Top 10 Things To Do In Conwy, North Wales

With plenty of things to do in Conwy and around, we recommend spending at least two days in Conwy. It is also a perfect base to explore North Wales, more particularly Snowdonia National park, Anglesey and the North Wales coast.

---

Conwy – a postcard perfect medieval town

Conwy, a jewel nestled along the rugged coastline of North Wales, unfolds like a charming story from the pages of history. As you traverse the cobbled streets, each step echoes the bygone era, whispering the tales of battles long past.

Where is Conwy

Conwy is a straight-out-of-book-picturesque walled market town located in North Wales, along the north coast, near Conwy River.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. I receive a small commission at no cost to you when you make a purchase using my link. For more information, please check our privacy policy

How to reach Conwy

By Air:

Manchester and Liverpool are the nearest airports, from where you can connect to Conwy either by bus, train or car.

By Car:

Conwy is well connected with road network. A55 runs along the norther coast, providing easy access to Conwy. It is less than an hour’s drive from Chester, and a little over 1.5 hours drive from Liverpool.

By Train:

Trains operate on the North Wales Coast Line, connecting Conwy to major cities such as Manchester, Liverpool and Chester. Cowy train station is centrally located, making it convenient for travellers to explore the town on foot.

By Bus:

Bus services operte to and from Conwy, connecting it with neighbouring towns and cities. National Express connect to Chester, Liverpool and Manchester. There are also local bus providers.

Hugging the north coast of Wales, Conwy is a compelling choice for holiday makers in UK. A closer proximity to Snowdonia National Park gives Conwy an advantage as a perfect base to explore the region – be it Snowdonia, coast, or Isle of Anglesey.

Related Post: Best National Trust Places to Visit in Wales

Is Conwy worth visiting?

There’s plenty of things to do in Conwy considering how small the town is. Conwy is home to historic castle, town walls, beautiful river, sandy beaches, thriving wildlife and surrounded by mountains. At Conwy, you are spoiled with choices.

Additionally, if you happen to be travelling in North Wales, and in particular around Snowdonia Region, you can easily do a weekend getaway to Conwy, and you will not be disappointed. 

Also Read: Complete Guide to Visiting 15 National Parks in UK

Top Things To Do In Conwy Town

1. Conwy Castle

As you enter this gorgeous town, your eyes will divert towards the majestic Conwy Castle that dominates the entrance of the town along with its historic old suspension bridge. One cannot stop but wonder how magnificent and strong the castle looks considering the fact that castle was built in 1283 and has stood the test of time.

It was built by Edward 1 as part of the Iron Ring of Castles which includes Caenarfon and Beaumaris. This castle is a UNESCO Heritage Site and is still considered as one of the finest examples of 13th century military architecture in Europe.  

2. Conwy Town Walls

Built along with the castle by Edward 1, these town walls are medieval defensive structure that were formed to protect the town. The walls are 1.3 km long and includes 21 towers and 3 gatehouses. Conwy town walls are surprisingly intact and well preserved.

There are many access points and the best way to start the walk is from the station and continue along the shore. The views of the castle, river and town is breathtaking. Visiting the town walls are free, although keep in mind, the stairs are steep in some places, and good walking shoes required.

3. Boat trips

Start your boat tour at the Quay and the tour takes you down the river offering photographic opportunity to capture the bridge and the castle together, and offering views of Llandudno West Shore and Puffin Islands. For boat tours, check this website for more information.

4. Walk to Conwy Marina

Yet another free activity to do is simply walk to Conwy Marina along the river admiring the views and beautiful houses that occupy along the shores. The path is well laid out and also provides a great view of castle. And if you are visiting in Spring, there’s lovely blossoms and wisterias around. 

5. Smallest House in Britain

The smallest house in Britain (also known as Quay house) is located along the quay in Conwy, and it is unmissable. When we saw the board that had this mentioned, we were intrigued to go in and see.

The house can fit only 4 people at a time and is 6 ft wide.  There’s a tiny living room with fireplace, sofa and old pictures of the house. There was a narrow steep stairs that lead to bedroom.All the cooking, washing and toilet activities must have been performed outside the house, I beleive. 

This tiny house was created in the 16th century and remained in use until 1900.  The last occupant of the hose was Robert Jones, a fisherman, who was 6 ft 3 inches tall.  That’s when the council declared the house being unfit for human habitation. 

Can’t really imagine a 6 foot man living inside that house! The entrance to the house cost £1 for adults, and 50p for children. The house really small, so if you have claustrophobia, I would not suggest going inside. 

6. Plas Mawr

Plas Mawr, meaning Great Hall is one the finest surviving Elizabethan town house in Britain. Admire the intricate craftsmanship and period furnishings that transport you back to the 16th century, immersing you into the life during Tudor era. Over the centuries Plas Mawr became a courthouse, a school and even an art gallery.

Places To Visit Near Conwy Town

7. Visit Conwy RSPB Natural Reserve

The reserve is situated off A55 on the banks of Conwy estuary and a must visit if you are a nature lover.  A perfect family friendly attraction with many walking trails, spotting wildlife and enjoying the views of snowdonia mountains. The entrance is free for RSPB members.  Non members pay £6 (adult ticket price) that includes car parking space. 

8. Great Orme and Llandudno Cable Car

Great Orme is a limestone handheld on the north coast of Wales, lying close to Llandudno. There are two popular ways to go up the Great Orme – either by taking a Cable Car or Tramway.  Once you reach Great Orme, enjoy the sweeping views of Llandudno bay, Conwy estuary and beyond, or go on a walking trail. 

9. Visit Conwy Beaches

There are two lovely stretch of sandy beaches located in Creuddyn Peninsula, in the north of western end of the modern A55 entrance to Conwy. Both Conwy Morfa Beach and Deganwy Morfa beach makes it an excellent choice on a weekend getaway. 

10. Bodnant Garden, National Trust

Spanning over 80 acres of hillside that is garnered with manicured terraces, gardens and verdant woodland, Bodnant Garden is a must visit garden if you are around Conwy. Bodnant Garden was founded in 1874 and developed over by five generations of one family, it was given to the National Trust in 1949. Today, Bodnant Garden is one of the most visited gardens in UK, and is known for its laburnum arch, which is also the longest in the UK. Immerse yourself in a riot of colours during the spring and summer months.

Also Read: 25 Best National Trust Attractions in England

Best places to stay in Conwy

Most people come here to visit castle. But the town and its surrounding region does have a lot more to offer. Which is why we totally recommend staying in Conwy over a weekend.  For a sophisticated stay, you can choose The Quay Hotel and Spa located on the Deganwy marina. If you prefer a romantic hideout with stunning mountain views, you can stay in Plas Maenan Country House, which is roughly about 8 miles. For a value for money and warm stay in Glen Heulog, which is located only a few yards away from the Castle.

Click here to book your stay in Conwy. Don’t forget to check hotel reviews in TripAdvisor.

Places to eat vegan food in Conwy

There aren’t many vegan run cafes or restaurants in Conwy town, but there are many restaurants that serve decent vegan options. 

The Castle Hotel, High Street: A little pricy, but they do have a few good vegan options. 

L’s Coffee & Books, 7 High Street: A lovely coffee shop with limited but tasty vegan menu. 

Johny Dough’s at the Bridge, Rose Hill Street: Serves vegan Margherita pizza and a Mediterranean veggie pizza.

---

CHECK OUT OUR TOP TRAVEL RESOURCES BELOW Find the best flights flights with Googleflights or Jet2 Find affordable accommodations on Booking.com and Tripadvisor Book your car with EuropCar Rentals Book your train journeys with Eurail or Interrail Check out the best bus fares in MegaBus Get reliable travel insurance from World Nomads Search tours from GetYourGuide or Viator Book your all inclusive holidays with Travel SuperMarket or Easyjet Holidays Check out the latest adventure travel deals on G Adventures Check your visa requirement on iVisa

And finally, sit back and enjoy our virtual tour of conwy. And don’t forget to subscribe to our youtube channel. 

You may also enjoy reading these posts!

• Best National Trust Places to visit in Wales
• Quick guide to visiting National Parks in UK
• Best AONBs in UK
• 25 Best National Trust Attractions in England
• 13 Stunning castles to visit in Scotland
• 20 Things to do in Isle of Mull
• 10 Beautiful National Trust Attractions in Scotland
• 8 Top things to do in Stratford-upon-Avon
• 10 Ultimate things to do in Whitby on a weekend
• 5 offbeat things to do in Largs, Scotland

Don’t Miss A Thing!

Subscribe here and keep updated with our latest travels, new posts, travel and photography tips, destination guides and a plethora of travel inspiration! 

Like it? Pin It!

CONNECT WITH US | FACEBOOK| INSTAGRAM| PINTEREST | YOUTUBE| TWITTER

This article is now available as a mobile app. Go to GPSmyCity to download the app for GPS-assisted travel directions to the attractions featured in this article.