Things to Do with the Kids In and Around Harlech
- Helen Williams
- May 22
- 3 min read
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained in Harlech? Whether you're staying in Harlech or just visiting for the day, there’s so much to explore, discover, and enjoy together. From sandy toes and castle towers to storytelling trails and sweet treats, here’s our guide to the best family-friendly fun in and around Harlech.
Step Into a Legend at Harlech Castle
Start your adventure with a visit to Harlech Castle—a World Heritage Site with a view that will take your breath away. Kids can charge up the battlements, peer through arrow slits, and imagine defending the castle from invaders. Don’t forget to stop by the visitor centre for the story of Harlech’s heroic past.
Read more about the Harlech Castle here
Watch out for special events throughout the year at Harlech Castle - Go to Events Page
Go Underground at Llanfair Slate Caverns
Just outside Harlech lies the Llanfair Slate Caverns—an underground world of tunnels and history. It’s cool (literally and figuratively), fun, and packed with adventure. Armed with a helmet and torch, your little explorers will love navigating this fascinating hidden world.
Meet the Animals at the Children’s Farm Park
Located nearby in Llanfair, the Children’s Farm Park is a great hands-on experience for kids of all ages. Say hello to goats, rabbits, lambs and more—and don’t miss the indoor and outdoor play areas and mini tractors for a bit of extra fun.
Sandcastles and Ice Cream
Nothing says “holiday” quite like sand between your toes and an ice cream in hand—and here in and around Harlech, we’ve got some of the best seaside treats for families to enjoy.
Ice Cream with a Twist in Harlech
If you’re visiting Harlech, don’t miss a stop at the award-winning Hufenfa’r Castell, an artisan ice cream shop loved by locals and visitors alike.
Here’s where it gets fun…
Some lucky cones come with a special flag! If you are given one, it’s your golden ticket to enter the Sandcastle Building Competition.
Head down to the beach, build your best sandcastle, plant your flag, and snap a photo of your creation.
Then email your masterpiece to: icecream@harlech.cymru You'll be in with the chance to win an amazing handcrafted chocolate castle!
The competition runs until the end of August so it gives you lots of time.
Llandanwg Beach & Maes Café
For a laid-back day by the sea, head to Llandanwg Beach and stop at Maes Café for a delicious ice cream treat. Whether you're into classic cones or something a little more adventurous, it’s the perfect spot to cool down before heading off to build sandcastles, paddle in the waves, or explore the rock pools.
Cycle & Walking Trails at Coed y Brenin
Just a short drive from Harlech, Coed y Brenin is a fantastic family day out for active adventurers. Known as Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking centre, it offers a range of trails from gentle family routes to technical tracks for older kids and teens. There’s also a skills area to practise bike handling before hitting the trails. Not into biking? No problem—there are scenic walking trails, running routes, accessible paths for off-road mobility scooters, and children’s play areas tucked into the forest. With plenty of picnic spots Coed y Brenin is a brilliant mix of fresh air, fun, and forest exploration.
Walks, Story Trails & Woodland Magic
Explore Harlech’s woodland paths and scenic trails. Look out for the Storytelling Chairs, where you can follow the magical legend of Meirion—a tale of adventure, bravery, and enchantment rooted in our local landscape. And if you’re feeling energetic, take a walk (or a challenge!) up Ffordd Pen Llech, officially recognised as one of the steepest streets in the world. It’s a short climb with a big bragging right—and some brilliant views at the top!
