Not such a bleak midwinter

North Wales Ticks All The Boxes…

There are a few places in Britain I’ve grown fond of because they offer three things in abundance - beautiful views, great dining options and a sprinkling of history and culture.

Another thing I love about them is that they can be crowd free, very tranquil and unspoilt in parts. I could share a list of a few places that fit this criterion, but if there was one I would choose to return to for an extended break in 2023 it would be…

North Wales!

This area of Wales is magnificent for its natural scenery - I love a road trip to Snowdonia and sitting in the passenger seat to soak in that sea view near Barmouth Bridge and the mountains rippling along the horizon near Harlech.

It is of course well known for castles, one of my favourite places is Conwy with its impressive fortress, town walls and pretty shops. I’d also recommend going to The Castle Hotel for lunch and checking out the smallest house in Great Britain by the harbour.

Stay in Llandudno

I’ve stayed in Llandudno on the coast as there’s plenty on your doorstep if you didn’t want to venture far one day. The Victorian promenade lines a pebbly beach and has plenty of hotels and B&Bs to choose from.

The steep Great Orme overlooks Llandudno town and has an old Tramway and Cable Car to the summit - both are worth trying for the views and unique experience if it’s in season and operating.

Scenic drives through Snowdonia

I’d recommend driving (or hiring a car) so you can explore North Wales at your leisure. I do enjoy stopping off in the quaint village of Beddgelert (hello ice cream shop and river walk) and driving to The Ugly House near Betws Y Coed. The Ugly House is tucked away on the roadside and is a real gem - I already want to hear what you thought, if they had a daily special and was it the scotch egg too?!

On the southern edge of Snowdonia is Barmouth, a lovely seaside town with a great beach and excellent fish & chip shop called Harbour Fish Bar - save a spot on a sea facing bench for me please!

North Wales is around 4 hours from London and if I was planning a few weeks on the road in Britain that would include North Wales, I’d also look at other northern locations like the Lake District and Lochs of Scotland.

If you liked this and would like to read more travel stories from me or my fellow tripr travellers, then scroll down and see others in this category. And if you want to be the first to know about new stories why not subscribe to our Insidr newsletter – its free!

Read more here:

Merry Christmas and a Cosy Cotswold New Year

2022 UK Travel Highlights and What to Book For 2023