A town steeped in rich history; Conwy is a fantastic place to visit during your next trip to North Wales.
Enjoy a walk along the picturesque marina, visit the grand castle, or beachcombe Conwy Morfa Beach. There is something for everyone to enjoy in Conwy.
Continue reading to discover the best things to do in Conwy…
Conwy
On the north coast of Wales and the edges of the Snowdonia National Park, set along the River Conwy is where you will find the much-loved town of Conwy . Well-known for being one of the most intact medieval towns in Britain.
Along with its historic walls which surround the town and are the one of the most well preserved in Europe!
Step back in time as you explore fascinating historic attractions, sample traditional Welsh dishes, or soak up the stunning views on offer from the Conwy Town Walls. The latter of which is ideal if you are looking for Cheap Things to Do in North Wales.
Whatever you choose to do during your time in Conwy, you’re sure to want to return again and again!
Things to Do in Conwy
First up on our guide on things to do in Conwy, is the must-see Conwy Castle. A designated UNESCO World Heritage fortress designed and built by King Edward I and his architect Master James of St George.
The castle was built throughout the 13th century after King Edward I had conquered Wales. Much like the king’s other castles in Caernarfon, Beaumaris, and Harlech, Conwy Castle was designed to intimidate and mark England’s power and success.
Delve into history by climbing the restored spiral staircase, where you can wander the circuit of the castle’s walls and battlements.
You can also enjoy the stunning far-reaching views over the town and over to the impressive Snowdonia Mountains. It is not to be missed and great for enjoying a day out with the whole family in the North Wales.
For more information on one of North Wales’s most iconic attractions, check out our Guide to Conwy Castle or check out our blog on more incredible castles in North Wales.
Tucked away in the heart of Conwy in Wales is the grand site of Plas Mawr, otherwise known as the Great Hall. Built in the 16th century over nine years by Robert Wynn, Plas Mawr is one of the most intact Elizabethan houses in Britain.
Wynn, like many other merchants of that time, used the home to showcase his status and wealth. This is echoed throughout the home’s interior, where you’ll find intricate plaster work ceilings, ornamental paintings, and grand fireplaces.
You’ll also notice Wynn’s initials carved into the plaster work and coat of arms in each of the 17 impressive rooms.
Look forward to exploring the carefully maintained kitchen, parlour, brewhouse, Great Chamber, and the family bedrooms. Or venture to the upper courtyard where you can enjoy the sights and sounds of the Elizabethan Garden.
After Wynns death in 1598, Plas Mawr has since served Conwy as a school, art gallery, and a courthouse. It is now one of Conwy’s best attractions and allows visitors to discover the wonders of the golden Elizabethan age.
The next addition to our guide on things to do in Conwy, is the charming Smallest House In Great Britain. Measuring a mere 1.8 metres and boasting two rooms, this attraction is a must visit!
The home, otherwise known as the Quay House, can be found along a row of terraced cottages and is painted bright red so you can’t miss it!
Built in the 16th century, many families and Conwy residents have called this tiny abode home. Up until the 19th century where Robert Jones purchased the home for just £20! He then rented the accommodation out to a fisherman of the same name who stood at 6’3 ft!
Eventually, the house was deemed unsuitable for living in. After petitions and funds raised by local residents, it was transformed into the attraction we still see today.
So, make the squeeze and be sure to visit the Smallest House In Great Britain!
4. Conwy Morfa Beach
When the sun is shining, the place to be is Conwy Morfa Beach. Set at the slopes of Conwy Mountain and along the famous Wales Coast Path, this sandy bay is perfect for spending an afternoon with loved ones.
Kick-back and relax on the golden sands where you can enjoy superb views out to Puffin Island and the Great Orme. Or venture into the water on your kayak or cool down with a swim.
If you didn’t think Conwy Morfa Beach could get any better, it is dog-friendly throughout the year!
Perched on the outskirts of Conwy near Colwyn Bay is the world-famous National Trust-Bodnant Garden. It is here you will find the grand Bodnant House surrounded by 80 acres of Grade I listed gardens.
Tended to and created for over 150 years, you can discover a variety of plant life from all over the world, with a stunning backdrop of the Cardneddau Mountains.
Each part of the garden has its own unique touches just waiting to be uncovered. Visit the Formal Gardens, home to the Round Garden, the Laburnum Arch, and Italianate terraces speckled with roses and pools.
You can also enjoy the delights of the Old Park, Arboretum, and Furnace Meadow where you can take in views of the riverside garden. Or enjoy strolls through the extensive woodlands amongst the exotic trees.
After checking out the historic architecture of the garden, which includes the 18th century Pin Mill and The Poem, why not treat yourself to a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the Magnolia Tea Room?
If you’d like to discover more about the regions fabulous gardens, read our blog on 5 Gorgeous Gardens in North Wales.
If you’re a keen golfer looking for things to do in Conwy, then look no further than the excellent Conwy Golf Club. Boasting a championship 18-hole course at the mouth of the River Conwy.
To the south, the course is overlooked by Conwy Mountain, whilst the north enjoys an outlook of the Great Orme and River Conwy. It is no wonder it made our list of the Best Golf Courses in North Wales!
After testing out your clubs on the course, make your way to the Clubhouse where you can enjoy a meal in the restaurant or a drink in the bar or lounge. All of which offer panoramic views over the course.
This 114-acre nature reserve makes for the perfect day out for any wildlife enthusiasts or twitchers. Located on the outskirts of Conwy in Llandudno Junction, the reserve is home to a wealth of birdlife.
Explore the wetlands along the boardwalk where you can expect to see the likes of Water Rails, Black-tailed Godwit, and Sedge Warblers. The latter of which travels all the way from Africa in April!
The nature reserve frequently holds events throughout the year from Wildflower Walks to the Conwy Farmers Market. There is always something to get involved in!
These beautiful gardens are teaming with wildlife and can be found in the charming village of Rowen near Conwy within the Snowdonia National Park.
Enjoying the surroundings of the Conwy Valley, Conwy Water Gardens has plenty to see and do! Keen anglers can hook their catch in the fully stocked coarse fishing lake, where you can catch the likes of Bream, Mirrors, Crucians, Ghost Carp and Tench.
Whilst others can enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Nature Trail, where visitors can catch a glimpse of otters, ducks and chickens. You can also venture into the woodlands to spot an array of birds at the woodland bird feeding station.
Don’t forget to visit the Aquatic Centre, home to over 100 species and all your indoor, outdoor, and reptile product needs!
If all that wildlife spotting has made you hungry, be sure to pay a visit to the garden’s Dutch Pancake House, where you can tuck in to omelettes, pancakes, ice creams and desserts!
9. Conwy Marina
On warmer days, enjoy a stroll around Conwy Marina, where you can marvel at the fantastic views of moored yachts and boats and the incredible Snowdonia Mountains.
Sit back and watch the world go by with fish and chips from The Galleon or indulge in some tasty pub grub and seafood at The Mulberry.
Time your visit right to attend the annual Conwy River Festival, where you can watch yachts race and compete for 1st place. It’s a great day out for everyone!
10. Conwy Mountain
Explorers and adventurers will not want to miss out on a hike up Conwy Mountain. Spanning 783 ft, you can enjoy wandering through the wildlife rich landscapes whilst enjoying the beautiful views over Conwy, Llandudno, the Great Orme, and Snowdonia.
You can easily access the mountain from a variety of paths leading from Conwy town, or by following the Sychnant Pass trail.
This trail will take you through some of North Wales’s most sought-after destinations including Snowdonia National Park, Cowny, and Penmaenmawr.
If you decide to continue up to the summit you will discover the fascinating Iron Age hill fort, known as Castell Caer Lleion or Seion.
Be sure to add a hike up Conwy Mountain to your holiday itinerary!
The last addition to our ultimate guide on things to do in Conwy is the Michelin Star restaurant, The Jackdaw. Set along the high street just moment’s away from Plas Mawr, The Jackdaw is the perfect place to refuel after a day of exploring Conwy.
Taking its name from the nickname given to people born within Conwy’s town walls. As well as the black bird which you can often see nesting in the historic walls.
The Jackdaw is the brainchild of Chef Nick Rudge, who was born and raised just mere miles away in Llandudno. Nick’s many years of experience in the likes of Heston Blumenthal’s Fat Duck and the Crown Hotel, are brought to life in The Jackdaw’s delicious menu.
The menu features a variety of dishes which celebrate Nick’s heritage and the local surroundings. Tuck-in to hearty leek and potato soup, Blaenau Slate, or the Rhug Estate Spring Chicken.
There’s also a varied tasting menu, where you can choose from dishes like Fennel Sauce For Salmon and Roast Chicken Jelly, Cream of Langoustine.
Why not wash your meal down with a Strawberry & Iced Conwy Mountain Tea?
Conwy Weather
Before your getaway, check out the seven-day weather forecast for Conwy. You’ll find plenty of things to do come rain or shine.
For further inspiration check out our guide on things to do in North Wales when its raining.
CONWY WEATHER
Conwy Accommodation
Looking for the perfect place to stay whilst discovering the delights of Conwy? Here at Menai Holiday Cottages, we have a wonderful range of Conwy cottages, ensuring you are never far from the action.
Browse Cottages in Conwy
Feeling inspired to visit North Wales’s finest medieval town? For further things to do in the area check out our blog on the 14 Must-Visit Towns in North Wales.
Or follow in the footsteps of those on the big screen with our guide to North Wales on screen.
