Posted on 04/07/2016 by David
North Wales is known for being a haven for walkers, home to beautiful beaches for family getaways and one of the best golfing retreats, but it is also the ultimate destination for foodies.
From fresh fish, caught off the isle of Anglesey, to the warm homemade traditional Welsh cakes, North Wales has some local food that’s not to be missed.
Here are 7 local Welsh delicacies you must try on your next weekend away…
1. Conwy Mussels
These wild mussels, hand-raked in North Wales, are a real treat. For those of us who love fish, you can’t get much tastier than these delicious mussels.
Unlike rope grown mussels, Conwy Mussels have a distinctive taste you can’t get elsewhere – a truly unique experience. Not only do they taste better, but as they grow naturally in the perfect environment, they are larger than standard mussels and are also meatier in their texture.
Pop along to the Conwy Mussels shop, found on Conwy Quay on your next weekend away and pick up a big bag for the whole family to enjoy.
2. Tan Lan’s Bara Brith
Bara Brith is a popular Welsh delicacy, and despite attempts outside of Wales to make this delicious cake, it’s hard to get just right.
Tan Lan Bakery, in Conwy and Rhos on Sea, sells the ultimate Bara Brith, along with a variety of delicious other cakes from toffee apple cake, to the popular lemon sensation.
Tan Lan’s Bara Brith is soaked in tea and spices for several days, and is perfect served with a generous serving of Welsh butter – delicious!
Why not buy some to accompany your afternoon tea after a long walk in the country? If you fancy making your own, a wonderful Bara Brith recipe is available here.
3. Edward’s Salt Marsh Lamb
North Wales is known for its high quality lamb, but the Salt Marsh lamb sold at Edwards of Conwy is extra special, a beautiful meat which must be tried when in the local area. Sourced from the salt marshes of Anglesey, this lamb is in season between June and October.
Whether the sun is shining, and you buy this lamb to cook and eat outside, or you pair with some rosemary roast potatoes and have a traditional Welsh roast dinner – pop into Edwards and pick up some of this delicious meat!
4. Crabs & Lobsters
Llyn Peninsula crabs & lobster are caught by local fisherman off Porth Colmon & Bardsey Island.
Many local hotels and restaurants are supplied by Selective Seafoods including Ty Newydd in Aberdaron so why not spend an evening looking out over the peninsula, enjoying the freshest of local fish. You can pick up freshly caught fish and seafood at Mermaid Seafoods in Llandudno too.
Of course, we wouldn’t want you to go thirsty on your weekend away so here are some great drinks to try whilst you’re in the area…
5. Purple Moose
Purple Moose is a micro-brewery located in the heart of Porthmadog. A recently new brewery, Purple Moose opened with their special pale ale, “No.1” in 2005.
Whilst in North Wales, Purple Moose ales such as the award-winning Glaslyn ale and Dark Side of the Moose should be sampled. Purple Moose sums up just one of the many things Wales does just right – beer!
6. Pant Du Wine and Cider
Pant Du is a vineyard and orchard found in the Nantlle Valley, Snowdonia, and is the perfect place to purchase some amazing local wines. We often think of wine to come from Italy, Spain and the like, but Pant Du produces award-winning wines, as well as quality cider and apple juice for those who prefer.
If you’re trying some of our recommended Welsh food, ask the professionals which of their delicious wines pairs best with your chosen dish.
7. Conwy Brewery Beer
Conwy Brewery produces high quality ales from the coast of North Wales. If you are looking to purchase some local ale and try something new, this is the place to come! Conwy Brewery also offers tours of the brewery followed by sampling, a lovely afternoon out!
You can also be a brewer for the day or even design your own beer – a fantastic activity for a special occasion. Choose from an array of beers including Honey Fayre - a golden ale which pairs nicely with fish and seafood.
North Wales is filled with hidden treats and local delicacies that are a must-try when visiting the area. Spend a week in North Wales getting away from the hustle and bustle of daily life, eating local Welsh food and drink for a real Welsh experience.
Which of these food and drinks would you like to try? Let us know in the comments below.