Caernarfon

A historic town dominated by its magnificent castle, with colorful waterfront buildings, boat trips on the Menai Strait, and a strong Welsh cultural heart. The town blends medieval heritage with modern amenities and serves as a hub for exploring northwest Wales.

Things to do

• Caernarfon Castle — Explore this iconic 13th-century fortress with its distinctive polygonal towers, interactive exhibitions, and panoramic views of the Menai Strait from the battlements.
• Menai Strait Boat Trips — Take a scenic cruise along the Menai Strait to spot seals, seabirds, and enjoy views of Snowdonia, with departures from the town quay.
• Welsh Highland Railway — Ride this narrow-gauge heritage railway through Snowdonia's stunning landscapes on vintage steam and diesel trains departing from Caernarfon station.
• Segontium Roman Fort — Visit the remains of this 1st-century Roman auxiliary fort with an onsite museum displaying artifacts and explaining Roman occupation of Wales.
• The Old Town Walk — Stroll through Caernarfon's medieval streets past colorful waterfront buildings, local shops, and galleries that capture the town's Welsh character.
• Cadbury Castle Visitor Centre — Learn about local history, geology, and culture through interactive displays covering everything from medieval times to modern-day Caernarfon.

Food to try

• Welsh Cawl — A traditional slow-cooked stew of beef or lamb with root vegetables, leeks, and potatoes that appears on menus throughout town as a hearty Welsh classic.
• Bara Brith — A spiced Welsh fruit bread studded with dried fruits and traditionally served with butter at cafés and bakeries around Caernarfon's town center.
• Sewin (Sea Trout) — Fresh locally-caught sea trout from the Menai Strait, often poached or grilled and featured at waterfront restaurants during summer months.
• Welsh Rarebit — A savory cheese sauce on toast, sometimes with ham or leeks added, available as a light lunch at traditional cafés throughout the town.
• Laverbread — A regional delicacy made from seaweed, traditionally rolled in oatmeal and fried, found at specialty food shops and traditional Welsh restaurants.

Local customs & good to know

• Learn Basic Welsh — The town is a Welsh-language stronghold; locals appreciate visitors who attempt Welsh greetings like 'Helo' (hello) and 'Diolch' (thank you).
• Eisteddfod Tradition — Caernarfon hosts cultural celebrations featuring Welsh music, language, and traditions; check local calendars for festivals celebrating Welsh heritage throughout the year.
• Respect Welsh Signage — Bilingual Welsh-English signs are standard; Welsh place names and street signs reflect the town's cultural identity and commitment to the language.
• Sunday Lunch Culture — Traditional Sunday roast is a cherished local custom; many pubs and restaurants feature this meal as a social gathering centered on family and community.