Attractions & Places of Interest

Sea, mountains and spectacular sunsets.

The north coast settlement of Penmaenmawr is like the seaside used to be. The small picturesque town is backed by mountains and the Snowdonia National Park, it has a large, sandy beach with wonderful views across Conwy Bay to Anglesey and Puffin Island.

The sandy beach extends for over half a mile, with rocks and coastal defences at its outer edges. The coastal waters in this area form part of the Menai Strait and Conwy Bay Special Area of Conservation, confirming the high conservation status of the area. A long promenade runs behind the beach that has the ‘Shoal‘, a sculpture that raises awareness of the problem of plastic in our seas and oceans, a paddling pool (currently being refurbished), a children’s playground, skate park, traditional beach huts, a café and a sailing club.

Penmaenmawr is well-located for walking and hiking. Trails lead upwards into hills crossed by Roman roads and dotted with historic sites that include an Iron Age fort, Meini Hirion (dating from about 1500 BC) and fascinating Stone Age axe quarry, implements from which have been found all over Britain.

There is more history back in town at Penmaenmawr Museum where you will also find a selection of independent shops and cafes sheltered under a glass roofed Victorian arcade. The town also has it’s own library, primary schools and a fantastic choice of places to eat and drink.

On the outskirts of the village you’ll find Parc Plas Mawr – a beautiful park and the perfect place to get away from it all. The foundations, in what is now the public park, are the remains of the residence of the Darbishire family that owned Penmaenmawr Quarry.

Other local amenities and attractions include not one, but two bowling greens and a 9 hole golf course, challenging enough in its own right without the added handicap/distraction of superb sea views.

Anyone wishing to visit and stay locally has a host of options available to them. There are well equipped campsites and caravan parks, local B&Bs and holiday let properties available to choose from nearby.