This traditional seaside town is a true gem in the Llyn Peninsula’s crown. Wherever you are on the peninsula, being surrounded by 70 miles of coastline means that you’re certainly never far from the call of the sea. One of the best ways to enjoy the fabulous coastal scenery is to walk the coastal path, which is part of Wales’ Coastal Path. If exploring on two wheels is more your thing, it is a great place to bring your bikes (or hire on arrival) and make the most of the quiet country lanes, just make sure you have your camera to capture the stunning scenery you will see along the way. Another brilliant point to make about this spectacular peninsula is that thanks to the Gulf Stream the Llyn enjoys a unique microclimate and is said to be one of the sunniest places in the UK!
Criccieth is said to have got it’s name due to the Castle that stands atop this glorious seaside town. With its origins believed to have come from ‘crug caeth’ – the name given to the jail which once stood atop the hill (a use once held by the castle). When broken down the meaning of the name becomes clear: ‘crug’ (means hill in Welsh) and ‘caith’ (means captives) so Criccieth may have truly have been called after its castle rather than the other way around.
The old fashioned charm of Criccieth is sure to win you over! Some of our favourite things to do include grabbing fish and chips and enjoying them on the front taking in the views, eating ice cream from the famous Cadwaladers (with the most amazing views out back!), exploring the medieval castle or taking time to enjoy a cuppa and cake in one of the high streets wonderful tea rooms.
Whether you’re a bit of a history buff or not, the story of Criccieth Castle is a tale full of conflict and sure to interest everyone who comes across it. Built in the 1230s by Llywelyn the Great, the Prince of Gwynedd; it is sat atop of the outcrop of land separating the town’s two beaches. It really is a sight to behold. It was captured by King Edward I late in the 13th Century before the last ‘Prince of Wales’ – Owain Glyn Dŵr – recaptured the castle and set it alight. The remains today show the aftermath of the fire that took hold of the castle in 1404. If this castle’s turbulent past doesn’t interest you, the walk up to the headland is certainly worth it for the stunning panoramic views that will greet you!
Looking out to see the beach on your left, the more pebbly of the two, is close to Black Rock Sands (which you can walk to at low tide). The right hand beach has the most sand with lots of large rocks exposed at low tide – which is ideal for rock pooling and sand castling with the little ones and big kids too.
With plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops to keep the food and retail lovers happy too – Criccieth really is a magical seaside town that makes the perfect holiday destination all year round!
We certainly have some cracking cottages in Criccieth from water front views (Ty Glyn), Old bakery buildings (31 Castle Bakery) and even the former home of the Prime Minister David Lloyd George (Pengolwg)! So if you’re looking for somewhere for a romantic getaway, family seaside break or just a brilliant holiday base for a weekend away – add Criccieth to your wishlist!
