North Wales’ hidden gems and where to find them

If you’re looking to step beyond the tourist spots and discover the hidden depths and the hidden gems of North Wales during your Llandudno getaway, stay a while and go exploring…

 

Walk to Llandudno’s Haulfre Gardens

Just a mile on foot from our seafront Llandudno hotel, stroll to the family-friendly Haulfre Gardens, tucked between town and the Great Orme. Take in the far-reaching views out to sea and over the town of Llandudno on a gentle, peaceful walk, the perfect leisurely activity during a relaxing seaside break, plus you can stop off at the garden tearoom for a spot of coffee and cake!

Watch the sun set at West Shore, Llandudno

West Shore beach in Llandudno is just a 5-minute drive or delightful 25-minute walk from our North Wales hotel, and is generally quieter than the popular North Shore. A hidden gem for keen photographers, family-fun, or couples looking for a romantic evening stroll and sunset over a beautiful sandy beach, making for an unforgettable summer’s evening adventure.

Spend an afternoon at Happy Valley Botanical Gardens, Llandudno

A peaceful place to sit and take in the view just a short 4-minute walk from our Llandudno hotel, or a place of adventure for families and little ones. This is a unique family-friendly green space right next to the seafront, inviting picnics and playtimes, relaxing afternoons in the sun or gentle coastal strolls.

Tour The Great Orme Bronze Age Copper Mines

A spectacular archaeological discovery, the Great Orme Bronze Age Copper Mines are considered to be the largest prehistoric mine discovered in the world. A short drive or 30-minute walk from our North Wales hotel, you can set off on a self-guided tour underground and learn how our ancestors lived before Roman invasion.

Walk in 3,500-year-old footsteps and imagine how our prehistoric ancestors lived and searched for copper. The tour also takes you to the opencast section of the mine, the oldest part, mined more than 4,000 years ago, then see how we once turned rock into metal at the smelting shelter.

Visit St Tudno’s Church on the Great Orme

Where Llandudno began… Nestled on the northern side of the Great Orme, explore this charming 12th-century chapel established by Celtic missionary, Tudno, the town’s patron saint. History tells of the community gathering at this church or ‘llan,’ and this was the beginning of Llandudno. Open air services still happen through the summer, from a stone pulpit built in 1914.

 

Explore Conwy

A 14-minute drive along the coast from our Llandudno hotel takes you to the hidden gem that is Conwy. So much more than simply the location of Conwy Castle; which itself is bigger and more impressive than visitors expect.

Whilst many visit the castle, some miss out on the circuit walk atop this medieval fortress’ walls, which is one of the finest preserved examples of 13th century architecture and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Conwy isn’t just known and loved for its castle, its walled ancient streets welcome visitors to wander and explore. Discover Britain’s smallest house on the quay, ‘Quay House,’ measuring 3.05 metres x 1.83 metres (10 x 6 ft), once lived in by Robert Jones who was 6 ft 3’ tall!

Or visit Plas Mawr in Conwy. Aptly named ‘Plas Mawr’ or Great Hall, is considered to be ‘the finest surviving Elizabethan town house anywhere in Britain.’ Built by Robert Wynn during the 16th century, when prosperity demanded the construction of great mansions, this one, made up of 17 lavish rooms.

Spot red squirrels and walk to Llanddwyn Island, Anglesey

Make a day of it and head over to Anglesey, ‘Ynys Mon,’ just over an hour’s drive from our North Wales hotel. Here you will fall in love with the beautiful beach of Llanddwyn and the tidal Llanddwyn Island, accessible at low tide along a mile-long stretch of beautiful sandy beach.

Part of the National Nature Reserve of Newborough Warren, this hidden gem is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and offers unforgettable views of the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park and its backdrop – the Llyn Peninsula.

Walk through the 2,000-acre coastal nature reserve, Newborough Forest, for the chance to spot protected red squirrels. Or take on the sand dunes, the largest in Wales and the second largest in the UK, to walk along the 3½ mile stretch of sandy beach.

 

 

Are you ready to get out and find all of North Wales’ hidden gems? These remarkable spots aren’t simply photo worthy; they invite you to dive into the wonderful history and heritage of North Wales.

Looking for a deal on a North Wales hotel stay? Look no further, we have our Stay & Dine offer… Book 4 nights or more and receive up to 15% off on your great UK seaside dinner, bed and breakfast break in Llandudno to give you time to explore and experience all that North Wales has to offer.

With our Llandudno hotel as your base, you’re ideally situated to explore this beautiful part of Wales, whether you’re seeking coastal wanders or mountainous adventures – North Wales won’t disappoint.