North Wales is one of my favourite places to visit, and is somewhere that as a family we visit a lot. We live in Shropshire so are really conveniently located for Wales, just an hour drive and we're over the border which is so handy for day trips. If you've never been it's so worth making the journey, whether you want a full week exploring the mountains and coast or just a quick getaway for some fresh air, great walks and a change of scenery.
Do your research and be prepared
Like anywhere you’re going for the first time, a bit of research goes a long way. Look into places like Snowdonia National Park for its mountain hikes, big scenery and the chance to tick off the highest peak in Wales. The Llyn Peninsula has some of the best beaches in the country and coastal walks that feel properly remote without being miles from civilisation. Anglesey is packed with history, pretty villages and quiet coves, and it’s small enough to drive around in a day if you want to see the whole island. Knowing what’s on offer before you go means you can plan your days to suit the weather and avoid wasting time deciding what to do once you’re there.
Get to know the lay of the land
When heading to Snowdonia, choose the route up Snowdon based on time, weather and how much energy’s in the tank. Some paths are longer but easier, others are shorter and steeper, and a few give the best views if you’re up for a tougher climb. The Llanberis Path is straightforward, but the Pyg Track or Miners’ Track have better views if you don’t mind a bit more effort. Not up for the climb? The Snowdon Mountain Railway’s a good way to still get the views from the summit. The Llŷn Coastal Path is a great way to see the coastline and you can walk it in sections so you’re not out for days at a time. On Anglesey, Llanddwyn Island is worth the walk for its lighthouse, sandy beach and views across the Menai Strait.
Organise transport and accommodation early
If you’re going in summer, book early because places fill up fast. Renting a car’s worth it for the freedom to get to the more out of the way spots as buses run between the main towns but they’re not frequent in rural areas. Choose your accommodation based on the vibe you want for your trip, we've done everything from B&Bs to posh Snowdon hotels, self catering cottages and cabins and camping over the years which have all been so different.
Keep an eye on your budget
North Wales isn’t pricey compared to a lot of places, but the little costs can sneak up if you’re not careful. Parking at popular spots like Pen-y-Pass can be around £6 to £10 for the day, and the Snowdon Mountain Railway starts from about £20 for a single ticket. Entry to places like Beaumaris Castle is about £8 for adults, and even a simple lunch in a café can be £10–£15 once you’ve added a drink. Add in ice creams on the seafront, a bag of chips after a walk, or a few souvenirs from gift shops, and you can burn through more than you think. Setting a loose daily budget means you can still say yes to treats and extras without getting home to a nasty surprise on the bank statement.
Practicalities
Mobile signal can vanish in the hills or along certain parts of the coast, there are some places where there's not even enough signal to contact emergency services so it's worth being prepared and thinking ahead. I always download offline maps and trail routes before heading out- it’s also handy if you’re trying to find the car park again after a long hike. Pack for all the weather too, you can get sunburnt, soaked and chilled in the same afternoon here. Layers are your best friend along with a proper waterproof, walking shoes and a warm layer for the mountains. Even in summer it’s much colder at the top. Bring sunscreen, a water bottle and a backpack for snacks and spare clothes.
Little extras that make a big difference
If you’ve got time, stop at Dolbadarn Castle near Llanberis. It’s small but the views are worth it. On the Llyn Peninsula, Porthor (Whistling Sands) is worth a visit for the squeaky sand. On Anglesey, the walk from Newborough Beach to Llanddwyn Island’s one of my favourites and The Oystercatcher’s a great place for food afterwards.
