The Best Places to Stay in North Wales

With its stunning coastline, medieval castles, and breathtaking national parks, North Wales is an unforgettable travel destination. Whether you’re planning a seaside getaway, a historic town stay, or a hiking adventure in Snowdonia, choosing the right place to stay in North Wales can make all the difference.

Having traveled through North Wales multiple times (and even lived in Wales as a teenager) I know firsthand how important it is to pick the right base for your trip. Some travelers prefer the Victorian seaside charm of Llandudno, while others opt for the peaceful countryside and coastal beauty of Anglesey.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, staying in Betws-y-Coed or Porthmadog puts you right in the heart of Snowdonia National Park, while history lovers will love the castle towns of Conwy and Caernarfon.

In this guide, I’ll break down the best places to stay in North Wales, highlighting what makes each location special, who it’s best suited for, and what kind of accommodations you’ll find there. No matter what kind of traveler you are, you’ll find the perfect base to explore everything this incredible region has to offer.

And if you’re looking for things to do once you’ve chosen your base, don’t miss my guide to the Best Things to Do in North Wales – it’s packed with recommendations to help you make the most of your trip!

Twr Mawr Lighthouse stands atop a rocky hill on Llanddwyn Island, Wales, overlooking a sandy beach and the calm sea. In the foreground, golden dune grass sways in the breeze, framing the coastal landscape. The bright sky and scattered clouds add to the peaceful, remote beauty of this historic Welsh landmark.

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Llandudno or Conwy – Coastal Charm & Historic Sights

If you’re looking for a mix of seaside relaxation and historic charm, Llandudno and Conwy are two of the best places to stay in North Wales. These towns are just a 15-minute drive apart, making either one a great base for exploring the North Wales coast and nearby Snowdonia National Park.

Top 3 Things to Do in and Nearby Conwy/Llandudno

Explore Conwy Castle & Walk the Town Walls – A UNESCO-listed medieval fortress with incredible views.
Enjoy the Victorian Seaside Boardwalk in Llandudno – Take a stroll along the promenade, visit the pier, or ride the Great Orme Tramway for breathtaking coastal scenery.
Wander the Medieval Streets of Conwy – Explore the half-timbered buildings, charming independent shops, and historic sites like Aberconwy House.

Llandudno is known for its classic Victorian seaside atmosphere, with a long promenade, a charming pier, and the famous Great Orme Tramway, which takes you to stunning panoramic views of the coast. I especially loved walking along the boardwalk in Llandudno – it’s the perfect place for a relaxed evening stroll with sea views.

Conwy, on the other hand, is a medieval gem, home to Conwy Castle, 13th-century town walls, and charming independent shops. One of my personal favorite stops was the second-hand bookshop inside Aberconwy House, a beautiful 14th-century merchant’s house that feels like stepping back in time.

On my first visit, I stayed at St. George’s Hotel in Llandudno, a classic seafront hotel with gorgeous views. On my second visit, I stayed at Bodysgallen Hall, a historic country house hotel just outside Llandudno, offering a more secluded and a very unique stay.

🤩 This full-day tour of Snowdonia, nearby castles and the unique “town” of Portmeirion is a great way to explore North Wales in a day!

A towering medieval stone castle with multiple round towers and weathered walls, standing atop a grassy hill against a gray sky. The fortress appears imposing and well-preserved, with a visible drawbridge entrance on the right. A few people are seen walking near the base, adding scale to the grand structure. — Conwy Castle on a gloomy day

Where to Stay in Llandudno / Conwy

Here are some of the best hotels in Llandudno and Conwy:

St. George’s Hotel – A seafront hotel in Llandudno with elegant rooms and stunning views over the bay.
Lauriston & Lawton Court Hotel – A top-rated boutique hotel located right on the promenade in Llandudno, known for its fantastic service and sea views.
Bodysgallen Hall & Spa – A luxurious country house hotel set in beautiful gardens, offering stunning views of Conwy Castle. (Read my full Bodysgallen Hall review for all the details!)
The Castle Hotel, Conwy – A historic coaching inn in the heart of Conwy, just steps from Conwy Castle.

If you want a lively seaside town with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment, stay in Llandudno. If you prefer a quieter, more historic setting with a medieval feel, Conwy is a great choice. Either way, you’ll be in one of the best locations to explore North Wales.

A historic stone manor house with tall chimneys and mullioned windows stands against a cloudy sky. The lush garden in the foreground features manicured shrubs, a stone staircase, and a weathered green bench nestled among ivy-covered walls. The scene has a timeless, tranquil feel. — Bodysgallen Hall & Spa

Caernarfon – Castle Town with Easy Access to Snowdonia

For history lovers, Caernarfon is one of the best places to stay in North Wales. This charming town is home to Caernarfon Castle, one of Wales’ most impressive medieval fortresses and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

With its cobbled streets, harbor views, and easy access to Snowdonia National Park, Caernarfon makes for a fantastic base for exploring both history and nature. I even went to the cinema at Galeri Caernarfon during my most recent trip!

Top 3 Things to Do in and Nearby Caernarfon

Explore Caernarfon Castle – Wander through this legendary fortress at your own pace, climbing its towers and walking its historic halls.
Take a Guided Historical Tour – Learn about the town’s fascinating history with a 2-hour walking tour of Caernarfon and its castle. Book the tour here.
Ride the Welsh Highland Railway – Take a scenic steam train journey from Caernarfon into the heart of Snowdonia.

I’ve visited Caernarfon Castle multiple times, and every visit leaves me just as impressed. Unlike some castles where access is restricted, here you can truly explore at your own pace, wandering through the medieval halls, climbing the towers, and soaking in the incredible views over the town and the Menai Strait.

On my most recent stay in Caernarfon, I checked into Plas Dinas Country House – and it might just be my favorite hotel in all of Wales. This historic country house, once the home of Lord Snowdon, is filled with character, elegance, and impeccable service. If you stay here, I highly recommend setting aside time just to relax and enjoy the vibe and feel of the hotel itself.

Read later: The Best Country House and Country Hotels in Wales

A sweeping view of Caernarfon Castle in Wales, showcasing its towering stone walls, multiple round towers, and well-preserved medieval architecture. The green lawns and pathways inside the castle contrast with the weathered gray stone, while a cloudy sky looms overhead. In the distance, the surrounding town and rolling hills add depth to the historic scene.

Where to Stay in Caernarfon

Here are some of the best hotels in Caernarfon, starting with my favorite, of course:

Plas Dinas Country House – A luxurious country house hotel with historic charm and exceptional dining. (Read my full Plas Dinas review for more details!)
Y Castell – A modern boutique hotel inside a historic building, located in the heart of Caernarfon.
The Black Boy Inn – charming, traditional inn dating back to 1522, known for its cozy rooms, excellent pub food, and a few ghostly legends – it’s rumored to be one of the most haunted pubs in Britain!

If you’re looking for a mix of history, charm, and easy access to Snowdonia, Caernarfon is an ideal place to stay in North Wales.

The exterior of Plas Dinas Country House, a historic cream-colored estate with a wraparound porch, nestled among manicured gardens. A sign with the property's name is positioned in the foreground, while a clear blue sky and lush trees create a picturesque setting. The scene feels peaceful and welcoming.

Anglesey – Beaches, Coastal Walks & Countryside Retreats

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape with stunning coastal scenery, Anglesey is one of the best places to stay in North Wales. This beautiful island is home to long sandy beaches, dramatic coastal walks, and charming countryside stays, making it perfect for those who want a relaxed, nature-filled getaway.

Top 3 Things to Do in Anglesey

Relax on Llanddwyn Beach & Explore Llanddwyn Island – One of the most beautiful beaches in Wales, with golden sand, mountain views, and historic ruins.
Visit Beaumaris Castle & Stroll Along the Waterfront – A perfectly symmetrical medieval castle in a charming seaside town.
Walk the Anglesey Coastal Path – A stunning 125-mile walking route with cliffs, beaches, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Anglesey is a large island, and while you can drive anywhere within an hour, it’s helpful to choose a base that fits your travel style.

Beaumaris is a charming seaside town with a castle, waterfront views, and great restaurants, making it perfect for those who want a mix of history, coastal scenery, and a lively atmosphere.
Llangefni is a centrally located countryside retreat, ideal if you want a quiet, luxurious stay with easy access to the whole island.

On my first trip to Anglesey, I stayed at Tre-Ysgawen Hall in Llangefni, and it was truly one of the best luxury hotel experiences in Wales. This historic country house hotel is set in beautiful gardens and offers spa facilities, fine dining, and a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.

I’ve also stayed in The Bull Beaumaris, a stylish boutique hotel in the heart of Beaumaris, which was perfect for exploring Beaumaris Castle and the waterfront. The town itself is one of the prettiest in Anglesey, with independent shops, cozy pubs, and scenic coastal views.

While I wouldn’t necessarily recommend staying in Newborough as a base because there’s so much to do in town, I did rent a cottage there on my most recent trip and loved the experience. White Horses was a beautiful self-catering cottage, and it was conveniently located near both Plas Newydd and Llanddwyn Beach (by car). So, if you’re looking for a private, budget-friendly stay, it’s a great option that I highly recommend.

Adventure seeker? Then you’ll love this half-day Coasteering experience on Anglesey! 🤩

A woman in a flowing blue dress walks across a wooden bridge leading to the arched stone entrance of Beaumaris Castle in Wales. The medieval fortress, with its weathered stone walls and crenelated battlements, stands behind her, partially framed by green leaves. The scene captures a blend of history and elegance in a peaceful, picturesque setting. — Me laughing at something my friend Ida said behind the camera at Beaumaris Castle!

Where to Stay in Anglesey

Here are some great places to stay in Anglesey:

Tre-Ysgawen Hall & Spa – A luxury country house hotel in Llangefni with a spa and beautiful surroundings.
The Bull Beaumaris – A stylish boutique hotel in Beaumaris, perfect for exploring Beaumaris Castle and the waterfront.
White Horses Cottage – A charming, budget-friendly self-catering cottage, ideal for a private countryside stay near Llanddwyn Beach.

If you want seaside charm, a historic castle, and a lively town atmosphere, Beaumaris is the best place to stay. If you prefer a quiet countryside retreat with a touch of luxury, Llangefni is a great option.

A grand historic mansion with a stately sandstone facade, large windows, and intricate architectural details stands against a bright blue sky. Two flags flutter above the entrance, which is framed by elegant stone columns and lush greenery. A gravel driveway in front of the building is lined with luxury sports cars, adding a modern contrast to the timeless elegance of the estate. — The facade of Tre-Ysgawen Hall in Anglesey, one of Wales’ luxury hotels.

Porthmadog – Gateway to Snowdonia & the Ffestiniog Railway

Porthmadog is a charming harbor town and an excellent base for exploring Snowdonia National Park, the Llyn Peninsula, and the Welsh Highland Railway. While often seen as a stopover town, I found it to be a perfect place for a quiet stay, with cozy pubs, historic railways, and easy access to stunning castles and coastal scenery.

Because I usually travel Wales on quite a busy itinerary, it was nice to spend a couple of days here (in the off season) just working on writing blog posts (like this one!) and editing photos.

Top 3 Things to Do in and Near Porthmadog

Ride the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways – Take a scenic steam train journey through Snowdonia’s mountains and forests.
Explore Harlech Castle – Visit this UNESCO-listed fortress with breathtaking views over the coast and Harlech Beach – one of my favorite beaches in Wales.
Visit Portmeirion – A picturesque Italian-style village just a short drive away.

On my trip, I was originally supposed to stay at Plas Tan Yr Allt, but due to a boiler issue, I ended up at Yr Hen Fewcs (meaning “the old man” in Welsh) instead – a budget-friendly, charming stay right by the harbor. It turned out to be perfect for a solo traveler, with lovely staff and a fantastic cooked-to-order breakfast.

I spent a few quiet days in Porthmadog, working from local pubs, exploring the town, and taking day trips to Harlech Castle. One of my favorite spots was Good Mood – a cozy café and bar where the manager (*I think*) told me she made a “cracking White Russian” (and she was absolutely right!).

I also had a fun night at Tafarn Pencei, where the barkeep even put on the Love Island finale for me – talk about Welsh hospitality!

Where to Stay in Porthmadog

Here are some great places to stay in Porthmadog:

Yr Hen Fewcs – A charming budget-friendly hotel by the harbor, ideal for solo travelers and those wanting a central, no-fuss stay with great hospitality.
Royal Sportsman Hotel – A traditional inn with comfortable rooms and a highly rated restaurant.
Plas Tan Yr Allt – A beautiful historic country house on the outskirts of town, offering stunning mountain views and luxury charm (just check their boiler first!).

For those looking for a relaxed, small-town stay with easy access to Snowdonia and the coast, Porthmadog is an excellent base.

A woman in a black tank top and olive leggings stands at an ornate turquoise railing, gazing over the Italianate-style gardens of Portmeirion, Wales. Palm trees, pastel-colored buildings, and classical architecture fill the vibrant landscape, while a tall bell tower rises in the background. The scene has a Mediterranean feel, despite being in the heart of North Wales. — Overlooking Portmeirion!

Llangollen – A Riverside Town with Outdoor Adventures

If you’re looking for a mix of history, nature, and small-town charm, Llangollen is one of the best places to stay in North Wales. Nestled in the Dee Valley, this picturesque town is known for its canal, scenic railway, and outdoor activities, making it a fantastic base for hikers, history lovers, and those wanting a relaxed countryside escape.

Top 3 Things to Do in and Near Llangollen

Walk Across the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct – A UNESCO-listed, 38-meter-high canal bridge offering breathtaking views.
Ride the Llangollen Steam Railway – A scenic heritage train journey through the Dee Valley.
Hike to Castell Dinas Brân – Explore the ruins of a medieval castle with stunning panoramic views (it’s just a 30 minute walk/hike to the top).

Llangollen is a great place to slow down and soak in the scenery, whether you’re wandering along the canals, stopping by independent cafés, or enjoying a riverside pint. It’s also home to the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, a world-famous cultural festival held every July.

Where to Stay in Llangollen

Here are some great places to stay in Llangollen,:

Gales of Llangollen – A cozy, historic wine bar and hotel with unique character and a great atmosphere. You know I love a wine bar.
Wild Pheasant Hotel & Spa – A stylish countryside spa hotel offering relaxation in a stunning setting.
The Hand at Llanarmon – A traditional country inn just outside Llangollen, perfect for a peaceful, scenic retreat (this is where I stayed).

If you want a small, walkable town with history, nature, and easy access to outdoor activities, Llangollen is an excellent base.

A charming white stone pub, The Hand at Llanarmon, with black timber accents and red brick chimneys, sits under a bright blue sky. Patrons gather around wooden picnic tables shaded by umbrellas, enjoying drinks and conversation. A unique wooden sculpture stands in the foreground, adding character to the cozy village setting.

Betws-y-Coed – The Perfect Base for Exploring Snowdonia

For those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Snowdonia National Park, Betws-y-Coed is the best place to base yourself in North Wales. Surrounded by lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and mountain trails, this charming village is a paradise for hikers, photographers, and outdoor lovers.

Top 3 Things to Do in and Near Betws-y-Coed

Visit Swallow Falls (Rhaeadr Ewynnol) – One of Wales’ most beautiful waterfalls, just a short drive from the village.
Explore Gwydir Forest – A stunning woodland area filled with walking trails and hidden lakes.
Take a Scenic Drive Through Llanberis Pass – One of the most breathtaking roads in Wales, winding through Snowdonia’s dramatic peaks.

Betws-y-Coed is a small but lively village, with outdoor gear shops, cozy cafés, and traditional pubs –perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. Whether you’re hiking, biking, or just soaking in the views, it’s the ultimate base for exploring Snowdonia.

Where to Stay in Betws-y-Coed

Here are some great places to stay in Betws-y-Coed:

The Royal Oak Hotel – A historic coaching inn with modern comforts and a fantastic restaurant.
Waterloo Hotel – A relaxing spa hotel with a great location and easy access to Snowdonia.
Gwydyr Hotel – A comfortable, budget-friendly hotel in the heart of the village.

If you want to wake up surrounded by nature, with easy access to some of the best hikes in Wales, Betws-y-Coed is the perfect base.

A quiet road with double white lines stretches across the foreground, leading toward a rugged hillside in Snowdonia, Wales. The golden-brown slopes are dotted with scattered rocks and patches of green grass, rising beneath a vast blue sky with wispy clouds. The scene captures the remote and untamed beauty of driving through the Welsh mountains. — Just a glimpse of what driving through Snowdonia can look like.

My Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in North Wales

With its dramatic landscapes, medieval castles, and stunning coastline, North Wales is one of the best regions to visit in the UK. Whether you’re looking for a seaside escape, a historic town stay, or a mountain retreat, there’s a perfect base for every traveler.

For a classic coastal stay, choose Llandudno or Conwy for a mix of seaside charm and medieval history.
For a historic castle town with easy access to Snowdonia, stay in Caernarfon.
For beaches, coastal walks, and a peaceful countryside stay, Anglesey is the best choice.
For a quiet harbor town with scenic railways and castle day trips, Porthmadog is ideal.
For outdoor adventures and small-town charm, Llangollen offers history, canals, and hiking.
For nature lovers who want to be in the heart of Snowdonia, Betws-y-Coed is the ultimate base.

Wherever you choose to stay, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking scenery, rich history, and warm Welsh hospitality. North Wales is one of my favorite places to visit, and after staying in all these locations, I can confidently say you won’t go wrong with any of them!