Family-Friendly Adventures in Harlech
- Helen Williams
- May 22
- 3 min read
Updated: Aug 9
Looking for ways to keep the kids entertained? Whether you're staying in Harlech or just visiting for the day, there’s so much to explore, discover, and enjoy together.
Step Into a Legend at Harlech Castle
Start your adventure with a visit to Harlech Castle—a World Heritage Site with a breathtaking view. 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 center 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 both cool and fun, packed with adventure. With a helmet and torch in hand, your little explorers will delight in navigating this fascinating hidden world.
Meet the Animals at the Children’s Farm Park
Located nearby in Llanfair, the Children’s Farm Park offers a great hands-on experience for kids of all ages. Here, you can say hello to goats, rabbits, and lambs. 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 ice cream in hand. Here in Harlech, we have some of the best seaside treats for families to enjoy.
Ice Cream with a Twist in Harlech
Be sure to visit 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 receive 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.
Email your masterpiece to: icecream@harlech.cymru. You’ll have the chance to win an amazing handcrafted chocolate castle! The competition runs until the end of August, giving you plenty of time to participate.
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 prefer classic cones or something adventurous, it’s the perfect spot to cool down before building sandcastles, paddling in the waves, or exploring the rock pools.
Cycle & Walking Trails at Coed y Brenin
Just a short drive from Harlech, Coed y Brenin is fantastic for active adventurers. Known as Britain’s first purpose-built mountain biking center, it offers trails ranging from gentle family routes to technical tracks. There’s also a skills area for practicing bike handling before hitting the trails.
Not into biking? No problem. Scenic walking trails, running routes, and accessible paths for off-road mobility scooters are available. There are also children’s play areas nestled in the forest. Coed y Brenin is a brilliant mix of fresh air, fun, and exploration.
Walks, Story Trails & Woodland Magic
Explore Harlech’s woodland paths and scenic trails. Look for the Storytelling Chairs and follow the magical legend of Meirion—a tale of adventure, bravery, and enchantment rooted in our local landscape. If you’re feeling energetic, take a walk or a challenge up Ffordd Pen Llech, officially recognized as one of the steepest streets in the world. It’s a short climb, but it offers big bragging rights—and some brilliant views at the top!
In conclusion, whether you're climbing castles, exploring caverns, or simply enjoying an ice cream treat, Harlech offers endless opportunities for family fun. Make the most of your visit by experiencing all these vibrant and engaging activities together. Create memorable moments that will last a lifetime!