Why should I visit Caernarfon?
Well, this harbour town in Snowdonia has got a lot to offer
visitors, that's why! Edward I's imposing and impressive castle is
an obvious choice for discussion. But for a relatively small town
it also packs a punch in the food and drink stakes too.
If you've read any of my other blog posts, you'll know by know
that whilst I adore Anglesey with its sandy beaches and sweeping
pastures, for me the mainland offers such a variety of vistas that
it's hard to beat. Let me talk you through why I think you should
add Caernarfon to your North Wales travel itinerary!
Heritage at its heart
I have a Masters in History so, unsurprisingly, the rich
tapestry of Caernarfon's past is one of the main reasons I'm in
love with the place! The castle, which has World Heritage status,
makes up one of Edward I's 'Iron Ring', built to keep the Welsh in
check (we've always been an unruly lot!); it's a sight to behold
and can offer a great deal for those interested in the history of
the British Isles. If Military History is something you'd like to
know more about, there's actually a Royal Welch Fusiliers Museum
(my dad spent a long, long time in this exhibit!). If you love a
good view, then some of the best over the River Seiont are from the
towers and viewing platforms within the castle. It's worth every
penny of the entry fee, in my opinion.
Fun fact: the castle was the venue of Prince
Charles' investiture in 1969 when he was officially given the title
of 'Prince of Wales'. Find out more about the castle by seeing it
for yourself!
Food, glorious food!
As I mentioned earlier, Caernarfon really does have a lot to
offer foodies, no matter your tastes. Blas has been featured in the 2016
Waitrose Good Food Guide and with good reason! Award winning chef
Daniel aop Geraint and his wife Mari own this gem on Hole in the
Wall Street (yes, that's an actual street name!). Enjoy a cake and
cuppa, a relaxed lunch, or book in for a tasty supper carefully put
together from the best local ingredients.
Scoops is another place to look out for,
especially if you love a pancake or ice cream (or, like me, a
combination of the two). If you have a sweet tooth I recommend the
banana and peanut butter pancake. Otherwise, I'd suggest the
chorizo, goats cheese and olive filling - it's divine! If you fancy
good quality pub grub and like a beer (or two), head over to my
absolute favourite place, The Black
Boy. They have a good menu with reasonable prices, portion
sizes that would put some American establishments to shame, and
superb selection of real ales; often with a choice from one of my
favourite South Walian breweries Tiny
Rebel.
If you're more in the mood for antipasti, I highly recommend
Osteria. This Tuscan restaurant is small, but offers an intimate
dining experience. The meat, cheese and bread platters are
delightful! If you want to pick up a bottle of good quality wine,
real Welsh ale or cider to take home with you, head to Iechyd
Da (that means cheers in Welsh, by the way). The owner is
really knowledgable and whilst it's got a relatively small
selection, it's all good stuff.
Insider's Tip: Hole in the Wall street is the place
for foodies and those who like a tipple. Osteria, Blas and Iechyd
Da are all along this stretch.
Spot of shopping, anyone?
Caernarfon has some great shops that are definitely worth a
browse! For cocoa lovers there's Ty Siocled (literally meaning
chocolate house); art enthusiasts should head to Oriel Pendeitsh.
There's plenty of independent retailers dotted about too, including
jewellery shops, small boutiques and a very sweet florist.
If you love a garden centre, I highly recommend you make a trip
to Fron Goch, which is just outside the town.
Beautiful plants, super helpful staff and an array of lovely
goodies inside including high-quality baking equipment, gorgeous
jewellery and fab furnishings. That's not even mentioning the
amazing cafe with its delectable cakes, bakes and mouth-watering
food (both hot and cold).
Events
Caernarfon castle is currently hosting the 'Weeping Window' poppy installation by artist
Paul Cummins and design Tom Piper. It features thousands of
hand-crafted ceramic poppies that were first seen at the Tower of
London. Caernarfon will host a number of events over the coming
three years as part of the Cymru'n Cofio (Wales
Remembers) 1914-1918 national centenary programme of
remembrance.
There's also an annual Food Festival in the spring which is well
worth a visit. Food and drink stalls and live entertainment
fill the streets surrounding the castle and go down towards the
pretty Quay. Don't plan anything for your supper and pick up
something local and tasty whilst you're there (craft beer also
available...I don't have issues, I promise!!).
Piqued your interest? Great! Caernarfon is easy to get to
whether you're already staying in Snowdonia, basing yourself on the
Llyn Peninsula, or enjoying a break on Anglesey. However, ditch the
car and live like a local for a few days by staying in one of our
marvelous self-catering cottages. See all of our cottages in and
around Caernarfon right here.