Breathtaking views, a foodie favourite and home to the mighty Caernarfon Castle – what’s not to love about Caernarfon?
Located in Snowdonia, Caernarfon is a historic town in North Wales. Spend the day exploring the immense fortress before heading to Hole in the Wall Street for some fabulous food choices.
Here’s your guide to visiting Caernarfon…
Why Should I Visit Caernarfon?
As one of our favourite towns in North Wales, this delightful harbour town in Snowdonia has got a lot to offer visitors, that’s why!
Edward I’s imposing and impressive castle is one of the main reasons to visit Caernarfon. But for a relatively small town it also packs a punch in the food and drinks stakes too.
We absolutely adore Anglesey with its sandy beaches and sweeping pastures, but the mainland offers such a variety of vistas that it’s hard to beat. Caernarfon is a fantastic place to base yourself to enjoy both the Isle of Anglesey and the magic of Snowdonia National Park.
Here’s why we think you should add Caernarfon to your North Wales travel itinerary!
Caernarfon’s Interesting History
The rich tapestry of Caernarfon’s past is one of the main reasons we love this town.
Caernarfon Castle, which has World Heritage status, makes up one of Edward I’s ‘Iron Ring’, built to keep the Welsh in check (we’ve always been an unruly lot!). As one of the most impressive castles in North Wales, it’s a sight to behold. An absolute must for those interested in the history of the British Isles.
If Military history is something you’d like to know more about, the Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum is well worth the visit. If you love a good view, head to the viewing platforms for fabulous scenes over the River Seiont. It’s worth every penny.
Fun fact: Caernarfon Castle was the venue of Prince Charles’ investiture in 1969 when he was officially given the title of ‘Prince of Wales’.
Best Restaurants in Caernarfon
No matter your tastes, Caernarfon has a lot to offer foodies.
Scoops is a place to look out for, especially if you love a pancake or ice cream (or, like us, a combination of the two). If you have a sweet tooth we recommend the banana and peanut butter pancake. Otherwise, I’d suggest the chorizo, goat’s cheese and olive filling – it’s divine!
If you fancy good quality pub grub and like a beer (or two), head over to The Black Boy. They have a great menu with reasonable prices and portion sizes that would put some American establishments to shame. Not forgetting the superb selection of real ales; often with a choice from one of my favourite South Walian breweries Tiny Rebel.
If you’re more in the mood for antipasti, we highly recommend Osteria. This Tuscan restaurant is small but offers an intimate dining experience. The meat, cheese and bread platters are delightful!
Insider’s Tip: Hole in the Wall Street is the place for foodies and those who like a tipple. Osteria can be found here.
Shopping in Caernarfon
Caernarfon has some great shops that are definitely worth a browse! For cocoa lovers, there’s Ty Siocled (meaning chocolate house), whilst art enthusiasts should head to Oriel Pendeitsh.
There are plenty of independent retailers dotted about too, including jewellery shops, small boutiques and a charming florist.
If you love a garden centre, we highly recommend you make a trip to Fron Goch, which is just outside the town. Beautiful plants, friendly staff and an array of lovely goodies await. You’ll find high-quality baking equipment, gorgeous jewellery and fab furnishings. That’s not even mentioning the amazing cafe with its delectable cakes, bakes and mouth-watering food (both hot and cold).
Local Events
The annual Food Festival in the spring is well worth a visit. Food and drink stalls and live entertainment fill the streets surrounding the castle and go down towards the pretty Quay. Don’t plan anything for your supper – pick up something local and tasty whilst you’re there.
Looking for a challenge? Rat Race’s Man vs Mountain is an epic mountain adventure starting from Caernarfon Castle. The aim is to run from the castle to the summit of Snowdon and down the other side into Dinorwic Quarry, where a range of obstacles await.
If that tired you out just reading about it, then there are plenty of other events in Snowdonia and North Wales to enjoy.
Where is Caernarfon?
Caernarfon is located in the county of Gwynedd, North Wales. On the eastern shore of the Menai Strait, the popular town lies along the A487, opposite the Isle of Anglesey.
Caernarfon Weather
Heading to Caernarfon this week? Here’s the weather forecast for the next seven days.
Caernarfon Pronunciation
Are you wondering how to say Caernarfon? Caernarfon is pronounced;
Kuh – naa – vn
Have we caught your interest? Great! Caernarfon is easy to get to whether you’re already staying in Snowdonia, basing yourself on the Llŷn Peninsula, or enjoying a break on Anglesey.
Or why not ditch the car and live like a local for a few days by staying in one of these self-catering cotages in Caernarfon?