Things To Do In Caernarfon Wales
The royal town of Caernarfon is where you can immerse yourself in rich, Welsh history. With the Snowdonia Mountains as its backdrop and one of the most famous, imposing Welsh Castles as its crown jewel, Caernarfon should definitely be on your North Wales Itinerary. It’s also where the investiture of Prince Charles took place in July 1969 and he became the Prince of Wales. Here, we’ll list the best things to do in Caernarfon Wales.
Things To Do In Caernarfon Wales
Visit Caernarfon Castle
Visit Dinas Dinlle
Visit Inigo Jones Slateworks
Visit Airworld Aviation Museum
Take a ride on the Welsh Highlands Railway
Visit Caernarfon Castle
The mighty Castle of Caernarfon is undoubtedly the jewel of this royal town and probably its best known attraction. Touted as one of the ‘greatest buildings of the Middle Ages’, the building of this imposing structure was started in 1283 by King Edward I of England, on the site of an existing 11th Century motte and bailey. Edward built a castle, town walls and a quay at the same time and the huge project took 47 years! The castle’s walls are loosely based on the design of the Roman Walls of Constantinople, nodding to the town’s Roman past.
Today, the outside remains largely intact but the interior and its buildings no longer remain. There are however exhibits and displays walking you through the castle’s incredible history. It makes for a stunning day out and a must on your visit to Caernarfon.
The site is managed and maintained by CADW. Adults entry tickets are £12.50 and £8.80 for children aged 5-17, under 5s go free. Blue Light Card holders receive 10% discount.
Visit Dinas Dinlle
Dinas Dinlle is a beautiful beach just outside the town’s walls. When the tide is out, it reveals large stretches of sand that are perfect for a day at the beach, also known for some excellent wild swimming opportunities. In good weather, you can see all the way along the Llŷn Peninsula and across to Llanddwyn Island on Anglesey. There is also significant historical and archaeological significance here because of its Iron Age remains.
There is a free car park, public toilets and nearby cafes to grab refreshments on your visit. Well behaved dogs on leads are welcome.
Visit Inigo Jones Slateworks
Inigo Jones Slateworks is very possibly the last surviving example of a fully operational Slateworks in North Wales. The workshop was established in 1861 and is still a thriving business, supplying slate products all over the world. When you visit, you’ll get to see craftsmen using traditional methods. You can observe as they cut, shape and polish slate slabs into various things like cills, coping, flooring, steps, kitchen worktops and hearths. You’ll also get to watch them hand or machine engrave and shot blast nameplates, plaques and memorials. It really is fascinating!
There is free car parking onsite plus a new showroom that shows you the slate products in a modern setting, really showcasing the expert craftsmanship here. One of the old workshops has been turned in to a cafe, franchised out to a local farmer, so you can grab a drink and a bite to eat whilst you’re here. The shop/cafe is free to visit and workshop tours are £7 per adult and £6.50 for children between 5-16 years old.
Visit Airworld Aviation Museum
Located on the airfield of the former RAF Llandwrog, the Airworld Aviation Museum has an impressive collection of aviation memorabilia. Set on an active airfield, here you can get close up to some impressive historic aircrafts, including iconic machines such as the Hawker Hunter, D.H. Vampire and the only T2 BAe Harrier remaining in the world!
A section of the museum is devoted to the creation of the RAF Mountain Rescue Service, which was started at RAF Llandwrog in 1942, whilst other parts have displays about the wartime airfields of North Wales.
There is free car parking on site plus a gift that sells model kits and souvenirs. The museum is open every Saturday & Sunday from 10am - 4pm (last entry is at 3pm). Tickets are £7 for adults and £5 for pensioners and children under 16. The museum doesn’t have toilets available to visitors but there are some in the airport cafe, across the car park.
Take a ride on the Welsh Highlands Railway
Definitely one for the rail lovers, ride the Welsh Highlands Railway steam train from the beautifully renovated Caernarfon Railway Station. The line runs from Caernarfon along the base of Snowdon, through quaint Beddgelert and on to Porthmadog. You’ll ride along the base of the stunning Snowdonia Mountain range and or an extra treat, you can book in to first class!
Check their website for up to date train services and to book a ride.
Caernarfon, with its amazing attractions and its famous UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one not to be missed on your North Wales adventure. If you have visited Caernarfon recently, let us know what you thought of this stunning place and feel free to share any suggestions in the comments below.
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