If you’re planning a holiday to Llandudno and want to experience everything this beautiful coastal town has to offer without breaking the bank, there are plenty of budget-friendly activities and attractions to keep you entertained. Money is tight for many people these days, but it doesn’t need to spoil your holiday. Whether you’re travelling solo or with friends and/or family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Here are lots of great ideas for things to do in and around Llandudno on a budget:
Explore the Great Orme
The Great Orme is a stunning headland that dominates the skyline above Llandudno. You can’t fail to see it! The Great Orme offers breathtaking views of the town and the sparking sea beyond, not to mention plenty of opportunities for walking, cycling and wildlife spotting. You can take the Great Orme Tramway up the hill to the summit, but if you’re on a budget, why not use the power of your legs to walk up instead? There are a number of footpaths that lead to the top, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. There’s even a nature trail. Pack a picnic and enjoy a scenic lunch with a view!
Spend a Day on Llandudno’s Beaches
Llandudno has two beautiful beaches – the North Shore and the West Shore – both of which are free to visit. The North Shore is generally the busier and more popular of the two, with a long promenade lined with cafes, shops and attractions. You’ll also find traditional seaside attractions like Donkey rides and Punch and Judy shows on North Shore beach, as well as the Pier. The West Shore is quieter and more secluded, with a sandy beach and stunning views of Conwy Bay. This beach is perfect for flying a kite or playing frisbee. Pack a beach towel, some sandwiches and a good book, and spend a relaxing day with the family.
Take a stroll along the Pier
Llandudno’s Victorian Pier is the longest Pier in Wales and 5th longest in the UK, stretching 700m out to sea. Llandudno Pier is a must-visit attraction, offering stunning views of the North Wales coast and the Great Orme. There’s no charge to walk along the pier, and there are plenty of benches and picnic tables where you can sit and take in the scenery. Treat yourself to a cuppa at the Pier Head café, or pack a flask if you prefer. You’ll find an amusement arcade at the end of the pier, with classic arcade games and amusements to enjoy.
Visit the Great Orme Copper Mines
The Great Orme Bronze Age Copper Mines are an incredible feat of engineering and mining, dating back over 4,000 years. The mines are open to the public and offer guided tours that take you deep underground to explore the tunnels and chambers. Tickets are reasonably priced, and there are discounts available for families and groups. As we’ve mentioned before, the mines are a great wet-weather activity, too.
Explore Conwy Castle
Conwy Castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Europe’s most impressive medieval fortresses. It’s free to walk around the outside of the castle, and there are plenty of photo opportunities and lots to see. If you want to go inside, tickets are fairly reasonably priced and offer access to the castle’s towers, battlements and dungeons. Whilst in Conwy, you must explore the town walls, which are completely free to visit. Walking the walls gives you a bird’s eye view of the medieval town streets and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
Visit Bodnant Garden
Bodnant Garden is a beautiful National Trust property located just a short drive from Llandudno. Bodnant is home to over 80 acres of stunning gardens develop over 150 years, including formal lawns, woodland walks, and a famous rose garden. There’s also a tearoom on site where you can enjoy a coffee, or even treat yourself to a cream tea or light lunch. Considering it’s a full day out, tickets are reasonably priced and entry is free for National Trust members. The National Trust also runs free ticket promotions from time to time, so it’s always worth an online search.
Take a Hike in Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park
Snowdonia (Eryri) National Park is world-famous and just half an hour or so drive from Llandudno. There are plenty of hiking trails to explore, ranging from gentle strolls to more challenging hikes. The park is home to many peaks including Wales’s highest mountain, Mount Snowdon (Yr Wyddfa), which offers incredible views from the summit. Research your route, pack a picnic and enjoy a day in the great outdoors.
Go Crabbing in Conwy Quay
Conwy Harbour is a picturesque spot that’s popular with visitors and locals alike. One of the best things to do here is to go crabbing – it’s a fun and free activity that’s perfect for families. All you need is a bucket, some bait (bacon or fish works well), and a crab line (which you can buy from the local shops). Drop your line over the edge of the harbour wall and wait for the crabs to bite – it’s a great way to spend a few hours in the sunshine. You could even splash out on an ice cream whilst you’re there!
Visit the Home Front Museum
The Home Front Experience is a fascinating museum that tells the story of life in Britain during World War II. Easy to get to in Llandudno itself the museum offers a fantastic array of memorabilia and a range of exhibits including a 1940s street scene, a replica air raid shelter, and a display of wartime vehicles. Tickets are extremely reasonably priced at just £11.50 for a family of four in 2023, or £4.50 per adult.
Go Twitching at RSPB Conwy
RSPB Conwy Nature Reserve is a wetland on the east bank of the Conwy estuary, created from material dug out during the construction of the A55 road tunnel between 1986 and 1991. The reserve is home to a variety of wonderful wildlife, including warblers, waders and wildfowl. You’ll also find guided walks, nature trails and a play area as well as a shop and café. Entrance is just £15 for a family of 4 (or £6 for adults, £3 for children) in 2023, making it a fantastic value day out and the perfect place for families to discover nature!
There’s no need to break the bank!
In conclusion, we’ve shown you that there are plenty of things to do in and around Llandudno on a budget. Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities, there’s no need to get in debt on holiday. From exploring the Great Orme to visiting RSPB Conwy, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So why not pack your bags and head to this beautiful coastal town for a holiday that won’t break the bank?
