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North Wales Tour from Manchester
Type:Excursion
Greater Manchester
About
This tour gives you a day in North Wales including the Snowdonia National Park, from Manchester. It’s an ideal way to see the amazing landscape associated with this stunning part of Wales and the National Park.
The first stop is Conwy, famous for its medieval castle, Conwy Castle, which was built by Edward I in the 13th century. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is considered one of the finest examples of medieval military architecture in Europe. It offers visitors a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved walls, towers, and views of the town and surrounding area. In addition to the castle, Conwy is also home to other historical landmarks such as the Conwy Town Walls, which encircle the town and provide a scenic walkway for visitors. The town itself features narrow streets lined with traditional buildings, including the iconic Plas Mawr, a beautifully restored Elizabethan townhouse. Conwy is also known for its vibrant cultural scene, with various festivals and events taking place throughout the year. The town offers a range of attractions, including art galleries, museums, and a bustling harbour where visitors can enjoy boat trips and water sports. With its combination of history, natural beauty, and cultural offerings, Conwy attracts tourists from around the world who come to explore its heritage and enjoy its charming atmosphere.
The next stop is to the heart of the Welsh industry, at the National Slate Museum, the museum is located in a Victorian workshop built at the base of Elidir mountain. Enjoy the talk and demonstration on offer at the museum, which show the skills of the quarryman. View a slate-splitting demonstration from craftsman’s and quarry workers. From here you will join the Llanberis Lake Railway which is a steam engine train which travels a five mile return journey along Lake Padarn, in the heart of Snowdonia. Please note the train ride is only included February – November.
Betws-y-coed is one of the main honeypot locations in the Snowdonia national park. Snowdonia National Park was the third national park in Britain, after the Peak and Lake district parks. It covers 827 square miles and has 37 miles of coastline. There are plenty of arts and crafts shops, places for lunch. Give them an hour here. Betws-y-coed is sometimes referred to as the gateway to Snowdonia, and is a popular base for climbers, walkers, and cyclists. Originally, the village served as a resting place for travellers and pilgrims on their way to the nearby monastery of Ynys Enlli (Bardsey Island). The name "Betws-y-Coed" translates to "Prayer House in the Wood" in English, reflecting its historical connection to religious pilgrimage.
During the 19th century, Betws-y-Coed experienced significant growth and development due to the rise of tourism. The opening of the railway in 1868 played a crucial role in attracting visitors to the area, as it provided easier access for tourists from major cities. The village became a popular destination for artists and writers, who were drawn to its natural beauty and tranquillity. Many notable painters, including Richard Wilson and David Cox, found inspiration in the surrounding landscapes. Today, Betws-y-Coed continues to be a thriving tourist destination, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and fishing. The village retains its charm with traditional stone buildings, quaint shops, and welcoming accommodations. The Horseshoe Pass is a scenic road located in North Wales, United Kingdom. It is named after its horseshoe-shaped bend and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. The pass has a rich history dating back centuries. It was originally a drovers' road, used by farmers to move their livestock from the lowlands to the higher pastures during the summer months. During the 18th and 19th centuries, the Horseshoe Pass became an important route for transporting goods and materials. It played a significant role in the industrial development of the region, particularly in the transportation of slate from the quarries in the area. In more recent times, the Horseshoe Pass has become a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors who come to admire the stunning scenery and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling. The road itself is known for its challenging bends and is often used by motoring enthusiasts.
