Experience the Magic of Christmas in North Wales
The festive season is the perfect time to visit North Wales, a region brimming with holiday cheer and activities for everyone. From enchanting train rides with Santa to bustling Christmas markets and magical grottos, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the season. Whether you’re planning a family adventure, a romantic getaway, or a relaxing festive escape, North Wales has it all.
Here’s your guide to the best Christmas events and activities in North Wales, guaranteed to get you into the holiday spirit:
Santa Trains at Welsh Highland Railway
- Where? Caernarfon, Gwynedd
- When? 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st & 22nd December 2024
Hop aboard the Santa Trains and meet Santa himself in his Christmas Carriage Grotto at Porthmadog Harbour Station or during your journey through the breathtaking Snowdonia National Park. Passengers can enjoy carols, gifts from Santa, and the scenic beauty of North Wales in the wintertime. Don’t miss this magical train ride between Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu!
Learn More: https://www.festrail.co.uk/trains
Zipmas at Zip World, Snowdonia
- Where? Zip World Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog
- When? Various dates from 22nd November to 24th December 2024
Experience a Christmas like no other as you venture 500 feet underground to Zip World’s underground grotto. Santa and his team of elves will welcome you with gifts, Welsh slate baubles to decorate, and plenty of festive cheer. Complimentary mulled wine, hot chocolate, and mince pies make this unique event an unforgettable holiday treat.
Learn More: https://www.zipworld.co.uk/zipmas
Breakfast with Santa & Afternoon Tea with Elsa
- Where? Anglesey Sea Zoo, Llanfairpwll
- When? 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 21st, 22nd December 2024
Enjoy a meal with Santa or Elsa at Anglesey Sea Zoo, where kids can meet their favourite characters and savour delicious festive food. Make a day of it by exploring the zoo and soft play areas. Prices start at £13.50 for breakfast with Santa and £16 for afternoon tea with Elsa.
To Book – Email: post@angleseyseazoo.co.uk
Llandudno 5K Santa Dash
- Where? Llandudno, Conwy
- When? Saturday 30th November 2024
Grab your Santa suit and join the festive fun at the Llandudno 5K Santa Dash along the scenic North Shore. Entry includes a Santa outfit and a finishers’ medal, making this event a fun-filled activity for all ages (including furry friends!). Stick around afterwards to explore Llandudno’s holiday offerings.
Learn more: https://bespokefitnessandevents.co.uk/event/llandudno-5k-santa-run/
Manorafon Farm Park Christmas Village
- Where? Abergele, Conwy
- When? 6th to 23rd December 2024
Explore Santa’s enchanting village at Manorafon Farm Park, where you’ll hear a festive story from Santa himself, attend the Elf Flying School, and create your own Christmas decorations in Santa’s Workshop. Tickets include gingerbread, gifts from Santa, and more, with prices starting at £15 per adult.
Learn more: https://www.manorafon-farm-park.co.uk/whats-on/visit-santa/
Conwy Harbour Christmas Markets
- Where? Conwy, Conwy
- When? 21st to 24th November 2024
Set against the backdrop of Conwy’s medieval castle, the Christmas markets feature unique gifts from local artisans, festive food, and live music. This is the perfect spot to soak in the Christmas spirit and find that one-of-a-kind present for your loved ones.
Learn More: https://www.facebook.com/shopforsomethingdifferent
Sioe Nadolig Cyw 2024 – Christmas Performance for S4C
- Where? Galeri, Caernarfon
- When? 22nd – 23rd November 2024 | Multiple showtimes
- How Much? Adults: £12 | Children: £5 (under 2 free on a parent/guardian’s lap)
Join Cyw and friends as they help Father Christmas deliver a magical gift in this festive family-friendly show.
Book your tickets here: https://galericaernarfon.com/eng/whats-on-selected.php?show-id=873664886
Christmas Adventure at Gwrych Castle
- Where? Gwrych Castle, Abergele
- When? 30th November – 23rd December 2024 | 10am – 5pm
- How Much? Adults: £11.50 | Children: £16.95
Enjoy a magical experience solving puzzles with Santa’s elves, collecting stamps for your Christmas passport, and visiting Santa himself at the historic Gwrych Castle.
Find out more and book here: https://www.gwrychcastle.co.uk/whats-on/
Beaumaris Victorian Christmas Market
- Where? David Hughes Community Centre, Beaumaris
- When? 30th November – 1st December 2024
- How much? FREE
Experience a Victorian-style market with live entertainment, parades, and local crafts, food, and drink. Parades start at 5 pm each day.
Beaumaris Artisans’ Christmas Event 2024
- Where? David Hughes Community Centre, Beaumaris
- When? 23rd – 24th November 2024 | Saturday: 10am – 5pm, Sunday: 10am – 4pm
- How Much? Free
Enjoy handmade crafts and gifts from local artisans, fresh food, and drinks.
Get details and updates here: https://allevents.in/bangor/200027149492631
Snowdonia Christmas Market
- Where? Royal Oak Hotel Car Park, Betws-y-Coed
- When? 30th November – 1st December 2024
Discover eco-friendly goods from local artisans, including bakers, knitters, and potters, in a charming Snowdonia setting.
Learn More: https://royaloakhotel.net/local-market/
Stay, Dine, and Unwind at the Black Boy Inn
After a day of festive exploration, there’s no better place to relax than The Black Boy Inn in Caernarfon. A historic gem in the heart of North Wales, the Black Boy Inn offers everything you need for a cozy Christmas getaway:
- A Charming Place to Stay: Nestled in the historic town, the Black Boy Inn provides comfortable rooms that blend modern amenities and old-world charm. It’s the perfect base for exploring all the nearby Christmas activities.
- Delicious Food: Warm up with hearty, delicious meals in Caernarfon prepared with locally sourced ingredients. Every bite from traditional Welsh dishes to seasonal specials is a festive treat.
- Festive Drinks by the Fire: Unwind with a craft ale or mulled wine by the roaring fireside. Our North Wales pub has a cosy atmosphere, friendly staff, and an excellent drink selection making it a delightful spot to end your day.
Whether you’re looking for a place to stay in our rooms, a hearty meal, or a cosy drink, the Black Boy Inn adds a touch of festive warmth to your North Wales holiday.
