Things To Do in North Wales in December

Thinking of indulging in a festive trip to North Wales this December?

Although temperatures might average a rather chilly 5°C during this month, that’s no excuse to stay indoors.

The people of North Wales are not easily shied by a bit of cold weather – this is great news for tourists who are looking to see how Christmas is celebrated here and even better news for the owners of B&Bs and hotels who have their doors open all-year round.

If you’re still umm-ing and aah-ing over whether or not to make the journey to see us here, then maybe one of these events will help you make your mind up:

Carols by Candlelight

Make your December truly special by dropping in at Caernarfon’s annual candle-lit carol service, with Choir Master Hamdden Mathias. The service will be free and will welcome anyone who wished to join in the singing. As is tradition, there’ll be a chance to mingle with your fellow singers after the service, as well as nibble on a mince pie with a hot cup of coffee – just the ticket on a cold Winter’s Eve.

Where? Castle Square Presbyterian Church, Caernarfon

When? Sunday 3rd December 2017 at 6pm


Ride the Santa Train with Ffestinog & Welsh Highland Railways

A wonderful day out for families of all ages, Ffestinog & Welsh Highland Railways offer two opportunities to experience Snowdon National Park in the very depths of Winter from the comfort of a cosy, steam train carriage. Whilst snow isn’t always guaranteed during this month, it’s a great opportunity to see Snowdon from a different perspective plus a certain Father Christmas is always aboard to talk to the passengers. There’s Carol Singers at the end of the line and a Mince Pie and Sherry for grown-ups on the way back home.

Where? Trains depart from Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway

When? Check the site for details on where and when to catch each train.


Conwy’s Winterfest and Medieval Christmas

When the night draws in on Conwy’s Winterfest something wonderful happens. The clanking of armour and the lighting of open-torches precedes the town’s Christmas Medieval Parade, featuring dozens of authentically dressed locals who come out to escort Father Christmas from Castle Square all the way through to the Town Square. Along the way there are street entertainers, sword fights, Morris Dancers and plenty of festive food to nosh on as well – just the thing to get you in the festive spirit.

Where? Castle Square, Conwy

When? Saturday 9th December 4pm-7pm


Surf Snowdonia Christmas Markets and Drive-In Cinema

Before you say anything – yes – it is far too cold to consider taking a dip in the chilly artificial lake of Surf Snowdonia, however (if you wrap up warm) their annual Christmas Market is an event that you’ll certainly not want to miss. Alongside the usual selection of high-quality stores, there’ll also be an opportunity to buy some local ale and eat some great food. Also this year, for the first time, there’ll be a drive in cinema (at an extra cost) showing classics such as Elf, Home Alone and Love Actually.

Where? Surf Snowdonia, Conwy

When? Saturday 9th December – Sunday 10th December 2017


Festive Dessert Tasting Evening

Famed for it’s Collection of Champion Trees and gorgeously landscaped gardens, Bodnant Garden is owned by the National Trust who run numerous events during the Winter when the Garden is a little quieter. This year the Garden’s chef will be holding a Festive Dessert Tasting Evening for those with a sweet tooth and are perhaps looking for a bit of cooking inspiration in the run up to the big day itself. Call Bodnant directly on 01492 650460 to book tickets (£24.95 pp) before they run out.

Where? Bodnant Garden, Colwyn Bay

When? Friday 15th December 2017