Things to do in  Conwy

In many ways the ideal of a medieval castle, the imposing Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy) was built for Edward I in 1289, during his conquest of Wales. Featuring crenelated towers and soaring defensive walls, it stands on the River Conwy, near the rugged splendor of Snowdonia National Park. Today, Conwy Castle holds UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Once part of the main A55 roadway, the Conwy Suspension Bridge was one of the first road suspension bridges in the world. It is now closed to cars, but is open to pedestrians and cyclists. Designed to mimic the look of Conwy Castle (Castell Conwy), its towers and archways were built in a medieval gothic style. From the neighboring castle, you can see stunning views of the bridge.

Built in the 13th century, Conwy Castle and the Conwy Town Walls—its fortification—were part of Edward I’s “iron ring” of castles in North Wales, which were constructed during his attempt to take control of the United Kingdom. With 21 towers and three original gatehouses, the walls are less than a mile (around 1.3 kilometers) in length and remain largely undamaged.

Situated along the North Wales coast, Conwy Quay serves as a popular spot for sightseeing with attractions such as the Smallest House in Great Britain, the Conwy Mussel Museum, and a RNLI Lifeboat Station. After taking in the scenic views along the water, be sure to grab a pint at Liverpool Arms, Conwy’s oldest traditional pub.

Conwy Mountain (Mynydd y Dref), located to the west of Conwy in North Wales, sits in the foothills of the Carneddau range of mountains, overlooking Conwy Bay. The mountain is home to wild Carneddau ponies and roaming sheep, adding to the splendor of this part of the Welsh countryside. With its natural beauty, the area serves as a popular spot for hiking, running, and walking.

Conwy’s Albion Ale House is a traditional 1920s pub specializing in locally produced beer. It also offers a wine list, spirits, bar bites, and pub games. You’ll still find the bell pushes along the chair rail, once used to summon bartenders. Visitors can sit in the lounge by the baronial-style fireplace, relax in the snug, or saddle up to the bar with a pint.

Aberconwy House is the only surviving medieval merchant's house in Conwy. It has had many uses over the years, including a hotel and antique shop. It’s now a secondhand bookshop with flexible space for community events on the upper floors. The building’s two lower stone floors support the projecting upper floor, which extends over the lower section on corbel stones.