Things to do in Caernarfon
A fortified Welsh jewel on the banks of the Menai Strait, Caernarfon is a glorious Royal Town steeped in history. Defined by the medieval walls, cobbled streets and huge stone fortress of Caernarfon Castle, it’s wonderfully scenic and brings the very best of North Wales to one compact area, thanks to its proximity to both the sea and the mountains. This convenient location also means that there are lots of things to do in Caernarfon and in the surroundings – nothing is too far away!
Below, we’ve put together the essential information for visiting Caernarfon, along with some suggestions on where to stay nearby.
Where is Caernarfon?
Caernarfon sits on the coastline of North West Wales, where the Isle of Anglesey (Ynys Môn) almost touches the mainland, and only a few miles from Snowdonia National Park (Eryri.) It’s easily accessible and is just a short distance from the A55 coast road that joins the M56 at the English border.
What does the name Caernarfon mean?
The name Caernarfon interestingly has Roman origins and originates from its strategic position facing the Isle of Anglesey. It’s best explained when broken down into two parts, which are:
“Caer” – Means fortress, stronghold or citadel and likely references the Roman fort of Segontium, which lies on the outskirts of the town. It could also be in reference to the town’s eponymous fortress, which was constructed from 1283 to 1330.
“Arfon” – Arfon simply means ‘opposite Anglesey’, as Anglesey is Ynys Môn in Welsh.
The full name, when you join the two Welsh words together, translates to ‘the fortress opposite Anglesey.”
What is Caernarfon famous for?
Rich in authentic Welsh culture, Caernarfon is known for several things, most prominently:
- The UNESCO World Heritage site Caernarfon Castle is widely regarded as Wales’ most famous castle, a 13th‑century fortress-palace built by Edward I as both a military stronghold and a symbol of royal power. Its size, polygonal towers and waterfront setting make it one of the most recognisable medieval buildings in the UK – it took 47 years to complete!
- The castles’ significance has led the town to host many major royal investitures, such as King Charles’ investiture as the Prince of Wales in 1969. For that reason, Caernarfon has Royal Town status.
- The dramatic location and scenery of Caernarfon also make it a well-known destination for travel and tourism, with stunning coastlines and rugged mountains all within easy reach.
Things to do in & around Caernarfon
Perfect for history buffs, beach babies and foodies alike, Caernarfon is crammed with things to see and do. We’ve put together some of our favourites below:
Galeri Caernarfon, Doc Victoria, LL55 1SQ
Sat on the redeveloped Doc Victoria waterfront, Galeri Caernarfon is the town’s creative heart – a contemporary arts centre that brings together cinema, theatre, gigs, comedy and community events under one roof. It’s a brilliant all-weather option, with a regular programme of films and live performances plus a convenient café-bar.
Independent Shopping, Cei Llechi, LL55 2BP
Cei Llechi is Caernarfon’s cluster of independent studios and shops, tucked along the quayside near the harbour. Here you’ll find local makers, artisan goods and small creative businesses (think arts, crafts, homewares and gifts) all in characterful restored buildings.
Beacon Climbing Centre, Cibyn Industrial Estate, LL55 2BD
A short hop from Caernarfon town centre, Beacon Climbing Centre is a go-to for indoor adventure, which is especially handy if you’re here on a climbing holiday and the weather is wet. With roped climbing, bouldering walls and a choice of routes, it is suitable for both beginners and experienced climbers.
Caernarfon Golf Club, Aber Foreshore Rd, LL54 5RP
Set on the edge of the Menai Strait, Caernarfon Golf Club offers a scenic round with views towards Anglesey and the mountains of Eryri. The course blends coastal character with more sheltered inland holes, making for varied play in a striking setting.
Parc Glynllifon, Clynnog Rd, LL54 5DY
Just outside Caernarfon, Parc Glynllifon is a historic country estate and woodland park, laced with paths, follies and landscaped gardens. It’s an excellent choice for gentle walks, picnics and family time, with plenty of space to explore and glimpses of the estate’s 19th-century grandeur.
Castell Caernarfon, Castle Ditch, Caernarfon LL55 2AY
Caernarfon Castle is the town’s headline act: a vast, polygon-towered fortress built in the 13th century and now part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walking its walls and climbing the towers offer far-reaching views over the harbour, Anglesey and Eryri. There are also regular events and exhibitions to enjoy – you can get Caernarfon Castle tickets via the button below.
North Wales wouldn’t be what it is without its awe-inspiring castles – take a look at our guide to some of the best in the area here.
Airworld Aviation Museum, Dinas Dinlle, LL54 5TP
Located at Caernarfon Airport near Dinas Dinlle beach, Airworld Aviation Museum is a compact but characterful museum dedicated to aircraft and aviation history. Expect a mix of historic planes, exhibits and memorabilia, with the added interest of being on an active airfield – there’s also a fantastic cafe on site which is open 7 days a week!
Visit the nearby beaches, North Wales
Perched right on the water’s edge, Caernarfon doesn’t have its own sandy beaches, but there is a nature reserve and a lovely walk you can enjoy from the Castle all the way along Aber Foreshore Road, where a small spit of shingle overlooks the changing tides of the Menai Strait. Further afield, you can enjoy the bigger beaches of Dinas Dinlle (15 minutes,) Trefor (23 minutes) and the show-stopping Newborough (42 minutes). For the very best beaches to visit throughout North Wales, take a look at our guide below.
Things to do in Caernarfon for families…
Caernarfon is bursting with things to do for little ones and teenagers alike. Here are some suggestions:
- Caernarfon’s Fun Centre (housed in a striking former church on Bangor Street) is the perfect rainy-day activity for children of a variety of ages, with a huge indoor play area, go-karts, laser tag and an under-5s area.
- The Welsh Highland Railway offers three experiences that depart from Caernarfon station on St Helen’s Road, venturing up into the foothills of Eryri – Snowdonia National Park for an epic and scenic adventure that everyone will enjoy.
- Firm North Wales favourites for a family day out are the three different Zipworld sites located in Penrhyn Quarry, Llechwedd and Betws-y-Coed, where you’ll find over 20 different activities to enjoy. Penrhyn Quarry is the nearest to Caernarfon and is home to the world’s fastest ziplines, downhill quarry karts and the aero explorer.
- The entire Snowdonia National Park, known as Eryri (eh-ruh-ree) in Welsh, is just on your doorstep and is home to an endless choice of forests, lakes, moors and mountains to explore. Beddgelert is a pretty village to discover, and conveniently placed for experiencing the scenic Pen y Pass road around the summit of Yr Wyddfa.
Important info: Caernarfon Parking
There are a number of places to park in Caernarfon, making it an easy destination to visit by car. Some of the best options include:
Penllyn Multi-Storey, Pool Hill, LL55 1NN – A short-stay multi-level car park with easy access to the castle and town centre.
Ford y Felin Car Park, Greengate Street, LL55 1RF – A small outdoor car park in the centre of the town – perfect if you’re not looking to walk for miles!
Doc Fictoria Car Park, Balaclava Rd, LL55 – A large multi-storey car park just a short walk from the town centre – used for council carparking during the week, before opening as a pay & display at the weekend.
There is some free street parking throughout Caernarfon, such as North Road and Cibyn, but do keep in mind that these are around 10-minutes on foot from the centre, and are used by residents. Your best bet is to opt for one of the pay & display car parks mentioned above!
The best places to eat in Caernarfon
Great news – you’ll be spoilt for choice for restaurants in Caernarfon. From centuries-old inns to harbourfront bistros, there is a cuisine and a setting for absolutely everyone. Some of our favourites include :
- Black Boy Inn – The most famous of pubs in Caernarfon, The Black Boy is a Caernarfon institution tucked inside the old town walls. A stunning stone building, it’s all low beams, roaring fires and centuries of character – it has a history reaching back to 1522! If you’re craving hearty pub classics, this is the place to go.
- Morfarch Cafe Bar & Restaurant – Down on Doc Fictoria, Morfarch pairs a laid-back harbourfront setting with bistro-style plates. The mood is buzzy yet relaxed, with friendly service, good music and well-made cocktails making it ideal for date nights or unrushed weekend lunches.
- Ouzo & Olive – For a taste of the Aegean behind Caernarfon’s stone walls, Ouzo & Olive is all about Greek and Mediterranean flavours. Small plates of grilled meats, halloumi, seafood and vibrant salads are all served in a relaxed, sociable environment.
- Y Wal – Tucked inside the town’s historic walls, Y Wal leans into contemporary Welsh dining with a casual, sociable feel. Expect burgers, loaded fries, crowd-pleasing mains and seasonal specials.
- Osteria – Osteria brings Italian warmth to Caernarfon with a focus on simple, well-executed dishes – think fresh pasta and classic desserts served in relaxed, intimate interiors, all backed by a considered wine list.
Book your holiday cottage in Caernarfon
We’ve got plenty of beautiful holiday cottages to choose from near Caernarfon. Whether you want a coastal cottage or a dog-friendly countryside bolthole, we know just the place. Our closest range of holiday lets near Caernarfon is in Anglesey’s Menai Bridge, which is just 17 minutes away by car. Take a look at them for yourself below!
