Gardens
Castles
Towns
Penrhyn Castle and Gardens
Of course, Wales is full of magnificent castles, the closest of which is Penrhyn Castle on the edge of Bangor. More of a folly than a true castle, but well worth a visit as you can have guided tours around the interior of the castle and witness the fortune that was made from the slate industry and Penrhyn Quarry, Not to mention its strong links with sugar plantations in the West Indies and its dark past with its involvement in the slave trade. Also learn about the Great Quarry Strike of 1905 and its impact on the local community.
If all that sounds a bit heavy then just enjoy the extensive woodland walks, beautiful walled garden and take in the splendour of this majestic piece of architectural heritage.
Plas Cadnant Hidden Gardens.
Hidden away between Menai Bridge and Beaumaris is a special garden.
Recently restored to a very high standard.
Includes a walled garden with pool, a valley garden with waterfalls and river plus an upper woodland garden.
Oh, and there's a tearoom too.
Bodnant Garden
Situated in the Conwy Valley, is a well established National Trust property. The picture shows The Pin Mill which was built by the designer of the garden to also serve as the family mausoleum. There are many parts to this garden such as the Dell which is home to various Rhodedendrons and Azaleas.
A japanese inspired lake area and a fantastic Laburnam Arch. Bodnant also has a fine plant centre and cafe.
Dolbadarn Castle
Just outside Llanberis, this castle dates back to the early 13th Century and was built by Llewelyn the Great. Llanberis is considered the principal gateway to The Snowdonia National Park with the Llanberis pass taking you into the heart of the mountains.
Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle was built during the 13th Century but this time under the instruction of Edward 1st of England. Conwy is a good spot for restaurants and small shops and is on the coast if you like a bit of sea breeze.
Portmeirion
Portmeirion is not exactly a town and it doesn't have a castle. Its just the most bonkers and beautifully eccentric italianate village you'll find in the UK.
Crazy architecture and gardens, extensive woodlands with restaurants and shops to browse.
Beaumaris town and Castle
Beaumaris Castle was bounced back and forth between English and Welsh rule through the centuries. It is now considered by Unesco to be one of the finest examples of C13 military architecture. Beaumaris has many boutique shops and restaurants.
Or just enjoy fish and chips on the edge of the Menai Straits with views over to the mountains.
Caernarfon Castle
And finally, the most famous and imposing castle in North Wales. Caernarfon castle. The place of Prince Charles investiture in 1969.