Considering Snowdonia for your next family holiday in Wales? Then you might be wondering what are the top things to do in Snowdonia with kids. This post details five ideas to help you decide if Snowdonia is the right destination for your next Welsh getaway.
There are so many things to do and see with children in Snowdonia beyond the obvious mountains, lakes, and Snowdonia castles! If you’re looking for things to do in Snowdonia with kids, I’ve listed five places that I’ve had recommended or would love to visit with my family. They all fall within or on the edge of the boundary of the Snowdonia National Park and are shared between the mountains and coast in the area.
Things To Do In Snowdonia With Kids
Centre For Alternative Technology (CAT)
The CAT is an eco-centre based near Machynlleth in Powys, on the borders of the Snowdonia National Park. The CAT was established in 1973, opening to the public two years later as an educational charity that provides education about technology and ideas that promote a more sustainable future.
The CAT is set in acres of woodland in a former slate quarry and comprises the Visitor Centre, indoor and outdoor family activities, woodlands and gardens, accommodation, adventure trails, and cafe facilities.
Definitely one to put on your list of things to do with kids in Snowdonia whatever the time of year, with plenty of outdoor space for the family to run around in. And you can take your dog with you too!
Address: The Centre For Alternative Technology, Llwyngwern Quarry, Machynlleth, Powys, SY20 9AZ
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
ExploringSnowdonia with kids has never been easier than when you’re at Coed y Brenin! Home of the UK’s first purpose-built mountain bike trail (created in 1996), it’s built in the forested hills close to Blaenau Ffestiniog and comprises bike trails, walking routes, play areas, a large cafe purposely built for muddy boots, wet weather gear and dogs!
Owned by Natural Resources Wales, Coed y Brenin is a brilliant location to explore and stretch your skills as a biker – your older kids will definitely love it! You can bring your own bikes or hire from the bike shop at the site.
If you’re a mixed age and ability family, two of the walking trails are suitable for mobility scooters and buggies and there are a couple of children’s play areas close to the car park and cafe.
Address: Coed y Brenin Visitor Centre, Dolgefeiliau, Dolgellau LL40 2HZ
Adventure Parc Snowdonia
Home to Surf Snowdonia, a revolutionary man-made, 300-meter long inland surf lagoon, Adventure Parc Snowdonia has everything that you might need as a thrill seeker! Offering surfing lessons as well as ‘Just Surf’, they cater for everyone from complete beginners through to pro surfers.
When it comes to Snowdonia for kids, it doesn’t get much better than surfing, climbing, running, biking and swimming! Alongside the surf lagoon, the Parc offers both indoor and outdoor adventures including indoor climbing and high ropes courses, a Ninja Assault course, and Extreme Slides. They also have a great soft play area for your smaller kids.
Outdoor adrenaline activities include Stand Up Paddleboarding, open water swimming, outdoor climbing, zip wires and freefall activities, a skateboarding bowl, and a bike pump track for bikers of all ages and sizes.
If you are looking to stay on-site, they offer accommodation in the form of woodland or lagoon-side wooden camping pods, or if you prefer a bit more comfort you can stay in the Hilton Garden Inn on-site!
Address: Adventure Parc Snowdonia, Conway Rd, Dolgarrog, Conwy LL32 8QE
Llechwedd Deep Mine
Snowdonia’s landscape is covered in slate, from the former quarries to the cottages, the grey of the slate reflects the history of industry in Snowdonia. Now the home to adventure enthusiasts of all types, there are so many places turning their hand to visitor experiences.
Brought into the ZipWorld family in spring 2021, Llechwedd continues to demonstrate the origins and history of the slate industry in North Wales. Home of the Deep Mine, 500 feet below the surface activities, there is so much to explore and do on the site.
Travelling from the surface to deep inside the mountain, you are transported on the steepest cable railway in Europe into the past and the belly of one of the largest slate mines in North Wales.
The mine experience is a walking tour, and you would need to be steady on foot and able to walk in semi-lit conditions. It’s a wonderful experience of Snowdonia for kids, taking them back in time to what kids of other generations might have experienced.
Address: Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Gwynedd, LL41 3NB
Portmeirion Village
Designed and built by Welsh architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis in the early 20th century, Portmeirion is a multi-coloured Italianate village set on its own peninsula on the Dwyryd Estuary. Bright and colourful, the vibrant village continues to be an incredibly popular tourist destination in Snowdonia.
Open for day visitors as well as having bookable accommodation for guests, the village is famous for being the location of the cult 1960s TV show ‘The Prisoner’ (one for the grandparents!). Comprising the village, extensive woodlands, cottages, two hotels, restaurants, a spa, and some shops, it’s a fabulous place to spend a few hours with the family.
There are free daily guided tours and of course, there is plenty for smaller visitors to explore and enjoy. The village also has a playground and a small sandy beach. And not forgetting the woodland train!
Address: Portmeirion, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, LL48 6ER
There are so many varied things to do in Snowdonia with kids! Don’t believe the myth that you have to be outdoorsy to enjoy Snowdonia as a family. Hopefully, you’ve seen enough to convince you that there is something for everyone in Snowdonia – let me know if you’ve visited any of these places I’ve recommended.
