PULL-OUT MAP INSIDE
The Attractions of
Snowdonia The Essential Guide
PLUS Free Holiday Competition
www.attractionsofsnowdonia.com
Superb&Inspired
Snowdonia Contents
Castles & Culture
4-5
Railways & Heritage
6-7
Gardens & Parks
8
Family Fun
9
Attractions to Visit
Conwy Valley & Vale of Ffestiniog
10-12
Snowdonia - Menai
13-15
Heart of Snowdonia
16-20
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Cambrian Coast & Llyn
21-25
Contacts & Map
26-28
Win a Holiday
How to Find us
29 Back
There are Tourist Information Centres in most towns and villages to visit when you are here or find them on the web at www.visitsnowdonia.info. Alternatively visit our website at www.star-attractions.co.uk, e-mail us on star-attractions@btconnectcom, call 01286 872 702 or write to: Jacquie Knowles, Project Manager, Attractions of Snowdonia, PO Box 182, Conwy, Conwy County, LL30 9E
Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
Caban
There’s a great variety of amazing places to visit, all set in a unique landscape. National parkland, areas of outstanding natural beauty, breathtaking heritage coastline and world-famous castles are all here to discover. Snowdonia is one of the most ancient and hauntingly beautiful regions in Europe.
Welsh Place Names
The Welsh names of places in Snowdonia are often compounds of descriptive and poetic terms. Here are some words you will commonly come across: Aber - mouth of a river | Afon - river Bryn - hill | Dyffryn - valley Hen - old | Llan - church | Llyn - lake Llys - court, palace | Mawr - great, large | Nant - rocky gorge Pont (or bont) - bridge
Croeso
So come and enjoy a wonderful ‘Croeso’, the Welsh for ‘Welcome’, and a fabulous array of attractions...
Bodnant Garden
Trefriw Woollen Mills Parc Padarn Cover Photography: K J Richardson © Snowdonia National Park Authority
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Magnificent, medieval an
CASTLES & CUL
Plas Mawr
An ancient land rich with unforgettable tributes to the past‌ Snowdonia is world-famous for its ring of mighty castles built by Edward I, the English king, in the 13th century. Conwy, Caernarfon, Harlech and Beaumaris are now fittingly all World Heritage Sites. Conwy also has another historic gem which is Plas Mawr, a superbly restored Elizabethan town house.
Nant Gwrtheyrn Plas Glyn-y-Weddw
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
nd evocative...
LTURE
For a complete list of over 120 properties in the care of Cadw telephone: 01443 33 6000
Caernarfon Castle
www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
Beaumaris
Harlech
Snowdonia is the heartland of Welsh language
Lloyd George Museum
and tradition. Nant Gwrtheyrn, a Victorian coastal quarry village, now celebrates the history of the quarries and the stories of this magical valley from the Iron Age to today in its role as the country’s leading Welsh language centre. Plas Glyn-y-Weddw, a Grade 2* listed Victorian mansion, hosts a year-round programme of art exhibitions and houses a collection of fine Welsh porcelain. Gwynedd Museum uncovers the history of North Wales. The Lloyd George Museum in Llanystumdwy is a tribute to a British statesman who became one of the most powerful men in Europe.
Penrhyn Castle Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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Travel Back to the Age of S
Heritage & Railways National Slate Museum
Snowdonia’s narrow-gauge railways provide a wonderful way to see the area The quarries of Snowdonia outline a fascinating story. At Blaenau Ffestiniog are the breathtaking Llechwedd Slate Caverns plus a Victorian village. Take a self-guided tour of Inigo Jones Slateworks or browse the superb shop for high quality slate ware. The National Slate Museum in Llanberis gives an insight into the history of the quarrying industry. In contrast, close by, Electric Mountain is Europe’s largest pumped storage power station that generates hydro-electricity. Take a trip underground from the Visitor Centre. In the beautiful Conwy Valley, watch the weaving and visit the shop at Trefriw Woollen Mills where an attractive range of traditional woven gifts can be purchased. Llanberis Lake Railway
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
Steam
Welsh Highland Heritage Railway
Trefriw Woolen Mills Llechwedd Slate Caverns
Near Beddgelert, explore the winding tunnels and colourful chambers at Sygun Copper Mine. At King Arthur’s Labyrinth take a boat ride deep underground into the maze of passages that wind through a world of myths and legends. Snowdonia’s narrow-gauge railways provide a wonderful way to see the area. Snowdon Mountain Railway offers spectacular views from the highest mountain in England and Wales. Llanberis Lake Railway is a delightful five mile return trip along scenic Llyn Padarn. At the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog children love the ride as well as being able to visit the sheds and clamber on the engines and further south Talyllyn Railway affords another idyllic journey Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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Enjoy Elegant & Beautiful Houses
gardens & parks
Bodnant Garden
Bodnant Garden, high above the Conwy Valley, is one of the most beautiful in the UK with plants and trees from all over the world, and the tallest Coastal Redwood in the country. The lavish 19th century Penrhyn Castle, built with the profits of Welsh Slate and Jamaican Sugar, has a railway exhibition, doll museum and stunning extensive grounds. Parc Glynllifon is a Grade I listed garden with 70 acres of exotic trees and plants - it’s also a focus of creative arts and crafts. Padarn Country Park, in the tourist “hotspot” of Llanberis, has spectacular scenery. Visit the Quarry Hospital or enjoy lakeside, woodland or heritage trails. Portmeirion’s stunning village and gardens created by Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis is situated on its own private peninsula on the coast of Snowdonia.
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
Activities Galore for EVERYONE
Family & Fun Whatever your age, Snowdonia will keep you entertained!
The Fun Centre
GreenWood Forest Park, Snowdonia’s eco family adventure park, includes the world’s first people-powered rollercoaster. The Fun Centre in Caernarfon is an award-winning indoor play centre. Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre is a “must” visit with quad biking, go-karting and ten-pin bowling. Ropes and Ladders is not for the faint-hearted, being a high ropes adventure in the beautiful woodland setting of Padarn Country Park. Near the pretty village of Betws-y-Coed, Tree Top Adventure is a multi-award winning, high-level, adrenaline-packed journey through the trees that involves negotiating a series of obstacles. Close to mighty Snowdon and the lakeside village of Llanberis, Caban Café specializes in highquality locally sourced food at an affordable price. And who could resist the mouth-watering dishes and locally produced ice-cream on offer at Cadwalader’s Cafés with six outlets across North Wales.
Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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CONWY VALLEY & VAL
Denotes VAQAS accredited, the Visitor Attractions Quality Assurance Scheme.
01 CONWY CASTLE Magnificent Conwy Castle, conceived and created in just four years by Edward I, remains one of the most outstanding achievements of medieval military architecture. Soaring on a rock above the walled town, its battlements offer breathtaking views of mountains and sea. Open daily: 1st Apr - 30th Jun 09.30 17.00, 1st Jul - 31 Aug 09.30 - 18.00, 1st Sept - 31st Oct 09.30 - 17.00. From 1st Nov - end Feb: 10.00 - 16.00 Mon - Sat and 11.00 - 16.00 Sun, daily. Closed Dec 24, 25, 26, Jan 1. Conwy Castle, Conwy, LL32 8AY Tel: 01492 592358 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
02 PLAS MAWR Plas Mawr, built for Robert Wynn, a well-travelled courtier and an influential Welsh merchant, is an architectural gem. The finest surviving town house of the Elizabethan era to be found anywhere in Britain, it stands as a symbol of a prosperous and buoyant age. Open Tues - Sun:1 April - 31 May 09.30 - 17.00, 1 June - 31 Aug 9.30 - 18.00, 1 - 30 Sept 09.30 - 17.00, 1 Oct - 31 Oct 09.30 - 16.00. Open Bank Holiday Mondays between 1 April and 31 Oct. Times subject to change; phone site in advance. Ffordd Gwynedd, Bangor, Gwynedd High Street, ConwyLL57 LL321DT. 8DETel: 01248 353368 E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums Tel: 01492 580167 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
LE OF FFESTINIOG
Conwy Castle
03 BODNANT GARDEN Eighty acres of magnificent garden in the beautiful Conwy Valley – formal lawns and borders, Italianate terraces and “The Dell”. Daffodils, camellias and magnolias in March / April; rhododendrons and azaleas in April / May; the famous original Laburnum Arch flowers mid-May to mid-June. Herbaceous borders, roses, hydrangeas, water lilies and climbers throughout summer, followed by superb autumn colours in October. Open: 20 Feb - 31 Oct daily 10.00 - 17.00, 1 Nov - 21 Nov daily 10.00 - 16.00 (last entry 30 minutes prior to closing) Bodnant Garden, Tal y Cafn, Nr Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL28 5RE Tel: 01492 650460 | Fax: 01492 650448 Email: bodnantgarden@nationaltrust.org.uk | www.bodnant-garden.co.uk
04 TREFRIW WOOLLEN MILLS The mill manufactures traditional Welsh bedspreads, throws and tweeds from the raw wool. Weaving and the hydro-electric turbine can be viewed together with an opportunity to purchase a wide range of pure wool products woven in Snowdonia. Shop, tearoom and turbine house: open daily all year (except Dec 25, 26, Jan 1) Weaving: all year, Mon - Fri 10.00 - 13.00 and 14.00 - 17.00 • Mill museum: Easter - end Oct (same times as weaving) • Handspinning: June – end Sept: Tues, Wed, Thurs • Weavers Garden with dye plants: June - Sept, daily Main Road, Trefriw, Conwy Valley LL27 0NQ Tel: 01492 640462 | Email: info@t-w-m.co.uk | www.t-w-m.co.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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CONWY VALLEY & VALE OF FFESTINIOG
Bard’s Stone Rowen,Conway
05 TREE TOP ADVENTURE Multi-award winning activity centre, home to “The Adventurers Course”, one of the UK’s most distinctive and thrilling high ropes courses involving a series of engaging and exciting obstacles! The heartstopping “Powerfan Plummet”, the world’s highest parachute simulator, and finally our “Tree Tot Trail”, suitable for toddlers and parents. On site Café serving local produce and Visitor Centre open daily. Booking advisable. Opening Times: Spring, Summer, Autumn 09.00 - 16.00 (last start time) Winter 10.00 - 15.00 (Last start time). Alternatively, by special arrangement. Tree Top Lodge, Llanrwst Road, Betws-y-Coed, Conwy County, LL24 0HX Tel: 01690 710914 E-mail: info@ttadventure.co.uk | www.ttadventure.co.uk
06 LLECHWEDD SLATE CAVERNS Grab a hard hat and explore the underground world of the Victorian Slate Miner! With 2 unique underground experiences and our Victorian Village including bank, sweet shop and traditional tavern there is bound to be something for everyone. Access to the Village is free. Open: All year (closed Christmas, Boxing and New Year’s Day) Oct - Mar 10.15 - 16.15, Apr - Sept 10.15 - 17.15 Ffordd Ffestiniog Gwynedd,LL41 Bangor, LL57 1DT. Tel: 01248 Blaenau 3NBGwynedd Tel: 01766 830306 | Fax: 01766353368 831260 E-mail:Email: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums quarrytours@aol.com | www.llechwedd-slate-caverns.co.uk
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
SNOWDONIA - MENAI
Menai Straits
07 BEAUMARIS CASTLE Beaumaris is the great unfinished masterpiece. Built as one of the “iron ring” of North Wales castles by Edward I to stamp his authority on the Welsh, money and supplies ran short before the fortifications reached their full height. It is still, however, an awesome sight. Open daily: 1st Apr - 30th Jun 09.30 17.00, 1st Jul - 31 Aug 09.30 - 18.00, 1st Sept - 31st Oct 09.30 - 17.00. From 1st Nov - end Feb 10.00 - 16.00 Mon - Sat and 11.00 - 16.00 Sun, daily. Closed Dec 24, 25, 26, Jan 1. Beaumaris Castle, Beaumaris, LL58 8AP Tel: 01248 810361 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
08 PENRHYN CASTLE One of the most exciting destinations in North Wales, with a full programme of family events. Lavish Victorian interior. Extensive “below stairs” to explore. Beautiful grounds with stunning views over Snowdonia. Shop, tea rooms, railway museum and adventure playground. A great day out whatever the weather. Open daily (except Tues) 24 March - 31 October 2010 12.00 - 17.00 (July/Aug from 11.00). Gardens and stable block open an hour earlier. Penrhyn Castle, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 4HN Tel: 01248 353084 Email: penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk | www.nationaltrust.org.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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SNOWDONIA - MENA
09 GWYNEDD MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY Amgueddfa Ac Oriel Gwynedd – Exciting selling gallery exhibitions by local and international artists and a shop selling local handmade crafts and jewellery. In the museum you can discover Gwynedd’s past through a wide variety of exciting displays of archaeology, furniture, textiles, folk art. Free admission. Regular programme of events. Open: all year, Tuesday - Friday & Saturday Ffordd Gwynedd, Bangor, Gwynedd LL57 1DT. Tel: 01248 353368 E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums
10 CAERNARFON CASTLE Mighty Caernarfon is possibly the most famous of Wales’ many castles. Built by Edward I not only as a military stronghold but also as a seat of government and a royal palace, its majestic walls and battlements tower above the walled town. Open daily: 1st Apr - 30th Jun 09.30 17.00, 1st Jul - 31 Aug 09.30 - 18.00, 1st Sept - 31st Oct 09.30 - 17.00. From 1st Nov - end Feb 10.00 - 16.00 Mon - Sat and 11.00 - 16.00 Sun. Closed Dec 24, 25, 26, Jan 1. Ffordd Gwynedd,Castle, Bangor, Gwynedd 1DT. Tel: 01248 353368 Caernarfon Castle Ditch,LL57 Caernarfon, LL55 2AY E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums Tel: 01286 677617 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
AI
Menai Straits
11 GREENWOOD FOREST PARK The Ultimate Family Adventure! • Jungle Boats & Den Building • Green Dragon - Eco rollercoaster • TreeTop Towers, Giant Jumper & Little Forest Playbarn • Great Green Run - longest slide in Wales • Moon Karts - Pedal Powered Fun! • Café, Snack Bars, Gift Shops • Forest Theatre (holiday times) • Wales’ first Barefoot Trail!
Leaders in Sustainable Tourism – 6 major Awards
Open Feb half term, then March 14th Oct 31st 10.30 - 17.30 Y Felinheli, Gwynedd LL56 4QN. Info Line: 01248 670076 Fax: 01248 670069. Email: info@greenwoodforestpark.co.uk | Web:www.greenwoodforestpark.co.uk
12 THE FUN CENTRE Yr Hwylfan – Multi award-winning family attraction. The fun never stops at North Wales’ biggest and best indoor adventure play centre. With 25ft drop slides, ball pools, rope bridges, tube slides, maze and climbing nets. Under-fives play area. Mini electric go-carts. Fantastic “Laser space sport” game arena. Fully licensed restaurant with patio area. Incorporating the fascinating interactive Christchurch heritage museum. Open daily all year, from 10.00 during school holidays. Varies at other times - please ring for details. Christchurch, Caernarfon, LL55 1AR Tel: 01286 671911 | Fax: 01286 678642 E-mail: gog@thefuncentre.co.uk | www.thefuncentre.co.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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HEART OF SNOWDON
13 INIGO JONES SLATEWORKS Discover the secret of Welsh slate. Self-guided tour includes video presentation, exhibitions on geology, history of the industry, calligraphy and lettercutting. Try your hand at calligraphy engrave a piece of slate to keep as a souvenir. Children’s quiz with slate prize. Buy high quality slate ware, Celtic and Welsh craft items. Nameplates, numbers and plaques engraved to order. Secure online shopping also available. Café. Open daily all year including weekends: 09.00 - 17.00. Last self-guided tour: 16.00 Y Groeslon, Caernarfon, LL54 7UE. Tel: 01286 830242 | Fax: 01286 831247 Email: slate@inigojones.co.uk | www.inigojones.co.uk
14 PARC GLYNLLIFON Once described as Wales’ best kept secret, Pare Glynllifon is now being restored. Enjoy a leisurely walk through 70 acres of exotic trees and plants. Special events on selected weekends. Visit our craft and design workshops, gallery and shop and enjoy a snack at the Black Cat Café. Open: Gardens, shop and gallery, everyday 10.00 - 17.00. Ffordd Gwynedd, Gwynedd LL57 1DT. Tel:830222 01248 353368 Llandwrog,Bangor, Gwynedd, LL54 5DY Tel: 01286 E-mail:E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk parcglynllifon@gwynedd.gov.uk| www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums | www.visitsnowdonia.info
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
NIA
Bluebells, Llanberis
15 LLANBERIS LAKE RAILWAY Enjoy the spectacular sights of Snowdonia from this narrow-gauge steam train. A 5-mile return trip past historic Dolbadarn Castle, following the old slate railway route alongside beautiful Lake Padarn, stopping at Cei Llydan, ideal for picnics. Gift shops, café; wheelchair spaces on trains. One of the “Great Little Trains of Wales”. Open: Easter to May, Sept & Oct Sun - Fri. June, July & Aug: Daily. Before Easter & from Nov, certain dates only: call to check. Times: most days 11.00 - 16.00. Family fare deals available. Padarn Country Park, Llanberis, LL55 4TY Tel: 01286 870549 | Fax: 01286 870549 Email: info@lake-railway.co.uk | www.lake-railway.co.uk
16 NATIONAL SLATE MUSEUM Situated under towering slate mountains in the Victorian engineering workshops of Dinorwig Slate Quarry, this living, working museum tells the story of North Wales’ slate industry. Enjoy a stunning film show, slate-splitting demonstrations, furnished quarrymen’s houses, giant waterwheel - the largest in mainland Britain, exhibitions and events. Children’s play area, gift shop and café. FREE ADMISSION. Open all year. Easter to Oct: daily 10.00 17.00. Nov - Mar: Sun - Fri 10.00 - 16.00. Last admission: 1 hour before closing Padarn Country Park, Llanberis, LL55 4TY Tel: 01286 870630 | Fax: 01286 871906 E-mail: slate@museumwales.ac.uk | www.museumwales.ac.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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HEART OF SNOWDON
17 PADARN COUNTRY PARK Parc Gwledig Padarn – Spectacular industrial, lakeside, ancient oak woodland and orienteering trails in an 800-acre park with panoramic views over Snowdon. Visit the Dinorwig Quarry Hospital with its operating theatre and wards displaying the original X-ray machine plus other gruesome equipment. Open: COUNTRY PARK Grounds - all year; QUARRY HOSPITAL - every day during Easter school holidays, from Spring Bank Holiday through to mid Sept and Oct half-term, open weekends from Easter to end of Oct. Parc Gwledig Padarn, Llanberis, LL55 4TY Tel: 01286 870892 E-mail: padarncountrypark@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.visitsnowdonia.info
18 ROPES AND LADDERS High ropes adventure and low level kids course. Dares and scares for families, groups or individuals in a beautiful woodland setting. Aerial challenges, zip line, climbing wall, trapeze leap and giant swing. Spectacular views of mountains and lakes from the top of the highest activity tower in the UK. Instructors lead 2 hour sessions: all equipment provided. Now with kids course for 4 to 8 year olds. Bookings throughout the year. Opening times vary seasonally. Ffordd Gwynedd, Bangor, GwyneddLL55 LL574TY. 1DT.Tel: Tel:01286 01248872310 353368 Gilfach Ddu, Llanberis, Gwynedd, E-mail:E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums info@ropesandladders.co.uk | www.ropesandladders.co.uk
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
NIA
Nant Gwynant
19 ELECTRIC MOUNTAIN Electric Mountain’s Visitor Centre is the starting point for tours deep inside Elidir Mountain into one of Europe’s largest man-made caverns, the home of Dinorwig Power Station’s pumped storage hydroelectric generator.Visitor Centre includes: Café,The Den soft play area and Art Gallery showcasing local artists. Centre open daily 10.00 - 16.30, 09.30 - 17.30 Jun, Jul, Aug and main school holidays. Advance booking for tours advisable, restrictions apply. Tours daily from Easter to end Oct, select days at other times. The Den open daily, phone: 01286 873050 for details. Llanberis LL55 4UR. Tel: 01286 870636 Fax: 01286 873002. Email: info@electricmountain.co.uk | www.electricmountain.co.uk
20 SNOWDON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY Travel on the only public rack and pinion railway in Britain. Hafod Eryri, the new Snowdon Summit visitor centre is now open - Audio Visual Theatre • Platform Grill • Advance Phone Booking System • In-carriage commentary • Licensed Café & Gift Shop • Early Bird discounts & Family tickets on the 9.00am departure. Open daily from mid-March - end of Oct. Trains run subject to weather conditions and passenger demand. During July & Aug the railway is extremely busy and advanced booking is advisable. Llanberis LL55 4TY. Tel: 0871 720 0033 | Fax: 01286 872518 E-mail: info@snowdonrailway.co.uk | www.snowdonrailway.co.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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HEART OF SNOWDONIA
Llyn Padarn
21 CABAN CAFÉ Located in Brynrefail near the foot of Snowdon, Caban serves high quality food at an affordable price. Its enviable reputation with customers is based on a healthy mix of organic products, local suppliers and home-grown fruit & veg. Recommended in The Good Food Guide 2009. Ever-changing specials menu. Saturday nights (booking essential): globetrotting buffet giving you the opportunity to taste world class food in the Welsh mountains. Brynrefail, nr Llanberis, LL55 3NR Tel 01286 685500 Email: caban@caban-cyf.org | www.caban-cyf.org
22 SYGUN COPPER MINE Self-guided audio-visual tours through the old workings on foot. Winding tunnels and large, colourful chambers with magnificent stalactite and stalagmite formations. A rare opportunity to explore tunnels abandoned in 1903. Above ground: Museum of Antiquities, Coins and Fossils, Gold Panning, Pottery Painting, Archery, Bouncy Castle, Adventure Playground and Lake Side Walks. Winner of the Prince of Wales Award for Tourism. Open: 9.30 - 17.00 7th March until end Oct, 10.00 - 16.00 Feb Half Term Ffordd Gwynedd, Gwynedd LL57 1DT. Tel:01766 01248890595 353368 Beddgelert, LL55Bangor, 4NE Tel: 01766 890595 | Fax: E-mail: E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums sygunmine@hotmail.com | www.syguncoppermine.co.uk
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
^ CAMBRIAN COAST & LLYN
Criccieth Castle
23 NANT GWRTHEYRN Nant Gwrtheyrn is a renovated Victorian Quarry village with 4* accommodation for 75 guests and a new function room for weddings and conferences. In an unforgettable location, with beach, coastal and woodland walks, the new Heritage Centre interprets the story of the valley from the Iron Age to the present day.The cafĂŠ bar and shop are popular for walkers, and families. A new road allows coach access and car parking is now provided in the village. Open daily April 7th - October 31st. ADMISSION FREE Llithfaen, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 6PA Tel: 01758 750 334 E-mail: post@nantgwrtheyrn.org | www.nantgwrtheyrn.org
24 ORIEL PLAS GLYN-Y-WEDDW GALLERY FREE ADMISSION. Visit one of Wales’ premier art venues.The gallery is housed in a grade 2* Gothic ^ Victorian Mansion on the beautiful Llyn Peninsula. Quality craft shop and award-winning tea room on site. Art workshops, lectures and musical concerts held throughout the year. Licensed for Civil Weddings. Self-catering accommodation on site - sleeps up to 12 people. Open: every day except Tuesday, 10.00 - 17.00 (open Tuesdays during School holidays). Limited opening in January. Please call prior to travelling some distance. Llanbedrog, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 7TT Tel: 01758 740763 E-mail: gwyn@oriel.org.uk | www.oriel.org.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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CAMBRIAN COAST & LLYN
Porthdinllaen
25 GLASFRYN PARC ACTIVITY & BOWLING CENTRE Enjoy a great family day out at Glasfryn Parc, 4 miles from Pwllheli on the A499 Caernarfon road. Ten Pin Bowling - open 10am till late (licensed bar) • Go-Karting • Quad Trekking • Junior Quad Biking • Soft Play • Archery • Fishing • Cafe & Dining Room serving homemade food • Farm Shop selling our own meat, game and speciality foods. Open EVERY day (except Christmas Day) from 10.00 Please call to book Quad Trekking and Archery Y Ffôr, Pwllheli, LL53 6PG (Sat nav: Postcode LL53 6RL) Tel: 01766 810202 Fax: 01766 810707 Email: info@glasfryn.co.uk | www.glasfryn.co.uk
26 LLOYD GEORGE MUSEUM Amgueddfa Lloyd George - Discover the life and times of David Lloyd George, the cottage-bred boy who became prime minister during World War I. Unique collections, film, talking head, Victorian boyhood home, shoemaker’s workshop and cottage garden. Open: Easter - October including Bank Holiday Weekends. Other times by appointment. April, May & Oct, Mon - Fri; June, Mon - Sat; July - Sep, daily. Admission charge. Ffordd Gwynedd,Criccieth, Bangor, Gwynedd Tel: 01248 353368 Llanystumdwy, LL52 OSHLL57 Tel1DT. & Fax: 01766 522071 E-mail: gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk | |www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums Email: lloydgeorgemuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museums
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Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
27 CRICCIETH CASTLE Standing on a rocky peninsula overlooking Tremadog Bay, Criccieth Castle is a prominent North Wales landmark. Originally a stronghold of the native Welsh Princes, Criccieth was later annexed and added to by the English monarch, Edward I.
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Open: Apr - Oct: Mon - Sun 10.00 - 17.00 Nov – Mar: (closed 24, 25, 26 Dec, 1 Jan) Fri & Sat 9.30 16.00, Sun 11.00 - 16.00. Tel: 01766 522227 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
Porthdinllaen
28 CADWALADER’S ICE CREAM CAFÉS Cadwalader’s Cafés offer the ideal indulgent treat. As well as delicious ice creams, try our quality coffees, contemporary sundaes and pastries. From the original, now redeveloped, shop in Criccieth - enjoy fine views from the cliff-top Café. We are open all year round and can be found throughout Snowdonia: Porthmadog, Betws y Coed, Portmeirion, Pwllheli and Llandudno Tel: 01766 522478 | www.cadwaladersicecream.co.uk
29 WELSH HIGHLAND HERITAGE RAILWAY A small friendly railway where the train ride is only part of the experience. Our vintage train also stops at the Engine Sheds, where you can climb on our steam and diesel locomotives. Your visit takes about 50 minutes, including the train trip, tour of the Engine Sheds, and an optional ride on the scenic Porthmadog Woodland Miniature Railway. Book and souvenir shop, and Russell Tea Room. Open: daily March 27 - October 31st (closed some Mondays and Fridays in Oct.). Trains at 10.30, 11.30, 13.00, 14.00, 15.00, 16.00* (*not Oct) Tremadog Road, Porthmadog. LL49 9DY Tel: 01766 513402 | Fax: 01766 513402 E-mail: info@whr.co.uk | www.whr.co.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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CAMBRIAN COAST & L
30 PORTMEIRION Visit Portmeirion and experience a charming, quirky world of meandering streets and clifftop towers at this unique village resort on the coast of Snowdonia. ‘The Prisoner’ was filmed here in 1967. There are plenty of shops and cafes to suit all tastes, open late during school holidays. Entry is half price after 3.30pm. Open all year, 9.30 - 19.30 Portmeirion near Porthmadog, Gwynedd LL48 6ER Tel: 01766 772311 | Fax: 01766 770300 E-mail: info@portmeirion-village.com | www.portmeirion-village.com
31 HARLECH CASTLE Spectacularly sited Harlech Castle, built by Edward I, keeps a watchful eye over Snowdonia, with truly panoramic views from its lofty battlements of sea and mountains. Open daily: 1st Apr - 30th Jun 09.30 17.00, 1st Jul - 31 Aug 09.30 - 18.00, 1st Sept - 31st Oct 09.30 - 17.00. From 1st Nov - end Feb 10.00 - 16.00 Mon Sat and 11.00 - 16.00 Sun, daily. Closed Dec 24, 25, 26, Jan 1. Castle Square, Harlech, LL46 2YH Tel: 01766 780552 www.cadw.wales.gov.uk
32 ON THE QUAY AT BARMOUTH
Refer to list and map pages
33 QUAKER HERITAGE CENTRE
Refer to list and map pages
24
Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
^ LLYN
Barmouth Beach
34 KING ARTHUR’S LABYRINTH An unforgettable adventure along an underground river, through the great waterfall, into the spectacular caverns of the Labyrinth. Hear ancient tales of King Arthur and Welsh legends of dragons, giants and battles which fascinate all ages. Above ground join the Bards’ Quest for ancient legends.The start for both is Corris Craft Centre - home to ten craft workshops & excellent café. Open daily 22nd March - 31st October 10.00 until last tour starts at 17.00 Note: Wrap up warm as it is cool underground. Corris, Machynlleth, SY20 9RF Tel: 01654 761584 | Fax: 01654 761575 E-mail: info@kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk | www.kingarthurslabyrinth.com
35 TALYLLYN RAILWAY From Tywyn a coal-fired narrow-gauge steam train takes you on a 2½ hour trip through unspoilt Snowdonia, with the chance to stop for a forest walk or picnic. The world’s first preserved railway dates back to 1865 and original locomotives are still in use. Free Museum, licensed Café, shops, disabled facilities, and playground. Daily service from April - Oct inc, and Christmas. Family fares and party rates available. Wharf Station, Tywyn, LL36 9EY Tel: 01654 710472 | Fax: 01654 711755 enquiries@talyllyn.co.uk | www.talyllyn.co.uk Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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A5
Llyn Alaw
Caergybi Holyhead
Ynys Môn Anglesey
Holy Island Valley
Key to Map
A5 5
Rhosneigr A4
North Wales Expressway
Aberffraw
Primary A Roads
Llangef
A5
Porthaet Menai B
08
0
A5
Secondary A Roads
Newborough
B road Railway and Station
Caernarfo n
National Cycle Route
Coastal path
13
Cadwaladers Ice Cream Café 01
10
Groe
14
Bae Caernarfon Penygroes Caernarfon Bay
Attraction & Number
A48
23
7
Llanaelhaearn 25
Nefyn
Be
n Lly
7
24
26
Y Ffôr
a
sul
in Pen
99
hyn
r Pen
41
A4
B4
Yr Eifl
Pwllheli
Criccieth
Llanbedrog
Harlec
Abersoch
Aberdaron
27 A
Bae Ceredigion Cardigan Bay
Ynys Enlli Bardsey Island
Travel Chart
Llandudno 22 44 31 26 67 47 Bangor 22 22 9 11 64 31 Beddgelert 44 22 13 14 42 21 Caernarfon 31 9 12 8 55 22 Llanberis 26 11 14 8 56 28 Machynlleth 67 64 42 55 56 54 Pwllheli 47 31 21 22 28 54 Porthmadog 41 28 8 20 21 40 13
26
Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
Aberm Barmo
Porthmadog
Pwllheli
Machynlleth
Llanberis
Caernarfon
Beddgelert
Bangor
Llandudno
Approximate distances in miles
41 28 8 20 21 40 13
Tywyn Aberdovey Aberdyfi
Aberdyfi
Great Ormes Head
A502 5
thwy Bridge
Bangor
5
11
Bethesda
85
A40
Llanberis 15 16 17 20 A5 19 18 Capel Curig
B4418
05
Yr Wyddfa Snowdon
Dolwyddelan 8
A49
eddgelert
06
70
A4
Blaenau Ffestiniog
Porthmadog
ch
Pentrefoelas Cerrigydrudion A4
21 2
Llyn Trawsfynydd
Llyn Celyn
Rhinog Fawr
Rhinog Fach
A5
01
4
A49
Parc Cenedlaethol Eryri Snowdonia National Park
31
43 A5
A5
Ffestiniog
30 29 Portmeirion
Llanfair Talhaiarn
A548
Betws-y-Coed
Y Bala Bala Llyn T egid
A470
7
22
Abergele
03
Llanrwst
04
6 08 A4
eslon
Trefriw
YR
Llanddulas
5
12
A49
01
A470 A fon C o nw
Bethel 21
6
B 5 10 6
B 436
Conwy
Llanfairfechan
y
09
A55
08
Bae Colwyn Bay
A470
Llandudno Biwmares Beaumaris 07 Penmaenmawr 02
fni
B4
Benllech
A496
32
Cadair Idris
33 87
Dolgellau
A4
maw outh
Corris 34 35
A470
A493
Machynlleth 87
A4
Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk .
27
Attractions Contact Details CONWY VALLEY & VALE OF FFESTINIOG
Pages 10-12
01 Conwy Castle 01492 592358 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 02 Plas Mawr 01492 580167 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 03 Bodnant Garden 01492 650460 | bodnantgarden@nationaltrust.org.uk 04 Trefriw Woollen Mills 01492 640462 | info@t-w-m.co.uk 05 Tree Top Adventure 01690 710914 | info@ttadventure.co.uk 06 Llechwedd Slate Caverns 01766 830306 | quarrytours@aol.com
SNOWDONIA – MENAI
Pages 13-15
07 Beaumaris Castle 01248 810361 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 08 Penrhyn Castle 01248 353084 | penrhyncastle@nationaltrust.org.uk 09 Gwynedd Museum & Art Gallery 01248 353368 | gwyneddmuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk
10 Caernarfon Castle 01286 677617 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk 11 GreenWood Forest Park 01248 670076 | info@greenwoodforestpark.co.uk 12 The Fun Centre 01286 671911 | gog@thefuncentre.co.uk
HEART OF SNOWDONIA 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22
Inigo Jones Slateworks 01286 830242 | slate@inigojones.co.uk Parc Glynllifon 01286 830222 | parc.glynllifon@gwynedd.gov.uk Llanberis Lake Railway 01286 870549 | info@lake-railway.co.uk National Slate Museum 01286 870630 | slate@museumwales.ac.uk Padarn Country Park 01286 870892 | padarncountrypark@gwynedd.gov.uk Ropes & Ladders 01286 872310 | info@ropesandladders.co.uk Electric Mountain 01286 870636 | info@electricmountain.co.uk Snowdon Mountain Railway 0871 7200033 | info@snowdonrailway.co.uk Caban Café 01286 685500 | caban@caban-cyf.org Sygun Copper Mine 01766 890595 | sygunmine@hotmail.com
CAMBRIAN COAST & LLYN 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 32 33 34 35
28
Pages 16-20
Pages 21-25
Nant Gwrtheyrn 01758 750 334 | post@nantgwrtheyrn.org Oriel Plas Glyn-y-Weddw 01758 740763 | gwyn@oriel.org.uk Glasfryn Parc Activity Centre 01766 810202 | info@glasfryn.co.uk Lloyd George Museum 01766 522071 | lloydgeorgemuseum@gwynedd.gov.uk Criccieth Castle 01766 522227 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk Cadwalader’s Ice Cream Cafés | www.cadwaladersicecream.co.uk Welsh Highland Heritage Railway 01766 513402 | info@whr.co.uk Portmeirion 01766 772311 | info@portmeirion-village.com Harlech Castle 01766 780552 | www.cadw.wales.gov.uk On the Quay at Barmouth 01341 241333 | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museum Quaker Heritage Centre 01341 424442 | www.gwynedd.gov.uk/museum King Arthur’s Labyrinth 01654 761584 | info@kingarthurslabyrinth.co.uk Talyllyn Railway 01654 710472 | enquiries@talyllyn.co.ukco.uk
Email: info@star-attractions.co.uk
WIN A LUXURY FAMILY HOLIDAY! Stay in a legendary place
Portmeirion
Hotel Portmeirion overlooks the estuary and forms part of the inspirational village that was the vision of the famous architect Clough Williams-Ellis. For more information about Portmeirion call 01766 772440 or visit www.portmeirion-village.com To be in with a chance to win just answer the following question: Which of the following Royals is the Prince of Wales? a) Prince Philip
b) Prince Charles
c) Prince Edward
Answer: Where did you pick up this guide? Name Address
Postcode:
Daytime Tel No. Email: Post to: Attractions of Snowdonia, PO Box 182, Conwy, LL30 9EL
Offer includes two nights B & B for two adults and two children. Subject to Availability. Offer restricted to one entry per household. Competition closes 31.12.10 If you do not wish to receive further information from the Attractions of Snowdonia, then please tick this box.
Website: www.star-attractions.co.uk
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Getting Here By Road FROM THE NORTH WEST Follow the fast A55 trunk road from the M56. Aberdeen
FROM THE MIDLANDS Take the historic A5 from the M54. FROM THE SOUTH Take the scenic A487 and A470. By Rail Direct fast rail services run into the popular North Wales coastal region and over to Bangor and Holyhead from most parts of Britain. Services from the Midlands through Shrewsbury link up with the Cambrian coastal line via Machynlleth to Porthmadog and Pwllheli and provide stunning views: www.thecambrianline.co.uk
M74 Dumfries
Chester Getting Around Caernarfon
67m 107km
A1
Douglas
M6 Leeds
M62
Kingston Upon Hull
Liverpool Llandudno
A55 A487
Chester
Stoke-on-Trent M6
Nottingham
A470 A487
Fishguard
Manchester
A5
SNOWDONIA
By Air Three international airports are less than two hours transfer time – Manchester and Liverpool John Lennon for Northern Snowdonia, and Birmingham for Southern Snowdonia. Highland Airways offers twice daily Monday to Friday flights linking Cardiff with Anglesey Airport. Call: 0870 7770915 or book on-line.
Newcastle Upon Tyne
Carlisle
Holyhead
By Bus There are National Express coach services from the UK national network to Porthmadog, Bangor, Caernarfon & Llandudno. Tel: 08717 81 81 81
Edinburgh
Glasgow
M1
M5 Swansea
A1
Birmingham M40
Cardiff Bristol
London
M4
M3
M5
M25
M25
Southampton
Exeter Plymouth
Birmingham Plan Your Stay
Manchester
110m 176km
160m 256km
Lon
274
There are Tourist Information Centres in For details of local buses, including the Beddgelert 182km 76m 121km towns and125m villages200km to visit when 237 Sherpa service which operates around the114mmost you are here or find them on the web mountains of Snowdonia contact: www.visitsnowdonia.info. Machynlleth 72m 115km 111mat177km 104m 166km 216 BWS GWYNEDD 01286 679 535 Alternatively visit our website at www.gwynedd.gov.uk/bwsgwynedd www.attractionsofsnowdonia.com, Alternatively, for all your transport enquiries visit: email us on: www.traveline.org.uk or call 0871 200 2233 info@star-attractions.co.uk, call Llanberis Tourist Information Centre on: 01286 870 765 or write to: Jacquie Knowles, Attractions Of Snowdonia, PO Box 182, Conwy LL30 9EL
Regretfully the publishers cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies and omissions within this publication. Times and facilities can change without notice. Written and produced by Jacquie Knowles on behalf of the Attractions of Snowdonia E-Mail: Jacquie.Knowles@btconnect.com This brochure has been printed on paper from a sustainable source
Photography by: Pierino Algieri, Paul Kay, Glyn Surname, Visit Wales Š, Ray Wood. Design by MwnciBach.