Top Llandudno Outdoor Activities: A Detailed Guide
Llandudno, that pretty Victorian seaside town in North Wales, offers a bunch of cool stuff to do outside. So, it’s not just about the pier and the promenade; there’s actually a lot more on offer if you’re looking to get a bit active and experience nature. Think eye-catching hikes, splashy watersports, and chances to spot some truly awesome wildlife. Let’s get into some of the very best ways to enjoy Llandudno’s fresh air and gorgeous surroundings. Read our full review: Llandudno Outdoor Activities Full Review and Details
Great Orme Exploration
The Great Orme is that big, iconic lump of limestone that towers over Llandudno, too it’s almost impossible to miss. It isn’t only a landmark, but it’s actually a natural playground that gives amazing views and many ways to experience the outdoors. You could go for a stroll or a hike, and there are tons of walking trails for all fitness levels, from super easy paths to tougher climbs. That view from the top? Totally worth it. Expect fantastic panoramas of the Irish Sea, Snowdonia, and, yes, even the Isle of Man on really clear days. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Great Orme Activities)
But it’s not just about the views; the Great Orme is actually packed with wildlife. The Orme is especially renowned for its wild goats – they’re pretty much celebrities around there – and also various seabirds, butterflies, and rare plants, like the wild cotoneaster, which you can only see growing naturally in a few spots across the UK, one being there. Basically, if you enjoy seeing wildlife or you’re into photography, remember to take your camera and a pair of binoculars with you!
If walking isn’t your thing, don’t worry; you can reach the summit in a couple of different ways. The Great Orme Tramway, which originally opened way back in 1902, offers, is that right, a unique and quite charming ride up the hill, so that could be for you. Then you also have the Great Orme Road, which you can drive up, with convenient parking spots close to the summit. That way, everyone can see the beautiful view without breaking a sweat. If you fancy seeing the views and wildlife at the Great Orme check out this Great Orme Holiday Guide
Llandudno Beach Fun and Watersports
You might imagine that being by the coast means the chance to jump into some seriously good watersports, yet Llandudno’s coastline gives the right setting for tons of aquatic adventures. Llandudno has two principal beaches: the North Shore and the West Shore. The North Shore is that traditional seaside beach with a long promenade, a pier, and generally calmer waters which make it the better pick for swimming, sunbathing, and paddling. West Shore, though, gets stronger winds and tides, so that’s perfect for watersports such as windsurfing, kitesurfing, and kayaking. So if Watersports at Llandudno’s Beach sounds like fun, here is some more Information on North Wales Watersports
Loads of local places give equipment hire and lessons, even if you are brand new to the sport. Loads of visitors often say that it is fun to get to grips with a paddleboard for the very first time or that they actually mastered windsurfing because they felt brave one afternoon! The West Shore also has that cool dunes system; you can explore this on foot or, indeed, on horseback, adding more variety to your beach day.
For families, that North Shore’s often the place to go because it has the Victorian pier, complete with amusement arcades, funfair rides, and traditional seaside treats such as ice cream and candy floss. Even simply strolling along the promenade can be fun, enjoying the ocean breeze, the sound of the waves, and that lively holiday atmosphere. And then you’ll be set. Read our full review of North Wales beaches
Happy Valley Gardens
Happy Valley Gardens offers a nice, peaceful escape from the buzz of Llandudno, that is for sure. Back in Victorian times, it was actually an old quarry, yet now it’s transformed into a set of beautifully maintained gardens that are ideal for a chilled-out wander. The gardens sit on the lower slopes of the Great Orme, so that gives stunning views of the town and the bay. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Gardens Open Time)
The paths wind through colorful flowerbeds, past water features, and across attractive lawns. You will also find things like a putting green, an open-air theater, and the Alice in Wonderland trail (because Lewis Carroll was actually inspired by Llandudno when he wrote his books!). Often, this is especially popular with families with young children. Happy Valley is a great location to sit and chill for a little while. You will feel better for it after taking in all of the nature’s views, I promise! If finding family activities sounds like fun, here are some Family Days Out in North Wales.
Throughout the summer, the open-air theater puts on plays, concerts, and other entertainment, so you should check out what is on when you get there. The gardens are beautifully lit at night, that adds a touch of magic, therefore this is great for an after-dinner walk if you like. With all its charm and its stunning views, it really is a must-see attraction in Llandudno.
Bodafon Farm Park
Bodafon Farm Park provides a fabulous day out for animal lovers, it really does! Set just a bit outside Llandudno, the farm gives you a chance to meet many animals, so you can pet them if you would like, and that’s quite popular with the kids. You will spot everything from farmyard favourites, like sheep and pigs, to alpacas and rare breeds. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Bodafon Farm Park Tickets)
That farm park works hard to conserve rare breeds of farm animals, so you will also get to learn a bit about farming and animal welfare at the same time, is that not good to know? You can wander through the fields, feed some animals, and take advantage of demonstrations such as sheepdog trials, that are fun to view! It has an outdoor play area and a café that offers tasty snacks and refreshments, that farm is an ideal spot for a family day out.
In addition to meeting animals, there are various attractions, actually including a working blacksmith, craft demonstrations, and seasonal events, say around Easter and Christmas. Those visiting Llandudno with children, or those who simply adore animals, really should go to Bodafon Farm Park because you can get to learn a bit more and enjoy time outside. And, it could be the start of learning a completely different hobby or career! Take a deeper look at Farm Parks in North Wales
Conwy Castle and Estuary
You can go for a short drive away from Llandudno and you’ll find Conwy, that is where that impressive Conwy Castle resides. Built by Edward I in the 13th century, it’s recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage site and is also one of the best preserved medieval fortresses in Wales. You can spend your time checking out the castle’s imposing towers, walking along the battlements, and seeing some amazing views of the Conwy Estuary and the Snowdonia mountains, it is a great opportunity to feel the area’s history. Read our full review of Castles in Wales. See Prices, Availability & Reserve Now (Conwy Castle Time Slot)
In addition to that castle, that picturesque town of Conwy has plenty to offer. You can wander down the quayside, eat fish and chips, and see Britain’s smallest house. If you like nature, consider going for a boat trip up the Conwy Estuary; they often offer great views of the castle, the bridge, and the local wildlife. Or, the estuary is actually a spot where lots of different birds hang out, so for birdwatchers, this is very important.
For those feeling active, the Conwy Valley offers tons of walking and cycling routes. You can go on a relaxing riverside stroll, try out some harder trails into the hills, or explore that pretty countryside on two wheels. Whether you are obsessed with history, nature, or just having fun outdoors, there are countless reasons to visit Conwy from Llandudno.
