North Wales is a stunning place to visit – and the ideal destination for a dog friendly holiday. We’ve got some great recommendations for you and your dog for a dog friendly holiday in North Wales.
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Eight Things For You And Your Dog To Do In North Wales
Ride the Great Orme Tramway, Llandudno
The Great Orme Tramway is a unique attraction in the UK, the only funicular railway in the country that runs along public roads. Between April and October every year, this 120-year old tram takes passengers from near Llandudno pier on an almost mile-long ride up through the Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve to the summit of Great Orme itself for unrivalled views across the seaside town.
Visit Pontcysyllite Aqueduct
An 11-mile aqueduct that carries the Llangollen Canal over the River Dee in Trevor, just to the south-west of Wrexham. The arched stone structure was completed in 1805 and is of such architectural significance that in 2009 was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Take a canal boat tour at Llangollen
Another way to see the Llangollen Canal, of course, is by boat. There’s no more tranquil or relaxed way to see the memorable and historic landscape than by a canal boat tour. Head down to Llangollen Wharf to see what’s on offer.
Ride the Vale of Rheidol Railway
Nearly 12 miles in length, this heritage steam railway runs between Aberystwyth and Devil’s Bridge. It’s a great way to explore some countryside that can only otherwise be accessed on foot. North Wales is, of course, famous for its steam railways. If you and your dog love to see the world from the carriage of a steam engine, you may also want to consider the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway in the Snowdonia National Park.
Visit Anglesey Sea Zoo
Home to 150 local species as well as serving as a conservation and research centre, Anglesey Sea Zoo is the largest aquarium in Wales. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed at inside exhibits, but the Zoo does provide a dedicated dog creche facility.
A day at Beaumaris, Anglesey
Home of one of the most famous of Wales’ 427 castles, there’s more to Beaumaris than just a visit to King Edward’s fortifications – one of a series of spectacular castles that enjoy UNESCO World Heritage status. Your dog will also no doubt enjoy spending the day at Beaumaris beach, or on any of the signposted coastal walks in the area.
Visit GreenWood Family Park
A family-oriented facility close to Bangor, Greenwood offers hedge mazes, watersports, rides, zip wires and forest walks.
Inigo Jones Slate Works
Originally established in 1861 as a factory producing writing slates for schools, the Inigo Jones Slate Works near Caernarfon is now a museum and activity centre ideal for those wanting to learn about the rich heritage of Welsh slate, in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage area celebrating Welsh slate production and its landscape.
Eight Walks For You And Your Dog To Enjoy In North Wales
Erddig Parkland, Wrexham
The sprawling 1,200 acre grounds that surround Erddig Hall are particular favourites with north Wales’s dogs and dog walkers. Here you will find woodlands and fields, in addition to formal gardens, ponds and heritage plant collections.
Welsh Coast Path
If you and your dog love the seaside, the Welsh coastal path provides a beautiful, varied and – occasionally – challenging resource. But you needn’t restrict yourself to the Pembrokeshire Coast – Snowdonia and North Wales both have some outstanding paths and trails. See what takes your fancy on the Wales Coast Path.
Porth Llechog
A five-mile circular trail from the northern tip of the Isle of Anglesey past some of the abandoned ruins of industrial buildings on the island. A combination of ancient coastal vistas and signs of Wales’ more recent social heritage.
Belgian Promenade, Anglesey
Located close to the Menai Bridge, which connects Anglesey to the Welsh mainland, the Belgian Promenade was built by Belgian refugees from Mechelen who lived in the area during World War I as a mark of their thanks and appreciation to the locals. A charming, laid back and easy stroll along the coast and river banks.
Holyhead Port to Treaddur Bay
A walk on Holy Island that takes you from north to south, this trail forms part of the Welsh Coastal Path and will take you past the South Stack lighthouse and along some rocky clifftops, before arriving at the picture postcard bay at the village of Treaddur.
Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park
Located at the centre of the Snowdonia National Park, the Coed-y-Brenin Forest Park is a popular outdoor activities facility. Here you will find a variety of signposted paths and trails, as well as orienteering, geocaching and mountain biking.
Dinas Dinlle
The area around the Snowdonia National Park isn’t all about deep forests and mountain ranges: there are also memorable areas of coastline. Dinas Dinlle is a popular beach near Caernarfon where fine shingle soon gives way to a vast expanse of golden sand.
Gwydyr Forest
Part of the Snowdonia National Park, Gwydyr Forest lies just on the outskirts of Betws-y-Coed. It offers old miner’s paths, forest walks and mountain biking trails, as well as being a haven for a variety of local wildlife.
Where To Stay In North Wales
Exactly where you want to base yourself for your stay is obviously dependent on exactly what activities you and your dog plan to get up to. However, here are some suggestions.
Aberystwyth
A seaside town roughly in the middle of Wales, Aberystwyth is particularly noted for its university but could be just as equally celebrated as an attractive holiday resort. In addition to its own Georgian-style buildings and beaches, it is also a fine base to explore the Cambrian mountains and the coast of Cardigan Bay.
Dolgellau
A beautiful and old-fashioned town towards the south of the Snowdonia National Park. It is surrounded by the magnificent landscape of Snowdonia but also near to the seaside town of Barmouth, increasing options for both you and your furry friend.
Conwy
A walled market town on the coast of North Wales overlooked by a spectacular castle, part of the UNESCO World Heritage site commemorating the fortifications of Wales by the English King Edward I. Conwy offers visitors the best of both worlds, with glorious beaches to its north and the Snowdonia National Park just to its south.
Bangor
A Cathedral city on the Menai Strait, which separates the Welsh mainland from Anglesey. Bangor itself has plenty to explore, with the best of the Snowdonian and slate landscapes of North Wales also just a short hop away. It is also an ideal base for people who plan to make the most of the Isle of Anglesey and Holy Island.
Betws-Y-Coed
A popular and picturesque village to the north of the Snowdonia National Park. It is surrounded by options for anyone who enjoys outdoor pursuits, with activity centres, forest parks, nature reserves and wild areas at every turn.
Wrexham
Those who prefer city breaks, or having all modern conveniences close to hand, could do worse than consider stationing themselves in Wrexham for their holiday in North Wales. Just a few miles from Chester and the English border, it is an ideal base for people keen to explore the canals of Llangollen or to walk along Offa’s Dyke Path.