Caernarfon, a Welsh port town on the Menai Strait, is a hidden gem ideal for a weekend break, offering as much beauty and intrigue as its better-known Welsh rivals. Nestled on the fringes of Snowdonia National Park, this coastal spot brims with character and charm, perfect for a day of exploration or a leisurely getaway.
An Ancient Royal Town
Caernarfon is an ancient royal town, built around its celebrated 13th-century castle and serving as one of Wales' key port towns for centuries. It sits unobtrusively along the country's northern coastline, its waters separating it from the secluded island of Anglesey.
While it may lack the prominence of destinations such as Conwy or Tenby, visitors continue to flock here for a step back in time, with charming independent shops and a wealth of history to soak up. The town prides itself on supporting local businesses.
The Castle and Its Attractions
The principal draw is the magnificent Castell Caernarfon, which towers dramatically over the town and gazes out across the water. This fortress-palace on the banks of the River Seiont forms part of a World Heritage Site alongside the structures of Edward I in Conwy, Beaumaris and Harlech.
Having endured centuries of Welsh history, it remains as imposing and awe-inspiring as ever, yet welcomes visitors keen to explore its interior. Many regard climbing the steps to its very summit and drinking in the sweeping panoramic views as one of the town's unmissable experiences.
One recent visitor wrote in a TripAdvisor review: "This is by far one of the best castles we have ever visited; parking was easy, right by the castle. It is big and has many towers to go up and down, plus an interesting museum; we easily spent 2 hours, allow more if you want to rest between the climbs. Great views and thoroughly enjoyable visit."
Shopping on Palace Street
Discovering the independent boutiques along Stryd y Plas, better known as Palace Street, is an absolute essential when touring Caernarfon. This broad thoroughfare is packed with local enterprises offering distinctive wares, and conveniently serves as one of the principal tourist routes connecting the marina directly to the castle, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll.
As you wander along the street, a striking rainbow of umbrellas overhead lends an artistic atmosphere to the area, while shopfronts catch the eye in a vivid array of colours. From clothing and gifts to homeware and literature, there truly is something for everyone.
Palas Print is a well-loved bookshop that has occupied the street for nearly 25 years, earning a fine reputation for its "friendly staff" and extensive selection of titles. Alongside them you'll find Tin of Sea, which stocks home décor, gifts and accessories, as well as The Bakehouse, or Ty Becws, greatly cherished for their delectable and "imaginative" cakes. Bargain hunters who relish rummaging through second-hand goods in pursuit of a rare find should pay a visit to Cymro Vintage for one-of-a-kind clothing pieces. One satisfied customer described it as a "fantastic little vintage clothes shop" with "really good prices and great quality items".
The area is bursting with local residents and independent businesses, embodying a town that genuinely treasures its own heritage and embraces Wales in all of its splendour.
