A popular seaside town on the northwest coast of Wales, Barmouth developed around the shipbuilding and slate mining industries and is surrounded by some of the most beautiful countryside offered by Wales. 

Barmouth is southern Eryri's most popular seaside resort with breath-taking views of Cardigan Bay and the picturesque harbour. With the picturesque River Mawddach flowing through the town and out to sea, many tourists arrive in Barmouth to explore Eryri National Park and walk around the sweeping curve of Cardigan Bay to Porthmadog.

A land train runs along the promenade and there are traditional donkey rides, swing boats and amusement arcades.

Barmouth

 

1. Spend the Day at Barmouth Beach

Offering the traditional seaside atmosphere, Barmouth Beach is a golden sandy beach, with plenty going on for family-friendly fun. Stretching for miles around the sweeping bay, it never gets overcrowded, despite its popularity. Awarded a Blue Flag for cleanliness and safety, the waters are perfect for swimming, and surfing, and the mile-long promenade is lined with stalls selling delicious ice cream and candy floss, and cafes to relax in. Running the length of the promenade, the land train is a leisurely way to enjoy the seafront. 

Summer visitors can enjoy trampolines, a bouncy castle and a fantastic pirate ship, perfect for children to explore when they’ve built their sandcastles.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

A post shared by Dominic Vacher (@domvacher)

 

2. Take a Trip through History at the Fairbourne Steam Railway

Running from the village at Fairbourne to Barmouth on the Mawddach Estuary, the Fairbourne Steam Railway has been in operation for over 100 years. Originally designed as a two-foot gauge tramway, with horses to tow the tram, in 1916 it was converted to a 15-inch railway and was completely restructured in 1986 and became a 12+1⁄4 in gauge.  

Five beautifully restored and scaled-down engines take passengers on the two-mile journey through the glorious Welsh scenery. Run by a team of dedicated volunteers, the Steam Railway gives everyone a chance to experience living history.  

 

3. Explore Nature on the Panorama Walk

Leading walkers through some of the most spectacular scenery in Wales, the Panorama Walk covers a variety of natural habitats, and nature lovers have been following this route since the Victorian period. Following the curve of Cardigan Bay, and around the Mawddach estuary, you can enjoy splendid views of the Cambrian mountain range. Cader Idris, the tallest peak in the range is a popular peak with climbers and many say it rivals the great Yr Wyddfa for difficulty. 

Much of the Panorama Walk is suitable for young children, but there are some exceptionally steep stretches where young families may struggle, and certain sections can get very wet underfoot. You’ll pass Llechau’r Garn - also known as the Barmouth Slabs, which have jaw-dropping views from the top if you’re feeling fit, and the old Victorian gardens - a once-popular attraction, now fallen into disrepair but still with an ethereal atmosphere, and being a circular route, you can head straight for the nearest tea shop when you return to Barmouth.

Barmouth is a fabulous place for a holiday and offers so many attractions - it’s perfect for families or just getting away from it all.  

  • Perfect for family walks
  • Stunning views across the estuary to the imposing Cadair Idris in the distance
  • Panorama Walk Website
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