Half term is coming, the kids are climbing the walls, and honestly, you could do with a break too. Good news: Llandudno is one of the best places in North Wales for a family half term. There are two beaches, a Victorian tram that climbs a mountain, wild goats, a 4,000-year-old mine and a castle down the road. When the rain rolls in (it’s Wales, it will), there’s plenty to do indoors. And because it isn’t the summer holidays, it’s quieter and better value too.
We’re Sarah and Dougy, and we live here. These are the things we’d do with a few days of half term in Llandudno, from the big adventures to the rainy day rescues.
Ride a Victorian tram up a mountain
Start with the big one. The Great Orme Tramway has been carrying visitors up the headland since 1902, and it’s the last cable-hauled street tramway in Britain. Children love the clanking, creaking climb, and the views from the top stretch right across to Anglesey and the mountains of Eryri (Snowdonia). The tram runs from spring to the end of October, so it’s a real treat in the October half term. In February you’ll need to walk or drive up instead, so check the timetable before you go.
Go goat spotting on the Great Orme
The Orme is home to a herd of wild Kashmiri goats with shaggy white coats and seriously impressive horns. They became world famous in 2020 when they wandered down into the empty streets during lockdown, and they still pop into town now and then. Make it a competition: whoever spots the first goat picks the ice cream flavour. Find out more in our post on the famous goats of Llandudno.
Head underground into a Bronze Age mine
The Great Orme Copper Mines are one of the largest prehistoric mines ever discovered. You walk through narrow tunnels dug by hand around 4,000 years ago, using tools made of stone and bone. It’s properly mind-blowing, and a brilliant way to sneak a history lesson into a holiday without anyone noticing. The mines are seasonal, so they’re a good bet in October; check opening times before you head up.
Beach days in wellies
Children don’t care if it’s chilly. On North Shore, walk the prom and head out along the pier, the longest in Wales, for the amusements, doughnuts and a look at the waves underneath your feet. On the other side of town, West Shore has wide sands and dunes made for running wild, flying a kite and watching the sun go down over Anglesey. Wrap up, pack wellies and a flask, and you’ll have the beach almost to yourselves.
Follow the White Rabbit
Alice Liddell, the real girl who inspired Alice in Wonderland, spent family holidays in Llandudno, and the town hasn’t forgotten. Look out for the Alice statues and characters dotted around the streets and turn it into a treasure hunt. How many can the children find before lunch?
Rainy day rescues
Every half term needs a plan B. Venue Cymru on the prom usually has family shows during the school holidays, so check what’s on before you travel. For energetic kids, Adventure Parc Snowdonia in Dolgarrog, around 25 minutes away, has indoor activities when the weather is grim. There’s a cinema at Llandudno Junction, and our apartments all have board games for a cosy afternoon in. For more ideas, see our guides to family fun in Llandudno and things to do in Llandudno.
Day trips within half an hour
- Conwy Castle, about 15 minutes away. Climb the towers, walk the town walls and squeeze into the Smallest House in Great Britain on the quay. Our guide to visiting Conwy has tips on parking.
- The Welsh Mountain Zoo in Colwyn Bay, about 15 minutes away, set on a hillside with views over the bay.
- Zip World near Betws-y-Coed, around 30 to 40 minutes away, for older children who want a proper adrenaline rush.
Our three-day half term plan
Day one: Arrive from 3pm, drop the bags and walk down to the pier. Fish and chips on the prom, then an early night.
Day two: The Great Orme day. Tram up, goat spotting at the top, the copper mines if they’re open, then down to West Shore for the sunset.
Day three: Conwy Castle in the morning, back for lunch, then an afternoon show at Venue Cymru or a board game marathon if the heavens open.
For more walking ideas, including routes for little legs, see our guide to the best walks in Llandudno, and when it’s time to refuel, our pick of the best places to eat.
Where to stay for half term
A self catering holiday home takes the stress out of a family break. Everyone gets their own bedroom, there’s space to spread out in the evenings, and a kitchen for easy breakfasts and early teas. Every one of our homes has a cot and high chair waiting for you, so there’s less to pack.
- The 3-Bed Garden Apartment sleeps 6, with a bunk room and its own enclosed garden.
- The 2-Bed Apartment sleeps 4, and its attic bedroom up a spiral staircase is a big hit with young guests.
- The 3-Bed Townhouse sleeps 6, with a private courtyard and a flame-effect fire for cosy nights in.
- Travelling with another family? The 5-Bed House sleeps 10, and we can fit up to 16 across our large group accommodation.
All our homes are a few minutes’ walk from the town centre and the beach, so you can leave the car parked for the whole stay. Take a look at our holiday lets in Llandudno and book direct for our best rate, or call us on 07883 009925. We’d love to help you plan a half term the kids will be talking about for months.