History and Culture
Follow the paths of pilgrims to Bardsey Island, explore the enchanted myth of Rhys and Meinir in Nant Gwrtheyrn or learn about the area’s maritime past. Delve into the rich history, culture and traditions of the area.
Castles
Perched on a headland the intimidating castle looks over the town of Criccieth. Built originally by Llywelyn the Great, this was the site of the last Welsh rebellion against the English. Take your time to explore the castle, it’s twin-towered gatehouse and the bustling seaside town.
Another impressive castle that begs a visit is the intimidating fortress at Caernarfon. An imposing structure and walled town that King Edward I created to stamp his supremacy on the natives. In 1969 the investiture of HRH Prince Charles took place here.
Visit the CADW website for more information on Welsh castles in the vicinity
Portmeirion
A magical Italian tourist village built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion was made famous as the location of the cult surreal spy television series The Prisoner in 1967. Today, visitors can walk around the gardens and the private peninsular on which the village is set. Portmeirion itself is made up of around 50 buildings that include several cafes and shops and is surrounded by 70 acres of sub-tropical woodland gardens. The focal point of the village is the Portmeirion hotel that welcomes day visitors for lunches, afternoon teas, and dinners.
Nant Gwrtheyrn
The Heritage Centre at Nant Gwrtheyrn is a great place to start your journey into local history, myths, culture and traditions. Located in an abandoned quarrying village on the north coast of the peninsula the centre is the place to explore Welsh culture and traditions as well as the history of the village itself.
Llyn Maritime Museum
The museum is housed in St Mary’s Church in Nefyn and boasts a unique collection of maritime artefacts that depicts the story of locally built boats, sailors and captains.
Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw
Visit Wales’ oldest gallery with 6 exhibiting galleries housed in a Grade II listed dower house built in the popular beach village of Llanbedrog in the 1850s. In addition to the monthly exhibitions, art workshops, lectures and craft fairs Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw have recently reopened a network of woodland circular short walks that join with the Wales Coast Path.
Oriel Plas Glyn y Weddw Website
Porth y Swnt
A new interpretation centre in Aberdaron that uses poetry and art installations to take everyone on their own journey through the history, culture and environment of the Llyn Peninsula. The centre also has further ideas for activities, walks and attractions in the area.
Information on Porth y Swnt on the National Trust Website
Plas yn Rhiw
Explore what this 16th century manor house has to offer. Marvel at the views over Cardigan Bay from the ornamental garden and grounds.
Information on Plas yn Rhiw on the National Trust Website
Road Side History
You don’t need to visit a museum, a centre or a castle to feel a bit of the local history, it’s all around you. When you travel along the rural roads look out for the 8 beautifully restored original signposts erected following the 1903 Auto Car Act. You should also be able to spot original restored slate and stone milestones along the side of the road – imagine what it was like travelling along these roads over a hundred years ago!
Adrenaline and Adventure
Would you like to zip through the air above a quarry on the world’s fastest zip line? Would you like to bounce in a disused slate quarry cavern at the world’s first subterranean playground of it’s kind? How about white water kayaking? Climbing? Coasteering? Surfing? Welcome to the Heart of Adventure!
Click here to search activity providers and attractions on Visit Wales website.