing here feels like walking on the spine of a giant, with the sky stretching wide above and jagged peaks unfolding in every direction.
The ridge demands respect. Weather can shift in an instant, turning calm skies into mist or wind that adds to the intensity of the crossing. Yet, when the air is clear, the views are unparalleled—down into the glacial valleys, across shimmering lakes, and towards the rugged landscape that defines this corner of Wales. The raw drama of Crib Goch makes it unforgettable, balancing exhilaration with a deep sense of humility before nature’s scale.
But beyond its challenge, Crib Goch also embodies the spirit of Snowdonia: wild, untamed, and breathtakingly beautiful. Every handhold, every cautious step, is part of a dance with the mountain, a reminder that the most striking places often ask something of us in return. For those who take it on, Crib Goch becomes more than a ridge—it becomes a memory etched with awe, fear, and wonder all at once.
#mytraveldiary
xwha
Llyn Dinas
#mytraveldiary
Llyn Dinas was a serene stop during my journey through Snowdonia. The lake stretches elegantly through the valley, surrounded by green hills and wooded slopes. It has a soft, inviting beauty that feels less dramatic than some of the mountain lakes, but no less captivating. I loved walking along its shoreline path, with occasional views of wildlife and the sound of water lapping against the stones. The golden light at sunset made the entire valley glow. It’s a place where you can slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with the simple pleasures of nature. #mytraveldiary
TravelWithBenBen
Llyn Padarn
#mytraveldiary
Llyn Padarn is one of those Welsh gems where scenery and serenity blend into something unforgettable. Surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Snowdonia, this glacially formed lake feels almost mystical at sunrise. I walked along the shoreline trail and found the iconic lone tree that has become a photographer’s dream—it truly lived up to the hype. The reflections of the mountains in the water were breathtaking. For adventure seekers, kayaking and canoeing are popular, but I enjoyed simply sitting by the water, soaking in the stillness. It’s a reminder of how powerful yet peaceful nature can be. #mytraveldiary
TravelWithBenBen
Top of Wales 🏴
Breath taking views, we walked the Miners track to get there, (1st half of walk was pleasant but after passing the lakes, it was very hard work) 😓 pack lots of liquids & snacks to keep up the energy!!! As you will definitely need it, to make it to the top top 🔝
OAP on his travels
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sheep
cammy3
1
Snowdon Summit Hike
#hike
_TI***r3
1
Bangor, Caernarfon and Llandudno trip
📅 Itinerary
Day1:Caernarfon
Day2: Bangor
Day3: Llandudno
🏨 Accommodation Travelodge
🍴 Food Recommendations The Black Boy Inn at Caernarfon (Pub). Wildwood at Llandudno (Italian)
📌 Tips North Wales is a beautiful location to visit. The people are friendly and the food was amazing. There is so much to see and do. There’s a castle right in the centre of Caernarfon. History lovers and maritime will enjoy the sights but even if it’s a stroll along the town you won’t be disappointed.
_TI***lb
Welsh Castles: Chronicles of Life and Death
⚔️ Caernarfon Castle: The Real-Life Dragonstone from "Game of Thrones"
▎Anchoring Point of Ice and Fire
Dragon-Wing Walls: The 13th-century eagle-beak shaped battlements built by Edward I were directly replicated by HBO as Dragonstone's silhouette
Iron Throne Easter Egg: A basalt stone with indentations in the inner court is rumored to have been secretly molded by the production team for the throne's base texture
Forbidden Legend: Counting the towers at night reveals an extra one (8 towers → the 9th disappears at sunrise)
🌀 Conwy Castle: The Deadly Geometry of Spiral Stairs
▎Assassin's Perfect Trap
Clockwise Rotation: The main tower stairs are designed as reverse spirals (attackers can swing swords with right hands while defenders are hindered by walls)
Blood-Stained Steps: The 7th step bears unremovable brown stains, confirmed through testing as vomit from a 15th-century English envoy poisoned by arsenic
Modern Verification: A 2018 historical reenactment showed 73% higher fatality rate for sword-wielding attackers ascending versus descending
🔥 Harlech Castle: The Seven-Year Siege of "Never Surrender"
▎Medieval Survival Manual
Seagull Menu: During the 1461-1468 siege, defenders survived on:
Puffin eggs collected from cliffs (recreated versions available at castle museum)
Albatross leg jerky shot down with arrows
Phantom Sentinel: Every winter solstice at midnight, a translucent longbowman appears on the western wall, arrows perpetually pointing toward England
🗡️ Three-Castle Raid Strategy Guide
Dawn: Caernarfon tower-counting challenge (complete before 10:15 guard change)
Noon: Conwy stair combat experiments (wooden swords available for reenactments)
Dusk: Harlech siege meal on the cliffs (paired with "Mortimer's Last Ale" beer)
📜 Welsh Castle Code Words
Loyalty Test: Saying "Long live Edward" at Harlech earns staff disapproval; the correct phrase is "O bydded i'r hen iaith barhau" (Welsh for "May the old language endure")
Photography Taboo: Night photos of Conwy's east tower are forbidden; a 1999 tourist photo showed 12 additional crossbow-wielding shadows
Geological Easter Egg: Caernarfon's stone walls contain Jurassic fossils; UV light reveals fluorescent trilobite patterns
Amelia37 Brooks - Amy
Caernarfon Castle, Wales
#summervacay
Caernarfon Castle is an awe-inspiring #summervacay stop if you're traveling through North Wales. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most impressive medieval fortresses in Europe, with its massive stone walls and polygonal towers overlooking the Menai Strait. Built by Edward I in the 13th century, it’s steeped in history—most famously as the site where Prince Charles was invested as Prince of Wales. In summer, the weather is ideal for exploring the sprawling grounds and walking the castle walls. The surrounding town and harbor are also worth a visit for lunch and seaside views.
WandererBen
Caernarfon castle is a highlight
What a delightful day visit to this well preserved and interesting castle. Well worth the few pound to enter and there is several cafes inside so no need to rush
_TI***wv
Mount Snowdon who?
Getting There -
Attractions - THE SUMMIT
Food & Restaurants - Snowdon Cafe in Llanberis
Shopping - Snowdon Trading Post
Keznaldo
Caernarfon Castle
#uktrip A great day out for adventurers of all ages, and even better if you can climb the spiral staircases.
You can go from tower to tower via passageways and connecting staircases. There's the fusiliers museum to see. Rooms to explore and even on a damp day, it's a great visit.
The staff were really friendly and approachable, giving lots of hints and tips for things to look out for.
The views from the top of the towers were fantastic even in the gloom.
I could have spent a lot longer than I did exploring, there was so much to see. Well worth a visit.
KrisAdventure_19
1
Dinorwig Slate Quarry: A Journey Through Industrial Majesty
#favouriteitinerary
Nestled in the rugged landscapes of Snowdonia, Wales, Dinorwig Slate Quarry is a breathtaking testament to Britain’s industrial heritage. Once the second-largest slate quarry in the world, this sprawling site now offers a fascinating blend of history and natural beauty. Towering slate cliffs, abandoned workshops, and rusting machinery tell the story of a bygone era, while the surrounding mountains and lakes provide a stunning backdrop. Explore the labyrinthine terraces, marvel at the sheer scale of human ingenuity, and soak in the serene atmosphere. Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply seeking adventure, Dinorwig is a captivating destination. Don’t miss this unique slice of Wales’ past, where industry and nature collide in spectacular fashion.
Zacky-
Uncovering the Hidden Gem of Dinorwig Quarry
#uktrip
I ventured into the stunning Dinorwig Quarry, nestled in the heart of Snowdonia, and was blown away by its sheer scale and beauty. This former slate quarry, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts breathtaking vistas, towering cliffs, and sparkling lakes.
As I wandered through the quarry's rugged landscape, I discovered remnants of its industrial past, including old machinery and worker's villages. The quarry's unique blend of natural and industrial heritage made for a fascinating and unforgettable experience. With its dramatic scenery and rich history, Dinorwig Quarry is a must-visit destination for anyone exploring North Wales.
Strawberry-
#100WaysOf
#100WaysOfTravel
Nithin1
Three Days of Adventure: Discovering the Magic of Snowdonia!
#naturelovers #goingplaces
it's about time to conquer the height of Mount Snowdonia
**Day 1:**
Arrive in Snowdonia and settle into your accommodation in charming Betws-y-Coed or Llanberis. After a hearty breakfast, head to the Mount Snowdon trailhead. Choose either the scenic Pyg Track or the more leisurely Miner’s Track for your ascent. The breathtaking views along the way culminate at the summit, where you can take in the panoramic vistas before descending. End your day with a delicious dinner in Llanberis, savoring local Welsh cuisine.
**Day 2:**
Start your day with a visit to the historic Caernarfon Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore its impressive towers. Afterward, head to the picturesque village of Beddgelert for lunch and a leisurely stroll along the river. Don’t forget to visit Gelert’s Grave, a touching tribute to the legendary dog. In the evening, enjoy a night of stargazing in Snowdonia, renowned for its dark skies.
**Day 3:**
Fuel up with breakfast before embarking on adventures like zip-lining at Zip World or a scenic ride on the Snowdon Mountain Railway. In the afternoon, visit the unique Italianate village of Portmeirion, where you can explore colorful architecture and beautiful gardens. Wrap up your trip with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reflecting on your unforgettable experiences in this enchanting region.
piyr
1
Crib Goch: Snowdon the hard way
The are many ways which you can climb Wales’ highest peak of Mount Snowdon and you can even catch the train, however none are more challenging the Crib Goch.
This famous traverse takes you away from the Pyg track for a long scramble across 3 ridges, with spectacular views either side.
Warning ⚠️ - this is a dangerous route and only should be taken on by those with experience and make sure you check the weather before, conditions are very changeable. #mountains #snowdon #climbing #wales
Alexander.Hannay
Nice hiking experience at Pen-Y-Pass
#100WaysOfTravel #localguides
📍Address: Pen-Y-Pass, Snowdonia National Park
Had a nice hike at Snowden. I chose the Pyg Track to the 1080 m summit of the Snowden mountain (Yr Widdfa) and the Miners Track back to Pen-Y-Pass. Overall it took around 6 hours. The pictures were taken on the track. Very impressive views.
A few tips:
1. Remember to use the very helpful Snowdonia National Park official website. It helped me check the weather, choose the paths, check the bus timetable, and check the locations of cafés or restaurants.
2. Wear proper waterproof hiking boots and jackets. The tracks are very rocky and sometimes wet. It was really foggy and cold at the summit.
3. Bring enough water and food for hiking.
Please feel free to comment and ask questions.
Robinbin
1
Caernarfon Castle is located in Caernarfon, Gwynedd, northwest Wales, guarding the Menai Strait and the Afon Seiont estuary, and is adjacent to Anglesey Island. )Across the sea.
Gwynedd is the region with the highest proportion of people still using Welsh, which shows that it still retains a strong Welsh tradition and culture. Caernarfon is the largest town in the Gwynedd region and has served as the spiritual symbol of northern Wales for hundreds of years.
North Wales is more difficult to reach than South Wales because it is surrounded by mountains, but it also retains more Welsh characteristics. Normally, the locals only chat in Welsh, and you rarely hear English. Even the road signs are in Welsh. It feels like you have arrived in another country. I personally like this special feeling. I am also very happy that the local people have successfully preserved their national identity and language, have not been completely assimilated by the strong English culture, and can operate harmoniously under the framework of the United Kingdom.
In fact, due to itinerary arrangements and renovations, I did not go inside Caernarfon Castle for a visit, but fortunately the hotel I stayed in was right next to the castle, so I could see the castle all the time. Although the castle itself is not particularly gorgeous, the ancient city walls look magnificent in the afterglow of the setting sun, and the sparkling sea beside it is also illuminated by the setting sun. Such a stunning scene is difficult to record with a photo, and can only be deeply The engraving in the mind.
🌟Small supplement: Edward VIII, who loved beauty more than power, was crowned Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle in 1911, and the current King Charles III was also crowned Prince of Wales at Caernarfon Castle in 1969. Nafon Castle was given the same title.
🚗Transportation: In addition to driving, public transportation requires taking a train to Bangor first, and then taking a bus for about 30 minutes to arrive!
#myhiddengems #UK #Wales #Caernarfon #WorldHeritage #100WaysofTravel
Ming9734
2
Caernarvon
Caernarfon is a town in the UK, located in the north of Wales. It was once the capital of the Principality of Wales before moving to Cardiff. The town has a population of around 9,611 people and is located about 247 miles north of London.
There are many interesting attractions here, such as Caernarfon castle, the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, Hwylfan Fun Centre and the scenic Lôn Eifion recreational cycle route.
#flyingwithtrip #travelabroad