On the west coast of Wales, near Snowdonia National Park, now known as Eryri National Park, is the seaside resort of Barmouth. With miles of clean, sandy beaches and historical roots, including Henry Tudor, the Titanic, and the National Trust’s founding. Perfect for walking, outdoor activities and good food and drink, there are plenty of things to do in Barmouth.
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Barmouth Things to Do
There are plenty of things to do around Barmouth. My first staycation of 2022 was in Barmouth. Even in the cold of January, it was a beautiful place to relax and recharge. Especially as in the middle of December, I unexpectedly had my gallbladder removed. Of course, my rescue, Ivan the Irresistible, was in tow, so I have also included all the things to do in Barmouth with dogs.
Free Things to do in Barmouth
Barmouth Beach
The main attraction on the west coast of North Wales is Barmouth Beach. The beach is actually located in Snowdonia National Park and has a harbour area. Its large expanse of golden sands is ideal for a winter walk, family days or summer sunbathing. Activities include windsurfing, surfing, sailing, jet-skiing, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, donkey rides, and amusement arcades.
🐾 There is a seasonal ban for dogs between 1 April and 30 September annually
Barmouth Harbour
Barmouth Bridge and the mountains in the background show that Barmouth Harbour is in a glorious setting. Sit and watch the world go by amongst the anchored boats. Late in the afternoon, the fishing boats start to arrive with their latest catch. There are many places to eat and drink around the harbour to fit every taste and budget.
You can also see the Dolphin Structure and Water Feature here. Throw in a couple of pennies and make a wish. I believe it hasn’t worked for a while, which is a shame. Hopefully, it won’t fall into disrepair. Keep an eye out to sea; at certain times of the year, you could be lucky to see dolphins there.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Barmouth Bridge
The Grade II-listed Barmouth Bridge, or Barmouth Viaduct, is a single-track wooden railway viaduct 820 metres (900 yards) long. It is the longest timber viaduct in Wales and one of the oldest in regular use in Britain. Take a stroll along it and take in the fine views. There is a fee to cross the bridge, so make sure you have a few coins to drop into the honesty box.
Near the bridge is The Last Haul Sculpture. It is made of Italian marble, which was found in the wreckage of an ancient ship just four miles north of Barmouth. It depicts three generations of fishermen bringing in a catch.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Old Town
Up steep slopes at the back of the High Street, the paths and alleys of Old Barmouth reveal many delightful corners. The houses look like they are built on top of each other. They are a fantastic jumble of steps and terraces. The climb is entirely worth it. Old Town is often compared to Polperro and Clovelly.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Ty Crwn
The unusual building of Ty Crwn (Round House) was constructed in 1833. A place to lock up drunks in 1833. It is circular, so “the Devil would have no corners to hide in”. The building was divided into two halves by a curtain to separate males and females. Now, it is partly restored to show what life was like for the prisoners. Free entry.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Book a Tour
Embarking on a tour with Viator promises an enriching and hassle-free experience that’s hard to beat. You’re not just booking a tour; it’s an expertly crafted itinerary curated by locals and seasoned travellers, ensuring you uncover the hidden gems and must-see attractions. From walking tours to culinary adventures and everything in between, Viator offers an extensive range of options tailored to diverse interests and budgets.
Walks in Barmouth
Barmouth Heritage Trail
With a history of over 500 years, there is a lot to discover in Barmouth. The Heritage Trail map can be purchased at the tourist information centre. For a small fee of £1. Start in Talbot Square, just a few paces from the Victorian railway station. The route will take you to St John’s Church, Dinas Oleu, a Roman hill fort and Ty Gwyn, one of the oldest buildings in the country. Plus, Ty Crwn, an unusual building constructed to lock up drunks, the Harbour Masters Building, and Ebeneezer’s, before finishing in St Anne’s Square. Altogether, there are 23 different Barmouth attractions.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Panorama Walk
The varied and beautiful walk has some of the most spectacular views in Snowdonia. Along the moderate route, you’ll enjoy splendid views of the Mawddach Estuary, Cader Idris, and Cardigan Bay. Before a row of 4-storey Victorian houses on Porkington Terrace, take a sharp right along a narrow road uphill. Passing the Bae Abermaw Hotel. The Panorama Walk is about 6.5km (4 miles) and takes between 3 and 4 hours.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Taith Ardudwy Way
The Taith Ardudwy Way is 24 miles of pathways from Barmouth to Llandecwyn. It takes in some of the best coastal and mountain views in Wales, visiting prehistoric sites. Keep an eye out for the Buzzard logo. This is the waymarker to keep you on the right track.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Dinas Oleu
The walk takes you from Barmouth town centre through the Old Town’s steep, narrow, winding streets and up to the top of the hill known as Dinas Oleu (Citadel of Light). The views are dramatic and unfold over the Mawddach Estuary and Cardigan Bay. It is a moderate route that takes about 2 hours and is 1.2 miles (1.9km).
🐾 Dogs welcome
Egryn Walk
The National Trust site of Egryn is an impressive Medieval Hall House. It has its own private walled garden and working farmland, which is Grade II listed. The fully furnished holiday cottage and can be booked for a few nights. If you don’t want to stay, you can enjoy the moderate circular walk, which is about 5 miles (8km).
🐾 Dogs welcome
National Trust Holidays
National Trust Holidays offers a selection of holiday cottages, campsites and bunkhouses set in spectacular locations. They have everything you need for a night away, from kitchen facilities to cosy gardens to relax in during warmer weather.
Near Barmouth is Egryn, an impressive Medieval Hall with its own private walled garden on working farmland. It has five bedrooms and can sleep up to 9 people. You’ll want to book it just to eat in the Medieval Dining Hall.
Get 15% off selected cottages for bookings made and taken by 31 May 2024. Use discount code NTAF.
Fun Things to do in Barmouth
Shopping
There are over 60 shops in Barmouth, and most of them are independent. Beauty products, including soap and shampoo, candles, and homewares, from original art to hobbies. Every Thursday is Market Day, plus Sundays and Bank Holidays in the season. You’ll find it next to the Dragon Theatre.
🐾 Dogs welcome at the market. Most shops do not welcome dogs. Some do as long as they are on leads
Dragon Theatre
In a converted Victorian chapel in the centre of Barmouth is the 186-seat traditional theatre. The Dragon Theatre has film screenings, special events, exhibitions, conferences and music concerts. Check out their What’s On page.
SUP Barmouth
Learn to stand up paddleboard with SUP Barmouth or take a tour from the water. It is the fastest growing water sport in the world. You don’t need to be fit or a good swimmer. It’s even one of the things to do in Barmouth when it’s raining. Prices start from £30 and includes wet suit hire.
Barmouth Boat Trips
Small boats do return trips back and forth to Fairbourne for £2 per person each way. Running every 10-15 minutes during peak season.
Or do you fancy a fishing trip instead? All the tackle and helpful instructions are provided. Of course, no catch is guaranteed, but according to the reviews, most seem to come back with mackerel. Plus, no experience is needed. There are also dolphin-spotting pleasure trips.
Family Things to do in Barmouth
Bendi-gedig
The indoor adventure soft play centre, Bendi-gedig, is ideal for children aged 0-12. It’s one of the things to do in Barmouth on a rainy day with children. Let your little ones burn off some energy by bouncing, climbing and running around. There’s even a café and free WiFi.
Churches in Barmouth
Love church crawling? Or interested in old buildings? There’s no shame in appreciating the heritage we have built in this country. There are some beautiful churches to admire in Barmouth.
St John’s Church
The cathedral-like St John’s Church is overlooking Barmouth from the hill above the town. The awe-inspiring interior is genuinely worth the walk uphill. If you can’t face the steep climb, there is a small car park. With stained glass windows, marble font, and an array of carved angels to be seen. It was designed to seat 1000 worshipers and is open daily between 10am-4pm.
St Mary and St Bodfan Church
Close to Barmouth is the 13th-century church of St Mary and St Bodfan. It has one of the finest stone porch doorways in the country and has been made a Grade I listed building. Inside are an octagonal font, ancient carved stones, colourful stained glass windows, and an impressive timber roof. Commonwealth war graves, large ornate headstones, and an outstanding view can be seen in the churchyard.
St Ddwywe’s Church
The Grade II listed, St Ddwywe’s Church, is a rubble stone construction. The church is not in the town centre, so you will need to walk or drive to it. It was first mentioned in documents in 1292. The churchyard is alongside farm buildings and has many interesting residents.
Barmouth Places to Eat
An excellent staycation for me includes quality food and drink. Whether it’s fish and chips on the beach at sunset, decent pub grub or some fine dining. In Barmouth, you’ll be tempted by some local Welsh dishes. There are cafes and coffee shops, ice cream parlours and a Chinese and Indian. Here is a selection of places to eat in Barmouth:
Takeaway
If you love street food, head to Celtic Cabin on the promenade. The fusion food is Mexican, Indian, and Middle Eastern-inspired, including wraps and curries served with rice, vegetable pakora, crunchy salad, and chutney.
Of course, a trip to the seaside wouldn’t be the same without fish and chips. The Mermaid Fish Bar is the best for a chippy tea. They are praised for the fish’s super light and crispy batter, alongside hot chips, peas, gravy, and other sides like curry sauce, rissoles, sausages, and pies. Don’t panic if you see a queue; it does move quickly.
In the quay is the Lobster Pot. It is open all day and serves breakfast, lunch, evening meals, and takeaway. It has a reputation for serving the best fresh seafood in town. The fresh lobster and potted shellfish are divine. I have ordered here a few times, including Moules and Frites and a crab sandwich. The seafood chowder looked good, too.
Fine Dining
Bistro Bermo is a small restaurant with only a few tables, so pre-booking is highly recommended. Using Welsh ingredients, including fish, venison and lamb. The food is exceptionally fresh and well-presented.
There’s also The Bank, which, as the name implies, is a tastefully renovated bank. The food is traditional with a contemporary twist. The menus are changed every 6-8 weeks, using seasonal produce.
Another favourite is The Captain’s Table, found on Church Street. Expect traditional dishes such as steak, lamb shank, chicken stroganoff, pork medallions, and lasagne. The fish dishes include sea bass, mackerel, salmon and the catch of the day. The Sunday Roast is also a treat, with 3 courses for £15.
Pubs
Alongside a decent pint and a glass of wine or two, the Barmouth pubs offer quality food too. The Royal is praised for its great atmosphere and significant portions. Expect burgers with the works, chilli and rice, pulled pork, cheesy chips and homemade pies.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Pop into Myrddins Brewery for locally brewed beers and ciders. Not sure which one to try, then get a sample board of 3 different ones? The food menu is simple, pizzas and light bites. Dogs even have their own menu! They can have sausages, chicken and gravy or mincemeat. Plus, they give the profits to the Dogs Trust.
🐾 Dogs welcome
On the waterfront is the historical Last Inn. Burgers, steaks, homemade curries, and traditional pub grub are on the menu. During the day, there are rustic sandwiches, fish and chips, pie and mash or a Welsh ploughman’s platter.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Get 50% off Food
So, did you know you can get 2 for 1 on meals or 50% off food with a Tastecard? There are independent and chain restaurants to choose from and various cuisines. Get a 3-month free trial here:
Places to Stay in Barmouth
If you know when you’d like to travel, try to book as soon as possible. Prices rise the closer you get to the travel date and are usually displayed per room rather than per person. However, there is a vast array to accommodate all budgets.
Barmouth offers a wide variety of places to stay, including self-catering cottages, camping, bed and breakfasts, guest houses, and hotels.
Sykes Holiday Cottages
The award-winning business has cottages across the UK, and the ones in Barmouth are beautiful. From cosy lodges with traditional woodburning stoves to contemporary accommodation with a hot tub. With all the amenities you could need, including parking, WiFi and many dog-friendly places, check out Sykes Holiday Cottages.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Plan a Trip with Expedia
Booking a hotel via Expedia is a seamless experience that offers convenience and choice at your fingertips. With just a few clicks, you can browse through a wide array of cosy boutique hotels to luxurious resorts, tailored to your preferences and budget. Compare prices, read reviews from fellow travellers, and explore amenities, ensuring you find the perfect place to stay for your trip.
Create your Itinerary
Using TripAdvisor when booking a hotel allows you to access a wealth of reviews and ratings from fellow travellers, helping you make an informed decision on where to stay, while also providing recommendations and insights on planning things to do during your trip.
Last Minute Deals
You can also plan with LastMinute.com. Stay at great hotels at a fraction of the price. When booking a hotel, utilising LastMinute enables you to secure fantastic deals on accommodations, ensuring a budget-friendly and spontaneous travel experience.
Getting to Barmouth
Even if you don’t drive, you can get to Barmouth by train with Transport for Wales. Barmouth Rail Station is on the Cambrian Coast Railway. Connections to Harlech, Porthmadog, Machynlleth and Shrewsbury are easy. For a rural area, services are regular. They operate every two hours in each direction and have a reduced service on Sundays.
Fun fact: When the first train arrived in 1867, some 1200 tourist passengers got off, and the town was barely ready to welcome so many at once.
Transport for Wales now offers Multiflex, which gives you 12 journeys for the same price as 5 returns. And who doesn’t want to save money? Especially when you can spend the savings on your staycation. There’s also a pretty excellent Capacity Checker tool that helps indicate the often full trains and the ones with plenty of seats available, so you can decide the best time for your journey.
🐾 Dogs are permitted on Transport for Wales trains free of charge. They must be on a lead at all times. A maximum o
Things to do near Barmouth
Dyffryn Ardudwy Burial Chamber
The village of Dyffryn Ardudwy is situated between Barmouth and Harlech. Most people stop here to visit the Burial Chamber, located on a hillside overlooking Cardigan Bay. The pair of Neolithic tombs and their capstones can be seen. The chamber is free, and no pre-booking is required. It is open daily between 10am and 4pm.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Harlech Castle
One of Wales’s most famous castles is Harlech Castle. I have wanted to visit here for years, and it was one of the days out near Barmouth (a 20-minute drive) that I was looking forward to most. It is even a World Heritage Site. Edward I mighty coastal fortress is in a spectacular setting. The castle was built in just 7 years. Even when cut off during a rebellion, they survived because there is a path of 108 steps leading to the sea. Ships could keep the castle fed and watered.
The castle is full of tales of heroism in the face of overwhelming odds. The Welsh sing ‘Men of Harlech’ at rugby games, and I even join in with the resounding clap at Cardiff City Football Club home games. According to the movie Zulu, it was even belted out by the garrison.
Adults are £7.40, £6.90 for seniors, £5.20 for children aged 5-17, NUS and armed forces and veterans, families of 2 adults and up to 3 children are £24.40. CADW members get free entry.
🐾 Dogs welcome on leads to the ground floor levels
Llanfair Slate Caverns
Llanfair Slate Caverns, situated near Harlech in North Wales, offers a fascinating journey into the region’s rich industrial heritage. These historic caverns were once bustling with slate miners, and now they provide visitors with a glimpse into the challenging and often dangerous conditions of 19th-century quarrying life.
🐾 Dog friendly
Coed y Brenin Forest Park
About 25 minutes from Barmouth is Brenin Forest. Coed y Brenin was Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre. It has eight bike trails, ranging from easy for families and technical routes for expert riders. Don’t have a bike, don’t worry, you can hire one. There’s even bike wash facilities and showers.
The visitor centre is the starting point for walking and running trails, orienteering courses and geocaching. There are play areas for children, barbeque spots and picnic areas, or a café if you don’t want to take your own food and drink. No entrance fees. Parking is £2 for 2 hours, then 40p for every additional 20 minutes – up to a maximum of £7 per day.
🐾 Dogs welcome
King Arthur’s Labyrinth
Visiting King Arthur’s Labyrinth is like stepping into a time capsule of legend and history. Located in Corris, this unique underground adventure takes you on a boat journey through a mystical world of dark, winding tunnels. Guided by a hooded boatman, you explore the ancient stories of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table.
🐾 Dogs welcome on a short lead in the outdoor areas
Cadair Idris
The mountain Cadair Idris is one of Wales’ three peaks. The route is short, just 6 miles, but it is a steep and strenuous climb. It should only be attempted by experienced walkers with the appropriate gear. I wanted to try it, but visiting in January and recovering from having my gallbladder removed was not a good idea. There are shorter walking trails around Dol Idris Lake and the Parkland Circuit.
The visitor centre is one of the places to visit near Barmouth worth a visit. Housing exhibitions showcasing the wildlife, geology and Cadair Idris National Nature Reserve legends. A refreshing drink and Welsh cake is a must in Ty Te Cadair Team Room.
🐾 Dogs welcome
Get set for an outdoor adventure with Trail Outdoor Leisure. Their affordable camping equipment includes tents and shelters, sleeping bags, camping chairs, and accessories. Most of the equipment is perfect for festival fans, too.
Tal-y-Llyn Lake
The beautiful Tal-y-Llyn Lake is probably the most picturesque and photographed lake in Wales. It was formed after a massive landslide dammed the glacial valley floor during the ice age, and today, it is 220 acres in size. It is relatively shallow and popular with swimmers, kayakers, the odd sailing boat, and fishing. There are several car parks, and car parking is £5 for the day.
Corris Craft Centre
When on day trips from Barmouth, stop off at Corris Craft Centre, just 30 minutes away. One of the crafters is Delyn Glass. Exclusively designed items include dragons, wildlife, flowers, and perfume bottles. Glass-making demonstrations are available most days.
Labelled as the best craft centre in Wales, Corris Craft Centre is home to 9 individual craft studios. The studios include Agau Jewellery Studio, The Candle Studio, Dyfi Distillery, Hyde and Sheep, Chocablock, Quarry Pottery and Taran Eco Designs. It is situated in the beautiful Corris Valley, surrounded by lush green trees and dramatic views.
🐾 Dogs welcome in all of the studios except Chocablock Chocolate
Narrow Gauge Railway Museum
The Narrow Gauge Railway Museum is around 45 minutes from Barmouth, heading south. It has nearly 90 railways in its collection, ranging from complete locomotives to smaller pieces like paperwork, signalling, and tickets. There’s even a special section devoted to Reverend W.V. Awdry, creator of Thomas the Tank Engine. Entry is free, and donations are welcome.
Map of the Locations
Not sure where the locations are? They are all on this handy map. Zoom in or expand, and plan your route to discover the things to do in Barmouth.
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Ah some amazing ideas here! Not been to Barmouth since I was a kid. I am from the Wirral and skirt past here on our way to Pembrokeshire each year. Will have to make a stop!
I’m from Cardiff, so going that way is out of the way. Was a great discovery, so glad we went!
Wow, it looks so beautiful here!
It is beautiful. The pictures don’t do it justice!
We are moving to north wales soon so this gave me a few ideas to pop over and visit on weekends! I don’t think this is too far from where we will be so I’d definitely like to take the kids to try out the biking trails
Wow! What a beautiful place to move to. I’d recommend getting a CADW membership, you’ll be able to visit all the castles and plenty of other places as many times as you like.
This looks like an amazing area. Definitely going to bookmark this for future holiday ideas
You won’t be disappointed!
Ok, I haven’t been there and haven’t heard of most of these names too. But I noted down a few in memory. Loved the boats stacked up. The calm images. Houses on top of each other. The best part was you including history with travel that was great! And sad a out the unusual building. Also hope you feel better now after surgery. That date night giveaway was wonderful and so good on price. Loved the post. Xx
Thank you, I’m feeling much better. Glad to be back on my feet and exploring again!
Wow! This is a really comprehensive guide to Barmouth. This is somewhere I had never heard of but it looks brilliant, particularly the beach. On my list!
I’m not sure how I came across it, but so glad I did. You won’t be disappointed