Top 7 'Must Do' Places in Conwy Town
THINGS TO DO IN CONWY
Located along River Conwy with the medieval castle at its heart, Conwy is a popular town for all ages. The close proximity to Snowdonia National Park makes it a great location to explore the abundance of attractions within the region – be it Snowdonia, the North Wales coastline or Isle of Anglesey. There are an abundance of things to do in and around the small town of Conwy; whether it is visiting the Castle, walking the Walls or along the river, visiting the beautiful beaches, going for a walk in the mountains followed by a trip to the pub!
CONWY CASTLE
Conwy’s medieval fortress stands at the heart of the town having been built by Edward I, between 1289 and 1287 during his conquest of Wales. The eight towers and staircases have been restored, allowing visitors to explore this UNESCO Heritage Site and its battlements. Venturing up the towers gives beautiful views over the river to Deganwy and beyond.
Further information about opening times and tickets can be found here.
CONWY SUSPENSION BRIDGE
Standing next to Conwy Castle is the iconic Grade I – listed Conwy Suspension Bridge Built by Thomas Telford between 1822 and 1826 to link Conwy and Llandudno; improving the route between Chester and Holyhead. Despite being built later than the Castle, its turrets were designed to match those of the Castle, and at the time was one of the only suspension bridges in the world! The bridge is now managed by the National Trust, and although no longer used by traffic it can still be accessed by pedestrians.
CONWY TOWN WALLS
Conwy’s Town Walls run for three-quarters of a mile around the heart of Conwy, looping around the streets of Conwy. They were built at the same time as the Castle as an integrated defence system, and forming part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site they are some of the most complete castle walls in Europe. Walking the walls allows you to explore the medieval fortifications high above the town giving stunning views of the Castle, town, Estuary, and quay, and are a must-see when visiting Conwy! It’s completely free to visit, and entrances can be found all around Conwy, making it a great budget activity. I would recommend starting from the steps at the bottom of Watkin Street which takes you past the cottage – don’t forget good walking shoes!
THE SMALLEST HOUSE IN GREAT BRITAIN
Despite being the Smallest House in Great Britain, you can’t miss its bright red colouring at the end of the terraced housing on Conwy’s Quayside. Measuring just 72 inches across and 122 inches high the Smallest House has just enough room for a coal fire and single bed upstairs and is a must-see! During visiting hours you are greeted by a Welsh lady in traditional welsh dress; giving history about the 16thCentury house which remained in use until 1990. Entry to the house costs £1.50 for adults and £1.00 for children.
BOAT TRIPS
Conwy’s Sightseeing Cruises are a great way to view the medieval town of Conwy and its Castle, along with Snowdonia, Llandudno West Shore and Puffin Island. The family-run tour starts at the Quay taking you on a half-hour cruise up the estuary where you can take wonderful photos of the castle and bridge and the array of wildlife along the estuary. Tours cost £7.50 for adults, £7.00 for OAP/Students and £4.50 for children. More information about the Conwy sightseeing cruises can be found here.
PLAS MAWR
Located on Conwy High Street, Plas Mawr is one of the best Elizabethan townhouses in Britain and is a must-see for history lovers. Built in 1576, visitors can step back in time to experience the grandeur of all seventeen rooms of the Tudor home. Tickets cost £8.30 for adults and £5.80 for juniors (aged 5-17) –more information can be found on their website.
CONWY NATURE RESERVE
RSPB Conwy nature reserve is a wetland located on the east bank of the Conwy estuary and was created using material dug out during the construction of the A55 road tunnel. It is home to a variety of wildlife including waders, warblers and wildfowl and is a great family attraction with walking trails and beautiful views of the Snowdonia mountains. Entry is free to RSPB members and £6 adult non-members which includes a car parking space.