15 Best Things To Do In Barmouth, Wales

15 Best Things To Do In Barmouth, Wales

By will

Barmouth is a stunning coastal town in Wales that has a plethora of exciting activities to offer. From the stunning beach and harbour to the ancient castles and copper mines, there are plenty of things to do in Barmouth. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing holiday or a thrilling adventure, Barmouth has it all.

I’ve compiled a list of the 15 best things to do in Barmouth, Wales so you can make the most of your time here. From horse riding in the Snowdonia National Park to taking a tour of the copper mines, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

So, let’s take a look at these exciting activities and start planning your trip to Barmouth.

Visit the Barmouth Beach

Dusk at Barmouth Beach
Photo by Jeff Buck

You won’t want to miss out on the stunning views of the Irish Sea at Barmouth Beach! Located in the Welsh seaside town of Barmouth, this beach is the perfect spot for a relaxing day out.

You can take in the views of Snowdonia National Park, the Llyn Peninsula, and the Mawddach estuary from the golden sand beach. The beach is great for swimming, surfing, and fishing, as well as rock pooling. The waters are calm and shallow, so they’re ideal for children to paddle in. There’s plenty of space for sandcastle building and beach games too.

If you’re looking for something a little more adventurous, the beach is also the starting point for the Wales Coast Path. You can explore the coastline, discovering hidden coves and crescent-shaped bays. There are plenty of nature trails to explore, with all sorts of wildlife to be seen.

You can also visit the nearby castle ruins, or take a boat trip out to the nearby islands. No matter how you choose to spend your day, you’re sure to find something to enjoy at Barmouth Beach.

See the Harbour

Barmouth Harbour
Photo by David C Williams

Experience the beauty of the Barmouth Harbour for yourself! From the sandstone walls and picturesque views to the boats bobbing along the coastline, a visit here will leave you in awe.

With a long and fascinating history, the harbour has been a thriving part of the local community for centuries. The harbour was once home to a busy fishing industry, and its iconic bridge was built in the 19th century.

Today, the harbour is a popular destination for visitors and locals alike, who come for a stroll along the quayside or a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants and cafes. There’s plenty to explore, from the old pier and lighthouse to the ruins of a 19th-century fort.

Spend a little extra time here and you’re sure to spot some of the local wildlife, like seals, dolphins, and seabirds. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or a more adventurous experience, the Barmouth Harbour is the perfect place to visit.

Explore the Mawddach Estuary

Mawddach Estuary at Barmouth
Photo by Mat Fascione

Explore the Mawddach Estuary and discover the captivating beauty of its tranquil nature, where you can immerse yourself in its stunning scenery.

The estuary is home to a plethora of wildlife, with a variety of bird species including lapwing, curlew, oystercatcher, and redshank. It’s also a great place to spot otters, seals, and even dolphins.

The estuary also has a rich history, with a variety of old buildings dotting its banks. You can also spot the old railway line, which used to be part of the Cambrian Coast Line.

The Mawddach Estuary is an ideal spot for a variety of outdoor activities. You can go kayaking, sailing, and angling, or just take a leisurely stroll along the estuary’s banks. You can even take a boat trip and explore the river and its estuary.

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The area is also great for birdwatching, with plenty of vantage points to spot wildlife. The estuary is also a great place to take some stunning photographs of the area.

Whether you’re looking for a peaceful getaway or an adventure-filled day out, the Mawddach Estuary is the perfect destination for all.

Take a Trip on the Barmouth Ferry

Cross the Mawddach Estuary and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Barmouth Ferry! Take a tranquil journey across the water, and soak in the stunning scenery of Wales.

The Barmouth Ferry is a popular attraction that offers an idyllic and memorable experience. It is a short crossing of the estuary, taking just fifteen minutes from Barmouth to Penrhyn Point. The ferry operates every day from March to October, allowing visitors to take in the stunning views of the Welsh coastline.

The views are stunning, with the mountains and hills of Snowdonia National Park in the background. The ferry provides an excellent opportunity to take photos of the incredible landscape.

Onboard the ferry, you can take in the fresh sea air and enjoy the tranquility of the journey. There is no better way to appreciate the beauty of Barmouth than to take a ride on the Barmouth Ferry, and it’s an experience you’ll never forget.

Go Horse Riding in the Snowdonia National Park

Embark on a horseback adventure through the majestic Snowdonia National Park and marvel at the breathtaking beauty of Wales! Located just a few miles from Barmouth, the park is the perfect destination for a romantic escape or exciting outdoor activity.

Snowdonia National Park is a sprawling 823 square miles of natural beauty, comprised of mountains, forests, lakes, and rivers. With over 200 miles of trails, it is an ideal spot for horseback riding.

This is an experience like no other, as you ride through peaceful valleys, gallop along sandy beaches, and take in panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced equestrian, there are routes to suit all levels of experience.

There are plenty of horse riding centres and stables located in the area that offer guided tours, equipment hire, and tuition. So, why not take your exploration of Barmouth to the next level and enjoy a horseback adventure in Snowdonia National Park?

Join a Barmouth Boat Tour

Take a lovely boat trip around Barmouth and discover its stunning coastline, with its stunning beaches and captivating cliffs.

A boat tour is one of the best ways to take in the beauty of this Welsh coastal town. You’ll get to see the dramatic cliffs that hug the shoreline, the sandy beaches, and the beautiful harbour.

The boats are well-equipped and comfortable, with plenty of space on board to relax and take in the view. The experienced skipper will be able to show you hidden coves, secret beaches, and other attractions along the way.

Depending on the tour, you may even get to spot some local wildlife. Whether you take a short tour around the bay or a longer journey up the coast, you can be sure of a memorable experience.

With its stunning scenery, fascinating history, and wonderful wildlife, a boat tour of Barmouth is an unforgettable way to explore this stunning Welsh town.

Visit the Barmouth Museum

Experience the fascinating history of Barmouth by visiting the town’s museum, where you can explore centuries of local culture, artifacts, and art.

The museum’s collection includes items from the medieval period like pottery and coins, as well as more recent artifacts such as early 20th-century photographs and documents. You’ll get a great insight into the area’s history and development.

The museum also holds regular events and exhibitions which offer a unique insight into local culture and art. The museum is a great place to spend a few hours, learning about the local area and its history.

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The friendly and knowledgeable staff are always happy to answer any questions you may have. The museum also has a small shop where you can purchase souvenirs and other items to remember your visit.

So why not take some time to explore and learn about the history of Barmouth?

Stroll Through the Botanical Gardens

Ness Botanic Gardens

Stroll through the lush botanical gardens of Barmouth and discover beautiful plants from all around the world.

Spanning over twenty acres, the botanical gardens feature a variety of plants from temperate and exotic climates.

Take a guided tour and learn about the different varieties of trees, flowers, and shrubs, and enjoy the stunning views of the Welsh countryside.

Don’t forget to check out the outdoor amphitheater, a great place to watch outdoor plays and concerts.

The gardens are also home to some rare species of birds and butterflies, so be sure to bring your binoculars and camera!

The gardens are open year-round, making them perfect for a leisurely stroll any time of year.

Whether you’re a seasoned botanist or a novice nature lover, the Barmouth botanical gardens offer something for everyone.

Go Canoeing and Kayaking

Explore the picturesque Welsh coast from a unique perspective by going canoeing or kayaking on Barmouth’s stunning waters. At Barmouth, you can take advantage of the experienced instructors who will guide you along the best routes and ensure you’re safe.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced water-lover, you can tailor the activity to your needs. From the peaceful River Mawddach to the stunning estuary, you can take in the gorgeous views and feel the rush of the water as you paddle along.

Barmouth has a variety of activities for all levels of experience. For those just starting out, you can rent a kayak or canoe and take a gentle stroll along the estuary, admiring the local wildlife and taking in the sound of the waves.

Experienced paddlers can take on the challenge of the River Mawddach, exploring the dramatic coastal scenery and discovering hidden coves. There’s a multitude of routes to choose from, so you can customize your adventure to your skill level.

With stunning views and a unique vantage point, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience in Barmouth.

Explore the Ffestiniog Railway

Take a journey on the historic Ffestiniog Railway, and let the sights and sounds of Wales’ countryside transport you back in time.

This unique railway was built in the early 1800s and is the oldest in the world, still in operation today.

It runs from the harbour town of Porthmadog to the historic slate mining village of Blaenau Ffestiniog.

The route follows the Welsh coast, with views of the stunning Cardigan Bay, and winds through the mountains of Snowdonia National Park.

The Ffestiniog Railway offers a range of different experiences, from peaceful trips to special themed events.

Climb aboard a vintage steam train or a heritage diesel and take in the views – you can even book a first-class carriage for a truly special experience.

There are plenty of places to get off and explore along the way, or you can just sit back and relax on the journey.

Whatever you decide, it’s sure to be a memorable experience.

Try the Local Cuisine

Sample Sentence: Enjoy the delicious food Wales has to offer and sample some of the local cuisine while you’re there.

Barmouth is a small town in Wales with a population of just over 3,500 people, but it has a wide variety of truly delicious restaurants and pubs. From traditional Welsh dishes like cawl and Welsh rarebit to more modern gastropub fare, there is something to suit every taste.

Visitors can take a stroll down Barmouth’s High Street and find a range of pubs and restaurants that offer up local Welsh dishes, as well as more international options.

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The seafood is particularly good in Barmouth, with many restaurants offering fresh-caught fish and shellfish. Diners can also find some of Wales’ signature dishes like Welsh Rarebit or laverbread, a traditional Welsh dish made with seaweed.

No matter what your preferences, there’s something for everyone in Barmouth.

Visit the Medieval Castles

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Wales and visit its many medieval castles.
Barmouth is home to two remarkable castles, Harlech Castle and Castell y Bere, both of which are incredibly well preserved.
Harlech Castle was built between 1282 and 1289 by Edward I and is located atop a cliff, offering stunning views of the surrounding area.
Inside the castle, visitors can explore the Great Hall, the Chapel, and the Solar.
Castell y Bere, built in the 13th century, is located on a hillside and is made up of a number of towers and walls as well as a chapel.
Both castles offer a fascinating glimpse into the past and are a must-see for any history buff visiting Barmouth.

Take a Tour of the Copper Mines

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Barmouth as you take a tour of its copper mines.

Located in the southern part of Wales, Barmouth is a charming coastal town with a rich and fascinating history.

Over the course of the past few centuries, copper mining has been an important industry in the area.

On a tour of the copper mines, you can learn more about this part of Barmouth’s history and explore the breathtaking beauty of the region.

Your tour begins with a guided hike to the mine. You’ll be able to explore the mine’s tunnels and chambers, and learn about the techniques used in the copper mining process.

The tour will also take you to the top of the hill where you can take in the stunning views of the town and the surrounding countryside.

Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the unique history of Barmouth and its copper mining industry.

At the end of the tour, you’ll have the chance to purchase souvenirs and take home a piece of Barmouth’s history with you.

Walk the Wales Coast Path

Take a stroll along the Wales Coast Path for a breathtaking journey through the scenic beauty of Barmouth. The Wales Coast Path is an 870-mile walking route along the coast of Wales, and Barmouth is one of the many beautiful sections.

The path winds along the coast, giving stunning views of the beach and the town from a different perspective. You can take a leisurely stroll or a challenging hike, depending on your abilities. Along the way, you’ll find plenty of places to stop and admire the views, or take pictures. Make sure to bring a camera to capture the breathtaking views, as well as comfortable shoes to take on the adventure.

The path is perfect for a day of exploration and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful, reflective experience or an exciting outdoor activity, the Wales Coast Path is a great choice.

Enjoy the Local Nightlife

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Barmouth and get ready for a night of fun and excitement! The town has a range of pubs, clubs, and bars that cater to all tastes. From traditional pubs playing folk music, to modern bars with DJs and live music, there is something for everyone.

The nightlife in Barmouth starts early with the locals gathering in the pubs to enjoy a few drinks and a chat. As the evening progresses, the atmosphere gets more lively, with people spilling out onto the streets and enjoying the night air.

The clubs and bars stay open until late, so you can dance and have fun till the early hours of the morning. With its friendly atmosphere and great selection of bars, Barmouth is the perfect place to spend a night out on the town.

Conclusion

After exploring the beautiful sights of Barmouth, Wales, I can confidently say that it’s a great destination for a fun-filled holiday.

From the stunning beach and harbour to the majestic castles and copper mines, there’s something here for everyone.

Whether you’re looking for an active holiday filled with hiking and horse riding, or a more relaxed trip with plenty of nightlife, you’ll find it here.

I’ve had a wonderful time and wouldn’t hesitate to return for another visit.

Barmouth is a destination that will stay with me for a long time.

About the author

Will is an avid hillwalker and traveler. You may find him surfing in Cornwall or hiking in the Yorkshire Dales.