It’s Sunday evening here at the Rhiw Goch Inn, and as the sun starts its slow dip behind the Rhinogydd mountains, I’m sat here with a cold drink and a very satisfied feeling. The weather this May has been nothing short of spectacular, the kind of North Wales "goldilocks" weather where it’s not too hot for a hike, but just right for an outdoor pint.
One thing I get asked constantly by our guests staying in our holiday apartment North Wales is: "Peter, where should we take the kids tomorrow?" or "Where’s a good pub that won’t mind our muddy boots?"
Well, grab a pen. I’ve lived and breathed this area long enough to know that while we’re tucked away in the peaceful heart of Snowdonia, we are remarkably close to some of the best action in the UK. If you’re staying with us at LL41 4UY, you’ve got a golden ticket to everything from medieval castles to underground trampolines.
Here are my top 15 picks for pubs and family days out, all within a 60-minute drive of our front door.
1. Rhiw Goch Inn (Right Here!)
Address: Trawsfynydd, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4UY
I might be biased, but you can’t beat the commute. After a day of exploring, why drive? We’ve got the history (a 16th-century powerhouse of a building), the views, and plenty of space for the kids to run wild on the grass while you enjoy the sunset. If you're looking for the perfect holiday north wales, you start and end your day right here.
2. Zip World Llechwedd (15 Mins)
Address: Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3NB
Just up the road in "The Slate Capital of the World," this place is a behemoth of adventure. Whether it’s the Deep Mine Tour for the history buffs or the Titan 2 zip line for the adrenaline junkies, it’s a must. Personally, I love the "Bounce Below", huge nets suspended in a cavern the size of a cathedral. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and the kids will sleep like logs afterwards.
3. The Grapes Hotel, Maentwrog (10 Mins)
Address: Maentwrog, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 4HY
This is one of my favorite local watering holes. It’s a Grade II listed coaching inn with a fantastic beer garden. The food is top-notch "proper" pub grub. It’s perfect for a post-walk refuel if you’ve been exploring the Vale of Ffestiniog.
4. Portmeirion Village (20 Mins)
Address: Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth LL48 6ER
You’d think you’ve accidentally driven to the Italian Riviera. Designed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, this colorful village is surreal. It’s a great family day out, lots of woodland walks, a wild beach, and plenty of ice cream spots. It’s one of those places that makes a Snowdonia trip feel truly unique.
5. The Oakley Arms (12 Mins)
Address: Tan-y-Bwlch, Maentwrog LL41 3YU
Another local gem. They have a massive terrace that overlooks the valley. If you’re lucky, you’ll hear the whistle of the Ffestiniog Railway steam engine echoing through the trees while you eat your Sunday roast. It’s dog-friendly, too, which is always a win in my book.
6. Harlech Castle & Beach (25 Mins)
Address: Castle St, Harlech LL46 2YH
A UNESCO World Heritage site that literally clings to a cliff. The views of the peaks and the sea from the battlements are staggering. Once you’ve done the history bit, head down to Harlech beach. It’s massive, sandy, and has those epic dunes the kids love jumping off.
7. Coed y Brenin Forest Park (15 Mins)
Address: Ganllwyd, Dolgellau LL40 2HZ
If you’re into mountain biking, this is your mecca. It was the first forest in the UK developed specifically for MTBs. There are trails for toddlers on balance bikes and "black" runs that make me sweat just looking at them. For more on the best trails, check out our mountain biking guide.
8. The Golden Fleece Inn, Tremadog (25 Mins)
Address: 12 Market Square, Tremadog, Porthmadog LL49 9RB
A bit of a drive towards the coast, but worth it. It’s got a quirky, cellar-bar vibe and the square in Tremadog is a beautiful spot to sit and people-watch. Their steaks are legendary among the locals.
9. Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway (15 Mins)
Address: Harbour Station, Porthmadog LL49 9NF
The oldest narrow-gauge railway in the world. You can hop on at Blaenau or Porthmadog. It’s a slow-paced, nostalgic way to see the landscape without having to keep your eyes on the road. The kids love the steam and the "choo-choo" (and let’s be honest, so do I).
10. The Brondanw Arms / "The Ring" (15 Mins)
Address: Garreg, Llanfrothen, Penrhyndeudraeth LL48 6AQ
Locally known as "The Ring," this is a proper hidden gem. It’s full of character, often has local ales on tap, and is very close to the beautiful Plas Brondanw gardens. It feels like stepping back in time, in the best way possible.
11. Shell Island (35 Mins)
Address: Llanbedr LL45 2PJ
It’s not actually an island (most of the time), but it is a massive coastal playground. Famous for its shells (obviously) and wild camping, it’s a brilliant spot for a family beach day. Just check the tide times, or you’ll be staying longer than you planned!
12. Porthmadog Harbour & The Ship Inn (25 Mins)
Address: Lombard St, Porthmadog LL49 9AP
Porthmadog is our local "big" town. The harbor area is lovely for a stroll. The Ship Inn (Y Llong) is right near the water and serves some of the best seafood in the area. It’s a great spot to wind down after a day of crabbing on the harbor wall.
13. Greenwood Family Park (50 Mins)
Address: Bush Rd, Y Felinheli LL56 4QN
A bit further afield, near Bangor, but consistently voted the best family attraction in North Wales. It’s eco-friendly, featuring a people-powered roller coaster. Yes, you actually have to walk up the hill to make it go! It’s brilliant for younger kids and burns off a ton of energy.
14. Torrent Walk, Dolgellau (20 Mins)
Address: B4416, Brithdir, Dolgellau LL40 2RW
If you want a family walk that isn't a mountain climb, this is it. It’s a circular route following the River Clywedog. It’s full of waterfalls, mossy rocks, and ancient woodland. It looks like something out of Lord of the Rings. Afterwards, head into Dolgellau for a brew.
15. The Black Lion, Llanbedr (30 Mins)
Address: Llanbedr LL45 2LD
A lovely village pub with a great garden by the river. It’s the perfect stop-off if you’ve been visiting Shell Island or the nearby woods. Very welcoming atmosphere and the portions are generous: just what you need after a day of holidaying in North Wales.
Why Stay at Rhiw Goch?
Living here, I realize how lucky we are. Within an hour, you can go from the depths of a slate mine to the top of a medieval tower, or from a high-speed zip line to a quiet riverside pint. Our location at the Rhiw Goch Inn is the ultimate base camp.
We’ve worked hard to make the Inn a place where families feel at home. Whether you're pitching a tent at our campsite or living it up in The Lodge, you’re part of the family here.
There’s something special about May in Snowdonia. The bluebells are out, the lambs are causing chaos in the fields, and the evening air is just perfect. If you’re looking for a family holiday in Wales, now is the time to book.
Planning Your Visit
If you’re heading our way soon, my advice is to mix it up. Do one "big" attraction like Zip World or Portmeirion, and then balance it out with a quiet afternoon at a local pub or a hidden waterfall.
Don't forget to check our news and updates for the latest on local events. There’s always something happening, from farmers' markets to local music nights.
So, what are you waiting for? North Wales is calling, and I’ve got a cold one waiting for you at the bar.
Ready to start your adventure?
Check out our latest availability and book your stay directly at www.rhiwgochinn.co.uk.
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