Are you a tourist, adventurer, or traveler looking for the best & most fun things to do in Barmouth, then this article will help you out. The city of Barmouth is a picturesque coastal town nestled on the west coast of Wales.
Known for its stunning beaches, charming harbor, and breathtaking mountain views, Barmouth offers a plethora of activities that will captivate any visitor’s interest.
The city is one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in Wales, and it’s easy to see why the town has attracted devoted holiday visitors since the mid-18th century. The town’s sandy Blue Flag beach stretches for two miles and is perfect place for picnics, swimming, paddling, and surfing.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a relaxing getaway, the city of Barmouth is a hidden gem waiting to be explored.
To ensure a memorable experience on your trip, here is the list of the best & fun things to do in Barmouth.
Things to do in Barmouth
1 Stroll along Barmouth Beach
Begin your adventure by immersing yourself in the natural beauty of Barmouth Beach. Feel the golden sand beneath your feet and enjoy panoramic views of Cardigan Bay. With its Blue Flag status, this beach guarantees a clean and safe environment for swimming, sunbathing, or even building sandcastles with the family.
The beach is backed by a promenade lined with cafés, restaurants, and shops, where you can find refreshments, ice cream, and beach supplies. From the promenade, you can enjoy panoramic views of the coast and the nearby mountains of Snowdonia National Park.
2 Explore Barmouth Harbour
Visit Barmouth Harbour, a bustling hub where colorful fishing boats and luxury yachts reside. Take a leisurely walk along the quay, spot seabirds, and admire the panoramic views of the Mawddach Estuary.
The Harbour is not only a functional harbor but also a charming and scenic spot for visitors. The harbor area is lined with colorful buildings, including pubs, cafés, and shops, which add to its charm. You can stroll along the harbor promenade, enjoying the views of the surrounding hills, and the iconic Barmouth Bridge that crosses the river.
If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or join a boat tour to explore the stunning coastline from a different perspective.
3 Hike On Cadair Idris
Embark on a hiking adventure to conquer Cadair Idris, one of the most popular mountains located in Snowdonia National Park, Wales. The name Cadair Idris translates to “Idris’s Chair,” referring to a legendary giant named Idris who, according to folklore, used the mountain as his chair or throne.
This majestic peak offers breathtaking vistas from its summit, rewarding hikers with unforgettable views of Snowdonia National Park. Choose from various trails, such as the Pony Path or the Fox’s Path, and challenge yourself to reach the top.
4 Explore the Cregennan Lakes
Nestled within the foothills of the Cadair Idris mountain range, the lakes offer a tranquil and picturesque setting surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. These beautiful natural lakes sit some 800 ft. above sea level and are a beautiful place for a picnic and walk.
The larger of the two lakes is known as Cregennan Lake, while the smaller one is called Little Cregennan. Both lakes are glacial in origin and are characterized by their crystal-clear waters, which reflect the surrounding mountains and create a mesmerizing visual spectacle.
Cregennan Lakes is a popular destination for nature lovers, photographers, and those seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the beauty of Snowdonia. The tranquil atmosphere and unspoiled surroundings make it an ideal spot for picnicking, wildlife watching, and simply soaking in the serenity of nature.
The area surrounding the lakes is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. Tourists may spot various bird species, including ospreys, herons, and ducks, as well as smaller mammals like otters and voles.
5 Discover the Mawddach Trail
For cycling or walking enthusiasts, the Mawddach Trail should be on your list of things to do in Barmouth. This former railway line stretches for nine miles along the Mawddach Estuary, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape. One of the highlights of the trail is the Mawddach Bridge, a stunning wooden viaduct that spans the estuary.
This iconic bridge offers panoramic views and is a popular spot for photographs. Whether you choose to explore on foot or hire a bicycle, this trail provides a tranquil and scenic escape.
6 Visit The Rugged Rhinogs
At the southernmost point of Snowdonia, not far from Dolgellau, lies a chain of low mountains known as The Rhinogs. It is a lovely, peaceful location with one of Britain’s most untamed upland landscapes.
The hills are renowned for their peace and the absence of any roads. Sheep and a herd of wild goats take care of the majority of the vegetation maintenance.
It’s possible to spend the entire day here without encountering another person, though you might come across a few isolated farmsteads and occasionally wander along the remnants of old drovers’ roads.
7 Visit Barmouth Bridge
Marvel at the engineering marvel that is Barmouth Bridge. This iconic wooden railway viaduct spans across the estuary, connecting Barmouth with Morfa Mawddach. Take a leisurely walk or hop on a train to cross the bridge, capturing stunning photographs along the way.
8 Explore Barmouth Town
Wander through the charming streets of Barmouth town and discover its unique shops, galleries, and eateries. Indulge in local delicacies, browse for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the warm Welsh hospitality. Don’t miss the chance to sample some delicious Welsh cakes during your visit.
Also Read, 20 Free Things to do in Shrewsbury for Families
9 Visit Ty Crwn
Step back in time with a visit to Ty Crwn, a traditional Welsh cottage located in Barmouth. This preserved historic building provides a glimpse into the region’s past and offers insights into the local way of life.
The building is circular in shape, hence its name, and features thick stone walls with a conical roof made of slate. Visiting Ty Crwn allows you to appreciate the craftsmanship of the past and get a sense of the rural life in the region during earlier times.
It’s a great place for a short stop or to have a picnic while enjoying the scenic beauty of Snowdonia National Park. Engage with knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating stories about the cottage and its inhabitants.
10 Discover Barmouth Lifeboat Station
Gain a deeper understanding of Barmouth’s maritime heritage at the Barmouth Lifeboat Station. Learn about the brave volunteers who have saved countless lives at sea and explore the interactive exhibits that showcase the history of lifeboats and their crucial role in coastal communities.
11 Enjoy Watersports at Barmouth
Thrill-seekers will find an array of exciting watersports activities to enjoy in Barmouth. With its beautiful sandy beach and proximity to the sea, Barmouth is a fantastic destination for water-based activities.
Try your hand at surfing, paddle boarding, or kiteboarding and experience the adrenaline rush as you ride the waves of Cardigan Bay. There are numerous watersports providers in the area, offering lessons and equipment rental for all skill levels.
12 See Ancient History on the Egryn Trail
Visit Egryn and learn more about the prehistoric history of Barmouth. This amazing place is a great destination with breathtaking views of Cardigan Bay, the Llŷn Peninsula, and the Irish Sea.
Several ancient standing stones, an Iron Age hill fort, and a Bronze Age hut circle are among the numerous archaeological relics discovered in Egryn dating back 5,500 years. The location is a fantastic spot to breathe in clean air and let your imagination run wild.
13 Things to do in Barmouth: Visit Coed Garth Gell
Coed Garth Gell is a forest and heathland nature reserve that is notable on a global scale for the uncommon mosses, liverworts, and lichens that flourish amid the old oaks. It is nestled away in the breathtaking Mawddach Valley.
This amazing location is home to lesser horseshoe bats, pied flycatchers, redstarts, wood warblers, and woodpeckers.
14 Spend a Day Exploring Harlech
The historic town of Harlech is full of bravery, eccentricity, and quite epic, timeless beauty. The town was built around a 13th-century castle perched on a rock, and UNESCO now recognizes it as one of the best-preserved medieval fortifications in the world.
Harlech, which is boldly perched on a hillside with a view of the ocean, is bordered to the east by the magnificent Snowdonia mountains and to the west by Cardigan Bay and the Irish Sea.
Its hills and winding lanes provide plenty of hidden gems to explore, including some great independent shops, delis, cafés, and a beautiful nearby beach.
15 Things to do in Barmouth: Explore Zip World Caverns
One of the best thrilling things to do in Barmouth is to explore Zip World Caverns, an exhilarating adventure attraction located in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
It offers a unique and thrilling experience of exploring an underground cave system through a series of zip lines, rope bridges, and tunnels.
The highlight of Zip World Caverns is the “Bounce Below” section, where you’ll find a network of giant trampoline-like nets suspended in a vast underground chamber. Here, you can bounce, slide, and play in a truly unique and surreal environment.
The whole experience is guided, and the knowledgeable guides will provide information about the history and geology of the cave system throughout the adventure. They are also there to ensure your safety and assist you whenever needed.
16 Antur Stiniog
On our last list of things to do in Barmouth is to visit the Antur Stiniog, an outdoor adventure center located in Blaenau Ffestiniog. This great location is known for its mountain biking trails and offers a range of activities for outdoor enthusiasts.
The main focus attraction of Antur Stiniog is its mountain bike trail network. The trails are designed to take advantage of the natural terrain, offering thrilling descents, challenging technical sections, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Antur Stiniog also offers other activities such as zip lining and downhill karting. The zip line takes you on a thrilling ride through the forest, allowing you to experience a rush of adrenaline as you soar above the trees. Downhill karting provides a unique and exciting way to navigate the trails, allowing you to race down the slopes in a specialized kart. Bikes can be rented on-site
Best time to visit Barmouth
The best time to visit Barmouth depends on what interests you that is happening, but according to the majority of tourist travelers, the best and busiest tourist months to visit Barmouth are from May, June, July, August, September, and October
