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Visit a castle in Snowdonia

Are you heading to North Wales this October half term? Then we have gathered our favourite half-term activities to keep you and your family entertained.

North Wales is the perfect location for a family holiday, full of adventure hot spots, picture-perfect scenery and plenty of family-friendly attractions. From adrenaline-filled zip-lines to peaceful bike rides along the coast, your half-term in North Wales is bound to be one to remember. 

Keep reading to discover 7 great activities for you and all your family this October half term in Wales…


7 Great October Half-Term Activities in North Wales

1. Adventure is Calling at Zip World, Snowdonia

zip world snowdonia

Children of all ages love an adventure, so why not try something new and step out of your comfort zone this October half term in Wales?

Feel the wind rushing through your hair as you take on the world’s fastest zip line; Velocity 2. This truly unique experience will leave you speechless as you experience Snowdonia’s stunning views whilst travelling at speeds of over 100mph over Penrhyn Quarry.

If you’re looking for something a little less adrenaline-fuelled, then why not tire the whole family out at Bounce Below. Spend an afternoon jumping and sliding your way through the slate caverns of North Wales – giant underground trampolines truly are the stuff of dreams!

For even more adventurous ways to spend your October half term, check out our top five adrenaline activities in North Wales.


2. Ride the Waves in North Wales

Enjoy a different view of North Wales – this time from the water! North Wales is full of picturesque coastlines and peaceful lakes, boasting the ideal location for a water-based adventure during October half term.

Want to try your hand at Stand-Up Paddleboarding? Book an introductory session for all the family on the safe waters of Llyn Padarn through Snowdonia Watersports. Or if you would rather sit back and let someone else do the work, book a trip along the Menai Strait in a powerboat with Rib Ride.

There is such a great variety of watersports in North Wales, that whichever activity you choose, it’s sure to make a big splash!


3. Take a Step Back in Time and Explore North Wales’ Castles

Visit Caernarfon Castle October Half Term

You just can’t escape the past when you come to North Wales. The region is steeped in history and legend. Spend time exploring Edward I’s “Iron Ring” of Welsh castles including Caernarfon Castle, Harlech Castle and Beaumaris Castle. How many will you be able to tick off in just one week?

The magnificent Criccieth Castle is also worth a visit. Located on a rocky peninsula between beaches, the castle boasts astonishing views of Cardigan Bay. Whilst you’re in the area, why not wrap up warm and enjoy an Autumnal stroll along Criccieth Beach?

Many of the castles run special events during October half term. To find out more, and to purchase an Explorer Pass which will save you money on entry fees, visit the Cadw website. Or why not check out our top 7 castles in North Wales and bring history to life this October!


4. Discover the Story of the Welsh Slate Industry

The National Slate Museum Wales, Snowdonia

The National Slate Museum is free to visit and hosts special events during the school holidays. Discover the lives of those who worked in Snowdonia’s slate quarrying industry, the effects of which are still etched upon the landscape today. There is plenty to keep the whole family entertained, from slate-splitting demonstrations to watching the blacksmith create iron dragons and talk about his craft.

Once you have seen all there is at the museum, walk up to the former quarry hospital and follow well-marked paths up onto the hillside for some great views of the surrounding lakes and of Snowdon itself.


5. Explore North Wales on Foot

Aber falls family friendly walk

There’s nothing better than wrapping up warm against the crisp Autumn air and heading out to explore North Wales on foot. With plenty of treats in your backpack to keep your little troop well fed and watered along the way, kids will love having the freedom to roam and make their own discoveries.

There are a range of family walks in North Wales to delight you and your loved ones, from the pushchair-friendly path up to Aber Falls to the gentle stroll along Porthdinllaen Beach to the picture-postcard Ty Coch Inn. Or why not walk along the coastline up to the coastguard lookout at Rhoscolyn, with hot chocolates all round at The White Eagle on the homeward journey!

For more walks in the area, check out 8 of the Best Walks in Snowdonia.


6. Go Undercover – Rainy Day Half Term Activities

Butterfly at Pilis Palas, Anglesey

As with any holiday with children, it’s a good idea to have some rainy-day activities up your sleeve.

A session at Beacon Climbing Centre; North Wales’ largest indoor climbing centre, will go down a treat with the whole family. If your kids love animals, then they will enjoy spotting various species of butterfly at Pili Palas or experiencing the sights and sounds of a real working farm at Foel Farm Park in Anglesey.

Another rainy day favourite is Oriel Ynys Mon, Anglesey’s Centre for Art and History. Not only does it boast excellent exhibitions and cafe, but children will also love discovering the history of Anglesey in the small museum where there are a number of activities for them to get involved in. And what’s more, it’s free!

Check out our full range of rainy day activities in North Wales here.


7. Enjoy a Spot of Cycling in North Wales

Cyclists on the Mawddach Cycle Trail

North Wales is perfect for cyclists of all ages and abilities, and it is a great way of getting out and exploring the local area.

For younger cyclists, there are traffic-free cycle routes including the paths around the shores of Llyn Brenig, the Mawddach Trail in Snowdonia or the Corsica Bike Trail through Newborough Forest Park in Anglesey.

Teenagers will enjoy trying out some road-based circular routes where they can clock up a few miles along the North Wales Coastal Route or spend a day cycling along the Lon Las Cefni Cycle Path and discover some of Anglesey’s most picturesque scenery.


When is October Half Term 2023?

October half-term dates differ across the UK;

England

Monday 23rd October – Friday 27th October 2023

Wales

Monday 30th October – Friday 3rd November 2023

Scotland

Monday 16th October – Monday 23rd October 2023

Northern Ireland

Monday 30th October – Friday 3rd November 2023

These dates should be used as a guide. Accurate dates can be found on your local council’s website.


Plan Your Stay in North Wales

Are you looking for a holiday cottage for your October half-term in North Wales? Check out our fantastic range of holiday cottages in North Wales for October Half Term, across Anglesey, Snowdonia and the Llyn Peninsula here.


Image Credits:  – Mike Hudson [CC BY-SA 3.0]; Talsarnau Times, Mike Peel (www.mikepeel.net), By Suicasmo [CC BY-SA 4.0]; Alan Fryer, Tom McCallister [CC BY-SA 2.0].

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