Things To Do In Bangor Wales

The cathedral city of Bangor is also the oldest city in Wales. With a thriving student population, a fantastic coastal location and a host of places to enjoy great food, there is something here for everyone. In this post, we’ll go over the top things to do in Bangor Wales.

Visit Bangor Cathedral
Stroll along Garth Pier
Visit Aber Falls Distillery
Catch some air at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry
Complete the Bangor Circular Walk

Visit Bangor Cathedral

The beautiful cathedral church is one not to be missed on your visit to Bangor. The site of the cathedral has been a place of worship since the 6th century! The 13th century cathedral church has a wonderful gothic style, complete with stunning stained glass windows. When you venture inside, look out for a rare 15th century carving known as the ‘Mostyn Christ’. Famous furniture maker Robert Thomson also left his mark, 5 tiny mice carved in to the woodwork, so keep your eyes peeled for those! The cathedral is open during the week, not including bank holidays, but hours may vary so check their website.

Stroll along Garth Pier

Touted by locals as the ‘finest surviving Victorian pier’, this beautiful wooden promenade extends almost half a kilometre in to the sea. The grade-II listed structure first opened in 1896 and still has many of its original features. As you meander down the pier, you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the Menai Straight and over Anglesey as well. The kiosks dotted along the pier have refreshments and mementos to buy, so you can grab something to eat after your walk. The 50p entrance fee is definitely worth it!

Visit Aber Falls Distillery

Aber Falls is one of only 7 whisky distilleries in Wales but was the first in North Wales. The building itself has a varied and rich history, having been a slate works, a margarine factory and a drinks wholesaler depot. It has since been refurbished and restored to create the distillery you see today. You can book on to tours of the whisky distillery for £12.50 per person, or even make your own gin in their gin lab, from £65.00.

There is also a visitor centre onsite, complete with a cafe so you can enjoy a drink beside the river before browsing the shop. Check the website for up to date booking and opening information.

Catch some air at Zip World Penrhyn Quarry

Set in what used to be the largest slate quarry in the world, Zip World at Penrhyn Quarry is sure to add some adrenaline to your Bangor trip. Here, you can fly through the sky on the fastest zip line in the world, 500m above the quarry lake below. As well as the zip lines, there are other activities here too for those that prefer to keep their feet on the ground, such as karting and tours of the quarry.

You can grab a bite to eat in the Blondin Cafe onsite after your air adventure, or maybe just sit here and watch others zipping around as you enjoy some lunch in this unique location.

You can book in advance on their website. The site is cashless, so card payments only, and there is free parking onsite.

Complete the Bangor Circular Walk

This walk is a pleasant one that offers beautiful views of Anglesey and Snowdonia, as well as overlooking the Menai Strait. It is a short walk, approx. 1.4 miles long, but perfect for a peaceful meander through the landscape for people of all ages. It’s set in the upper area of Bangor, in a place known as Roman Camp, although it has no actual Roman attributes! It is unclear how it got the name but it’s a beautiful walk, through woodlands and scrublands with wonderful views of the surrounding area. Perfect for an afternoon stroll.

Bangor has plenty to offer in addition to these amazing activities, including a visit to Penrhyn Castle, catching a film or a show at Pontio Performing Arts Centre plus learning to weave at SAORImôr weaving and craft centre. Not to mention fantastic places to eat such as The Boatyard Inn, The Tap and Spile or The Belle Vue.

If you have visited Bangor recently, let us know what you thought of this beautiful city and feel free to share any suggestions in the comments below.

As always, sharing is caring so make sure to share this guide with your family and friends and inspire them to head off on their own Welsh adventure.

Things To Do In Bangor Wales