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North Wales - Conwy vs Beddgelert

Hello,
I am planning 5 nights in north Wales at the end of June. I will have a car; I will coming from the Cotswolds and afterwards heading to York.

I am trying to decide between two base locations: Conwy or Beddgelert.

some items on the itinerary include (not in any particular or geographic order):
Conwy castle, Beaumaris – Castle, Gaol;
Ruthin – Gaol
Caernarfon – Castle, Steam train; Segontium roman fort
Llabberis – mountain railway to top; Slate museum; Electric Mountain
Blaenau Ffestiniog – slate mine tour
in addition to the activities, I want/need good pubs.

Given that I will have the flexibility of a car, is one location much better than the other?
Conwy will be holding the Bluegrass festival while I am there and that may impact the decision.
Any suggestions are appreciated.

thanks

Posted by
1005 posts

Conwy has much better connections to the rest of Wales than Beddgelert. To get to Beddgelert, you have to drive a narrow, winding road that's off the main highway. Skip Ruthin--it's a boring town with no charm. The Bodnant Gardens south of Conwy are worth seeing. Don't worry about the pubs--they're all good!

Posted by
348 posts

I really liked Beddgelert, much more than Conwy. But, if I were making a base for day trips I would go with Conwy. As T noted, the roads to/from Beddgelert are narrow and winding, interesting for a day, and enjoyable now that I'm not on them, but I wouldn't want to drive them every day. Also, if you're staying 5 nights, the variety of pubs and restaurants is limited, and you may find them insufficient if you're looking for variety for the entire stay.

Posted by
76 posts

We were in Conwy earlier this month and didn't have a car and there was plenty to do using public transportation. One of the best meals I've had on my trip this month in Europe was in the Castle Hotel in Conwy (fish pie). If you have a car, you can go even more places. I would go back again and do even more.

Posted by
44 posts

Thanks, all.
I have made a reservation in Conwy.
excited for the trip!

Posted by
6713 posts

Good choice. Try the Liverpool Arms down by the waterfront in Conwy.

Posted by
21 posts

Traveling to northern Wales in August. Any specific places to stay in Conwy or Betws-y-coed or Beddgelert that can be recommended?

Posted by
2573 posts

dp_coo > you have resurrected an old post of someone who has already made the trip. This could cause confusion if people do not spot this. It would be better if you posted your own query. If you wish to know about accommodation, you should state where you are in the market (5* or cheap) and also whether you are self driving or using public transport.