Attractions in Pwllheli

The town of Pwllheli has been a popular tourist destination for many years. It's no wonder with its stunning location along the Llŷn Peninsula, beautiful beaches and rich history. Visitors and locals certainly have plenty of attractions to keep themselves busy whilst in the area. Here's a selection of the many things you can do.

Pwllheli Beach
This long, sandy beach is known for its natural beauty, stunning views, and opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

The beach sits in a sheltered bay and is surrounded by picturesque hills and cliffs, which make it a perfect spot for relaxation and enjoying the scenery. Pwllheli Beach is also considered a family-friendly destination and attracts visitors of all ages.

Penarth Fawr
Penarth Fawr is a historic manor house located in the market town of Pwllheli. It is a Grade I listed building and is considered one of the finest examples of a Welsh gentry house in the country.

The house was built in the 16th century by the prominent Griffith family and was later extended in the 17th century by the Wynn family. It is built in the traditional Welsh Renaissance style and features a mixture of Gothic and Renaissance architectural elements.

Today, Penarth Fawr is open to the public as a museum and cultural centre. Visitors can explore the historic rooms and gardens of the manor house, which contain a collection of art and artefacts related to Welsh history and culture. The house also hosts a variety of events and exhibitions throughout the year, including art exhibitions, concerts, and lectures.

It is considered a significant cultural and historical attraction in Pwllheli and is well worth a visit for those interested in Welsh heritage and architecture.

Criccieth Castle
Just a short drive along the coast of Pwllheli is Criccieths historical. Sat on a headland, the castle dating back to the 13^th century overlooks the town and the sea.

It was built by Llywelyn the Great, the Prince of Gwynedd, in the early 1200s, and it was later expanded and reinforced by his grandson, Llywelyn ap Gruffudd. Criccieth Castle played a strategic role in the conflicts between the Welsh and the English in the Middle Ages, and it was captured and recaptured several times during the wars.

Today, Criccieth Castle is a popular tourist attraction and a well-preserved example of medieval Welsh fortifications. Visitors can explore the ruins of the castle, which include the gatehouse, towers, and walls, and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and coast.

The castle is managed by Cadw, the Welsh government's historic environment service, and is open to the public year-round. It also hosts a variety of events and activities, such as historical reenactments, guided tours, and workshops, throughout the year.

Plas Glyn y Weddw
Plas Glyn-y-Weddw is a historic mansion located in the town of Llanbedrog. It was built in the late 19th century as a gift from the wealthy politician and philanthropist, Lady Love Jones-Parry, to the people of the area. It is surrounded by beautiful gardens and overlooks Cardigan Bay and the Llŷn Peninsula.

Today, Plas Glyn-y-Weddw is a cultural centre and art gallery that hosts a variety of exhibitions, performances, and events throughout the year. The mansion's galleries showcase the works of local and international artists, with a focus on Welsh art and culture. The centre also offers art workshops, classes, and talks for visitors of all ages.

In addition, there is a cafe, a gift shop, and a theatre that hosts concerts, plays, and film screenings. The mansion and gardens are open to the public year-round, and guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about the history and architecture of the building.

Read our full Pwllheli Area Guide here.