The best things to do in North Wales with dogs

With plenty of natural spaces like Snowdonia National Park, North Wales is a paradise for outdoor lovers and their pups. Therefore, we've put together a list of fun attractions where dogs are more than welcome.

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Some require your dog to be on a lead for environmental or safety reasons, but they are still dog-friendly. From the amazing Great Orme Copper Mines where you can take your dog underground to one of the world's most ancient trees, to the numerous beaches in the region, there are plenty of things to do in North Wales with dogs.

Plus, with dog-friendly holiday parks in the area, why not make one of them your base to explore these attractions? Now, you and your dog can get digging to find the perfect attractions for you!

Top 5 dog-friendly beaches in North Wales

One of the best things to do in North Wales with dogs is visit the beaches, as it provides a beautiful location for you and your pup to exercise and take in the water. Here are some of the best ones to visit in North Wales!

Rhyl Beach image

Rhyl Beach

With over 5 miles of golden sands, Rhyl Beach sets off this list as it’s a fantastic place to take your dog in North Wales. The huge expanse of the beach means there's plenty of space for both you and your dogs to run and play without disturbing others.

  • Dog restrictions: Dogs are not allowed on the beach from 1st May until 30th September inclusive.

Barmouth Beach image

Barmouth Beach

Set beneath the stunning Snowdonia, Barmouth Beach is a breathtaking spot with direct beach access from the Barmouth Bay. Barmouth Beach has amenities that you can stop off at including cafes for refreshments.

  • Dog restrictions: April 1st and September 30th, dogs are not allowed by the leisure centre up to the river. The rest of the beach is dog-friendly.

Harlech Beach image

Harlech Beach

With views of Harlech Castle, this gorgeous beach is excellent for dogs. It's also located right next to a nature reserve, so you can also take scenic coastal walks with your pup. Just be aware of the wildlife and keep your pup under control during bird nesting season.

  • Dog restrictions: This beach is dog-friendly all year round.

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Conwy Morfa Beach image

Conwy Morfa Beach

One of the longest beaches in North Wales, Morfa Beach offers tons of off-lead space for dogs to play and explore. And with views of Conwy Castle and the Conwy Estuary, the scenery is breathtaking – making for some snappable pictures. With a promenade nearby, it's easy to grab a bite or do some shopping.

  • Dog restrictions: Dog-friendly all year round.

Talacre Beach image

Talacre Beach

With over 3 miles of golden sand and dunes, Talacre Beach is a secluded beauty for you and your dog, so your dogs have ample room to sprint and play fetch. And the dunes are great for letting your dog run off-lead. Located in a nature reserve, Talacre is perfect for combining beach time with walks along the coast.

  • Dog restrictions: Dog-friendly all year round.

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Top 5 dog-friendly attractions in North Wales

Now that you know some of the best beaches to take your dogs to on your next North Wales holiday, here are some other things to do in North Wales with dogs.

Snowdonia image

Snowdonia

Full of rugged mountains, lakes, and trails, Snowdonia is one of the best things to do in North Wales with dogs. You’ll find endless hiking routes to take your pup on while enjoying spectacular views. Depending on how active both you and your pup are – you’ll find the perfect route! Just be sure to keep them on a lead in areas with livestock.

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An image at Coed Y Brenin of a bridge with a stream running underneath.

Coed y Brenin

This forest park offers excellent walking and cycling trails to explore with your dog and the rest of your family. With gentle rivers, waterfalls, and green spaces, you can find a trail to suit you! And being a massive park, it has plenty of space for dogs to roam and play off-lead for family-friendly fun.

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A close-up image of a sheep looking at the camera. There are more sheeps in the background.

Manorafon Farm Park

Both kids and dogs will love this interactive farm park – the whole family can meet and greet the farm animals while exploring the beautiful grounds on a lead. There are even doggy paddling pools to help your pup cool off during your summer holidays. It's a great place to learn about farm life with your furry friend.

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Dolgoch Falls image

Dolgoch Falls

Situated within the Padarn Country Park, the scenic Dolgoch Falls are a wonderful natural spot to take your dog for a stunning walk. The hiking trails around the falls provide fantastic on-lead exercise and mental stimulation for pups while you take in the rushing water. You can bring the rest of the family along, so you can all take in the sights and have holiday memories.

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Two children waving at the camera out the window of a train.

Rhyl Miniature Railway

This miniature railway welcomes dogs to ride along and enjoy the seaside views, so the whole family can be involved in the fun – it's one of the best things to do in North Wales with dogs, and you can extend the fun by walking your dog along Rhyl's beach after. Just keep them on a lead and be considerate of others on the train to ensure the best possible holiday visit!

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Things to do in North Wales with dogs FAQs

Now that you know what things to do in North Wales with dogs, you may still have some queries to make this the best holiday yet. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions to ensure both your pup and you have the best stay in this beautiful area of the UK.

Can dogs go into Conwy Castle?

For all of the history buffs amongst you, Conwy Castle is one of the most striking and well-preserved castles in Wales. Its medieval fortress dominates the landscape of the walled town of Conwy and can be seen from afar. While dogs are not permitted inside the castle itself, your pup can still enjoy exploring the adjoining ancient town walls. The walls provide a great vantage point to admire the exterior of Conwy Castle with your furry friend by your side.

Is Welsh Mountain Zoo dog-friendly?

Whilst the Welsh Mountain Zoo is amazing for a kid-friendly holiday, pet dogs are not allowed as this may endanger the welfare of the animals. However, assistance dogs are always welcome.

Is the Snowdon train dog friendly?

While you can take your pup to Snowdonia, so they can experience the beauty it holds, dogs aren’t allowed on Snowdon Mountain Railway. Only service dogs are allowed on the railway itself. Just be sure to check ahead of time whether dogs are allowed within other specific areas and keep your dog under your supervision. However, you can check the website for more guidance.

Are the North Wales National Trust sites dog-friendly?

Yes - you’ll find plenty of National Trust locations in North Wales that are wonderful to visit, and many of them are dog-friendly. Check the National Trust website for their Canine Code to ensure the best and safest holiday for your pup whilst visiting some of the most beautiful National Trust sites.

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