Our new booking system is now live! Having issues? Get in touch >
Before we answer how to spend a day in Llandudno, let’s look at why you should spend a day in Llandudno.
Llandudno’s origins reach deep into prehistory, and she stands as an important player in Bronze Age Europe. Between c. 1700–1400 BC, the Great Orme headland was home to one of the world’s largest prehistoric copper mines, producing an estimated 1,760 tonnes of copper, more than any other British site at the time. This copper was essential in alloying bronze—a material that powered the first great age of sailing and enabled the construction of massive palaces and war chariots across the Mediterranean.
Trading networks stretched from Wales to the Mycenaean kingdoms of Greece (ruled by the likes of Agamemnon), the Hittite realms of Anatolia, and even Pharaohs such as Ramesses III in Egypt. Leaders across the region relied on this metal to construct weapons, tools, and ceremonial objects that underpinned their political power and cultural influence.
This extraordinary historical thread continued through the Middle Ages, when Llandudno’s coastal fishing and mining communities shared stories of smugglers and pirates prowling the Irish Sea. By Victorian times, the town had transformed into “The Queen of Welsh Resorts,” complete with its iconic pier (1877), tramway (1902), and later cable car (1969) rising to the Orme. During WWII, the headland’s cliffs sheltered radar gardens and training batteries, helping defend Britain’s northwest coast.
A day in Llandudno, then, is a journey through 4,000 years—bridging Bronze Age trade, medieval intrigue, Victorian elegance, and wartime resilience. Now, let’s explore how to spend that day, depending on who you are and what you love.
Llandudno has long been a favourite for those seeking charm, calm, and comfort in their retirement years. A day in this historic resort town offers a peaceful pace, scenic splendor, and cultural richness tailored perfectly to older visitors.
Begin your day with a stroll through Haulfre Gardens, nestled on the lower slopes of the Great Orme. These elegant terraced gardens offer well-maintained paths, benches with incredible views over the Conwy estuary, and a gentle way to immerse yourself in Llandudno’s natural beauty. The gardens once formed part of the Haulfre estate, and today provide a serene escape that feels like stepping into another era.
From there, make your way down to the Victorian Pier — the longest in Wales — and enjoy a leisurely walk over the waves. Grab a coffee or a hot chocolate from one of the kiosks and take in the sea air, or try your luck in the old-fashioned amusements.
For lunch, Home from Home Cooking offers exactly what it promises — traditional Welsh and British meals served with warmth. Expect hearty portions and nostalgic flavours in a cosy setting.
The afternoon might include a heritage walk with a guide — Llandudno’s heritage tours explore the town’s 19th-century transformation into a holiday hotspot, the legacy of its Welsh-speaking communities, and architectural gems like the Tabernacle Chapel and the old market square.
If you prefer something indoors, Venue Cymru frequently hosts afternoon matinees, from touring theatre productions to concerts from renowned orchestras or tribute acts. The modern theatre space is fully accessible, with amenities designed to cater to older audiences.
Round off the day with a relaxed fish supper at Fish Tram Chips, a Llandudno institution, then retire with a walk along the promenade, perhaps catching sight of kiteboarders on West Shore or just enjoying the soft lights twinkling from the Grand Hotel and beyond.
If you’re feeling even more adventurous – you could add a visit to Johnny Throws for some axe throwing or digital darts. We’re actually really popular with the older crowd!
A day on the Great Orme is like stepping into a layered storybook of geology, history, and wild beauty. Rising 679 feet above sea level, this ancient limestone headland has been a silent witness to millennia of human activity. Today, it’s the perfect place to blend adventure with tranquillity.
Morning: Ascend in Style
Begin with a ride on the historic Great Orme Tramway, Britain’s only remaining cable-hauled street tramway. First opened in 1902, it’s a time machine as much as a mode of transport, offering sweeping views as it climbs toward the summit.
Midday: Ancient Worlds and Wild Goats
Halfway to the summit, you can explore the Bronze Age Copper Mines, among the oldest in the world. Active around 4,000 years ago, they connected Llandudno to global trade networks of the time. It’s possible that copper from these mines travelled to Mycenaean Greece or even to the smiths of ancient Egypt, fuelling the arms of empires.
Next, spot the famous Great Orme goats, descendants of a herd gifted by the Shah of Persia to Queen Victoria. They roam freely and rule the cliffs like shaggy monarchs. Stop for lunch at the café near the summit or bring a picnic to enjoy with the views.
Afternoon: Adventure & Descent
Try your hand at dry ski slope tubing or skiing at the Llandudno Snowsports Centre, open year-round. For a gentler descent, hop on the Cable Car, Britain’s longest aerial cable ride, offering stunning views of the town, bay, and distant Snowdonia peaks.
Evening: Sunset Views
Wrap up your day with a gentle walk through Haulfre Gardens, leading back into town via winding coastal paths. As the sun sets, the view over Llandudno Bay and the pier will delight and amaze in equal measure.
Every spring bank holiday, Llandudno transforms into a Victorian spectacle for the annual Llandudno Victorian Extravaganza—a tradition that has drawn visitors from far and wide for over 30 years. If you’re lucky enough to be in town during this iconic weekend, your itinerary writes itself.
Begin your day early with a walk along the promenade before the crowds thicken. From there, make your way into town to catch the daily street parades, where you’ll see a delightful procession of people in full Victorian costume, vintage vehicles, brass bands, and entertainers.
The Victorian funfair takes over Mostyn Street and the surrounding areas, with traditional rides, organ grinders, and coconut shies all adding to the timeless atmosphere. History lovers should stop by St. John’s Church or the Llandudno Museum to explore how this holiday town evolved in the 19th century—from copper mines to corsets and promenades.
When you’re ready for a break, refuel with a pizza and a beer at Johnny Throws, which remains a lively oasis amid the festivities. Our Big Night Out bundle (interactive darts, axe throwing, pizza and drinks) makes for the perfect way to round off a thrilling day.
As night falls, you’ll often find live music at the Gresham, The Irish Bar, or on Venue Cymru’s open-air stage on the promenade. The Victorian Extravaganza is more than a festival—it’s a living museum, street theatre, and community reunion all in one.
The summer holidays bring a buzz to Llandudno that transforms the town into a vibrant mix of families, day-trippers, and holidaymakers from across the UK and beyond. With long daylight hours and warm sea breezes, it’s the perfect time to explore everything the town has to offer.
Start your day early with a stroll along the famous Victorian promenade — the longest in Wales — and grab a coffee and pastry from one of the independent cafés near the pier entrance. Watch the paddleboarders and swimmers braving the Irish Sea while the morning sun rises behind the Great Orme.
Next, take the historic tramway or the cable car up to the summit of the Orme. The panoramic views from the top stretch from Anglesey to the Carneddau mountains and even the Isle of Man on a clear day. The visitor centre and café at the top are perfect for a quick refreshment before heading out to explore. Walkers might enjoy following the summit trail to the ancient Iron Age hillfort or venturing to see the famous Kashmiri goats.
Come back down in time for lunch at Johnny Dough’s — try a goat’s cheese pizza in honour of the Orme’s cheekiest residents. In the afternoon, head to the paddling pool for the kids, or take in a show or family film at Venue Cymru, which runs a seasonal programme of performances and screenings.
Round off your day at Johnny Throws — the perfect evening hangout where older kids and adults can enjoy digital darts, axe throwing, and amazing food. Our Darts Party package give you and your group an hour of digital darts PLUS 2 drinks each (hard or soft)!
If your ideal day involves action, variety, and a few surprises, Llandudno delivers in spades. Start your morning with a jolt of adrenaline at the Llandudno Ski and Snowboard Centre, where you can test your mettle on the dry ski slope or zip down the toboggan run with panoramic views of the bay. From there, stroll to Happy Valley Gardens, a peaceful Victorian park once gifted to the town by Lord Mostyn. Here, you’ll find the Alice in Wonderland Trail, a whimsical series of sculptures inspired by Lewis Carroll’s tales — perfect for a scavenger hunt or a photo trail.
Break for lunch at The Loaf Coffee and Sandwich Bar for a beautiful butty. Then dive into indoor adventure at Johnny Throws, of course!
Round out the afternoon with a climb at Boathouse Climbing Centre, at The Old Lifeboat Station on Lloyd Street. Or opt for a more relaxed yet engaging option — a session at Mostyn Gallery, where contemporary Welsh art offers a thoughtful counterpoint to the day’s activities.
As dusk falls, swing by Tapps, the town’s award-winning micropub, for craft ales or local gin. Or, if you still have fuel in the tank, head to Club 147 for a few rounds of pool and a dance until the early hours.
For those with a spiritual or historical interest, Llandudno’s churches offer a peaceful and reflective way to explore the town. Begin your day at St. Tudno’s Church on the slopes of the Great Orme. This small, 12th-century church stands near the site where Saint Tudno, the town’s namesake, is said to have preached in the 6th century. The churchyard offers views of the Irish Sea, and its tranquility makes it a perfect place for contemplation.
Afterward, head down into the town centre to visit Holy Trinity Church, a striking Victorian Gothic structure built in the 1860s. Its spire dominates the Llandudno skyline and the stained glass inside is a marvel. Look for the intricate carved angels on the choir stalls—each with a unique face.
Later, visit Gloddaeth United Church, a joint Methodist and United Reformed congregation housed in another grand Victorian edifice. Time your visit to attend a lunchtime concert or quiet service. As a bonus, most of these churches are free to enter, making this a culturally rich and low-cost day.
Believe it or not, one of Wales’ premier seaside towns can be enjoyed on a shoestring. Begin at West Shore, where the skies open wide over the estuary and kiteboarders skim the surf — a show that’s always free and often spectacular. Then follow the coastal path towards Angel Bay, where seals can often be spotted basking on the rocks.
Explore the Happy Valley Gardens and its rich flora, free sculptures, and coastal views, or trek up the Haulfre Gardens path for panoramic views of both the Great and Little Orme. At the top, admire the stonework of St Tudno’s Church, where time stands still among windswept graves and bracken-covered slopes.
Back in town, wander the Victoria Shopping Centre or browse books at Waterstones or the historic Llandudno Library, where local archives whisper stories from the past.
If it’s a Sunday, don’t miss the free Llandudno Heritage Walks — local guides bring Victorian scandals, wartime secrets, and Orme folklore to life. End your day with a stroll down the promenade and catch the sunset with nothing more than a flask of tea and a view.
Llandudno is a town made for romance, whether you’re strolling hand-in-hand along the Victorian promenade or sipping cocktails at The Gresham. Begin your day with a walk up Haulfre Gardens, a quiet, leafy ascent that rewards you with sweeping views over the Conwy estuary.
Then take the Cable Car up to the summit of the Great Orme, enjoying the breathtaking panoramas. You can walk down if you’re feeling adventurous, stopping at scenic overlooks along the way. At lunchtime, visit the Penderyn Distillery for a tasting session or a whisky-infused hot chocolate.
For your afternoon, enjoy an activity at Johnny Throws, which is surprisingly romantic—especially if you’re a little competitive. Follow that with a sunset walk along West Shore, watching kiteboarders and the light dancing on the waves.
End the night at Tapps, a cosy craft beer bar, or catch live music at The Irish Bar. Llandudno is especially magical at night when the sea breeze, music, and lights combine to create a dreamlike coastal atmosphere.
A rainy day in Llandudno needn’t be a washout—it’s a chance to explore the town’s indoor gems. Start your day at Mostyn Art Gallery, a renowned centre for contemporary art. Its rotating exhibitions are thoughtful, and the building’s blend of old and new is a sight in itself. Don’t miss the café.
From there, visit Theatr Colwyn, the oldest working cinema in Wales. They often show a mix of indie films, family favourites, and classics. Rainy days are also perfect for browsing Waterstones, tucked inside the Victoria Shopping Centre, where you can grab a coffee and lose yourself in a book.
By late afternoon, it’s time to warm up at Johnny Throws, where indoor fun reigns supreme. The combination of interactive darts, axe throwing, great tunes, and Johnny Dough’s pizza is the perfect way to forget the drizzle. And if the rain clears, step outside onto their sun-trap terrace for a pint under the clouds.
Families visiting Llandudno will find a bounty of fun, food, and discovery. Start your day with breakfast at Home from Home Cooking, a relaxed spot with something for everyone. Then, walk along the Alice in Wonderland Trail, where sculptures and clues guide you through the town and bring Lewis Carroll’s fantastical world to life. It’s a great way to burn off some energy before heading to the Promenade Paddling Pool, a family favourite during warmer months.
In the afternoon, ride the Great Orme Tramway—a fun experience for children and adults alike—and explore Happy Valley Gardens, where the kids can run and play while the grown-ups enjoy the views.
Round out your day at Johnny Throws, where families can enjoy interactive darts and axe throwing, with Johnny Dough’s pizza fuelling the fun. The variety of games means everyone can join in, whether you’re competitive or just want to try something new.
Llandudno is one of North Wales’ most dog-friendly towns, offering coastal walks, outdoor cafés, and dog-welcoming parks in abundance.
Start your day with a bracing walk along the West Shore, where dogs can run free along wide, sandy stretches. Then climb the Haulfre Gardens trail — a winding path through trees and wildflowers that leads up to Happy Valley. There, dogs are welcome to explore the park while you enjoy the Victorian landscaping and coastal views.
Many cafés along Mostyn Street and the promenade, such as Home from Home Cooking, offer dog bowls and water stations. Even Johnny Throws welcomes calm, friendly dogs, especially if they’re accompanying a party booking for drinks or darts.
In the afternoon, explore the Great Orme summit and stop for a snack at the café (with shaded areas outside). Finally, loop back via the Marine Drive or enjoy some time on the North Shore. The dogs will love it.
Llandudno isn’t just a day trip destination — it’s a living time capsule where ancient landscapes, Victorian elegance, and modern experiences intertwine. Whether you’re climbing windswept headlands, dodging raindrops between galleries and arcades, or laughing over a game of interactive darts with friends and pizza in hand, this town rewards the curious and the adventurous alike.
Its story stretches from Bronze Age copper mines that may have armed pharaohs and kings, to the elegant resort town favoured by Victorian holidaymakers, to the creative, welcoming, and slightly eccentric haven it is today. With its mixture of culture, history, family fun, romance, and entertainment, Llandudno truly offers something for every kind of visitor — in every kind of weather.
So however you choose to spend your day in Llandudno, one thing’s for sure: it’ll be memorable. And chances are, you’ll be planning your return before the sun sets behind the Orme.