Things to do in Criccieth
Often referred to as the gateway to the Llŷn Peninsula, Criccieth is renowned for its coastal scenery and peaceful atmosphere. Once a medieval stronghold occupied by ancient Welsh nobility, it is home to the ruins of a 13th-century castle and still has a Welsh-speaking majority to this day. The town transformed into a popular tourist destination with the introduction of the Aberystwyth and Welsh Coast Railway in the late 1800s, with the Victorians cementing it’s status as a coastal resort.
Criccieth is entirely encircled by desirable destinations – to the north lies the entire Llŷn Peninsula, while the east and south lead to Snowdonia National Park. Perfectly central for exploring all that North Wales has to offer, it’s an ideal base for a short or longer trip.
Where is Criccieth?
Criccieth is a charming town located in Gwynedd, North Wales, situated right on the boundary between the Llŷn Peninsula and the region of Eifionydd. It lies on the southern coast of the Llŷn , around 9 miles east of Pwllheli. The town has stunning views overlooking Tremadog Bay, part of the larger Cardigan Bay. It’s also mere miles from Snowdonia National Park, with the stunning village of Beddgelert just 20 minutes away.
What does the name Criccieth mean?
There are several theories as to the meaning of ‘Criccieth’, but the most popular is that it comes from crug caeth: caeth may mean ‘prisoner’, and thus the name could mean ‘prisoner’s rock’, a reference to the imprisonment of one of Llywelyn ab Iorwerth’s sons in the famous Criccieth Castle, which stands proud atop a rocky headland.
What is Criccieth famous for?
While we can think of tonnes of things Criccieth deserves to be famous for, the most widely-known are:
- It is known as the ‘Pearl of Wales on the Shores of Snowdonia’ thanks to its scenic coastal position and proximity to Eryri.
- It is the birthplace of Cadwaladers – a family-run chain of cafes and ice cream parlours that began as a humble General Store in 1927.
- As the childhood home of David Lloyd George, British Prime Minister from 1916 to 1922. You can visit a museum dedicated to his life and times in nearby Llanystumdwy.
Things to do in & around Criccieth
Rich in history and perfectly placed for a range of outdoor pursuits, Criccieth is bursting with things to do. Here are some of our favourites:
- Visit Criccieth Castle: A legendary local landmark and an iconic seafront outcrop, Criccieth Castle is a 13th-century ruin with spellbinding sea and mountain views immortalised by JMW Turner.
- Walk the Wales Coast Path: Whichever direction you head in, you’re guaranteed to be met with rugged, romantic scenery and hidden coves. If you follow it to Porthmadog, you can reward yourself with fish and chips overlooking the harbour.
- Ride The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway: Embark on a scenic steam train ride to experience some of the best views of the coast and country. A choice of tours starts from Porthmadog.
- Visit Portmeirion: Just 20 minutes away by car, you’ll find the stunning Italianate village of Portmeirion, built into the rocky, wooded peninsula of the Dwyryd Estuary.
- Browse the range of independent shops: from antiques to homewares, Criccieth is teeming with small businesses. Don’t miss Siop Del and Eifion Stores.
- Pay a visit to the Criccieth Lifeboat Station. Established in 1853 and awarded nine awards for gallantry, the hard work of local volunteers is something to be admired. While the lifeboat station isn’t manned around the clock, you can organise a visit online.
- Enjoy your sport of choice, whether that’s sea kayaking, coasteering, surfing, paddleboarding or windsurfing.
- Step back in time at Pennarth Fawr, a well-preserved Medieval House offering an insight into life during the 15th century.
Parking in Criccieth
If you’re visiting Criccieth by car, there is some on-street parking around the castle and seafront, but spaces can be limited, especially in peak times. For both short and longer visits, here are some convenient car parks in Criccieth:
Y Maes Car Park (LL52 0HS) – This council-operated car park offers 147 spaces, including 8 disabled bays. Parking is free 24 hours during winter, but in summer there are charges up to £5.50 for 24 hours. It is located close to the town centre and seafront, making it ideal for tourists exploring Criccieth Castle and the beach.
Morannedd Car Park (LL52 0HT) – A large car park with 92 spaces available for long stays. It is near the main beach area (Morannedd) and town amenities. Charges apply during summer months, with parking durations up to 24 hours.
Rhodfa’r Môr Car Park (LL52 0HT) – Offering 87 spaces including 4 disabled bays, this car park is also close to the seafront and town. It is suitable for longer stays and charges vary seasonally, similar to other car parks throughout Gwynedd.
Yes, there is some free parking in Criccieth, such as on-street parking near the castle and in residential streets. Some of these spots are free outside restricted hours (typically before 8 am and after 6 pm). For guaranteed parking or longer stays, though, the paid carparks listed above will be your best bet.
The best places to eat in Criccieth
All areas in North Wales are (deservedly) proud of their produce, and Criccieth is no exception – there is a huge choice of eateries on offer, bringing fresh seafood and other fare to the table. If you’re looking to start as you mean to go on, any day should begin with a visit to Idris Cafe, a traditional bakery on the High Street serving everything from well-filled pies to puddings and cakes. Be warned, though, the stock gets cleaned out quickly, so arrive early to get your goodies.
Elsewhere, you can get your foodie fix at Dylans, which is a beloved North Wales chain. In Criccieth, Dylan’s is housed in a stunning art deco building right on the seafront – signature dishes include the seafood linguine (one of our personal favourites) and clam chowder. Another popular dinner spot is Poachers, which has been a go-to for great food in Criccieth for over thirty years. Alternatively, Nomi in neighbouring Porthmadog brings contemporary, fine dining flair to moreish Indian dishes.
For a quintessential seaside experience, don’t miss getting steaming-hot fish and chips from either Castle Fish & Chip Shop or Allports and enjoying them on the esplanade with sea and castle views. Securing something sweet from Cadwaladers afterwards is optional, but heartily recommended.
Book your holiday cottage in Criccieth
From the mountains to the coastline to the forests in between, you can enjoy the very best of everything in Criccieth. Our collection of Criccieth holiday cottages provides the perfect base for a weekend or longer trip filled with fantastic food, inspiring views and traditional Welsh hospitality.
Book your stay here.
