Penmaenmawr: Beach, Trails and History

Penmaenmawr combines a long beach and promenade with hiking trails in the surrounding hills and traces of prehistoric times. When planning your stay, you can focus on coastal time, hiking or local history. Along the coast, the beach conditions and tides shape the experience; inland, elevation changes and historic paths take centre stage.

Beach and coastal conditions

Penmaenmawr Beach stretches for more than half a mile. At low tide it is sandy; stones and pebbles lie in the upper part of the bay. If you are planning a beach visit, it is worth checking the tide, as the ground varies across the bay. Penmaenmawr is also known for its long promenade; the wide sandy beach lies on Conwy Bay.

Windsurfing, sailing and canoeing are possible at Penmaenmawr Beach. The beach is easily accessible for wheelchair users. Its coastal waters are part of the Menai Strait and Conwy Bay Special Area of Conservation.

Walking trails and elevation

The Penmaenmawr Upland Walk starts and ends at the Library car park in Penmaenmawr. It runs mainly along vehicle tracks, paths and grassy tracks, and has a steep ascent and descent. The walk’s landscape is rich in birdlife and wildlife. Trails from Penmaenmawr also lead into the surrounding hills and run along old Roman roads.

The beach brings together the shore, promenade and water sports; the Upland Walk offers a contrast with its steep terrain, variety of trail types and wildlife. This gives you a choice of different focuses for your stay.

Prehistoric traces and local history

The Meini Hirion stone circle near Penmaenmawr dates from around 1500 BC. Penmaenmawr Museum covers the Neolithic and Bronze Age history of the uplands, as well as the history of the Victorian seaside resort and quarry workers. This historical span ranges from the prehistoric uplands to later stories of the seaside resort and quarrying. The remains of a Stone Age axe factory can also be found near the Wales Coast Path above Penmaenmawr.

Getting there and practical information

You can reach Penmaenmawr Beach by car via the A55. There is a large pay-and-display car park next to the promenade. Penmaenmawr railway station is close to the beach and is a request stop for all trains on the North Wales Coast line. Check the timetable before travelling if you are arriving by train. There is also an e-bike charging and maintenance station at Penmaenmawr Beach.

Penmaenmawr Paddling Pool

Penmaenmawr Paddling Pool is different from the open shore: the pool measures 11 metres by 8 metres and has a waterfall. From the main road, you can reach it on foot through an underpass.

Discover more destinations: Old Colwyn, Dolwyddelan, Conwy, Pentrefoelas, Cerrigydrudion, Llysfaen, Llansannan, Llanrwst

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