10 Things To Do In And Around Llandudno

Tucked between two rugged limestone headlands, Llandudno is often hailed as the “Queen of the Welsh Resorts” — and for good reason. With its elegant Victorian promenade, iconic pier, sweeping seafront views, and delightful blend of seaside nostalgia and natural beauty, this coastal town is one of the most popular destinations in North Wales.

But it’s not just about scenery and architecture: Llandudno is home to one of the most important prehistoric mines in the world, offers various opportunities to see wildlife up close, and even provides the chance to enjoy snowsports activities. Not to mention that exploring the busy centre — with all its shops, cafés and restaurants — is an integral part of the experience. The town has something to offer everyone, from families looking for a fun day out, to keen walkers and history enthusiasts, to those in search of a vibrant town with bustling streets full of life.

I have visited Llandudno on many occasions since moving to Wales, and I have always had a wonderful time. In this article, I’ll take you through all the places you should explore in and around the area, as well as provide useful information to help plan your trip and make the most of your stay. Enjoy the read!

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1. Explore The Great Orme

The Great Orme boasts such an impressive range of things to do that it could easily fill an entire top 10 list on its own. So instead, I’ve grouped everything together under one chapter, leaving room in the article to suggest even more activities elsewhere. Chances are you’ll end up doing several things on the Great Orme in the same day anyway, so it makes sense to treat it as a single experience.

The larger of the two limestone headlands lies to the north-west of the town but is directly connected to it. There are several ways to reach the summit, and some of them are an integral part of the Llandudno experience.

The most stylish way to reach the top is by taking the Great Orme Tramway — the UK’s only cable-hauled tramway operating on public roads. It climbs one mile (1,600 metres) from Victoria Station — just a short walk from Llandudno’s centre and pier — passing through the Great Orme Country Park and Nature Reserve before reaching the spectacular summit. First opened in 1902, the beautifully restored original tramcars are still in use today.

Another unique way to ascend is via the Cable Cars, which offer breathtaking views of Llandudno Bay, the Conwy Estuary and the Irish Sea as you glide 679 feet (207 metres) above the ground. Opened in 1969 — and the longest passenger cable car system in Britain at the time — it remains one of the town’s most popular attractions. Please note that tickets cannot be booked in advance, payment is by cash only, and the cable cars do not operate on windy days.

If you’d rather get some exercise, there are various walking trails leading to the summit and around the headland. You can start directly from the town centre, Victoria Station (where the tramway departs), the Happy Valley Botanical Gardens, or from West Shore Beach. Some walks take just 30 minutes, while others may take an hour or more. Walking is also a great opportunity to spot the famous Kashmiri goats, who rose to fame in 2020 during the Covid pandemic when footage of them roaming freely through a deserted Llandudno went viral.

The final option is to drive: you can take your car around the headland on Marine Drive, a one-way, single-lane toll road, and up to the summit where there’s a car park. Be aware that on busy holidays, parking can fill up quickly. There’s also a shuttle bus to the top, and a vintage tour bus that takes visitors around the perimeter of the Great Orme.

At the summit, you’ll find a café, a playground, picnic areas, the tramway visitor centre, and a mini-golf course.

One final attraction that’s well worth mentioning — and which I personally highly recommend — is the Great Orme Copper Mines. Located near the tramway’s halfway station (a 13-minute walk from the summit), they are an extraordinary discovery that changed our understanding of ancient Britain. The site was originally intended to be a car park, but in 1987, a network of tunnels was uncovered, dating back over 4,000 years. Now recognised as the largest prehistoric copper mine in the world, this site revealed that ancient Britons were mining copper two millennia before the Roman invasion. You can explore sections of the mine via easy-to-follow routes — it’s absolutely worth your time!

2. Walk On The Pier and The Promenade

An iconic sight in Llandudno, beloved by locals and visitors alike, is the 2,295-foot (700-metre) Victorian and Edwardian pier that stretches out into the Irish Sea. Not only is it Wales’s longest pier, but it’s also the fifth longest in the UK. The top spot is held by Southend Pier — which is also the longest in the world — at 6,900 feet, followed by Southport Pier (3,536 ft), Walton Pier (2,610 ft), and Ryde Pier (2,305 ft).

Llandudno Pier was built in 1876 and completed just two years later. It has undergone several renovations and repairs, the most recent in 2025 following extensive storm damage. In addition to offering beautiful views across Llandudno Bay, it features an impressive range of attractions, including shops, arcades, funfair rides, food stalls, and a café at the far end. Add the ferris wheel at the entrance, and your day of fun is complete.

The pier also marks the beginning of the North Shore Victorian Promenade, another hallmark of the town. This wide pedestrian walkway runs alongside the pebble beach all the way to the far side of the bay, where the Little Orme is located. Along the way, you’ll see grand Victorian buildings (mostly hotels and guest houses), as well as bandstands, a paddling pool, play areas, and the lifeboat station. It’s a long promenade, and walking from the pier entrance to the RNLI station takes around half an hour.

Along the promenade, you can’t miss Venue Cymru, North Wales’s premier theatre, conference, and exhibition venue, which hosts musicals and live music performances throughout the year.

3. Follow The Alice Trail

I’m sure you’re all familiar with Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland by Lewis Carroll — but did you know that there was a real Alice Liddell, who is said to have inspired the character of Alice in the story? (Though scholars still debate how closely the fictional Alice was based on her.) She spent many summers in Llandudno during the 1860s, giving the town a fascinating and direct connection to this literary classic.

Llandudno has embraced this unique link by creating The Alice Trail — a fun way to explore the town by seeking out all 34 Alice in Wonderland-themed sculptures. Be aware that completing the full trail will take at least two hours, if not longer.

A trail map is available from the Llandudno Tourist Information Centre for £3.50. Alternatively, you can find information online with a quick Google search, and the route is also available on AllTrails.

4. Go Skiing At The Snowsports Centre

You read that correctly — skiing and snowboarding in Llandudno! The Llandudno Snowsports Centre features an artificial ski slope that mimics the properties of real snow, but without the inconvenience of melting — meaning you can learn and practise all year round. They’ve been offering lessons since the 1980s (snowboarding since 1992) and cater to all ability levels. There’s also an open practice session you can join. See how it looks like with the video below, made by Daniel Sallery.

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The fun doesn’t stop there: you can enjoy snow tubing on the slope, and the centre is home to the longest toboggan run in Wales, as well as an alpine adventure golf course and an on-site restaurant.

The centre is located near Happy Valley Gardens, at the foot of the Great Orme on the eastern side. Prices vary depending on the activity (combo deals are also available), so I recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date information. Please note that booking is required for both open practice and ski/snowboard lessons.

5. Meet Rescued Owls At The Owls Trust

My son has been passionate about owls for as long as I can remember, so whenever we visit Llandudno, this is a non-negotiable stop! Formerly known as the North Wales Bird Trust, The Owls Trust is based at Bodafon Farm Park, on the eastern side of the town. This small charity has one of the most comprehensive collections of owls on public display in the UK, and many of the birds are rescued or rehabilitated.

Please note that the site previously included a small shop, a café, a playground, and tractor tours to see other animals. However, Bodafon Farm is currently closed to the public due to ongoing renovations.

The Owls Trust remains open daily from 11am to 2pm, and entry is free. On-site parking is available. As the trust receives no public funding and relies entirely on private donations, please consider contributing if you visit — or even adopting an owl to help support their work.

6. Observe Seals On The Little Orme

On the other side of Llandudno, to the east, lies the town’s second headland — the Little Orme. There are several walking routes in the area, including trails that lead to the top and offer a different perspective on the town. Because it is less developed than its larger and more famous neighbour, you’re more likely to spot a variety of birds, including kittiwakes, razorbills, guillemots, and even the occasional rabbit.

But without a doubt, the main attraction — and the reason most people visit — is the chance to observe the seals that come to rest on the small beach at the base of the cliff, known as Angel Bay (or Penrhyn Bay). At first glance, you might think the beach is simply dotted with large rocks and boulders — the seals’ grey fur blends in almost perfectly with the surroundings — until you notice a few of them moving, or see some playing or relaxing in the water.

To observe the seals properly, you’ll need a long camera lens or a pair of binoculars. While their numbers increase during the breeding season (September to December), I’ve spotted them throughout the year.

Walking from Llandudno to the Little Orme takes just over an hour, depending on your pace. Alternatively, you can drive and park in Penrhyn Bay. There is a Pay & Display car park next to the roundabout, from which it’s about a 15-minute walk to Angel Bay. You can also park closer along Penrhyn Beach West or Penrhyn Beach East roads. Please note that these are residential areas, so be sure to park responsibly and avoid blocking any driveways.

7. Visit Conwy Castle

Conwy is a fantastic town steeped in history, just a 15-minute drive from Llandudno. It’s also easily accessible by direct train and bus services, so it would be a real shame to miss it — especially as it’s home to one of the most spectacular castles in the country, and my personal favourite.

Conwy Castle is one of the most magnificent medieval fortresses in Europe. Along with the impressive ring of walls that encircle the town, it was built in just four years, between 1283 and 1287. The castle is exceptionally well preserved, allowing you to walk a full circuit along its battlements and take in breathtaking views in every direction. The unbroken 1,400-yard (1.3 km) town walls are also well worth walking — they offer unique vantage points over the town, the river, and the surrounding landscape.

Driving into Conwy over Conwy Road Bridge, with the castle revealing itself in the background, is a sight not to be missed. This is also where you’ll find Conwy Suspension Bridge, which runs alongside the road and is open to both pedestrians and cyclists.

The town itself is well worth a full day of exploration, with its picturesque streets, harbour, and a variety of shops and attractions — including the iconic red-painted Smallest House in Great Britain, and Plas Mawr, one of the finest surviving townhouses of the Elizabethan era.

There’s no shortage of places to eat, either — with a special personal mention for the Fisherman’s Chip Shop on Castle street, where I always enjoy some of the best fish and chips in the north.

For parking, there’s a large pay-and-display car park to the south-west of the town, behind the castle, called Morfa Bach. A tunnel and short path from there will take you directly to the town centre. Additional parking is available closer to the castle, but these tend to fill up more quickly.

8. Explore Bodnant Garden

If you’re interested in botany, you can’t miss Bodnant Garden — one of the most majestic and breathtaking gardens you can visit in all of Wales.

Spanning over 80 acres of hills, woodland, rivers and terraced landscapes, the garden lies just 8 miles from Llandudno (a 17-minute drive). It’s home to a dazzling array of flowers and plants from around the world, including the UK’s longest Laburnum Arch, which bursts into a stunning display of golden-yellow blooms each spring. Bodnant is also home to Wales’ largest collection of Champion Trees — twenty-two in total — including the rare and exotic Manchurian maple.

Spring and summer are the best times to visit, but regardless of the season, it’s a magical place to explore. Whether you’re a gardening enthusiast or simply enjoy a peaceful walk, the network of trails through tall, majestic trees and vibrant plant life offers something for everyone.

The garden is managed by the National Trust and features a large car park, restaurant, and shop. Bus 25 from Llandudno will take you directly to the entrance gate.

9. Visit The Welsh Mountain Zoo

Also known as the National Zoo of Wales, this large attraction located on the hillside above Colwyn Bay began as a small family-run business in 1963. Today, it is the oldest and most established zoo in the country, nestled within a stunning 37-acre site that offers spectacular views of the coastline and the Carneddau mountains.

There is an abundance of animals, including rare and endangered species such as snow leopards, red pandas, as well as tigers, sea lions, and many more. The Welsh Mountain Zoo hosts a variety of events throughout the year, alongside a packed schedule of family activities, animal demonstrations, and educational talks.

The site includes play areas, a shop, a café, and a restaurant. Booking is highly recommended during school holidays. There is on-site parking, but please note that there is no bus stop directly by the zoo. The uphill walk from Colwyn Bay takes at least 30 minutes, so you may wish to consider taking a taxi.

A 7-minute drive from the zoo, you’ll find one of my favourite restaurants in the area – Pen-Y-Bryn, a characterful pub with vintage décor and a garden. It’s a very popular place to eat, so it’s best to book a table to avoid disappointment. Finally, don’t miss the chance to explore Colwyn Bay, with its long promenade and selection of lovely cafés (try Haus on Penrhyn Road).

10. Take The Train To Betws-Y-Coed

You may not realise it, but Llandudno is only 45 minutes away from one of the most popular and beautiful villages in Eryri (Snowdonia National Park): Betws-y-Coed. It’s easily accessible by train, with a direct and picturesque journey through the mountains that departs from Llandudno station.

Spending the day in this idyllic location can include a lovely walk through Tan Dinas woodland, which begins at the scenic Pont-y-Pair stone bridge.

Exploring the town itself is also a joy, with its wide range of independent shops—especially for those who love outdoor clothing. There are also plenty of places to eat; I recommend the Alpine Coffee Shop near the station or the Royal Oak Hotel on the main A5 road. Younger visitors will enjoy the miniature railway and the Toby engine (which they can drive themselves) at the Conwy Valley Railway Museum.

The village also makes an excellent base for a short break, with easy access to other highlights in the national park. The local Sherpa’r Wyddfa bus connects you to key locations such as Llanberis, where you can take the Snowdon Mountain Railway to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), or Pen-y-Pass, the starting point for several of the mountain’s walking routes.

Do note that Betws-y-Coed is a very popular destination all year around, so if you’re planning an overnight stay, it’s best to book well in advance. If you prefer to drive rather than take the train, there are several pay-and-display car parks. You can also try parking for free along Old Church Road, behind the station—there’s usually space available if you arrive early enough.

Where To Eat In Llandudno

There is no shortage of cafés and restaurants in Llandudno. A favourite of many is the Wetherspoon restaurant located in The Palladium—a palatial 1920s theatre whose unique atmosphere and décor make any meal feel a little more special. Another popular spot is Dylan’s, a stylish seaside restaurant located along the promenade, known for its coastal-inspired menu and views.

Some of my personal recommendations would start with The White Tower, an authentic Greek restaurant on Lloyd Street. I’ve had many meals there and they’ve all been delicious—plus, the portions are generous. The Cottage Loaf is a charming and slightly hidden pub with excellent food, perfect for a cosy meal. There’s also the Istanbul Restaurant for lovers of Turkish cuisine, and for classic fish and chips, I highly recommend Fish Tram Chips, located just opposite Victoria Station, where the Great Orme tramway departs.

I’ve also had a great Indian meal at Mostyn Tandoori on Mostyn Street. The restaurant is located on the first floor and is accessed via the Mall Shopping Arcade entrance.

Finally, there are a few Italian restaurants, such as Da Venezia, that I have yet to try – but it’s on my to-do list!

Extra Information

There is a wide range of accommodation in Llandudno, from hotels and bed and breakfasts to Airbnbs, so finding a place to stay is usually not difficult. However, do keep in mind that it’s a very popular destination, so booking in advance is recommended.

Public Transport and Taxis

Llandudno is very well connected, as you’d expect. It has a main train station with direct services from Manchester and parts of Snowdonia National Park. It’s also easy to travel to the town from the North Wales coast, as well as from Shrewsbury and even Cardiff in the south. However, do bear in mind that many of these journeys require a change at Llandudno Junction station. See the Transport For Wales website for more information.

A good network of local buses, operated by Arriva, serves nearby destinations such as Conwy, Penrhyn Bay and Colwyn Bay. Llandudno is also a departure point for many coach tours to popular attractions across North Wales, and an open-top double-decker sightseeing bus operates in the area.

The Visitor Information Centre is located in the town centre, inside the Victoria Arcade on Mostyn Street.

You can find a list of car hire centres and taxi services on the Visit Conwy website.

Parking

There are plenty of car parks in Llandudno, most of which are pay and display. However, you can also find free on-street parking in some areas at the base of the Great Orme, such as Abbey Road or Church Walks—just be sure to check for any signage indicating restrictions, or to block any entrance or driveway.

EV Charging Points

There are several charging stations available throughout the town, but bear in mind that some are located within hotel grounds and may not be accessible to the general public. See the link below for a list of public chargers. The largest facility is the APCOA Charging Station near the train station, which offers 18 slow 7kW chargers. Additional chargers can also be found at the Venue Cymru car park (22kW).

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Public Toilets

There are plenty of public toilets available in the town centre, on the pier, and within shopping malls and arcades.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I spend a day in Llandudno?

Take the tramway to the summit of the Great Orme, stroll along the pier and the North Shore promenade. Enjoy lunch at the White Tower, then visit the town centre with its many shops and shopping arcades. If there is time left, explore the Little Orme.

Does Llandudno have a shopping centre?

It has several. There’s the Victoria Shopping Centre and the Mall Shopping Arcade in the town centre. A bit further out, you’ll find more modern retail parks such as the Llandudno Shopping Park, which includes popular stores like Marks & Spencer, and the Mostyn Champneys Retail Park, home to shops such as Currys, PC World, and Iceland.

What to do in Llandudno for free?

The pier, walking along the promenade, and following the Alice Trail are all free activities. You can also walk to the top of the Great Orme and the Little Orme — and just these alone can easily fill your day.

Is there a market day in Llandudno?

Yes, there is a weekly farmers’ market held every Thursday in the Bay View Shopping Centre car park.

Is Llandudno Pier free?

Yes, it is free — you don’t need to pay to walk on the pier.

Which part of Llandudno is best?

This ultimately comes down to personal preference, but in my opinion, nothing beats the view from the Great Orme—especially if you take the scenic tramway or cable car.

Can you walk up the Little Orme?

Yes, from the town centre it will take you a little over an hour, walking along the promenade until you reach the lifeboat station, then continuing up the hill along the pavement until you see a gate where the summit trail to the top of the headland begins.