Posted on 26/04/2017 by David
A trip to North Wales usually involves lots of time spent in the Great Outdoors but when it rains - and it often does - you might think you'd be stuck for things to do. Not so!
Our guide to all-weather attractions in North Wales means you'll never be stuck for something to do - even if it is raining cathod a chŵn (that's cats and dogs in Welsh)!
1. King Arthur's Labyrinth - Machynlleth
It's only right, being the Year of Legends and all that, that this exciting and educational underground tour takes pride of place. Taking its inspiration from the Welsh tales of our legendary king, King Arthur's Labyrinth is a unique subterranean river boat tour that transports visitors back through the mists of time to Dark Ages Wales.
2. MOSTYN Art Gallery - Llandudno
North Wales' answer to the Tate Modern, MOSTYN is a fascinating day out for contemporary art lovers and families alike. With six galleries showcasing the best in modern Welsh arts and crafts plus a packed schedule of activities and events for all ages, MOSTYN is a must-see next time you visit Llandudno. Oh, did we mention, the excellent onsite cafe?
3. Anglesey Sea Zoo - Brynsiencyn
This aquarium on Anglesey works to protect British marine wildlife, such as octopus, conger eels and small sharks. It recently hit the headlines when a rare tropical turtle washed up on a beach nearby and staff stepped in to care for the stricken creature, nicknamed Menai.
The zoo is a centre for marine conservation and runs several breeding programmes for rare or endangered British sea life, including lobsters and sea horses. You are guaranteed to come away with a whole new appreciation of our British sea creatures.
4.Welsh Highland Heritage Railway - Porthmadog
Who can resist the enduring romance of rail travel when you are up close and personal with these beautiful narrow-gauge engines? Take a short trip on the train before making the return journey via the engine sheds. Ride the miniature railway, then explore the sheds, where you can meet the engines and learn about the history of the railway in North Wales.
5. Inigo Jones Slateworks - Caernarfon
An example of how slate production has evolved to match the times, Inigo Jones started out making slate writing boards for schools in the 19th century. Today, it manufactures a range of homewares including speaker stands, chopping boards and candle holders - all of which can be purchased during your visit.
Take the tour to learn the history of the slateworks, then indulge in a spot of retail therapy, before enjoying a light meal in the Welsh Rock Cafe.
6. Pili Palas - Menai Bridge
This nature centre on Anglesey transports visitors from Wales to the Tropics on a journey of discovery. Here, beautiful butterflies rub wings with less glamorous relatives including cockroaches and giants snails. If they don't make you squeamish, the scorpions and giants spiders just might!
When a cuteness overload is needed, the cuddly Farm Barn with it sheep, rabbits, guinea pigs and meerkats should do the trick.
7. Adventur Parc Snowdonia - Dolgarrog
You don't have to be a surfer to enjoy Surf Snowdonia in the Conwy Valley and you don't need the sun either. There's plenty to keep the family busy on a rainy day, including a brilliant soft play centre with cafe for families with younger kids, a trendy surf shop and a licensed restaurant with panoramic views of the lagoon and surrounding countryside. Why not try your hand at surfing? It's raining, you're getting wet either way!
8. Dangerpoint - Talacre
Imagine, an activity centre that's fun and educational. Well, it exists right here in North Wales. At Dangerpoint, kids will learn important life skills - everything from using a bank to what to do if there's a fire at home - in a real-life setting. It's a bit surreal for adults - it's just like being on a film set - but it teaches kids some really important skills in a safe and fun environment.
9. Redline Indoor Karting - Caernarfon
Enjoy the thrills of go karting at North Wales' leading independent indoor karting circuit. Jump aboard a 200cc kart (a more modest 160cc for kids) and challenge the family to a fast and furious showdown. With a selection of experiences, ranging from one-off circuits to Grand Prix events, Redline cater for petrolheads of all ages and abilities.
Included in the price is a comprehensive safety briefing and race wear (suit, gloves, helmet etc.).
10. Llechwedd Slate Caverns - Blaenau Ffestiniog
There's a choice of three, equally fascinating tours at Llechwedd but on a rainy day we think the deep Mine Tour is the place to be. You'll travel deep underground to a place where history and legend meet face to face. Here you'll encounter the men and boys of Blaenau who lived and worked beneath the mountains, quarrying the slate that 'roofed the world' in the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.
It's a unique attraction that combines cutting-edge technology with good old-fashioned storytelling for a memorable day out.
Still looking or ideas? Here's another blog we wrote on North Wales's best all weather attractions a while ago.
So, you see, you don't need the sun to enjoy North Wales; with all these attractions on your must-see list you'll be wishing for rain next time you visit!
Images courtesy of © Crown copyright 2016 (Visit Wales). Welsh Highland Heritage Railway courtesy of Tori Smith 2017.