FAMILY DAYS OUT

What it is: A spectacular medieval fortress on the Menai Strait, part of the World Heritage Castles and Town Walls of King Edward in Gwynedd. There's also really nice restaurants, cafes, artisan shops and Ice Cream Parlours for the whole family to enjoy.
How to get there: ~15 min drive from Pontllyfni to Caernarfon town centre.
Address: Castle Ditch, Caernarfon LL55 2AY, UK.
Opening Times: Daily ~10:00–16:00 (seasonal).
Prices: Adults ~£10–£15, Children ~£5–£8 (est).
Why go: History, panoramic views, great for families.

What it is: Piggery Pottery is a delightful craft studio and creative attraction where visitors of all ages can paint their own pottery, try throwing pots on a wheel, browse unique handmade ceramics and enjoy a relaxed café space. It’s a lovely choice for a rainy day, a creative date, a family outing or a calm activity where you make something memorable to take home. The atmosphere is friendly and inspiring, and many guests love the hands-on experience and relaxed vibe.

Address: Ddol Helyg, Cwm y Glo, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL55 4DA, United Kingdom Visit Wales

Distance from Pontllyfni:
~8 miles / ~15–20 minutes est by car

What it is: A mix of tropical butterfly house, zoo exhibits, indoor soft play and outdoor animal areas, cafe and more — fun for toddlers through teens.
Address: Ffordd Penmynydd, Menai Bridge LL59 5RP  ~35 mins from Pontllyfni
Opening Times: Typically ~10:00am–5:30pm (seasonal) Please check website for details.
Prices: Adults and Children ~£10–£15pp, Check website for details.
 

What it is: Thrilling zip lines and quarry tours in a former slate mine. Zip World often has events during holiday seasons. Day Out With The Kids
How to get there: ~40 min drive to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Address: Llechwedd, Blaenau Ffestiniog LL41 3NB, UK.
Opening Times: Seasonal — typically 09:00–17:00 (booking advised).
Prices: From ~£40 per person (varies by activity).
Tips: Best for older kids & adult thrill seekers.

What it is: Large outdoor adventure park with rides, farm animals & activities. 
Address: Bush Rd, Y Felinheli LL55 3AD, UK.
Opening Times: Usually ~10:00–15:30. MON-FRI
Prices: Tickets ~£20–£35 per person (age-dependent). Cheaper if you book online.
Why go: Ideal for younger children.

What it is: A popular family entertainment centre near Pwllheli offering ten-pin bowling, go-karting, archery, soft play and watersports — fun for adults and families alike. Glasfryn
Address: Glasfryn Parc, Y Ffôr, Pwllheli, Gwynedd LL53 6PG, United Kingdom Glasfryn
Distance from Pontllyfni: 10-15 minutes est 
Opening Times: Open 7 days a week; this may change seasonally so please check their website.
Price: Varies by activity — bowling is typically pay-per-game, with extra charges for other activities (go-karts, archery, wakeboarding).

What it is: A conservation-focused zoo set on beautiful wooded slopes overlooking Colwyn Bay, home to a wide range of animals from around the world — including snow leopards, red pandas, tigers chimpanzees, sea lions and meerkats — plus play areas and scenic paths for all ages. It’s a brilliant mix of wildlife education and outdoor family fun. Welsh Mountain Zoo+1

Address: Old Highway, Colwyn Bay, Conwy LL28 5UY, United Kingdom 

Distance from Pontllyfni: 40–45 minutes by car.

What is is: Classic seaside amusement fun, arcade games, 2p machines and rides.
Distance: ~25 min / ~17 miles from Pontllyfni. 
Tips: Great short visit after beach time.

What is is: Adventure sports centre, lots of different activities like exploring, climbing, gorge scrambling, high ropes course and low ropes.
Distance: ~28 min est from Pontllyfni. 
www.ropeworksactive.co.uk

What it is: Outdoor family park with garden railway, animal encounters (Shetland ponies, goats), woodland walks and picnic areas. 
Address: Bontnewydd, Caernarfon LL55 2YA 
Distance: ~5 miles / ~15 mins from Pontllyfni
Opening: Seasonal — usually spring/summer days; check website for dates/times. 
Price: Variable (often per person or family rates). 
Tips: Excellent for younger children and picnics — bring suncream/hats in summer. Outdoor play areas suit energetic kids. 

What it is: Aquatic displays of local marine life with hands-on exhibits and seal-feeding.

How to get there: ~36 min towards Bangor and via Menai Bridge onto the Island.
Address: Brynsiencyn, LL61 6TQ, UK.
Opening Times: ~11:00–15:45 daily.
Prices: Adults ~£10–£15, Children ~£6–£10 Estimate.

What it is: Large indoor climbing gym with walls and bouldering suitable for families and teens.
Address: Cibyn Industrial Estate, Caernarfon LL55 2BD
Distance:  ~12 mins est from Pontllyfni
Price: Pay per session; check online for family passes.
Tips: Book in advance at weekends; great alternative indoor activity.

What it is: Historic house and beautiful formal gardens on Anglesey.
How to get there: ~36 min drive via A487 & Menai Bridge.
Address: Llanfairpwllgwyngyll, LL61 6DQ, UK.
Opening Times: Seasonal, often ~10:30–16:00.
Prices: Standard National Trust rates apply (member free).
Tip: Great mix of history, nature & café visit.

What it is: Dinas Dinlle is a pretty coastal village, best known for its long sandy and pebble beach, dramatic sea views and interesting Iron Age hillfort remains overlooking the shore. The beach offers wide open spaces perfect for walking, picnics and watching wildlife — including seabirds and, on clear days, views across to the Llyn Peninsula and Llanddwyn Island on Anglesey. There's also shops and cafe.

 Address: Dinas Dinlle Beach, Parc Llanfair, Dinas Dinlle, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL54 5TW, United Kingdom

How to get there: About 10 minutes’ drive from Pontllyfni — take the A499 toward Caernarfon, then follow signs for Dinas Dinlle and the beach. There’s a car park right by the beach.

Opening Times: Open all day, every day — public beach access is free.

Location: Caernarfon Airport, Dinas Dinlle, Caernarfon LL54 5TP, United Kingdom. (Just a few minutes towards Caernarfon from Pontllyfni)

What it is: Caernarfon Airport is a working regional airport with a small aviation museum and visitor viewing area, as well as one of the best places in North Wales to experience scenic helicopter and light aircraft flights. The airport also offers the opportunity to book trial flying lessons and helicopter experience days, making it a unique and memorable attraction for visitors of all ages.

How to get there:
Follow the A499 toward Caernarfon and Dinas Dinlle, then follow signs for Caernarfon Airport. Parking is available on site.

Opening Times:

• The airport and viewing areas are generally open daily

• Museum access and flight availability can vary depending on operations

• Scenic flights and lessons are by advance booking and weather-dependent

It’s recommended to check ahead if planning a specific activity.

Prices (guide only, please check airport website):

• Aviation museum: Usually free entry 

• Short scenic flights: From around £75–£90 per person

• Longer sightseeing flights: Prices vary by route and duration

• Trial flying or helicopter lessons: Prices vary depending on aircraft and lesson length

(All prices are subject to change and availability.)

What to Expect:

• Aviation museum displays and historic aircraft

• Viewing areas to watch planes and helicopters in action

• Scenic helicopter and light aircraft flights over the coast, castles and mountains

• Trial flying lessons with qualified instructors (no experience needed)

• A relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with great photo opportunities

Good to Know:
✔ Flights and lessons must be booked in advance
✔ All flying activities are weather dependent
✔ Ideal for special occasions, gifts or a once-in-a-lifetime experience
✔ Located close to Dinas Dinlle beach, making it easy to combine with a coastal walk

What it is:
Enjoy an unforgettable horse riding experience in the foothills of Eryri (Snowdonia), set amid stunning mountain and coastal scenery. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced rider, there’s a ride for you — from introductory countryside treks to longer viewpoint adventures with panoramic views. All rides are guided by experienced leaders who give basic instruction before you head out. snowdoniaridingstables.co.uk

How to get there:
About 35–40 minutes’ drive from Pontllyfni — head east via the A4086 through Caernarfon to Waunfawr, just north of Snowdon.

Address:
Snowdonia Riding Stables
Waunfawr, Caernarfon
Gwynedd, LL55 4PQ
United Kingdom 

Opening Times:
Generally daily 09:00–18:00 (rides by appointment). Check availability and book ahead. 

Price Guide (2025):
Prices vary by ride type and duration:

• Introductory Ride (gentle countryside walk) — ~£30 pp

• 1 Hour Countryside Ride — ~£40 pp

• 2 Hour Viewpoint Ride — ~£70 pp

• Half-Day Mountain Experience — ~£85 pp snowdoniaridingstables.co.uk

(Prices and availability may change, so it’s best to book in advance and confirm costs directly.)

What to Expect:

• Suitable for both beginners and experienced riders. 

• Rides start with a safety briefing and basic arena instruction. 

• Enjoy scenic trails with views of mountains, moorland and the sea. 

• Hats and safety equipment are provided, but wear sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing. 

• Great for families, couples, and horse lovers of all ages (minimum age around 5+ for introductory rides). 

Booking & Tips:

• Advance booking by phone or email is essential — rides operate by appointment rather than set daily times.

• Let them know riders’ experience levels, height and weight when booking. 

• Weather can affect mountain treks — check before you travel.

What it is: A spectacular Edward I castle and UNESCO World Heritage Site set on the Menai Strait, ideal for kids and adults who love history and exploring old forts. Also lots of shops, pubs, sweet shops and Ice Cream parlours.
Address: Castle St, Beaumaris, LL58 8AP 
Distance: 35 est mins from Pontllyfni
Opening: Varies by season; typically ~9:30am–5pm (later in summer). Check their website for more information.

Tips: Bring comfortable shoes — there’s plenty of wall walking and uneven surfaces. Dogs on leads welcome on lower ground. Book tickets online to save ~5%.